‘Christmas 2029': Boozy puddings, microchips and 3D printing

DNA-optimised dishes, boozy puddings and 3D printing are on the menu for Christmas Day 2029, according to a new festive trends report commissioned by foodservice provider Bidfood.

In partnership with food futurologist, Dr Morgaine Gaye, Bidfood shared its predictions for Christmas Day dining 10 years from now as it reveals its 2019 festive range.

Microchips on menus out of home
With OpenTable research showing that more people are opting to eat out-of-home on Christmas Day, microchips and skin-embedded sensor devices could enable operators to take into consideration genetic health and microbiome unique to their customers' nutritional needs.

A virtual party
Bidfood's report predicts far flung family members and celebrity guests could be conjured up using hologram technology; while LED wallpaper displays could allow consumers to change the theme of a room.

Celebration dishes could bring a sense of theatre with textured cutlery and edible glasses, and intricate dessert designs will be created through 3D printing.

Festive tipples
Alcohol is expected to play more of a role in puddings, such as bourbon nut butters and wine-infused ice-cream. New products from Bidfood's Christmas range this year echo this prediction, from gin and tonic salmon parfaits, through to a sloe gin, mincemeat and clotted cream tart.

Lucy Pedrick, senior insights manager at Bidfood, said: "This year we've not only looked at what current food trends are driving consumer demand, but we've also taken a deep dive into the history books to look at what influences remain from the past, as well as worked with food futurologist, Dr Morgaine, to understand what will be driving food and drink innovation and trends in the future.

"This year's Bidfood range gives a nod to Christmas through time. Retro-inspired desserts such as sherry trifle cheesecake and salted caramel arctic roll bring a sense of nostalgia; products like footlong pigs in blankets and a wide selection of plant-based options tie in with current consumer preferences; whilst other dishes including our gin and elderflower cheesecake, cranberry and camembert bread ring, and treasure dome tarts look to the future."

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