Superfoods are mostly plant-based foods (but also sometimes fish and dairy) that are thought to be nutritionally dense, with a supposed capacity to positively affect health. Traditionally kale, blueberries, acai and ginger have been top of the superfood list. But times are changing. If you want to know what the leading superfood trends will be in 2021, then look no further. 

1. Chlorella

Chlorella is a type of algae that is brimming with nutrients. New research shows that it could help move toxins out of your body, as well as improving cholesterol and blood sugar levels. This highly nutritious algae grows in fresh water and is most often produced in Japan or Taiwan. In 2021, consumers will be taking it in tablets and in liquid extracts. Want some further reading? Check out our previous blog on ‘Is Microalgae the Food of the Future?’

2. Oyster Mushrooms

Oyster mushrooms are a rich source of protein, vitamins, minerals and fibre. They also include antioxidants like selenium. According to a recent article in The Huffington Post, “of all mushrooms commonly consumed, oyster mushrooms in the genus Pleurotus stand out as exceptional allies for improving human and environmental health”. In addition to their superfood credentials, Oyster mushrooms should also be celebrated for their ability to degrade environmental toxins, particularly hydrocarbon-based contaminants — making them seem rather miraculous. 

3. Breadfruit

Breadfruit is a prickly oval fruit that’s very popular in South East Asia and the South Pacific, and is predicted to become a popular superfood in 2021. Breadfruit trees are one of the highest yielding food plants known. In fact a single tree can produce up to 150 fruits per year. Breadfruit is gluten free and packed with antioxidants, calcium, omega 3, omega 6, protein, vitamin A and vitamin C. A breadfruit curry, or spicy breadfruit fries are two great destinations for this creamy tropical fruit. 

4. Raw Organic Cacao

Raw Organic Cacao powder is deemed a superfood because it lowers blood pressure, reduces the risk of diabetes and reduces inflammation. It will rise to the top in 2021 because it has over 40 times the antioxidants of blueberries! Cacao (pronounced “cu-COW”) specifically refers to the Theobroma Cacao tree. It provides the highest plant-based source of iron, and will increase in popularity because those on a vegan diet are often looking for a strong source of iron. It’s also deemed to be a natural anti-depressant. 

5. Moringa

Moringa oleifera is a plant that is often referred to as the drumstick tree, which is indigenous to the foothills of the Himalayas, but widely cultivated throughout India, south-east Asia and east Africa. Time Magazine recently called Moringa the “next quinoa”, and it seems primed for popularity because of its high protein and iron content. In fact Moringa contains twice as much protein as spinach!  Moringa superfood powder will be a popular addition to smoothies in 2021. But with the dried powder costing $60 a kilo, it’s not cheap. 

If your food and beverage company is looking to scale and grow via ERP solutions, traceability and demand planing software, get in touch with Cashmere Systems today and request a demo.