Top 2025 food trends - global flavors and innovative snacks

By Blake Jackson

Whole Foods Market's Trends Council has released its annual top 10 food and beverage trend predictions for 2025. This year's report highlights emerging consumer preferences and innovative product developments that are shaping the future of the food industry.

“This year, we’re especially excited to celebrate how far we’ve come by spotlighting trends for 2025 that not only reflect growing consumer preferences but also push the boundaries of what’s possible for the world of food," said Sonya Gafsi Oblisk, Chief Merchandising and Marketing Officer at Whole Foods Market.

Here are the top 10 trends for 2025:

• International Snacking: Global flavors are inspiring innovative snack combinations, offering consumers a taste of the world.
• Dumpling Dominance: Dumplings are gaining popularity, appearing in various formats, from frozen to shelf-stable, and catering to diverse dietary preferences.
• Crunch Craze: Consumers are seeking out crunchy textures in their food and beverages, leading to the development of new products like mushroom chips and crunchy chili crisp.
• Hydration Hype: Beyond water, consumers are exploring functional beverages with added electrolytes, antioxidants, and protein.
• Tea Time, Elevated: Tea is experiencing a resurgence, with new brewing methods and innovative tea-infused products.
• Compostable Packaging: Consumers are demanding more sustainable packaging options, and brands are responding with compostable packaging that can be easily broken down at home.
• Sustainable Sipping: The beverage industry is focusing on reducing its environmental impact through regenerative practices and sustainable packaging.
• Sourdough Sensation: Sourdough continues to be a popular choice for bread, pizza crusts, crackers, and other baked goods.
• Plant-Based Aquatic Ingredients: Seaweed and other aquatic plants are emerging as sustainable sources of protein and nutrients, finding their way into various food products.
• Protein Power-Up: Consumers are seeking creative ways to incorporate protein into their diets, beyond traditional protein powders and bars.

These trends offer valuable insights for food businesses, chefs, and consumers alike. By understanding these emerging preferences, businesses can develop innovative products, and consumers can explore new and exciting food experiences.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-fatcamera