29/09/2023
Food and beverage events trends include an increased focus on sustainability, exhibitors said at the Speciality Food & Drinks Asia 2023 (SFDA), the fifth edition of Southeast Asia’s leading trade show for artisan, gourmet and fine food and drink.
Held from 26 Sept to 28 Sept, SFDA 2023 saw some 240 exhibitors and brands from 16 countries and regions.
Exhibitors and organisers talked about the increasing importance of sustainability. Said Mr Victor Mah, President of the Singapore Coffee Association in his opening address, “Sustainability and ethical sourcing are at the heart of our industry, and we must continue to strive for practices that protect our planet and support the livelihoods of those who depend on these crops.”
Indeed, many of the booths boasted plant-based products. On the floor, exhibitors also said that event attendees and consumers are growing more concerned with ethical practices.
Local coffee company Bettr Barista said that when they set up their carts at events, consumers will sometimes ask if their cups are compostable (they are). Added a representative, “5 to 10 percent of guests even bring their own tumblers!”
The Big Idea Food Competition at the SFDA also looked to provide funding for the best alternative protein, suggesting that the industry is looking to improve ecological health.
Other event F&B trends also include an increasing interest in more varied speciality drinks. Local kombucha brewer Moon Juice said that there has been an uptick in curiosity about kombucha at events. The company has provided kegs of kombucha for events like concerts as well as a “bubble kombucha” bar complete with toppings like chia seeds and pearls.
The effects of Covid-19 in events are still far-reaching, with many precautions continuing to be taken. Said a representative for packaging maker, Vektro Pack, “Since Covid, we’ve been requested to make more packaging for individual portions of food.”
