TikTok 'Edible Skincare' Trend Boosts Carrots

The trend's roots are in the body's reaction to beta-carotene, the pigment that gives carrots their orange color. When consumed in large quantities, the body converts what it needs into Vitamin A and stores the excess in the skin, which can lead to a yellow-orange hue called carotenemia. This effect is harmless and typically requires consuming about 20 to 50 milligrams of beta-carotene daily for several weeks to become visible. One medium carrot contains about 4 milligrams of beta-carotene, meaning a person would need to eat several carrots a day to see a change in skin tone. The resulting color is more of a golden glow than a sun-induced tan, which has been perceived by some as a healthier and more attractive look. This has led to the rise of the "carrot tan" phenomenon on social media platforms. In Chicago, catering companies are well-positioned to capitalize on this trend by highlighting their wellness and healthy menu options. Caterers like Blue Plate emphasize menu planning that is deeply rooted in seasonality and fresh produce. Other companies, such as Wholesome 360, focus on Mediterranean-inspired dishes that are rich in flavor and nutrition, which aligns with the "edible skincare" concept. The visual appeal of this trend is key for platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where "foodscapes" and authentic, natural aesthetics are predicted to be major trends in 2025 and 2026. Chicago-based food photographers are already known for capturing the texture and experience of food, moving away from perfectly polished shots to more realistic and engaging imagery. This shift in visual storytelling can be leveraged by caterers to market "glow bowls" and other wellness-focused dishes. Experiential dining, such as pop-ups and events in unique venues, provides another avenue for marketing this trend. Chicago has a thriving pop-up scene, which allows for creative and themed culinary experiences. Catering companies like Limelight and Food For Thought have established partnerships with numerous Chicago venues, including museums and art galleries, creating opportunities for art-themed events where the visual and nutritional aspects of food can be highlighted. To further amplify this trend, collaborations with Chicago-based food influencers can be highly effective. Influencers like Mina Im (@chicagofoodgirl) and Erin Byrne (@312food) have a significant reach and are known for showcasing the best of the city's food scene. Partnering with these influencers to create content around visually appealing and healthy menu items can drive engagement and attract new clients. For luxury catering brands, there is an opportunity to partner with high-end lifestyle influencers to create exclusive culinary experiences. Companies like Esmé and Luxe Catering are already offering MICHELIN-starred and luxury kosher catering, respectively, which can be marketed as a premium "edible skincare" experience. These collaborations can be showcased at exclusive pop-up events or in partnership with luxury brands, further solidifying the connection between high-end cuisine and beauty. The rise of pop-up restaurants and experiential dining is having a significant impact on the catering industry. These temporary culinary events create a buzz and allow for experimentation with new concepts without the overhead of a traditional restaurant. This trend has been embraced in Chicago, with the city even launching a Pop-Up Initiative to encourage these ventures. For catering companies, this provides an opportunity to showcase their creativity and adaptability, and to reach new audiences in a dynamic and engaging way.