Food Safari
Each quarter, we head to the capital to explore the latest food trends hitting the streets. Guided by TimeOut and other publications highlighting the newest restaurant openings, a team of six embarks on a unique tasting journey.We book into multiple venues—one dish per stop, no wine, just flavour. It could be a starter or a main. Each plate is tasted, then passed clockwise so everyone samples every dish in turn. It’s fast, focused, and flavour-packed—a hands-on way to stay ahead of the curve.
Our Bespoke Market Research Software
Whilst a number of companies use Mintel as a tool, Foodmaker noticed the it didn't give enough indepth information about sausages & burgers we required to predict flavours accurately; we needed something that had it's finger firmly on the pulse and so FREDA was born.FREDA is a unique market trends analysis tool developed in house and used only by Foodmaker and our customers. We're building the most comprehensive database in the UK and Ireland showing the launch of new products in the industry.
FREDA includes:
- Burger & Sausage ranges on sale in major supermarkets throughout the UK
- Analysis of flavour leading categories such as snacks and crisps to capture flavour trends
- Added to and updated weekly
- Full Analysis of product positioning, claims & ingredients
NPD Team
At the heart of innovation, our New Product Development (NPD) team are the flavour scouts and culinary strategists behind every bold idea.Armed with insights from global Food Safaris, Supermarket Sweeps, and deep-dive research papers, they explore, analyse and distil trends into actionable concepts. Each idea is rigorously trialled across a range of meat blocks to test versatility, performance, and consumer appeal.
Only the strongest survive this flavour gauntlet. After countless tastings and tweaks, a carefully curated shortlist emerges — primed for the final seal of approval from our Development Chef.
Development Chef
At the heart of Foodmaker’s innovation is our resident Development Chef, Andy Benn — a culinary craftsman who brings ideas to life and transforms trend insights into flavourful, functional reality.As a key member of the team responsible for identifying emerging food trends, Andy takes the theory and turns it into tangible, mouthwatering concepts. With years of experience, he ensures each blend not only meets the brief but excites the palate.
Customers interested in exploring new concepts or enhancing existing products are invited to choose from our bespoke development menus. These are designed around your specific needs — whether you’re innovating for a retail launch, foodservice application, or ready meal solution.
Visiting our dedicated development kitchen in Corby is more than just a meeting — it’s an immersive experience. Expect a hands-on presentation, packed with theatre and wizardry, as Andy showcases new flavour concepts and creations. The session culminates in a professional tasting where every detail — from aroma and mouthfeel to visual appeal — is considered.
Come see innovation in action. Book a development session and let’s bring your next big idea to life.
Foodmaker's Exclusive Forecast
At Foodmaker, our dedicated team of Development Specialists sits at the heart of flavour discovery. With over 60 years of combined experience, they’re passionate about staying ahead of the curve—tracking, analysing, and forecasting the trends that will shape tomorrow’s tastes.Our bi-annual Flavour Forecast is designed to support your innovation flight path. It highlights the most influential trends across the market—giving you the inspiration and direction needed to spark new ideas and drive product development.
Download the latest edition: Summer 2026 At Foodmaker, we don’t just predict trends — we bring them to life.
Past Forecasts
Catch Up on Previous ForecastsAt Foodmaker, we don’t just predict trends — we bring them to life.
To help you experience our top forecasted flavours first-hand, we offer two unique ways to engage:
Live Chef Demonstrations: Watch our expert chefs bring the forecast to life in real time. See how each flavour can be used across a range of applications in an inspiring and interactive session.
Sample Kits Delivered to You: Prefer to explore at your own pace? Request a complimentary sample box and try the latest flavours in your own kitchen or development space, whenever it suits you. Get in touch to book a demo or request your sample kit today.
