A Deep Dive into Emerging Consumer Preferences
As we reflect on the 2024 trends, we begin to look ahead to the top food and beverage ingredient trends for 2025. The food and beverage industry continues to evolve in response to shifting consumer preferences and global influences. This year brings an even more diverse set of trends, where global flavors, health consciousness, and sustainability shape the food landscape. Here’s a breakdown of the key 2025 food & beverage trends manufacturers and processors should keep an eye on to stay ahead in this dynamic market.
Top Flavors of 2025
Here are the top trending flavors anticipated for 2025:
Kimchi
Tamarind
Guava
Horchata
Gochujang
Flavor Trends: Diverse, Bold, and Global
Global Flavors
As cultural exchange accelerates in the digital age, consumers are increasingly seeking adventures through global flavors. The demand for authenticity and boldness is reshaping how flavor trends emerge. These trends are not just about new experiences but also reflect a deeper exploration of regional and authentic culinary experiences.
Asian, Korean, & APAC
Korean cuisine, in particular, continues to dominate, with flavors such as kimchi, gochujang (Korean chili paste), Thai chili, and bibimbap gaining widespread appeal. The increasing demand for spicy, fermented, and BBQ flavors reflects a broader appetite for umami-rich and complex taste profiles. Additionally, the popularity of Korean beverages like soju and fruits like melon signals the mainstreaming of Korean culinary culture.
West Asian & African
The spice-forward flavor profiles of hawaij (a blend of black pepper, cumin, cardamom, and turmeric), za’atar, and harissa are making their way into new applications, offering consumers a taste of the Middle East and North Africa. Ingredients such as sumac, preserved lemon, and black lime provide both tanginess and depth, appealing to those seeking exotic flavors with a health-conscious edge. The native fruit baobab and the ancient grain fonio are gaining popularity for their nutritional benefits, while trending products like yogurt curry represent the fusion of creamy textures with bold spices.
Latin American & Caribbean
The bright and tropical flavors of tamarind, aji amarillo (also called amarillo chili), and guava reflect a trend toward freshness and vibrancy. These ingredients are particularly popular in sauces, marinades, and beverages, appealing to consumers who value both flavor and health benefits. Chimichurri and horchata further enrich the palette of Latin American flavors, with horchata tapping into the no/low alcohol beverage trend.
Top Flavor & Product Trends for 2025
Here are a few more trending flavors & products that are anticipated to see growth in 2025:
- Regional USA Flavors
- Botanical & Floral Flavors
- Exotic Fruits
- Nostalgic & Classic Flavors
- Fusion Flavors
- Fermented & Pickled Foods
- Crunchy & Crispy Texture
Trending Flavors & Products
Regional USA Flavors
The revival of Southern flavors speaks to a consumer desire for comfort and nostalgia, but with a modern twist. Regional BBQ styles from Texas, Kansas City, and North Carolina continue to attract food lovers, while the rise of Nashville hot chicken highlights the popularity of hot and spicy flavors.
Fusion Flavors
The blending of sweet, sour, smokey, and spicy elements will continue to rise in popularity, with combinations like hot honey, Thai sweet chili, and chili-lime gaining traction. Unexpected flavor profiles, such as savory beverages and sweet snacks, are becoming more common as consumers explore new flavor territories.
Botanical and Floral Flavors
Consumers’ increasing focus on natural and health-driven products is driving demand for botanical and floral flavors such as jasmine, elderflower, and hibiscus. These flavors bring light, refreshing qualities to beverages, teas, and desserts, while also appealing to wellness-minded consumers. Honeysuckle, hops, and peach blossom add a sense of delicacy and complexity, resonating with those who appreciate subtle yet aromatic flavors.
Fermented and Pickled Foods
As the interest in gut health grows, so does the demand for fermented and pickled foods. The rise of precision fermentation as a method of producing novel flavors and sustainable food products is driving innovation across the sector. Pickle-flavored snacks and fermented foods such as kimchi and sauerkraut are emerging as consumer favorites due to their bold, tangy taste and probiotic benefits.
Exotic Fruits
Exotic fruits like yuzu, calamansi, acerola, and baobab are trending due to their potent health benefits and versatility in both food and beverages. These fruits are often rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and unique flavor profiles, making them highly desirable in the wellness and beauty markets. They also align with consumer demands for products that support immune health and energy.
Texture: Crunch and Crisp
Texture is becoming as important as flavor in shaping the overall eating experience. Consumers are gravitating toward crunchy snacks such as sprouted seeds, granola, and gluten-free ancient grain crackers made from buckwheat, quinoa, and oats. These products cater to the growing demand for gluten-free and nutrient-dense snacks, while their crunchy texture enhances satisfaction.
Nostalgic and Classic Flavors
The trend toward nostalgic and classic flavors is grounded in a desire for comfort and familiarity, particularly in uncertain times. Iconic flavors from childhood, as well as seasonal and limited-time offers, are giving consumers an opportunity to reconnect with cherished memories, while brands leverage these associations to drive engagement and loyalty.
Health & Wellness: A Personal and Preventative Approach
Functional and Personalized Nutrition
Consumers are increasingly focusing on functional foods that provide specific health benefits, leading to a surge in products that support targeted ailments such as gut health, cognitive function, immunity, and energy. Listed below are the top health & wellness benefits associated with functional foods & personalized nutrition:
- Gut Health: As research on the gut-brain axis deepens, products containing prebiotics like inulin, chicory root, and resistant starches, alongside probiotic-rich fermented foods like kimchi and pickles, are in high demand.
