2011 Annual Food Trends

The Food Network, marketing companies and food & restaurant consultants predict annual food trends. The predictions are influenced by the state of the economy, new technologies, and historical data.We've broken down the predicted trends for 2011 into those that will fit in a healthy eating plan; and those that should be avoided or limited. Fortunately, what you eat does make a difference. Follow the latest trends below:Bite this:

1. Beans will play a big role in the 'meatless' day trend. A nutrition powerhouse, beans are low in calories & fat but loaded with protein, fiber and an abundance of vitamins & minerals. Beans are part of a heart healthy diet and are recommended for people with suffering from diabetes.
2. Fin Fish. Most of us could use more fish in our diet particularly those high in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Avoid frying which adds fat & calories; bake, broil, or grill instead.
3. Mini plates. Mini portions from appetizers to dessert help keep down calories & cost. This trend also reduces feelings of deprivation.
4. Nutmeg and other spices add flavor to your favorite foods without adding calories, fat and sodium. Try cinnamon in your coffee, oatmeal or next batch of chili.
5. Vegetables. With the popularity of community gardens, home-grown and local farming, it's only natural these nutrient-dense, low calorie foods get more room on our plate.

Not that:

1. Fried Vegetables. Breading & frying may get more people to try vegetables but this high-heat cooking method reduces the vitamins & minerals and increases calories & fat.
2. Grits. Mostly refined grains (means low in fiber and less vitamins & minerals) usually served with high-calorie, high-fat butter or cheese.
3. Pies with sweet and savory fillings are replacing the cupcake craze. The crust is usually loaded with trans or saturated fat. If the filling is high in fat it's a 'double whammy'. If you can't resist this trend, think 'mini' and only occasionally.
4. Sandwiches from around the world. These specialty sandwiches can have as many as 1000 calories and contain deep-fried fillings and high-fat condiments. Examples are Mexican cemitas, Vietnamese banh mi, tartines & regional American sandwiches (po' boy, hot brown, etc).
5. Sausage replaces hot dogs that were on the list last year. Just like hot dogs, about the only positive thing to say about high-fat, high-sodium sausage is if it's made locally. But even if it's locally-made, sausage should be limited.

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