S02 Ep58

Vices: Moderation, mental health, community, and culture
Most consumers have them; many have grown during the global pandemic. From indulgent food and drink to enticing gaming and gambling, vices have been a part of human history from the very start. In this episode, Mintel analysts discuss what makes a vice so 'bad', its impact on cultures and mental health, its role in entertainment and emotional release, as well as what brands must do to help consumers balance between extremes. While vices make for good (bad) headlines, they also provide catharsis, security and community. Listen now to find out what that means for consumer and companies today.

Most consumers have them; many have grown during the global pandemic. From indulgent food and drink to enticing gaming and gambling, vices have been a part of human history from the very start. In this episode, Mintel analysts discuss what makes a vice so ‘bad’, its impact on cultures and mental health, its role in entertainment and emotional release, as well as what brands must do to help consumers balance between extremes. While vices make for good (bad) headlines, they also provide catharsis, security and community. Listen now to find out what that means for consumer and companies today.

Meet the Host
Edward Bergen
Global Food and Drink Analyst
Meet the Guests
John Poelking
Senior Gaming Analyst, Mintel Reports US
Marcia Mogelonsky
Director of Insight, Mintel Food and Drink
Jonny Forsyth
Associate Director, Mintel Food and Drink
Mintel News

For the latest in consumer and industry news, top trends and market perspectives, stay tuned to Mintel News featuring commentary from Mintel’s team of global category analysts.

More from Mintel
  • Mintel Store Reports
    Discover your next big breakthrough
    Get smart fast with our exclusive market research reports, delivering the latest data, innovation, trends and strategic recommendations....
    View Reports
  • Mintel 2026 Global Predictions
    2026 Global Predictions
    Our Predictions go beyond traditional trend analysis. Download to get the predictive intelligence and strategic framework to shape the future of your industry in 2026 and beyond. ...
    Download now
  • Mintel Consulting
    Are you after more tailored solutions to help drive Consumer Demand, Market Expansion or Innovation Strategy?
    Ask for a customised strategic solution from Mintel Consulting today....
    Find out more
Related insights
Global Drinks Industry Forecast: Trends, Challenges & Innovations Global Drinks Industry Forecast: Trends, Challenges & Innovations
You Heard It Here First: 7 Mintel Predictions Realized at Expo West 2026  You Heard It Here First: 7 Mintel Predictions Realized at Expo West 2026 
What’s Driving Cheese Industry Innovation Across Global Markets? What’s Driving Cheese Industry Innovation Across Global Markets?
The Health Paradox: How the CPG Sector is Confronting UPFs, Obesity and More The Health Paradox: How the CPG Sector is Confronting UPFs, Obesity and More
The Rise of Fiber: How Brands Can Win with the Next ‘Must-Have’ Nutrient The Rise of Fiber: How Brands Can Win with the Next ‘Must-Have’ Nutrient
The Future of Alcohol: Strategies to Help Brands Diversify to Shifts in Consumption The Future of Alcohol: Strategies to Help Brands Diversify to Shifts in Consumption
Subscribe to Mintel Spotlight
Related articles
Global Drinks Industry Forecast: Trends, Challenges and Innovations
April 15, 2026
Food and Drink
Article
Global Drinks Industry Forecast: Trends, Challenges & Innovations
This article distils the latest global drinks industry trends, consumer behaviours and emerging opportunities, powered by Mintel’s expert analysis and proprietary data.
Read more
Expo West 2026 Trends
March 23, 2026
Food and Drink
Article
You Heard It Here First: 7 Mintel Predictions Realized at Expo West 2026 
Expo West 2026 offered a clear reflection of several long-running shifts Mintel has been tracking across health, nutrition, and consumer expectations. What stood out most this year was less about…
Read more
5 Food and Drink Mega‑Trends for 2026/27
March 23, 2026
Food and Drink
Download
5 Food and Drink Mega‑Trends for 2026/27
Consumer behaviour in food and drink is shifting fast. Health optimisation, new functional expectations, changing flavour cues and cultural influence are reshaping what consumers want, and how categories will grow.
Download

Free market intelligence downloads

Subscribe
Podcast
Downloads
Events