The dessert industry is adapting to meet evolving consumer demands. Health consciousness is driving the creation of less sweet and lighter desserts, with innovative ingredients like vegetables, mushrooms, and matcha gaining popularity. Efficiency and affordability are also key, leading to the rise of convenient single-serve desserts and dessert sips.
Novelty is crucial in this industry, with unique offerings like “after-eight” desserts and brunch items emerging. Sharing desserts are also on the rise, reflecting a trend towards communal eating experiences. The industry is also experimenting with balancing sweetness with umami flavours, introducing complex taste profiles.
These trends are globally prevalent, with regional influences playing a significant role. In summary, the dessert industry is undergoing a transformation, shaped by health consciousness, efficiency, novelty, and regional preferences.
Market Overview
The UK baked dessert market, encompassing cakes, cake bars, and sweet baked goods, is a growing sector within the food industry. The global market for bakery ingredients, vital for baked desserts, is projected to reach USD 21.4 billion by 2028, indicating a rising demand for bakery products. The UK market is expected to contribute significantly to this growth.
The market for pastries and cakes is also on an upward trajectory, suggesting a favourable outlook for the UK market.
In the frozen dessert sector, the UK is witnessing substantial growth. The market, including products like ice cream, yogurts, and cakes, is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.82% between 2023 and 2030.
In conclusion, the UK baked and frozen dessert markets are poised for growth, driven by consumer demand and global trends, offering promising opportunities for businesses in these sectors.
Trends
Below we have a selection of the trends we’ve identified, download our full catalogue to explore all 10 trends, products and ingredients.
1. Health Conscious Choices
While desserts are typically indulgent, there’s a growing trend towards healthier options. This includes using ingredients with health benefits, like seaweed oil, or vegetables like artichoke to reduce sugar levels.
2. Escapist Indulgent Moments
Desserts are about indulgence. Vivid colours and global flavours like ube creams make them more appealing. There’s also a trend towards super sweet nostalgia with a twist, and savoury notes are coming through.
3. Balancing Sweetness with Umami
While desserts are typically sweet, there’s a trend towards balancing sweetness with umami flavours. Sea vegetables and fermented flavours like koji and flavoured miso caramels are becoming more important.
4. Retro inspired by pop culture
Influenced by popular TV shows set in the 70s and 80s, consumers are seeking out these forgotten favourites. Even school cakes are experiencing a resurgence, with thousands of searches reported by retailers.
5. Snackable and Sharable Desserts
There are opportunities for growth in snackable desserts straight from the freezer and shareable desserts.
In Conclusion
The dessert industry is a dynamic one, with trends that reflect the changing preferences and lifestyles of consumers. At Lupa Foods, we’re excited to be a part of this sweet journey, offering products that resonate with the times while staying true to our commitment to quality and taste.
Join us in celebrating the world of desserts. Explore our latest Dessert Catalogue and discover the sweet possibilities that await.
