Whole Foods Market has revealed its top ten food and beverage trends for 2025, highlighting a strong emphasis on sustainability, health, and unique global flavors. The mega grocer anticipates a rise in hydrating ready-to-drink beverages, new plant-based aquatic ingredients, crunchy snacks, and fusion foods with international tastes.
Sonya Gafsi Oblisk, Chief Merchandising and Marketing Officer at Whole Foods, commented that the report reflects growing consumer preferences and pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in the food world.
Key trends include:
- International Snacking: Fusion snacks are expected to thrive, with global flavours taking over familiar snacks like popcorn and chips. Major brands like PepsiCo are embracing this trend, expanding their portfolios with products inspired by Mexican and Asian cuisines.
- Crunchy Textures: Sprouted granola, crispy chickpeas, and dehydrated fruits are gaining popularity, with consumers seeking satisfying textures for their meals and snacks.
- Hydration Hype: With the rise of portable water bottles, consumers are turning to beverages that offer more than just hydration. Brands like BodyArmor and Electrolit are leading the way with products that blend water, soda, sports, and energy drinks.
- Tea Time: From chai to Earl Grey, tea is having a moment, with “vintage-inspired adult tea parties” poised to replace traditional happy hours. Many tea products are incorporating adaptogens for added health benefits.
- Next-Level Compostable Packaging: As sustainability continues to be a top priority, brands are developing fully compostable packaging solutions. Companies like Compostic are spearheading home compostable packaging innovations.
- Sustainable Beverages: The beverage industry is also embracing sustainability, with natural and organic wine brands adopting regenerative practices and beer and whiskey brands experimenting with drought-resistant grains.
- Sourdough Revolution: The sourdough trend, which exploded during the pandemic, shows no signs of slowing down. Consumers are now looking for sourdough in a variety of products, from pizza crusts to brownies.
- Plant-Based Aquatic Ingredients: The report forecasts a rise in the use of aquatic plants like sea moss and duckweed, which offer high protein and nutrient content. Agar-agar, a plant-based gelatin alternative, is also gaining attention for its digestive health benefits.
- Protein Power: Consumers are increasingly looking for whole-food protein sources, turning to items like cottage cheese and organ meats for higher protein content in their diets.
Whole Foods’ 2025 trends highlight the continuing evolution of consumer preferences, with a focus on global flavours, sustainability, and health-conscious innovations.