Future Foods Now

On the dawn of a new year, 2019 promises new food trends that will explode with popularity. These seven health foods will appear in restaurants and Instagram feeds across the United States as we ring in a year of healthful lifestyles, sustainable practices and environmental wellness.

Oat Milk

With a creamier texture and more neutral taste than other alternative milks, oat milk continues to rise among the ranks of almond and soy milks as popular dairy substitutes. Often grown and produced more sustainably than milk, this dairy-free and nut-free beverage is better for the environment as well as vegetarians, vegans and dairy-free individuals. The protein, fiber and creamy texture of oat milk add a boost to coffee, lattes and smoothies, or in any recipe that uses milk.

Ghee

As another non-dairy alternative with health benefits, ghee is a form of clarified butter with much less lactose. Ghee can be made at home by melting butter and skimming the milk solids away from the liquid fat. The rich, nutty flavor of ghee adds a healthy dose of fats and depth of flavor to any recipes that call for butter or oil.

Pea Protein

Plant-based proteins provide effective protein sources that are environmentally effective, dairy-free and full of fiber and vitamins. Pea protein leads the pack as a lean, yet mighty, plant-based protein that promotes health and muscle recovery. Without dairy, nuts or gluten, pea protein delivers a healthful alternative for anyone with allergies, food sensitivities or health concerns.

Hemp Seeds

Hemp seeds represent the latest trend in healthy and nutritious fats. As a dense source for the essential amino acids omega-6s and omega-3s combined with protein and vitamins, these versatile seeds can add nutrition in a variety of ways. Eat these seeds raw as a topping for oatmeal or smoothie bowls, mix them into granola or use them in a crunchy breading for vegetables or proteins.

MCT Oil

Medium chain triglyceride (MCT) oils like coconut oil offer energy-boosting benefits because the body absorbs them quickly. This supplement paves the way for the neurotrition trend that prioritizes foods that benefit cognitive health, such as mushrooms and walnuts. Add it to bulletproof coffee, dressings and condiments to improve healthy weight loss, gut health, cognitive function and satiety.

Probiotic Fermented Foods

Kimchi, kombucha, sauerkraut and miso—these probiotic fermented foods will gain popularity throughout 2019, along with some other unexpected sources of probiotics. Packed with microorganisms that supplement healthy and regular digestion, fermented foods can add layers of flavor as a topping or a side dish. Used by a range of cultures for thousands of years, fermented foods combine health benefits with bold flavors and textures.

Jicama

Jicama, a tuber native to Central and South America and Mexico, has a flavor and texture like a combination of apple, pear and turnip. This low carb and low-calorie root vegetable adds a great crunch when cut into dipping sticks, shaved into salads or thinly sliced into jicama tortillas. Baked jicama presents a healthier take on fries or sliced chips, and you won’t even miss the potato.