Each December, Prepared Foods editors and contributors combine our daily industry interactions, research and insights to issue predictions for what trends may evolve and impact the industry in the coming year. In a few weeks, we will begin publishing predictions for 2025. Prior to sharing our outlook for the year ahead, we wanted to review the predictions we made for 2024 to determine what we got right and what might not have fully taken shape. 

Below, we've collected capsule information for each section of our 2024 Predictions, in areas such as sustainability, foodservice and global flavors. Within each capsule, you will find our 2024 predictions and assessments of their accuracy. Engaging in this exercise has helped our editorial staff gain clarity about what key developments transpired in the food and beverage throughout 2024. We hope that our reflection and transparency presents you with a better understanding of current market forces, and an opportunity for learning where your brand fits within the momentum of trends carrying us into 2025.

Let's have a look.

SUSTAINABILITY

How Consumers, Food Processors Approach Sustainability
Two industry experts discuss sustainable demand and industry strategies in 2024

1. Consumer Attitudes Toward Sustainable Foods
PREDICTION: There would be a continued emphasis on sustainability-marketed consumer packaged goods (CPG), with attributes such as "Non-GMO," "Sustainability Certified," and "Organic" seeing growth.
ASSESSMENT: This prediction appears to be accurate, as data from Circana shows that these attributes have indeed continued to grow in dollar share and penetration in the market. Additionally, the increasing consumer awareness of climate-related events suggests that sustainability concerns remain high, supporting the predicted trend.

2. Brand Sustainability Efforts
PREDICTION: Limited progress in sustainability claims by food and beverage companies, but an opportunity for competitive advantage exists.
ASSESSMENT: The observation of limited progress aligns with current trends, indicating that while consumer demand for sustainability is high, companies have not fully capitalized on this through improved communication or significant changes in product offerings.

3. Shift in Consumer Buying Behaviors
PREDICTION: Increased consumer pressure on brands regarding sustainability, particularly around plastic usage and water availability.
ASSESSMENT: This prediction seems valid, as there is growing consumer awareness and concern about environmental issues. The anticipated regulations from the EU and California reinforce this prediction, suggesting that brands will indeed face increased scrutiny from consumers regarding their sustainability practices.

4. Processor Activity in Sustainability Areas
PREDICTION: Increased focus on ingredient upcycling, regenerative agriculture, farm-to-table transparency, and packaging sustainability.
ASSESSMENT: There is evidence that companies are beginning to prioritize these areas more significantly. Consumer interest in waste reduction and 100% recycled packaging suggests that brands that focus on these initiatives may see positive outcomes.

5. Communication of Sustainability Efforts
PREDICTION: Brands should clearly communicate their sustainability benefits and avoid "greenwashing."
ASSESSMENT: This recommendation is well-founded. As sustainability claims become more prevalent, authenticity in messaging will be critical. Brands that can effectively communicate their sustainability initiatives will likely engage consumers more effectively and build loyalty.

Conclusion
Overall, the predictions made in the December 2023 article about sustainability trends for 2024 have shown a strong alignment with emerging consumer behavior and market trends. While there are challenges and gaps in communication from brands, the overarching themes of increasing consumer interest in sustainability, a shift towards more responsible sourcing and packaging, and the importance of authentic messaging are clearly resonating in the market.

FOODSERVICE

What's on the Menu in 2024?
Technomic says foodservice growing—but operators and menus must stay feisty, innovative

1. Leveling of Growth and Consumer Behavior Changes
PREDICTION: The industry’s wild ride post-pandemic would settle down, returning to low, single-digit growth, with limited-service restaurants benefiting from unit growth, while full-service operators would need to offer competitive pricing and value.
ASSESSMENT: This prediction seems on point. While inflation has pressured both consumers and businesses, 2024 has seen more stable growth than in the volatile pandemic years. Limited-service restaurants have indeed experienced continued demand as consumers look for more affordable dining options. Sit-down restaurants that innovated with value-oriented experiences, competitive pricing, or differentiated service have performed better amid rising costs.

Check out more Foodservice 2024 predictions and assessments. Available Oct. 16, 2024.

FLAVOR TRENDS

New Tastes, Trends for 2024
Specialty Food Association Trendspotters set their sights on a diverse list of trends for the $194 billion specialty food industry

1. Beverage Innovation: Functional, Single-Serve, and Low-Sugar
PREDICTION: Beverage sales would boom with innovations like single-serve non-alcoholic fizzy drinks, coffees, teas, and broths featuring functional ingredients for energy, clarity, or calming effects, with minimal added sugar, salt, or synthetics.
ASSESSMENT: This prediction has proven accurate. In 2024, functional beverages are a major trend, especially in the health and wellness sector. Drinks that offer added benefits, such as adaptogens, nootropics, or collagen, have been well-received. Non-alcoholic beverages and low-sugar options continue to grow in popularity, especially with younger consumers who are mindful of health and wellness. Global flavors, including tropical ingredients and herbal infusions, are also making a noticeable impact in the beverage space.

Check out more Flavor Trends 2024 predictions and assessments. Available Oct. 17, 2024.

