Facebook has released its latest ‘Topics to Watch’ report, which highlights all the key subjects that are seeing significant increases in mention volume across The Social Network.
The monthly Topics to Watch reports can be a great way to stay ahead of the latest trends and shifts – according to Facebook’s research team, up to 80% of the topics they've identified in their Topics to Watch reports go on to become more significant movements. That means that if there's a subject of relevance to your niche, you might just be able to get ahead of the curve, and capitalize on the rising attention.
And many of the topics identified are very 'niche'. They might seem odd, but if there's a brand angle for your business within any of these rising trends, it may be worth tapping in with content and/or campaigns.
So what are people on Facebook into at the moment? First up on the latest listing is 'Affirmations'.
Affirmations are positive statements designed to boost morale, and according to Facebook, they're seeing a rise based through new apps and tools.
"New apps are helping people make positivity a habit, as they listen to pre-recorded affirmations at set times during the day. In recent years, people have embraced mobile apps and fitness trackers that support their physical health, but the next movement in health tech may be mental and mindfulness-based."
The power of positivity can be significant, and it's an interesting consideration for brands within the health and wellness sector in particular.
Next up is Caldo de pollo - or “chicken broth”.
As per Facebook:
"This soup is gaining a growing following online, as people create and share cooking tutorials for their favorite family recipes. Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes are increasingly popular across cultures, and caldo de pollo is one of many classics offering comfort - with a twist."
The digital video process of 'compositing' is also seeing a rise in popularity.
With the rise in AR tools, compositing - which 'mix real and synthesized visual elements to create alternative realities on screen' - is becoming a bigger focus among tech communities.
'Soul food' is also sparking new conversations.
Interestingly, Facebook says that the rise in discussion of soul food largely relates to new vegan and vegetarian variations on the theme.
"Rising chefs are putting new spins on traditional recipes, crafting vegan alternatives - like jackfruit nachos and fried cauilflower - that maintain similar flavors and textures of beloved dishes. Some are even substituting healthier meats, like turkey, for heavier standards, like pork."
Another interesting consideration for food-related brands.
And, um... Facebook also says straw is gaining momentum.
Actually, it's not straw, as in what cows eat, but straws, the plastic kind you put in drinks. With new regulations coming into effect which limit the distribution of straws, in order to reduce the environmental impact, many people on Facebook are evidently sharing their opinions.
And last on Facebook's latest listing is 'suman', which is a rice cake originating from the Philippines.
Facebook says that the dish is now making its way into new markets, which is why it's seeing such an increase in mention volume. It's interesting to note too the volume of food related conversations on the platform, based on these insights.
As noted, Facebook's 'Topics to Watch' reports offer some great insight to help target your social campaigns and content, with niche-specific notes that can enable you to tap into rising conversations. If any of these subjects relate to your brand, it may be worth further investigation to capitalize on the discussion.
You can read Facebook's full 'Topics to Watch' report for August 2018 here.