Seeds and avocados will steal some of the healthy-eating spotlight from kale in 2016, according to a survey of registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs). The survey of 450 dietitians was conducted by Pollock Communications and Today’s Dietitian magazine. Following the popularity of chia seeds (see the March 2013 newsletter), the dietitians forecast that other seeds such as sunflower, hemp, sesame and flax will appeal to health-conscious consumers looking for alternatives to carbohydrates. Avocados, versatile and high in healthy unsaturated fats, will also continue to grow in popularity, along with green tea and “ancient grains” (see the May 2015 newsletter). Kale, while still a healthy choice, may have peaked in popularity, the survey of RDNs predicts, along with high-protein products.
Also booming in 2016, the RDNs predict, will be the “clean eating” fad, even though “there is not a clear definition of ‘clean eating’ and it varies by person.” Clean eating typically emphasizes foods making “free from” claims, such as “free from artificial ingredients,” but the dietitians surveyed caution that isn’t the best way to make healthy choices. (For more on “clean eating,” see our January Special Report.)