BEVERAGE CONSUMER TRENDS

Predictions for a Thrifty, Sustainable, Health-Driven Future
Imbibe suggests that cost-saving innovations, sustainability initiatives, effective products, and women's health will dominate in 2024

1. Cost Savings, Little Luxuries
PREDICTION: Due to economic uncertainty, consumers would seek budget-friendly dining options that maintain a sense of quality and luxury, with many switching to lower-priced establishments or reducing nonessential grocery spending.
ASSESSMENT: This prediction has proven accurate. Inflation and economic challenges in 2024 have led to increased price sensitivity among consumers, with many opting for lower-cost options while still desiring quality and indulgence. The rise of budget-friendly meal kits, gourmet experiences, and subscription services aimed at providing little luxuries on a budget have also been evident. Consumers continue to navigate trade-offs, such as splurging on certain items while cutting back in other areas, aligning with the prediction.

Check out more Beverage Consumer Trends 2024 predictions and assessments. Available Oct. 18, 2024.

GLOBAL FOOD & BEVERAGE TRENDS

Top Global Food and Drink Trends for 2024
Mintel announces key trends to shape global food and drink industries in the near future

1. Trust the Process: Greater Transparency and Minimally Processed Foods
PREDICTION: Mintel anticipated that consumers would demand more transparency regarding food processing, leading to a greater emphasis on minimally processed products. They expected brands to focus on how processing techniques could enhance nutrition, sustainability, and food safety. This would give rise to products highlighting positive aspects of processing, especially those involving upcycled ingredients.
ASSESSMENT: This prediction has largely come to fruition. In 2024, there has indeed been heightened scrutiny of ultra-processed foods, driven by health concerns and increased public awareness of the negative effects of highly processed items. Consumers are gravitating toward minimally processed products, particularly those that showcase sustainable practices and enhanced nutrition, aligning with growing environmental and health-conscious trends. For example, brands have been increasingly transparent about the benefits of processes like fermentation, cold-pressing, and pasteurization, which maintain product quality while offering health benefits.

Additionally, upcycled foods—those made from ingredients that would otherwise go to waste—have gained significant momentum in 2024, as both consumers and brands seek sustainable, eco-friendly options. This trend speaks to the increased demand for products that minimize waste and maximize nutrition, making Mintel’s prediction highly accurate.

Check out more Global Food & Beverage Trends 2024 predictions and assessments. Available Oct. 21, 2024.

FOOD & BEVERAGE CONSUMER TRENDS 

Top 10 Food & Beverage Consumer Trends in 2024
Innova Market Insights finds consumers interested in key benefits, ingredients, transparency

1. Taking the Spotlight
PREDICTION: Innova predicted that certain ingredients or product features—such as trending flavors, textures, and health benefits—would take center stage on packaging and attract consumer attention. Ingredients like protein and mushrooms were forecasted to be particularly important.
ASSESSMENT: This prediction has proven accurate. Consumers continue to respond positively to packaging that highlights key ingredients, particularly when they align with health and wellness. The rise of functional ingredients like protein remains a major trend, with products showcasing high-protein claims continuing to proliferate. Additionally, mushrooms are seeing increased use in functional foods and plant-based products due to their nutritional value and adaptogenic properties.

Check out more Global Food & Beverage Trends 2024 predictions and assessments. Available Oct. 22, 2024.

HEALTH & WELLNESS TRENDS

2024 Health and Wellness Trends
Probiotics and fermented foods have been rising in popularity as immune boosters

Functional Foods and Flavors
PREDICTION: Consumers will seek out functional foods that offer more than just nutrition. Foods that deliver health benefits—such as boosting immunity and digestive health—while providing flavor and excitement will grow in popularity.
ASSESSMENT: This prediction has proven accurate. Consumers are increasingly drawn to functional foods that address specific health concerns, such as gut health, immune support, and cognitive benefits. Products incorporating ingredients like prebiotics, probiotics, and bioactive compounds are flourishing, reflecting the consumer demand for foods that offer both wellness and indulgence.

Check out more Health & Wellness Trends 2024 predictions and assessments. Available Oct. 23, 2024.

GEN Z TRENDS

Diet Culture Goes Multicultural to Appeal to Gen Z
Younger generations are starting to turn towards diets at record rates

Growth in Categories that Blend Plant-Forward, Nutritious Foods with Authentic International Flavors
PREDICTION: We anticipated that Gen Z’s growing interest in plant-forward diets, combined with their craving for bold and authentic international flavors, would fuel growth in food categories that successfully blend the two. Brands that offer international flavors, such as Japanese, Mexican, and Chinese cuisine, alongside nutritious, whole-plant ingredients would see success in 2024.
ASSESSMENT: This prediction has proven largely accurate. In 2024, plant-based options infused with international flavors are rising in popularity. Gen Z has driven demand for flavorful and healthy products such as lentils, sweet potatoes, and chickpeas featured in Mediterranean, Latin American, and Asian-inspired dishes. Brands that offer global flavors, such as miso-glazed tofu or chickpea curry bowls, are thriving. Products like these satisfy Gen Z’s dual preference for clean-label, plant-based foods and international cuisine, and have become mainstays in many foodservice and retail outlets.

Check out more Gen Z Trends 2024 predictions and assessments. Available Oct. 24, 2024.