- Cognitive Function and Mood: Nootropics such as L-theanine, adaptogens like ashwagandha, and nutrients like omega-3s from flaxseeds and chia seeds are trending, offering solutions for memory, focus, mood regulation, and stress resilience.
- Immunity and Inflammation: The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened awareness around immunity. Ingredients like vitamin C, ginger, turmeric, and elderberry are driving the development of foods and beverages aimed at boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation.
- Energy and Endurance: Consumers are looking for cleaner, sustained sources of energy. Products featuring clean energy sources such as B vitamins, MCT oil, and caffeine derived from tea are increasingly in demand.
- Women’s Health and Femtech: Femtech is rapidly evolving, and more products targeting women’s health are entering the market, particularly in the areas of hormone health, bone health, and reproductive health. Ingredients such as maca root, ashwagandha, and flaxseed are being formulated into supplements and functional foods aimed at supporting hormonal health, while products enriched with vitamins and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and B vitamins address key nutritional needs for women at various life stages to support health and overall well-being.
Top Plant-Based Ingredients
Here are the top five trending plant-based ingredients anticipated for 2025:
- Microalgae
- Kelp
- Spirulina
- Seaweed
- Water Lentils
Plant-Based Revolution
Aquatic Ingredients and Protein Diversification
The plant-based trend continues to evolve with a greater focus on sustainability and protein diversification. Aquatic ingredients such as microalgae, kelp, spirulina, seaweed, and water lentils are emerging as sustainable, nutrient-rich protein sources, appealing to both health-conscious consumers and those concerned about the environmental impact of traditional agriculture. These ingredients offer environmentally friendly sources of nutrients, particularly protein, essential fatty acids, and vitamins. These ingredients not only promote protein diversification but also offer a new frontier for sustainable food production.
- Protein Innovation: Mycoprotein and chickpea proteins are among the emerging protein sources gaining popularity due to their rich texture, taste, and low environmental footprint. Advances in precision fermentation have improved the texture and flavor of meat alternatives, making them more appealing to mainstream consumers.
Weight Loss and GLP-1 Drugs
With the rising popularity of GLP-1 drugs for weight loss, consumers are seeking nutrition solutions that complement these medications. Low-glycemic index products, fiber-rich snacks, and MCT-enriched foods are gaining traction as consumers look for ways to maintain energy and manage weight loss sustainably.
Sustainability: A Mandate for Change
ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Standards
As environmental concerns mount, companies are being held accountable for their impact on the planet. ESG reporting, particularly among public companies, is driving initiatives to reduce carbon footprints, optimize water and energy usage, and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
Localization and Food Waste Reduction
The demand for local ingredients is growing, driven by a desire for freshness, reduced environmental impact, and support for local economies. Additionally, food waste reduction is becoming a key pillar of sustainability efforts. Byproduct ingredients, such as fruit peels and vegetable pulp, are being upcycled into nutritious food products, while efforts to extend shelf life and create regenerative agriculture practices are transforming the supply chain.
Sustainable Packaging
Pressure to reduce plastic usage and carbon footprints has led to innovations in compostable, recyclable, and biodegradable packaging. As consumer expectations for eco-friendly packaging grow, businesses that adopt sustainable packaging solutions will differentiate themselves in a crowded market.
Convenience: Redefining On-the-Go and Ready-to-Eat (RTE)
Premium Convenience and Hybrid Meals
The line between indulgence and health is blurring in the convenience category. Consumers seek out premium, high-quality RTE products that offer both indulgence and nutritional value. Options like bao buns, dumplings, empanadas, and power bowls are becoming more popular, offering quick, nutritious meals in easily portable formats. The demand for quick, flavorful, and nutritionally dense meal options is driving innovation.
Financial Wellness: Cost-Conscious Consumers
As inflationary pressures and economic uncertainties persist, consumers are becoming more cost-conscious. The rise of value-driven purchasing behaviors is leading to a focus on affordable, functional food options that offer both nutrition and financial savings. At-home dining remains popular as people seek to balance convenience with affordability, reinforcing the need for functional, accessible foods.
Ready-to-Drink (RTD) and No/Low Alcohol Beverages
The RTD beverage market continues to flourish, especially as mocktails, premium mixers, and alcohol-free cocktails gain popularity. Innovations in this space also focus on functional beverages, including hydration beverages and sugar-reduced options catering to health-conscious consumers. Meanwhile, coffee innovation continues beyond the pumpkin spice trend, with Cold Brew, Global Coffee, such as Yemeni coffee, and hawaij spiced blends offering new flavor profiles.
About AIFI – A Leading Ingredient Supplier & Distributor
We recognize the importance of staying ahead of consumer trends. American International Foods, Inc. has over 20 years of experience in helping its clients effectively predict and respond to top ingredient trends in the food manufacturing sector. We strive to offer our clients several ingredient options, including non-GMO, gluten-free, organic, and fair trade.
We maintain complete documentation for each ingredient we offer, allowing our customers transparency and peace of mind. AIFI provides its customers with unparalleled industry knowledge, personalized supply chain solutions, and a complete product line comprised of more than 2500 food and beverage ingredients.
For further information about ingredient sourcing, pricing, general inquiries, or additional information regarding 2025 food & beverage trends please contact AIFI using the link below.