2025 Food and Beverage Trends

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While it is understood that the drugs have also proven to be safe and effective for thousands, the negative issues have led to a rush of consumers seeking nutrition-based alternatives. Nevertheless, even among those for whom the drugs can be advantageous, their benefits should not be misunderstood.

Candy Industry Senior Editor Liz Parker Kuhn and Prepared Foods Editor-in-Chief Bob Garrison were able to take a minute away from the Food Marketing Conference in Kalamazoo, MI recently and chat about industry trends.

At a time of continued high inflation, trade tariff uncertainty and a difficult macro-economic environment, consumers are worried, with more than half of respondents (55%) very concerned with the rise of living costs. 

While breakfast, lunch, and dinner remain the primary meal occasions, their composition, timing, and sources are evolving to fit consumers’ daily routines.

Predictive analytics are accelerating R&D cycles in crop and food science. AI reduces the time and resources needed to experiment with new food products and turns traditional trial-and-error cycles into more efficient data-driven discoveries.

Seasonings and table sauces—the two largest subcategories under sauces and seasonings—saw new product introductions saw rise by 11% and 20%, respectively, in 2024.

According to custom SPINS data developed for the Good Food Institute (GFI) and Plant Based Foods Association, annual combined retail sales of plant-based meat and seafood fell 12% to $1.2 billion in 2023.

Chinese and Japanese cuisines now rank in the top five global favorites across all age groups, while Korean and Mexican flavors are also increasing in demand

Although convenience is key—taste-tempting flavor is the way to draw attention. Last year saw innovation ideas trickle down to the basics including hot dogs, lunch meat and yes—even SPAM.

New product introductions deliver fun twists on taste and texture—and still others offer dietary health benefits for those still wanting familiar comfort.