Demand for avocados is surging. Fueled by eased import restrictions, growing interest in ethnic flavors, and heightened awareness of health benefits, U.S. avocado consumption has skyrocketed, driving significant economic contributions across both the U.S. and Mexico.
Manufacturers face a shifting landscape under the Trump administration, with potential deregulation in energy, labeling, and banking offering opportunities to lower costs and enhance access to capital, while also introducing risks like increased scrutiny from consumers and advocacy groups.
The global ice cream market is set to grow by $31.7 billion by 2029, driven by innovations in texture stabilization, functional ingredients, and adventurous flavor profiles. The latest innovations include low-sugar alternatives, in addition to boozy creations.
Amid extreme weather, water scarcity, and economic instability, duckweed is emerging as a low-cost, eco-friendly protein source that grows year-round. The fast-growing aquatic plant also contains all nine essential amino acids, setting it apart from other plant-based protein sources like soy.
The rapid adoption of weight-loss drugs is reshaping purchasing habits. Circana experts highlight opportunities for brands to align with GLP-1 users’ goals by offering tailored, portion-controlled products and leveraging personalized marketing strategies to capture this evolving market.
Starbucks’ revamped winter menu reflects growing consumer interest in global flavors, with items like customizable matcha lattes. These innovations also highlight the coffee giant’s focus on personalized experiences.
Hart House abruptly closed all four locations despite Kevin Hart’s backing, reflecting broader issues plaguing plant-based restaurants.
Congress narrowly avoided a government shutdown by passing a stopgap spending measure that prolongs the U.S. farm bill for another year. Experts warn that failing to modernize the farm bill within the next year could exacerbate food price volatility.
Inflation is reshaping indulgence habits, with consumers swapping pricey restaurant desserts for store-bought or homemade options, causing a notable decline in dessert sales across dining segments. Meanwhile, alcohol consumption is shifting toward affordable options in a similar fashion.
TikTok is driving viral food trends while spiking sales for some businesses. For food brands and restaurants, the platform’s unparalleled reach can spark both massive success and unexpected controversy.
Brown butter is emerging as a major 2025 flavor trend, according to an Edlong report. Known for its rich, nutty flavor, its versatility and affordability make it a favorite among chefs and young demographics.
Grocers are upgrading their membership programs by combining retail media strategies with AI-driven personalization, offering targeted ads and perks based on shopping behaviors. This evolution integrates elements like first-party data to maximize ad value.
The new Flat Pack oat milk sheets by milkadamia reportedly reduce packaging waste by 94%. The shelf-stable solution allows consumers to make fresh oat milk in customizable portions, addressing the bulk of the category’s environmental challenges at the source instead of placing the burden on consumers.
F&B brands are embracing inclusivity this year, debuting an array of innovative, allergen-free holiday treats ranging from vegan advent calendars to dairy-free nog.
Beans have gained popularity as a cost-effective, nutrient-dense option, supporting gut health and reducing risks of obesity, colon cancer, and cardiovascular disease. Some feel beans are poised to become a staple alternative to meat for many Americans.
New research suggests higher levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids may reduce the risk of developing several cancers. While omega fatty acids provide health benefits, experts recommend focusing on whole food sources over supplements.
Domino’s Pizza has outperformed competitors through strategies focused on tech innovation and value-driven promotions. Domino’s success highlights its ability to stay on top of evolving consumer demands.
With waning consumer demand and a cautious outlook for the year’s revenue, Beyond Meat faces challenges in regaining consumer trust and competing within the plant-based sector.
F&B brands are tapping into nostalgia by reintroducing iconic products from the past, like Twinkles cereal from the 1960s. By offering these LTOs, brands appeal to consumers’ emotional connection to products, resonating across generations.
NFL hall-of-famer Peyton Manning has partnered with Nestlé Toll House to launch a Cookie Nachos Kit giveaway, combining chocolate chip cookie dough, various morsels, chip-shaped cookie cutters, and nacho-inspired toppings into a food trend worth watching.
Força Foods’ new plant-based milk alternative is mostly made from watermelon seeds, providing many nutrients while also conserving water. Could it be the next big thing in alt-dairy?
Once a quick meal for picky eaters, Uncrustables have become a top grab-and-go pick for NFL players, who reportedly consume anywhere from 3,600 to 4,300 every week. And according to one registered dietitian specializing in sports performance, that may not be as alarming as it seems.
Mike Tyson is investing in a QSR chain dubbed the “vegan McDonald’s.” However, the rapidly expanding brand has locations in California, where the recent minimum wage increase played a major role in the demise of Kevin Hart’s similar concept last month.
The trend of “kidult” marketing features brands like McDonald’s and Taco Bell creating nostalgic experiences tailored for adults. Brands are tapping into nostalgia to appeal to millennials and Gen Z.
Whole Foods has predicted major food trends for 2025, forecasting dumplings to become a portable comfort food, while global flavors will inspire bold new snack combinations.
Yelp searches for dirty soda rose 609% year over year, a trend largely driven by Hulu’s show “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” and the continued momentum of the sober curiosity movement.
The alt-meat market, which peaked in 2018-19, saw sales decline due to factors like market saturation and high prices, but signs of recovery are emerging, particularly in the frozen segment, according to expert Chris DuBois of Circana.
Prebiotic sodas, like those from POPPI and OLIPOP, are marketed as healthy beverages with added fiber to support gut health. However, one registered dietitian noted that the trendy drinks can also cause digestive issues for some individuals.
Piper Sandler’s “Taking Stock With Teens” survey reveals that Gen Z favors Chick-fil-A, Monster, and Goldfish, respectively. More than anything, brands that prioritize convenience and energy remain the top choices.
Two trends could shape the future of food and beverage: “rule rebellion,” where consumers indulge in unconventional food experiences, and “hybrid harvests,” where brands integrate tech with traditional farming for sustainable food systems.
The non-alcoholic beverage sector is seeing significant growth, with dollar sales of alcohol-free beer, wine, and spirits increasing, even making an appearance at Oktoberfest. Many consumers are opting for NA drinks to balance enjoyment and well-being.
Once reserved for astronauts and the military, freeze-dried candy is now a growing trend in the confectionery market. By leveraging advanced freeze-drying technology, one company creates highly textured candies that have earned it a devoted following.
The alternative meat market has struggled across the board in recent years, but some plant-based products are bearing the brunt. Sales of fresh, meatless chicken nuggets have sharply declined by 56.2% in 2024 – but why?
Economists warn of a potential recession in 2025. As a result, food and beverage companies must focus on innovation and sustainability as they navigate economic challenges and interest rate cuts.
A recent trend report by Yelp revealed that women-owned businesses saw a 17% increase in new openings across several industries in 2024, with book bars, colorful matcha concoctions, and “sleepy girl mocktails” on the rise.
The vegan QSR chain Hart House abruptly closed all four of its locations based in Los Angeles on September 10 despite Kevin Hart’s celebrity backing, reflecting broader issues plaguing the plant-based sector.
