Mood food

As explored in our Well Economy report, there is a growing acknowledgement that food has an impact on mood and wellbeing. As consumers become more invested in their own wellness, food and drink have evolved to be seen as a way to manage physical and mental health, not just to achieve a certain body type. Dr. Smood, a healthy fast-food chain, plays on this trend with anti-inflammatory foods that are 80% plant-based, with many of the products claiming to energize consumers. The company has grown from one location to five in two years and four more café openings are planned for this year. Larger restaurant franchises are also catching onto this trend. Pizza Hut launched a mood-enhancing pizza in time for Blue Monday this year. Consumers are also turning to apps to help them. Yolk! uses AI to detect sadness, anger and anxiety and suggests foods that may improve mood.

Scientific research is further supporting the notion that food and mental wellbeing are linked. A 2017 study found that an anti-inflammatory, Mediterranean-style diet high in vegetables, fish, olive oil, and nuts reduced symptoms of depression in 32% of its sample.

It is important to acknowledge the impact that food can have on health and wellness. Consumers are beginning to understand that what they eat influences how they feel. Brands should also start to take on this knowledge and apply it where possible in their customer journey.