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Feb 12, 2025
In the ever-evolving food industry, keeping up with consumer preferences and market trends is no easy feat. Our recent conversation with industry expert Ellie from Leonards Ingredients revealed some fascinating shifts that are shaping the food landscape, particularly in the areas of health-conscious choices, gluten-free products, sustainability, and unique flavour innovations.
Over the past five years, one of the most noticeable shifts in the food industry has been the increasing consumer demand for health-conscious and gluten-free options. Ellie notes that gluten-free products have gained substantial popularity. In fact, around 90% of Leonards bespoke products are now gluten-free, and supermarkets are driving much of this demand. The focus on gluten-free sausages, for example, has led to product innovations, including the development of gluten-free rusk, which was once considered challenging to create.
A few years ago, gluten-free products might have been dismissed by some customers as inferior in taste and texture. But significant advancements in product research and development at Leonards Ingredients have ensured that gluten-free options are just as tasty—and in some cases, even better—than their gluten-containing counterparts.
When it comes to flavour profiles, the food industry is balancing the comfort of tradition with the allure of the new. Ellie mentions that while classic British Flavours like Old English, Lincolnshire, and Cumberland sausages remain popular, there is an increasing demand for unique, seasonal flavours. For instance, Leonards marmalade sausage— which is a hit in the autumn months—combines the tangy sweetness of marmalade with the richness of pork, creating an unexpected but delightful combination.
Sustainability is a crucial topic for food manufacturers, as consumers and businesses alike are becoming more eco-conscious. While the demand for eco-friendly packaging and sustainable practices in the food industry is increasing, it's clear that there's still much work to be done. While some butchers and manufacturers have begun using recyclable and compostable materials, high costs remain a barrier to widespread adoption.
Despite the challenges, Leonards Ingredients is taking steps toward sustainability. They are actively researching ways to make their packaging more eco-friendly, with trials for compostable materials underway. However the cost factor is a significant hurdle. As sustainability becomes more mainstream, though, it's likely that prices will become more competitive, making eco-friendly options more accessible to businesses and consumers.
Today’s consumers are more concerned than ever about where their food comes from. The need for transparency and traceability has become a key factor in purchasing decisions, particularly in the meat industry. Ellie highlights how Leonards is committed to providing full traceability for its products, even down to the exact location where spices are sourced from.
As the demand for quality and ethical sourcing grows, companies in the food industry must ensure they are meeting consumer expectations. Leonards Ingredients are able to trace the origin of every ingredient, providing a level of transparency that helps reassure customers about the quality and safety of their food. This level of detail is becoming increasingly important in an industry where consumers are concerned about both the origins and the ethical implications of their food choices.
As for the future, the food industry will continue to shift toward healthier and more sustainable options. Consumers will likely remain focused on both the nutritional content and the environmental impact of their food.
The emphasis on health-consciousness will likely prompt the industry to explore new ways to create more nutritious, flavourful options. From reduced salt content to higher meat percentages in sausages, manufacturers will need to respond to the demand for better-for-you products while maintaining flavour and quality.
As companies like Leonards Ingredients innovate with new flavours, eco-friendly practices, and transparent sourcing, they are paving the way for the next generation of food products. The challenge will be to balance tradition with innovation, offering consumers both the comforting familiarity of classic flavours and the excitement of new, unique culinary experiences.
We are thrilled to partner with the Leonards Ingredients, a family-owned business founded in the late 1980s. Specialising in the creation of outstanding sausage mixes and burger blends, every product is carefully crafted at their Uckfield factory. Renowned for their irresistible flavours and top-notch quality, their products consistently receive high praise.
Weald Packaging Supplies is a limited company registered in England and Wales. Registered number: 01713146. Registered office: Station Approach, Buxted, TN22 4LA.
