PETA
Donate Now
  • Help Animals
    • Urgent Alerts
    • Our Campaigns
    • Action Team
    • Activist Guide
    • Get Active Online
    • Leaflets & Stickers
  • News
    • Features
    • Videos
    • Adoptable Animals
    • Rescue Stories
  • Investigations
    • Investigations & Rescue Fund
    • Report Cruelty to Animals
  • Animal Rights Issues
    • Animals Used for Experimentation
    • Food
    • Clothing
    • Entertainment
    • Companion Animals
    • Wildlife
  • Living
    • Living 101
    • Personal Care & Fashion
    • Food & Health
    • Recipes
    • Parents
    • Humane Home
    • Entertainment
    • Animal Companions
  • Students
    • peta2
    • PETA Kids
    • TeachKind
  • Shop
    • PETA SHOP
    • Cruelty-Free Database
    • Literature
    • PETA Shopping Guide
    • PETA-Approved Vegan
    • PETA Presents
  • About
    • Our Story
    • Our Views
    • Victories
    • Milestones
    • Volunteer
    • Work at PETA
    • Intern
    • FAQ
    • Contact Us
    • PETA Global
  • Donate Now
    • Donate Now
    • Vanguard Society
    • ‘In Honor of’ and Memorial Gifts
    • More Ways to Support
    • Membership Services
    • Gifts in Wills
Report Cruelty to Animals
Skip to Content
PETA
Donate Now
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals
Report Cruelty to Animals
PETA
Animals are not ours
to experiment on, eat, wear, use for entertainment, or abuse in any other way.
  • Help Animals
    • Urgent Alerts
    • Our Campaigns
    • Action Team
    • Activist Guide
    • Get Active Online
    • Leaflets & Stickers
  • News
    • Features
    • Videos
    • Adoptable Animals
    • Rescue Stories
  • Investigations
    • Investigations & Rescue Fund
    • Report Cruelty to Animals
  • Animal Rights Issues
    • Animals Used for Experimentation
    • Food
    • Clothing
    • Entertainment
    • Companion Animals
    • Wildlife
  • Living
    • Living 101
    • Personal Care & Fashion
    • Food & Health
    • Recipes
    • Parents
    • Humane Home
    • Entertainment
    • Animal Companions
  • Students
    • peta2
    • PETA Kids
    • TeachKind
  • Shop
    • PETA SHOP
    • Cruelty-Free Database
    • Literature
    • PETA Shopping Guide
    • PETA-Approved Vegan
    • PETA Presents
  • About
    • Our Story
    • Our Views
    • Victories
    • Milestones
    • Volunteer
    • Work at PETA
    • Intern
    • FAQ
    • Contact Us
    • PETA Global
  • Donate Now
    • Donate Now
    • Vanguard Society
    • ‘In Honor of’ and Memorial Gifts
    • More Ways to Support
    • Membership Services
    • Gifts in Wills
  • Help Animals
    • Urgent Alerts
    • Our Campaigns
    • Action Team
    • Activist Guide
    • Get Active Online
    • Leaflets & Stickers
  • News
    • Features
    • Videos
    • Adoptable Animals
    • Rescue Stories
  • Investigations
    • Investigations & Rescue Fund
    • Report Cruelty to Animals
  • Animal Rights Issues
    • Animals Used for Experimentation
    • Food
    • Clothing
    • Entertainment
    • Companion Animals
    • Wildlife
  • Living
    • Living 101
    • Personal Care & Fashion
    • Food & Health
    • Recipes
    • Parents
    • Humane Home
    • Entertainment
    • Animal Companions
  • Students
    • peta2
    • PETA Kids
    • TeachKind
  • Shop
    • PETA SHOP
    • Cruelty-Free Database
    • Literature
    • PETA Shopping Guide
    • PETA-Approved Vegan
    • PETA Presents
  • About
    • Our Story
    • Our Views
    • Victories
    • Milestones
    • Volunteer
    • Work at PETA
    • Intern
    • FAQ
    • Contact Us
    • PETA Global
  • Donate Now
    • Donate Now
    • Vanguard Society
    • ‘In Honor of’ and Memorial Gifts
    • More Ways to Support
    • Membership Services
    • Gifts in Wills
  • Living 101
  • Personal Care & Fashion
  • Food & Health
  • Recipes
  • Parents
  • Humane Home
  • Entertainment
  • Animal Companions
  1. Home
  2. /
  3. Living
  4. /
  5. Vegan Food
  6. /
  7. 16 Food Trends That Prove 2016 Is #TheYearOfVegan

16 Food Trends That Prove 2016 Is #TheYearOfVegan

© singingvegan
Published January 21, 2016 by Justin Lessner. Last Updated July 21, 2020.

