Ah, 2024. The year of fluffy cokes, onion boils, and espresso martinis. Protein sodas are now so last year, and 2024 will live on as the year of unhinged brand collabs, fast food meal deals, and little sweet treats. Thanks to social media sites such as Instagram and TikTok, food trends now come and go faster than you can say Dua Lipa’s spicy Diet Coke. And, it’s safe to say that products like s’mores-flavored ramen and dill pickle toothpaste weren’t on anyone’s bingo cards for 2024. So, what’s next?
Some 2024 trends are still going strong (think tinned fish and sustainability), and probably will continue through the new year with a little twist. Here are 10 food trends we predict to see (and eat) in the new year.
Still Sober-Curious
Just like in 2023 and 2024, consumers continue to opt for alcohol-free and reduced alcohol offerings beyond Dry January. In 2025, though, we may see a new focus on function, whether it’s sleepy girl mocktails, adaptogen or THC seltzers, or vitamin-packed elixirs. Beyond avoiding a hangover, “new sobriety” emphasizes intentionality and the mental benefits of drinking less. I’ll drink to that.
Hydration Station
From sparkling versus still to flavored and functional, water and hydration culture continue to dominate not only #WaterTok but general consumer interest. Reusable water bottle culture is still going strong, but consumers want more from their water these days – primarily added electrolytes and hydration in innovative forms. Beyond the bottle, there’s now sparkling coconut water, chlorophyll water, agua kefir, and even protein water. New players are also launching products (think Alex Cooper launching Unwell Hydration), including antioxidant-packed cactus water and better-for-you sports drink competitors sans added sugar and artificial coloring.
Tea Time
According to the Whole Foods Forecast, tea is set to have its shining moment with new steeping formats, innovative flavor profiles, and tea parties hosted by sober-curious Gen-Zers. Whether it’s new varieties of the classic beverage (cold brewed or steaming hot), or Earl Grey ice cream and chai pear granola, it seems like tea time is set for 2025.
Punch Of Protein
Forget the traditional powders and bars, consumers are looking to up their protein consumption at meal times and via “whole food” snacking (aka not a protein supplement with unnecessary ingredients). The rise of cottage cheese’s popularity in 2024 may have kickstarted the whole food protein trend, and consumers will continue prioritizing animal proteins – whether it’s meat, eggs, or dairy — in 2025.
Sourdough Surge
The pandemic trend is getting an upgrade in 2024. Cottage-core baking days are a thing of the past, but sourdough is here to stay. Beyond the standard loaf, the fermented bread is taking on new forms in the grocery aisles in the shape of pasta, crackers, and pizza crusts, and even getting a sweet upgrade with sourdough pancake and waffle mixes.
Crunch Is Coming In Hot
The over the top hot sauces are out, and texture with an extra kick is in. Chili crisp (or chili crunch oil) will add some new spice to 2025, and make a suitable savory topping for eggs, tacos, meat, and more.
Kefir (Or is it pronounced “keh-feer?”)
The demand for gut-healthy goods has been on the rise since 2023 (think probiotic sodas and yogurts packed with the “good bacteria”), and the rising popularity of probiotic beverages fuels the demand for dairy-based products such as kefir, a fermented drink that’s thinner and tangier than yogurt and is packed with calcium, vitamin K2, and probiotics that can help with digestion and immune health. However, the growing trend of non-dairy products means that water-based kefir, also known as tibicos, will also gain steam among consumers following plant-based or vegan diets.
Coffee Cocktails
Espresso martinis seem to be everywhere this year, and the it girl cocktail has paved the way for a sea of booze-y coffee bevs. Running the gamut from homemade cold brew concentrate to coffee liqueurs, bars are putting a caffeinated punch into each glass.
Global Flavors, Local Sourcing
Consumers are increasingly interested in exploring diverse cuisines from around the world, and there’s a growing emphasis on supporting local farmers and producers. Expect to see chefs and home cooks incorporating global flavors into dishes made with locally sourced ingredients in 2025.
Cherry On Top
According to the Pinterest Predictions, dark and sweet flavors and colors will shine in 2025. Searches for “cherry vibe” have increased by 325% over the last year on the platform, while “cherry martinis” specifically are up 80%. Millennials and Gen Z are loving cherries as more than just a garnish, and we can expect to see more cherry-coded clothing, cocktails, and condiments in 2025.