Highlights from Puratos’ Taste Tomorrow conference: trends shaping the future of food

Puratos highlighted industry trends and consumer preferences at its Taste Tomorrow  conference that was held in Austin, Texas, on Sept. 19 and 20.

“By monitoring emerging trend signals and predicting their growth trajectories, we are able to gain insight into the future of our industry,” said Jaina Wald, vice-president marketing, Puratos USA. “Our goal is to remain at the forefront of innovation and ensure that our partners and clients stay ahead of the curve. By understanding consumer needs, motivations, moments and narratives, Puratos delivers a holistic understanding of the current landscape and envisions the future of food.”

Wald said the following trends will help shape the future of bakery, patisserie and chocolate in North America:

The “tech-inspired” revolution: Embracing innovation and craftsmanship

North America’s food landscape is undergoing an astonishing transformation through the “tech-inspired” revolution. The region’s fastest-growing trend, captivating both consumers and professionals seeking to harmonize traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology is manifesting in the use of AI-powered generation and 3D printing.

“By fusing technology and culinary craftsmanship, we’re pushing creative boundaries and entering a new era of recipe personalization with tools like ChatGPT and text-to-image generators,” Wald said. “Technologies like 3D printing bring culinary visions to life, fostering unparalleled experimentation and elevating the entire industry.”

In addition to AI technologies influencing recipe generation, one in three consumers believe that AI will help them make better food choices.

Chocolate eloté (street corn) tacos

Chef Kayla Croshaw of Puratos and her innovative focaccia charcuterie board at Taste Tomorrow 2023. Photo: Canadian Pizza

Cinnamon-roll cake, voted best in show

Read more and check out a larger photo album through our sister publication Bakers Journal.