Sauces are no longer just a sidekick – they’re driving one of 2025’s biggest food trends, blending bold flavors with convenience and versatility. Food businesses that embrace this shift can captivate consumers and boost sales, according to both chefs and CEOs.
Meat is reclaiming its spot on consumers’ plates as the benefits of protein-heavy diets are noted on social media. With fresh meat sales projected to surpass $137 billion this year, the industry is sizzling.
Fusion-driven Korean entrees, cleaner frying oils, and multi-textured beverages were a few underrated trends on display at the recent NRA Show. From indulgent Gochujang Fried Chicken Sliders to Noli Fruit Oil’s eco-conscious frying solution and TikTok-worthy Fiery Dill Pickle Lemonade, brands tapped into recent trends.
The spicy flavor trend is setting the F&B world ablaze, with bold innovations such as hot honey sausage for pizzas and chili-infused ice cream captivating adventurous consumers. These days, the innovation even extends into drink aisles.
As consumers wish for better spring weather, recent data shows that floral flavors are growing in popularity, particularly among Gen Z and younger consumers. FI spoke with an industry expert about these nascent trends and their deeper implications.
Aji Amarillo, McCormick’s flavor of the year, is a vibrant pepper known for its fruity, tropical notes and moderate heat. And it’s poised to make waves across food and beverage menus worldwide.
The F&B industry is at a transformative crossroads, where AI-driven advancements, and the rise of functional foods, are reshaping how we think about nutrition. In 2025, the challenge will be balancing innovation with preserving the cultural essence of food.
Beth Jarocki, chief customer officer at KIND Snacks, said modern shoppers are as focused as ever on consuming more protein, less sugar, and bolder, spicier flavors.
District Taco is more of a mission than a restaurant chain, bringing Yucatán cuisine and flavors to the masses.
According to retail insights company 84.51°, 27% of shoppers said they’re snacking multiple times per day, up 15% from 2023. Cheese is America’s favorite snack in 2024.
Asian cuisines like Thai, Korean, and Chinese have long used swicy foods as an enticing way to attract new and long-time patrons, and many mainstream and fusion restaurants are combining classic American fare with these staple flavors from across the world.
Why aren’t many store-bought jalapenos hot anymore? The answer lies in changing palates and products bred for consistency, not flavor.