2016 is officially #TheYearOfVegan, and these top food trends prove that a new era in food is upon us as more people avoid animal-derived ingredients, which are cruelly produced, unhealthy, and environmentally devastating.

Seaweed

Kale is “out,” and seaweed is “in.” Kale has been extremely popular for years, but now many call seaweed the new go-to superfood. Not only is it environmentally friendly and plentiful, seaweed is also packed with fiber, antioxidants, iodine, and good fats, making it the new darling of the health world. And according to a leading restaurant agency, seaweed is “set to explode thanks to its sustainability angle and umami appeal.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Brittany 🤸🏻‍♀️ 💕 (@singingveganofficial)

Meal-Delivery Services

Ordering from your favorite restaurants is so last year. In 2017, look for companies that partner with top chefs, celebrities, or brands to prepare vegan meals exclusively for delivery service. Plant-based company Beyond Meat now partners with Chef’d, and superstar Beyoncé is championing the 22 Days Nutrition plan—meaning it’s easier than ever to have cruelty-free vegan food delivered to your door.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Beyond Meat (@beyondmeat)

Carrot Lox

To avoid the risk of toxins and even mercury poisoning while sparing the lives of fish and many other animals caught or killed as “by-catch,” employ perhaps the world’s most humble vegetable: the carrot. Serve this at your next brunch, and you’ll be known as a true trendsetter.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Crossroads Kitchen (@crossroadskitchen)

Fermented Foods

The funky, earthy flavors of fermentation will be big this year. In addition to lending dishes a unique, acidic flavor, fermented foods hugely benefit the health of your digestive tract. To get in on this hot trend, try replacing your tofu with tempeh, snacking on kimchi, enjoying a bottle of refreshing kombucha, or adding flavor to your cooking with miso paste. And remember: Sauerkraut is sexy!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by 🌻 (@vegalilly_13)

Everything Fries

French fries are already a top snack among … well, anybody who eats food. But chefs everywhere are turning all sorts of things into fries. Sweet potato fries are already ubiquitous, but you’ll definitely be seeing avocado, taro, portobello mushroom, polenta, and even banana fries. The possibilities are truly endless!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Vegan Corner (@thevegancorner)

Maca Powder

This trendy food is apparently used as an aphrodisiac and to improve fertility in both men and women. But in 2017, expect to see it mixed into juices and smoothies, adding a potent mix of healthful nutrients, as the root is high in protein, iodine, calcium, and potassium.

Nutritional Yeast

Nutritional yeast, affectionately called “nooch” by those in the know, is a magical substance that’s going “mainstream.” High in protein, these golden flakes impart a cheesy, savory flavor in all manner of dishes—mac ‘n’ “cheese,” potatoes, pasta, pesto, and even popcorn.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Best of Vegan® | Food & Lifestyle (@bestofvegan)

Jackfruit

Exotic fruits in general are going to be big in 2016, but king among them is the jackfruit. This highly versatile fruit has the texture of pulled pork or carnitas and is a go-to vegan-meat option. When shopping, be sure to skip the sugar overload by buying jackfruit brined in water—not syrup.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Beth (@eatingmindfully_)

Aquafaba

Also know as bean juice, this is the same liquid inside a can of beans that most people pour down the drain. But did you know it’s an excellent resource for whipping up a “merengue,” baking some French macarons, and even making ice cream?

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Isa Chandra Moskowitz (@isachandra)

Overnight Oats

Overnight oats are hot right now and will be even bigger in 2017 as more and more people get turned on to the simplicity and deliciousness of this convenient breakfast dish. Simply throw some oats, your favorite toppings, and some vegan milk in a mason jar and refrigerate overnight. Done. Plus, they’re totally Instagram-worthy.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by MINIMALIST BAKER (@minimalistbaker)

‘Zoodles’

Chefs are experimenting with vegetable spirals—zucchini, asparagus, beet, sweet potato, and others—to replace traditional carb-heavy pasta. Carbaholics may not be celebrating this trend, but spiralizer manufacturers certainly are.

https://www.instagram.com/p/qbEMwzM3xV/

Plant-Based Bacon

https://www.instagram.com/p/BHu5p_oAvNZ/?tagged=veganbacon

There’s nothing new about America’s obsession with bacon. But hot new vegan options are popping up all over the place—even in trendy New York City restaurants. Get in on the trend by making your own DIY bacon out of mushrooms, carrots, or even coconut. Or check out some of these brands at your local market.

