Pasta, rice and noodles remain in vogue
New research from the UK has indicated that carbs remain well and truly in fashion, with sales rising by as much as 22% over the last two years. What is more, over the next five years the market for pasta, rice and noodles is estimated to grow a further 25%, according to market researchers Mintel.
The trend towards these commodities has been seen around the world, with Coles boss Ian McLeod recently indicating that they had seen higher sales of staples like rice and pasta as consumers looked to eat at home more often.
“Rice and pasta prices rocketed in 2008 due to global shortages, while the weakness of sterling has continued to keep retail prices high,” Vivianne Ihekweazu, Senior Consumer Analyst at Mintel, noted. “Despite the rise in costs, there is no doubt that the recession has boosted the nation’s appetite for these store cupboard staples, and they still provide a relatively affordable meal solution.”
“A greater interest in home cooking and the move towards more eating-in during the recession has helped boost sales. The market has also benefitted from the influence of global cuisines and demand for convenience. Sales growth has come from product innovation such as rice pouches as well as the introduction of microwaveable and ready-to-cook formats in the rice and noodles market.”
