How artisanal bakers can meet the latest consumer demands

That’s where Puratos and Taste Tomorrow come in. Taste Tomorrow is the world’s largest research program that offers valuable insights into the future of bakery, patisserie and chocolate industries. Combining global consumer surveys, AI-powered always-on tracking of social conversations and search requests, global trend spotting, sensory research, and data from leading researchers and taste houses, Taste Tomorrow helps you stay ahead by revealing emerging trends in health, sustainability, and more.

Based on insights from Taste Tomorrow's research, we've identified the key trends shaping the bakery industry, along with expert advice to apply as an artisanal baker. Here’s how to adapt smoothly, without turning your bakery business upside down.

Learn more about how Taste Tomorrow can help your business.

To align with the local sourcing trend, consider partnering with suppliers that produce locally or use raw materials from local farmers. Did you know that Puratos sources various raw materials this way? Take our Field to Fork program as an example.

You can also even create baked goods inspired by the local area, such as traditional bread recipes or pastries with regional influences.

But don't forget to educate your consumers about this change. Telling the story of where your ingredients come from can help build positive associations with your customers. This could be as simple as adding a sticker to your packaging that mentions the local farmers or mills involved. You can also share the story online, on your social media channels or with in-store signage, so customers feel like they’re part of a meaningful collaboration.

Seasonal menus are another great way to stay connected to local authenticity. As different fruits and ingredients come into season, you can update your offerings to reflect what’s fresh and available. This keeps your products exciting and relevant, while also supporting local agriculture.

While locally-inspired treats are gaining popularity in bakeries, consumers are also craving a sense of surprise in their baked goods and pastries, eager for unexpected flavor combinations that fuse global influences with classic favorites.

Fusion flavors are growing in demand, especially in English and Portuguese-speaking countries, and are expected to rise in regions like China, Spain, and Germany.

A great way to tap into this trend is by pairing sweet and savory ingredients. Take inspiration from matcha and white chocolate croissants with a new texture or try something more adventurous like the onigiri croissant, a clever creation first seen at Le Levain Bakery in Singapore.

Tangy and sour flavors, such as citrus fruits and fermented ingredients, are gaining momentum in the world of baking. The surge in online discussions and searches surrounding tangy treats (totaling 2.5 million worldwide) shows that people are seeking constant surprises.

To embrace this trend, consider using ingredients like cranberries, passion fruit, or hibiscus in glazes, fillings, or toppings for an exciting burst of flavor. Incorporating vinegar-based elements, like balsamic reductions, adds a layer of sophistication and depth. Additionally, options like lemon curd-filled pastries or sour cherry scones can cater to customers looking for fresh, tangy options throughout the year.

Did you know that 65% of consumers prefer smaller portions, so that they can indulge in without overindulging? This statistic proves people’s focus on enjoying great flavors in controlled servings, whether it's at home or during special occasions. Miniature versions of traditional treats offer a guilt-free way to enjoy indulgent desserts, giving customers the freedom to enjoy flavors, while keeping peace of mind regarding sugar and calories.

To take advantage of this trend and stand out among the competition, consider offering mini versions of your popular desserts, perfect for events like baby showers. Look into providing a mix of ready-to-buy and pre-order options to reduce waste. You could also cater to dietary preferences by offering gluten-free or sugar-free mini options. Or, go a step further and create themed mini-dessert boxes with a mix of flavors to offer another level of variety and convenience.

Gut health is no longer just a buzzword, it's a priority for many consumers. They demand foods that fit their well-being long-term, not just their immediate cravings.

Sourdough’s appeal lies in both its health benefits and its unique flavor. By introducing sourdough-based products like bagels, croissants, or even pastries, you can offer something distinctive that sets your bakery apart from mainstream supermarkets.

To further attract and nurture customers, use in-store displays or digital content to educate them about the benefits of sourdough. If you can, begin offering sourdough workshops at your bakery, where customers can learn about the craft hands-on. It’s a great way to boost foot traffic and create a new revenue stream.

Learn more about how to bake sourdough on an industrial scale.

What if you could offer your customers more than just delicious baked goods? With the rise of wellness-focused eating, functional ingredients like adaptogens, botanicals, and seeds are gaining popularity, providing a perfect opportunity for your bakery to offer options that support digestive wellness.

68% of consumers now see botanicals like chamomile and cinnamon as a healthy addition to foods, up from just 53% in 2021. Hop on the chance to integrate these, alongside ingredients like turmeric, matcha, or cacao nibs. Push the bar by creating visually striking treats using edible flowers or colorful spices, making your products both eye-catching and health-forward.

Fitness Academy Sports Club’s FIT BUNS are a great example of how health-driven ingredients and clever messaging can attract consumers. These protein-packed buns, packaged in a box designed to resemble toned abs, managed to generate an impressive 115% return on investment, and 25% rise in customers.

You can take a similar approach by adding power ingredients like turmeric, matcha, or omega-3-rich seeds to your own products.