Smoothie Bowls

Listen, juice bars: You had a good run, but there’s a new health food in town—smoothie bowls. Haven’t seen one? It’s basically a big-bowl smoothie made from frozen açaí or dragon fruit pulp, soy or other vegan milk, and bananas, bits of other fruit, and lots of ice. Toppings include granola, chia seeds, chocolate chips, coconut flakes, and peanut butter. Keep an eye out for a smoothie bowl near you!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Brittany 🤸🏻‍♀️ 💕 (@singingveganofficial)

Root-to-Stem Dining

A logical, healthful, and compassionate alternative to the so-called “nose-to-tail” movement, this trend promotes full use of produce, maximizing each and every dish’s nutritional value. Think grilled carrots with braised carrot tops or sautéed broccoli crowns with steamed broccoli stalks. Don’t let anything go to waste to be on point with this smart trend.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Brittany 🤸🏻‍♀️ 💕 (@singingveganofficial)

Vegan Eggs

The egg industry is about to crack wide open. Vegan egg options are everywhere and evolving faster than ever. Thanks to brands like Follow Your Heart, more and more chickens are being spared the cruelty inherent in the egg industry.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Follow Your Heart (@followyourheart)

Cashew Cheese

Vegan cheeses have been around for a while now. Not only are they going mainstream, they’ve also been elevated to gourmet status with the addition of cashew.

https://www.instagram.com/p/9NJLo_PcaJ/

These popular food options in 2017 are more than just trends. Increasing numbers of people are choosing plant-based lifestyles, meaning there are more opportunities than ever to help animals and make 2017 #TheYearOfVegan.

Send Me a Vegan Starter Kit
Order Your FREE Vegan Starter Kit
Send Me a Vegan Starter Kit
Want Recipes and Lifestyle Tips?

Text VEG to 73822 to get the latest vegan lifestyle tips, recipes, and urgent action alerts texted right to your phone.

Terms for automated texts/calls from PETA: https://peta.vg/txt. Text STOP to end, HELP for more info. Msg/data rates may apply. U.S. only.

Follow Us
  • PETA Facebook
  • PETA Twitter
  • PETA Instagram
  • PETA YouTube
  • PETA SMS Sign-Up
  • PETA LinkedIn
  • PETA TikTok
  • PETA Bluesky
  • PETA Threads
You May Also Like
What Can Yoga Teach Us About Animals? Sit in Cobra, Cow, or Fish and Find Out
Happy image of person doing yoga with dog
What Can Yoga Teach Us About Animals? Sit in Cobra, Cow, or Fish and Find Out

Through intentional movement and reflection, yoga can help deepen your connection to animals and empower you to advocate for them better.

Take Action
July 3, 2025
Easy Vegan Red, White, and Blue Mocktails and Cocktails
Homemade Patriotic Red White and Blue Slushie Cocktail with Vodka
Food
Easy Vegan Red, White, and Blue Mocktails and Cocktails

Celebrate with these colorful vegan drinks—perfect for kids or adults! They’re easy to make, totally festive, and refreshing enough for any summer bash.

Take Action
July 3, 2025
© iStock.com/bhofack2
Summer 2025 Makeup Trends Are Blooming—Here Are Some Vegan Staples You’ll Need to Achieve This Season’s Hottest Looks
A woman having making applied
Personal Care & Fashion
Summer 2025 Makeup Trends Are Blooming—Here Are Some Vegan Staples You’ll Need to Achieve This Season’s Hottest Looks

Ready to shine this season? Discover the must-have vegan products to help you perfect the hottest summer 2025 makeup trends!

Take Action
July 3, 2025
Smoky, Saucy, and Snackable: Vegan BBQ Bites to Fire Up Your Summer Snack Game
BBQ products over a gradient
Food
Smoky, Saucy, and Snackable: Vegan BBQ Bites to Fire Up Your Summer Snack Game

Craving a sweet, smoky bite? These vegan BBQ chips, filling appetizers, and other crave-worthy snacks channel all the backyard cookout vibes.

Take Action
July 2, 2025
Want Recipes and Lifestyle Tips?

