Here’s how to make your original recipe become the next viral food trend on social media

NEW YORK – Do you think your chocolate chip cookies could be the next viral recipe? You are far from alone. According to a recent poll, half of Americans think they have a great idea for the next big food trend.

However, if your idea doesn’t involve oat milk, plant-based protein, or another healthy option, chances are you’re SOL. The poll of 2,000 U.S. adults found that 73 percent believe trending foods need to be healthier and have nutritious qualities. Just as many (74%) stated that they are more likely to try a food trend themselves if it is healthy.

To really get a trend off the ground, these “food influencers” need to target social media. Unsurprisingly, more than a third (37%) say they spot food trends on one of the big four platforms — Facebook (67%), YouTube (62%), Instagram (58%) and TikTok (45%).

Outside of social media, cooking shows or segments (34%), friends (34%) and family (33%) are the top sources for finding out about trending foods and recipes. Over two-thirds (68%) believe they’re likely to try a new food trend, and almost as many (66%) said trying new things is an “exciting” experience.

More than half (58%) also said they are more likely to try a new food when they see it endorsed by a celebrity, chef or food influencer.

What trendy foods are Americans’ favorites?

Commissioned by Beef + Lamb New Zealand and conducted by OnePoll, the study finds that food trends were most appealing to respondents when they were either convenient to prepare (23%), nutritious (21%), or used flavors they already enjoy using and eating (20%). . . Some of the trending foods that meet all of these criteria are avocado toast (24%), fermented foods (21%), restaurant-inspired dishes (20%), street foods (19%), and cauliflower bread substitutes (19%).

Many respondents also report that trending foods need to include ingredients that have additional nutritional benefits — things like yogurt (32%), garlic (29%), ginger (29%), turmeric (29%), and dark leafy greens (28%). . . This may explain why 59% claim they find trendy diets as appealing as trendy foods. The diets trending right now include flexitarian (35%), low-carb/no-carb (29%), carnivore (29%) and Mediterranean diets (29%).

When it comes to future food trends, respondents suggest it could be a new breed of burger, avocado tacos, something spicy, or even budget-friendly meals. “People often pay attention to food trends because they want to try something new and exciting, but that doesn’t mean they have to compromise on nutrition and taste,” says Michael Wan, Global Manager at Beef + Lamb New Zealand. “By combining on-trend flavors or ingredients with well-known favorites, consumers can enjoy the best of both worlds.”

Healthy foods for victory

Finding nutritious foods is important to seven out of ten Americans. Almost as many (68%) said they pay close attention to the nutritional value of most things they eat. Respondents are particularly concerned that their diets do not contain enough vitamins (38%), protein (36%), fiber (32%) or omega-3 fatty acids (31%). That’s enough for 74 percent to actively seek ways to increase their protein and nutrient intake from natural food sources, such as:

They also pay attention to advertising claims when buying food. High protein (38%), low sugar (37%), all natural (35%) and low fat or organic (31%) are some of the key claims, while there are also sustainable (26%) and regenerative (20%) at Grocery shopping in the foreground.

69 percent are willing to try imported foods if they match their dietary preferences better than local foods. Seventy percent would be willing to spend the extra money on foods they know are healthier for them.

“Getting the most out of a nutrition trend starts with being a more conscientious shopper and seeing what’s inside,” Wan adds. “Using quality, nutritious and sustainably sourced ingredients to recreate food trends at home is a recipe for success. And with half of Americans saying they have a great idea for the next big food trend, we’re sure to see some delicious new ideas hitting social media soon.”