Kroger Predicts Top Summer Food Trends

Kroger revealed the top food trends that its private label brand developers anticipate for the summer season.

The retailer, increasingly imparting a message of its "foodie" credibility as consumers pursue more adventuresome diets, said that it will be homing in on these desired flavors across its Simple Truth, Kroger and Private Selection brands "from bourbon-infused colas to nostalgic ice cream flavors to better-for-you options using plant-based proteins."

Kroger's Top 6 Trends for Summer 2018:

<strong>Kroger's Top 6 Trends for Summer 2018</strong>

1. Better-for-you Snacking  

Healthy snacking highlights will include better-for-you snack bars, twists on seltzers and sparkling coconut water that can even be used as a cocktail mixer.

2. Alcohol-infused Foods and Flavors  
According to Kroger, the rise in craft brewing has inspired unique flavor combinations, and has also influenced culinary creations with spirits and wine. Wine-infused steak sauce and bourbon-infused cola will be among the stand-outs this summer.

3. Global Tastes  
The retailer says Korean inspired spices and Peri Peri sauces will be among the top global cravings. 

4. Go On and Get Nostalgic   

Nostalgic flavors to watch will include mac and cheese sauces, twists on pimento cheese, retro and creative ice cream flavors and old school soda pop flavors.

Related:Dollar General Partners With Major Brands for Summer Promotions

5. No-Waste Meals and Cocktails   
Now more than ever, American families are trying to minimize food waste, according to Kroger officials, and one in eight Americans struggle with hunger, while 40% of the food produced in our country goes to waste every year.

"Consumers are seeking tips on how to reduce food waste like getting creative with leftovers, meal planning to buy only what you need, storing food properly to extend freshness, and re-purposing ingredients for inventive dishes and cocktails," Kroger officials said. 

6. Flexitarian Lifestyle
Flexitarian practices are on the rise, Kroger officials advised, with some choosing to follow a mostly vegetarian lifestyle, but occasionally enjoying dairy, meat, fish or poultry.