Hot food trends for 2013

Published 12:00 am Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Look for these hot trends in 2013.
1. Cruciferous Greens
Members of the cabbage family, such as kale, chard, turnip greens and mustard greens, will start making regular appearances at restaurants. How about kale chips with your sandwich or burger?
2. Cupcake-Dispensing ATMs
An ATM look-a-like dispenses freshly baked cupcakes 24/7. Other companies like Jamba Juice (JamboGo) and Seattle’s Best Coffee brands also have vending machines from which to buy their goodies.
3. Crackdown on Food Claims
In 2012, many folks were surprised to learn that chocolate hazelnut spread wasn’t as healthy as the ads and product labels promoted. A producer of Greek yogurt was also sued for using milk-protein concentrate in lieu of straining techniques used to make Greek yogurt.
4. Hottest Fad Diets
Both the Paleo and Wheat Belly diets are the trendiest around. Both have diehard followers with testimonials that’ll knock your socks off, though dietitians agree that neither is a healthy or safe eating plan to follow.
5. Artisan Cocktails
Bar keeps are no longer just bartenders. They are creators of exotic cocktails using honey or vanilla syrup, fresh herbs from the local farmer’s market and infusing spirits (like rum and vodka) with kiwi or mango.
6. Your Favorite Food Store
In addition to picking up Chobani Greek yogurt in the grocery aisle, you can also stop by its SoHo, New York, Greek-yogurt bar. Dannon also opened a store on Park Avenue in New York City.
7. Tea, not just for sipping
The use of tea in cooking will shine in the new year. Tea can be used in rubs and braising liquids and in poached fruit, cakes and shortbreads.
8. Chips galore
Move over, potatoes: rice, black beans, lentils and garbanzo beans are just some of the other foods used to make the ever-popular chip.

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