If you’ve been paying attention to what’s on your plate or in your glass, you’ll know that sustainability isn’t just a buzzword anymore. It’s the future. From foraged ingredients to infused flavours and agricultural shifts, these practices are gaining global traction, and for good reason. Here are 5 sustainability trends you should look out for – and why they matter.
Local Sourcing and Hyper-Seasonality
Farmers’ markets, community-supported agriculture (CSA) boxes and menus that change with the microseasons? Very in! Restaurants and home cooks alike are leaning into local, fresh and in-season produce. It’s less about fad trends and more about celebrating what grows well here and now.
In South Africa, farming communities like Babylonstoren, Meuse Farm, LOT 187, Abalimi Bezekhaya and more have been pushing this philosophy.
Why it matters: Local sourcing reduces transport emissions and supports small-scale producers. Hyper-seasonality also means better flavour, fresher food and a tighter farming community.
Eat with the seasons and follow this fruit and veg chart.
Alternative Proteins Are Evolving
You’ve heard of plant-based burgers, but the alt protein space is expanding far beyond soy patties. We’re talking mushroom-based meat, fermented proteins and even insect flour (don’t knock it ‘til you try it). The emphasis? Sustainability without sacrificing texture, taste or nutritional value.
Plaas, a local company specialising in alternative proteins, is already ahead of the curve. This future-forward company incorporates functional mushrooms like Lion’s Mane and Cordyceps, adaptogens like ashwagandha, pea protein and more functional ingredients into plant-based meal solutions.
Why it matters: Compared to conventional meat, plant-based proteins require far less land, water and energy, while producing fewer emissions. Alternative proteins offer a more efficient and environmentally responsible way to feed future populations.
Blue Food Gets the Green Light
Seaweed, sea moss, mussels, oysters and other ‘blue foods’ are being hailed as sustainable superstars. They require no fertiliser, feed or freshwater to grow, and many function as ecosystem engineers – organisms that actively improve the environments they inhabit. Seaweed, for example, has the ability to absorb carbon dioxide, helping marine food chains thrive. Chefs are experimenting and, thanks to food scientists and product developers, consumer interest is rising.
Seebamboes, a restaurant by chef-owners Anouchka Horn and Neil Swart, reimagines the concept of ‘surf and turf’, incorporating ingredients from Cape Town’s rich oceans.
Why it matters: Oceans cover 70% of the planet but are wildly underutilised when it comes to sustainable food. Blue foods have the potential to feed more people with fewer resources.
Resilient Crops Are on the Rise
Millet, sorghum, fonio – these ancient grains are climbing in the sustainability trend ranks. They’re climate-resilient, drought-resistant and packed with nutrients. As climate change affects staple crops like wheat and rice, these hardy alternatives are finding their way into more kitchens. Not only are these ancient grains being incorporated into modern dishes, but they are also being used in brewing.
Brewgooder recently introduced their game-changing Fairtrade fonio beer to the world, paving the way for other food and beverage manufacturers to leverage similar grains for their resilience and nutrients.
Why it matters: Diversifying our crops means more food security, especially in areas vulnerable to climate shifts. Plus, they’re delicious (ever tried sorghum porridge with honey?).
Packaging That Actually Breaks Down
The packaging world is finally evolving with materials that are compostable, reusable or made from food waste itself – think mushroom-based trays and edible cutlery. Some companies are even adopting closed-loop packaging models, where you can request to refill your container.
Frugalpac, a company based in the United Kingdom, is working towards improving packaging. They manufacture carbon-low bottles and other environmentally-friendly packaging solutions. The innovative brand has even discussed a market partnership to bring paper bottles to South Africa.
Why it matters: Single-use plastic is one of the biggest culprits in environmental pollution. Smarter packaging not only reduces landfills, it also shows just how innovative sustainability can be.
Discover how local wine producers are cracking down on heavy bottles.