UAE residents are increasingly turning to healthier food options such as vegan ice creams, low-sodium salts, and superfood camel milk, according to industry experts at Gulfood 2024, as reported by Khaleej Times.
"UAE residents are much more mindful of what they are eating," Lara Baaklini, the marketing manager of the homegrown ice cream brand House of Pops.
Lara emphasized that their brand, which offers 100 percent natural, vegan, and plastic-free products, has garnered a dedicated customer base.
Starting as a pop-up stall, House of Pops has expanded to 17 outlets across three countries, boasting a factory seven times larger than its original production house and employing 100 staff.
Lara highlighted the recent launch of their gelatos and snack bites range, attributing the brand's success to offering healthy and delicious snacks.
Similarly, Mtashr A. Latef Albadry, CEO of Camelicious, observed a significant shift in people's attitudes towards food.
He explained that consumers are drawn to camel milk due to its superfood status and unique health benefits, including immunity-boosting properties, insulin provision, and low-fat content.
Camelicious, which originated in 2003 after a study on camel milk's nutritional benefits, now boasts over 8,000 camels and 60 products.
Mtashr emphasized the brand's popularity beyond the region, particularly in China, the US, the UK, and other GCC countries.
Seth Merrick Wilen, President and CEO of American Trading International, highlighted the global trend towards healthier food choices, including a surge in demand for "Better for You" products.
He noted the popularity of organic apple cider vinegar and other health-oriented alternatives, reflecting a broader shift towards wellness-conscious consumption patterns worldwide.