“Is it local? Is it organic?” While Portlandia is certainly hyperbole, as a whole we are becoming more conscious about the food we eat and absorb into our bodies. Conference food can be stale, unimaginative, and sometimes just bad for you (I’m looking at you chips and cookies). Don’t worry though, Meetingscouts is here to help you with this issue. Try some of these 6 catering trends we’re seeing in 2019 to spice up your next conference!
1. Eco-friendly is still eco-trendy
Regardless of the luxury of your conference or the size of the budget, sustainability should play a part in your food & beverage choices – because mother Earth of course.
The use of locally-produced ingredients, artisan beverages, non-disposable or biodegradable cutlery, and zero-waste cooking techniques are some of the common ways the catering industry has improved its sustainability, and they are in high demand all over the world.
2. Fermented food is here to stay
Healthy food has been the most prominent trend in recent memory, with the preservation of intestinal flora being a matter of recent concern. The popularity of fermented food with continue well into 2019.
World cuisine takes the lead here, and the inclusion of food and beverages like kombucha, sauerkraut, kimchi, or miso, might be the touch of innovation your meeting requires. Check-out some examples of fermented foods for your next meeting.
Just beware the scents!
3. Mocktails are making a return
Spirits and drinks with a high alcohol content will have another time to shine—2019 is all about the mocktails and teas. It’ll be the first party punch that doesn’t come with a hangover!
Riding on the coattails of the healthy food craze (see all of the above), this year you can expect to see a rise on culinary cocktails—herb-infused drinks, tea mixes, and vegetables will shine in the beverage department, while lighter wines keep taking center stage. Who could turn down a crisp Pinot?
4. Presentation is king
We all have that friend who always Instagrams their meal before they – and everyone else – can eat. This one is for them!
While the selection of the meal, its ingredients, and the combination of flavors remain the essence of a catering service, it’s undeniable that its aesthetic appeal plays an enormous role in whether or not your event reaches widespread notoriety.
Interactive food stations, whimsical food walls, and impeccable presentation will ensure a considerable social media appeal and will awe your attendees. Creativity and outside-the-box thinking are highly rewarded, while boring displays are a thing of the past.
5. The rise of cannabis
Cannabis is, in gentle words, a trend that you either love or hate. Nonetheless—and regardless of how controversial its inclusion might be—the truth is that it is, undeniably, a star in current catering trends.
Renowned chefs all across the world are working to incorporate Cannabidiol (CBD) into beers, cocktails, and miscellaneous snacks. The substance won’t induce any euphoric states, but it stimulates brain health and a sensation of wellbeing.
If your conference takes place at a location where cannabis is legal, you may see it as an option in the catering menu. Check out this detailed article on how cannabis is hitting the industry.
6. Support for local businesses
Last, but certainly not least, by sourcing local eats from nearby restaurants or businesses you can create a location specific vibe. Foodies flock to impressive food stands, shops, and trucks. Attendees will love supporting the host city. If you’re meeting is in Chicago, serve Molly’s Cupcakes for example (trust us they’re great). Hosting a meeting in Philly? Don’t forget to add the soft pretzels!
Sound tasty?
We hope that these 6 catering trends will take your conference to the next level! If you use any of these ideas, don’t forget to show them off. To educate your guests, try posting up a non-invasive table tent about the exciting culinary options you have planned. Do you want to try some of these trends at your next conference? Meetingscouts can help you find the best hotel partner. Contact us today to get started.