In a country like Panama, with such a wide and varied diversity as gastronomy, it is normal that food trucks, a trend that began years ago, has become a regular and strong option within the culinary scene.
Today, the offer is very varied when visiting food trucks parking lots throughout Panama City and urban centers in other provinces, finding from hamburgers to Afro-Panamanian food and influences from other countries. However, this gastronomy segment has evolved since it arrived in our country, to the point that restaurants have started to include food trucks to give a different offer than the traditional menu. This article describes the new trends that this segment is beginning to adopt within the new realities that gastronomy faces in the future.
Increased Demand for Environmentally Friendly Food
Young customers that frequent food trucks are also conscious of the effects of climate change. Food trucks can be expected to supply more organic options and provide more labeling identifying the sources for their ingredients. Accommodating the views of their customer base will help food trucks expand their business.
Increased Vegan Options and Meat-Plant Blends
Beyond Meat, products have taken off and have been added to menus of large fast-food chains. The food truck industry can expect this trend to be extended to food trucks as the demand for meatless protein options grows. Food industry experts have taken note of the success of the Impossible Burger and are moving to meet this new demand. Additionally, meat-plant blends are also becoming popular with omnivores who want healthier options. Food trucks are looking into burgers that include mushrooms, beans, and chickpeas.
Restaurants Experimenting with Food Trucks
Established chain restaurants are using food trucks as catalysts to test out new items and concepts. Many new restaurants are supplying food trucks with potential new menu items and tracking how sales perform. These partnerships eliminate the need to fund and implement focus groups providing a space for natural experimentation.
Flour Alternatives
The gluten-free trend is expected to continue in 2022 and will be extended to the food truck industry. Alternatives that are currently being used in the food truck industry include banana flour, seed flour, and cauliflower flour. Additionally, more pre-made baked goods such as cookies and bread will be made without gluten.
New Options for Refined Sugar
Another popular trend that is impacting the food industry is the increased demand for sugar alternatives. Increased awareness of the effects of sugar on obesity and the development of diabetes is leading to increased reception for refined sugar alternatives. In meeting this demand, food trucks will turn to natural alternatives derived from fruits. Natural sugars present in coconuts, pomegranates, and dates are rising in popularity.