Text VEG to 73822 to get the latest vegan lifestyle tips, recipes, and urgent action alerts texted right to your phone.

Terms for automated texts/calls from PETA: https://peta.vg/txt. Text STOP to end, HELP for more info. Msg/data rates may apply. U.S. only.

Follow Us
  • PETA Facebook
  • PETA Twitter
  • PETA Instagram
  • PETA YouTube
  • PETA SMS Sign-Up
  • PETA LinkedIn
  • PETA TikTok
  • PETA Bluesky
  • PETA Threads

Helpful Resources

Order Your FREE Vegan Starter Kit!
Vegan food
Food
Order Your FREE Vegan Starter Kit!

PETA’s free vegan starter kit has everything from recipes and tips on eating out to health information. Order now by filling out the form! Or, order for a friend.

Take Action
How to Go Vegan in 3 Simple Steps
Food
How to Go Vegan in 3 Simple Steps

Going vegan is easier than ever before, but we are here to make it even easier—as easy as 1, 2, 3!

Take Action
Vegan Recipes
Food
Vegan Recipes

Search PETA’s database of delicious, mouthwatering, vegetarian and vegan recipes.

Take Action
PETA’s 2-Week Vegan Meal Plan
Food
PETA’s 2-Week Vegan Meal Plan

PETA’s chefs have created sample vegan menus featuring simple, easy recipes that anyone can follow.

Take Action
PETA’s 3-Week Vegan Meal Plan
Food
PETA’s 3-Week Vegan Meal Plan

It takes 21 days to form a habit, which is why our three-week vegan meal plan is the perfect way to kick-start your vegan journey.

Take Action
GET PETA UPDATES
Stay up to date on the latest vegan trends and get breaking animal rights news delivered straight to your inbox!
Sign me up for the following e-mail:
Current subscribers: You will continue to receive e-mails unless you explicitly opt out here.

By submitting this form, you’re acknowledging that you have read and agree to our privacy policy and agree to receive e-mails from us.

Get the Latest Tips—Right in Your Inbox
We’ll e-mail you weekly with the latest in vegan recipes, fashion, and more!
Sign me up for the following e-mail:
Current subscribers: You will continue to receive e-mails unless you explicitly opt out here.

By submitting this form, you’re acknowledging that you have read and agree to our privacy policy and agree to receive e-mails from us.

Read More

“Almost all of us grew up eating meat, wearing leather, and going to circuses and zoos. We never considered the impact of these actions on the animals involved. For whatever reason, you are now asking the question: Why should animals have rights?”

— Ingrid Newkirk, PETA President and co-author of Animalkind

Read More
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals
501 Front St., Norfolk, VA 23510
757-622-PETA (7382)
757-622-0457 (fax)
PETA is a nonprofit, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) corporation (tax ID number 52-1218336). CFC #11651

About PETA

  • Our Story
  • Careers
  • Why Animal Rights?
  • Victories
  • Volunteer
  • PETA Prime
  • Sign Up for E-Mails
  • Join PETA’s Text List
  • Contact PETA
  • International Publications

Help Animals

  • Urgent Alerts
  • Our Campaigns
  • Join the Action Team
  • For Students
  • For Teachers

For Media

  • Media Center
  • News Releases
  • PSAs
  • For Media: Order PSAs
  • Contact Media Team

Support PETA

  • Donate Now
  • Become a Member
  • Make a Monthly Gift
  • Make a Memorial Gift
  • Make an Honorary Gift
  • Make a Stock Gift
  • Gifts in Wills
  • What Is the Vanguard Society?
  • Membership Services
  • Gift Memberships
  • More Ways

International Sites

  • PETA U.K.
  • PETA France
  • PETA Germany
  • PETA Netherlands
  • PETA Switzerland
  • PETA India
  • PETA Australia
  • PETA Asia
  • 亚洲善待动物组织
  • PETA Latino
  • © 2025 PETA | Read Our Full Policy
  • Careers
  • Contact
  • Contest Terms & Conditions
  • Disclaimer
  • Texting Terms & Conditions
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Report Website Abuse
Next Article »

Text MOROCCO to 73822 to urge the Moroccan Government to end the slaughter of homeless dogs & cats! It’s reportedly planning to exterminate 99% of all homeless dogs before it hosts the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

Terms for automated texts/calls from PETA: http://peta.vg/txt. Text STOP to end, HELP for more info. Msg/data rates may apply. U.S. only.

✕Close