What are the three nutritious "trend foods" of 2025?

The National Restaurant Association (NRA) has selected mushrooms, honey, and cold brew as the food industry trends for 2025. This reflects a consumer movement seeking to improve not only health but also the environment. What are the nutritional benefits of the foods selected as food trends for 2025?

 

◇Mushrooms

 

According to a report by the National Restaurant Association, mushrooms have various health benefits and are widely used in everything from staple foods like pasta, coffee, and desserts to drinks and snacks. Mushrooms commonly contain beneficial compounds such as polyphenols, carotenoids, and various vitamins. These compounds function as antioxidants in the body, activating bodily functions and boosting immunity, thereby preventing various diseases. A study by Pennsylvania State University found that consuming 18 grams of mushrooms per day lowered the risk of cancer by 45% compared to not consuming mushrooms. 18 grams of mushrooms is equivalent to consuming two oyster mushrooms each about 8 cm long, one button mushroom about 4.5 cm in diameter, or one large shiitake mushroom.

◇Honey

 

According to a report by the National Restaurant Association, honey adds sweetness to food while raising blood sugar levels less than sugar. The glycemic index (GI), a quantifiable measure of how quickly food affects blood sugar levels after consumption, is 55 for honey and 68 for sugar. While it has a lower GI than sugar, it contains a lot of fructose and is high in calories, so excessive consumption is prohibited. One tablespoon of honey contains 58 kcal, 15.3 g of carbohydrates, and 15.4 g of sugar, so it's recommended to consume only one or two tablespoons a day. Because honey is highly viscous, it can stick to teeth and cause cavities, so it's best to dilute it by adding it to food or water before consumption.

 

◇Cold Brew

 

Chad Moutrey, vice president of the National Restaurant Association, said, "Cold brew is becoming more popular every year, satisfying those who want a smooth, refreshing taste while getting energy." Cold brew is less acidic than regular coffee, which is brewed in hot water. The higher the heat and temperature of coffee, the higher the acidity. High acidity can stimulate healthy gut bacteria and cause digestive problems. Cold brew also contains high levels of caffeine, which can cause heartburn and insomnia, so it's best to stick to the maximum recommended daily intake. The recommended maximum daily intake for Koreans is 400mg or less for adults and 300mg or less for pregnant women. According to a survey by the Korea Consumer Agency, the average caffeine content per cup of cold brew is 212mg, so it's recommended to drink no more than one or two cups a day.

 

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What's the trending food in 2025?

 

Mushrooms, honey, and goldbrew

Coffee always tastes good haha

It's gold blue

 

There are many types of mushrooms

The nutrients are also different

It has a good texture, so it can be eaten as a meat substitute.