This briefing provides updates on Euromonitor’s December 2021 forecast restatement for the packaged food industry, deciphering how the industry is navigating the pandemic, changes from baseline projections and highlighting future risks and opportunities.

This briefing examines Euromonitor International's Q3 2021 packaged food forecasts, which have been updated in accordance with macroeconomic changes and the latest information. The top line forecast has remained mostly in line with Q2's update, with stable demand observed for necessities such as cooking ingredients and staples on the back of continued meal occasions at home. Healthy living trends continue to drive innovation amidst the pandemic, as consumers and businesses alike seek to adapt to

Social and environmental concerns have grown due to COVID-19 and unstable sociopolitical repercussions in the region. Both lifestyles and purchase decisions have aligned towards taking action to preserve the environment. With consumers and governments increasing the pressure to minimise the impacts on people and the planet, companies are reacting, embracing more circular business models. Sustainability must be part of the core business and not used to target upper segments or niche positioning.

Food security has always been on the agenda of governments as a long-term goal, but recent challenges have escalated its priority even in countries that have been historically regarded as food secure. Private and government sectors have joined forces to find actionable steps in order to maintain a steady flow of food. Throughout this report, we investigate short- and long-term implications of food insecurity, as well as showcase current best practices and the way forward.

Social selling has become more popular and important during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Social commerce has advantages for both consumers and sellers by maximising the promotional effect. For successful social selling, attractive storytelling is essential. Healthy eating and sustainability could be key topics in the aftermath of COVID-19. In addition, gathering information through social media can help companies understand audiences better, which is a key part of marketing strategies.

Eating occasions have evolved significantly with changes in consumer habits, and home as a hub will be a core focus in the next few years. Meanwhile, experiential dining out and food discovery at specialist retailers have been under threat, leading to a surge in experimentation and self-creation at home. Value for money positioning is more important than ever as consumers seek novel experiences despite tightened budgets. This report delves into the drivers and innovation examples that businesses

Environmental concerns over the future of the planet are changing the perspectives on food. An increasingly conscious consumer base wants products that are committed to areas like animal welfare, fighting food waste, plastic pollution, organic production and social commitments. This report analyses key sustainability trends driving change in the food and nutrition industry and delves into how companies are reacting to get up to speed into this space.

Plant-based eating and alternative proteins are on the rise. More consumers are limiting consumption of animal agriculture-derived products, and this dynamic segment of food and nutrition is home to continuing innovation. Health, sustainability and animal welfare are key motivators, and consumer demographics indicate a healthy future. This report explores the market, providing guidance for future strategies, detailing the important segments, and showcasing key innovations.