Popeye's no spring chicken and neither is his favorite treat. Spinach has been a healthful mainstay in the produce department for decades, enjoying strong popularity thanks to its value-added, ready-to-eat convenience.
But what makes this leafy green vegetable worth a trend spotter look is what consumers are interested in doing with it.
It's no longer just for salads and side dishes. According to Google Trends, six out of the top 10 “rising” search queries related to spinach all revolve around spinach as an ingredient in smoothies.
Consumers are interested in finding the perfect way to green up their home blends using something familiar, and it packs a nutritious punch, says Kori Tuggle-Dinner, vice president of marketing for Church Brothers Farms, Salinas, Calif.
“Adding just two handfuls of spinach leaves (two cups) gives you 70% of your daily vitamin A, plus folate, plus antioxidants, plus fiber – you can't go wrong,” she says.