5 Food Business Ideas for Beginners: Start in 2024!

After three years of the pandemic, the culinary industry is gradually recovering. According to Industry Research Data - a data center for various industries in Indonesia - which conducted research on food and beverage industry trends from 2011 to early 2023.

The data trends show positive growth every year, with even a GDP increase in the first quarter (Q1) of 2023 exceeding 195 trillion rupiahs. This is a good sign for businesses operating in the Food and Beverage (F&B) industry. Especially for those interested in starting a food business.

This continued positive growth indicates a large market share, meaning you have the opportunity to enter and start a food and beverage business now.

If you're unsure about what kind of food business to start, it's best to prepare carefully by the end of 2023 and start in 2024. Here are some food business ideas worth considering:

1. Personalized Healthy Catering

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The pandemic has led us to adopt healthier lifestyles, including regular exercise and consuming nutritious food. This healthy lifestyle trend continues to rise even after things return to normal. Many people are becoming more interested in going to gyms or fitness centers at least three times a week.

This presents an opportunity for those interested in starting a healthy food business, as the market is growing alongside increased awareness of the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

You can start by offering small-scale catering services from home, providing healthy meal boxes for friends who enjoy exercising or members of specific gyms.

Offer attractive deals to your customers, such as allowing them to personalize their healthy meal menus according to their dietary preferences.

Consider special cases like allergies to certain ingredients such as nuts, eggs, or shellfish. Ask questions upfront or give customers the chance to customize their menus. This will make your healthy catering business feel safer and more comfortable for customers, prioritizing your business over competitors.

2. Vegetarian Restaurant or Plant-Based Foods

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Vegetarianism has been gaining attention in Indonesia over the past decade, with Indonesia being one of the top 20 vegetarian-friendly countries in the world.

At least 2% of Indonesia's population, or more than 5 million people, have adopted a vegetarian lifestyle. This increasing trend in vegetarianism is supported by growing awareness of its positive effects, such as reducing the risk of diseases, weight loss, and improving metabolism.

The market share for plant-based food businesses is expected to continue growing, reaching over 562.3 million US dollars or more than 8.4 trillion rupiahs by 2028.

Consider opening a vegetarian restaurant or offering plant-based menus as this market share expands. Prepare popular plant-based menu items, such as tofu, tempeh, fruits, green vegetables, and tubers. Innovation in taste and menu is crucial for success in this market.

3. Spicy Food Cuisine

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Spicy food is highly popular in Indonesia, with 93.6% of the population enjoying spicy dishes. With such a large percentage, there is still a significant market for spicy food businesses.

Consider selling spicy food items such as spicy snacks, noodles, fried chicken, spicy soup, and various types of chili sauce. Offer a range of spiciness levels to cater to different tastes.

4. Frozen Food Business

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The frozen food business has a bright future, with a predicted increase in market share over the next five years.

You can start a frozen food business from home with a relatively small investment. Consider selling frozen meats, seafood, processed meat products, vegetables, and fruits.

5. Modernized Local Street Food

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Traditional Indonesian street food is still highly popular, especially among young people. Consider selling local favorites like noodle soup, meatball soup, fried rice, dumplings, and various grilled or fried snacks.

You can modernize your street food business by incorporating digital technology. Offer online ordering and cashless payment options to attract more customers.

These are simple food business ideas for beginners interested in starting a culinary business in the coming year. Prepare yourself and make your dream of starting a food business in 2024 a reality. Good luck!