Gastronomy | The 15 Top Food Trends in 2025

The 15 top food trends that will define 2025 were presented by Samson Hospitality. They are:

1. Ethnic Fusion
Global flavors continue to influence menus, with an emphasis on blending traditional ethnic cuisines. According to Datassential, 58% of consumers are interested in trying fusion cuisine, reflecting a growing trend towards culinary experimentation.

2. Plant-Based Evolution

The plant-based food movement continues to grow. By 2025, we’re expected to see more products that taste and feel like animal-based foods. According to the Good Food Institute, the plant-based food market is projected to reach $74.2 billion by 2027, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 11.9%.

3. Lab-Grown Foods

Cultivated meats and dairy products are gaining traction as sustainable and ethical alternatives to traditional livestock farming. In 2025, we expect an increase in lab-grown food options to enter mainstream markets. By 2025, the cultured meat market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 41.4%, according to a report by Market Data Forecast, potentially reaching $5.1 billion.

4. Functional Foods

Consumers are looking for foods that offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition. Functional foods, including those fortified with probiotics, prebiotics, adaptogens, and superfoods, will become more prevalent in grocery stores and on menus. The global functional foods market was valued at $177.77 billion in 2020 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 8.6% through 2028, according to Grand View Research.

5. Zero-Waste Cooking

Sustainability efforts are driving the zero-waste cooking trend. Chefs and cooks are finding creative ways to use every part of an ingredient, reducing food waste and promoting sustainability. According to the World Wildlife Fund, approximately 1.3 billion tons of food is wasted globally each year. By adopting zero-waste cooking practices, businesses can significantly reduce their environmental impact and operating costs.

6. Recycled Ingredients

The recycling of food byproducts into new value-added products is gaining popularity. Samson Hospitality predicts more snacks, drinks, and ingredients made from items that would otherwise be discarded. The Upcycled Food Association reports that the upcycled food market is worth $46.7 billion, growing at a 5% annual rate.

7. Regenerative Agriculture

Beyond organic farming, regenerative agriculture focuses on agricultural practices that restore and enhance soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystems. Products labeled “regenerative farming” will become more popular and will be added to our daily lives. The Rodale Institute reports that regenerative agriculture can sequester 100% of annual CO2 emissions, significantly mitigating climate change.

8. Alternative Flours & Grains

With a growing focus on diversity and sustainability in diets, alternative flours and grains like teff, amaranth, and cassava will gain popularity. These options offer new flavors while supporting biodiversity. The alternative flour market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 7.2% through 2028, reaching $35.24 billion, according to Grand View Research.

9. Immune-Boosting Foods

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a surge in interest in foods that support the immune system. More products are expected to be fortified with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that aim to boost overall health. The immune-boosting foods market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 7.3% through 2027, according to Future Market Insights.

10. Mindful Eating

The global wellness market, which includes mindful eating as part of its approach, was valued at over $1.5 trillion in 2023 and is expected to grow by 5-10% annually. This growth signals a broader shift toward health-focused lifestyle choices. Studies also show that mindful eating can improve digestion and increase levels of satisfaction. By slowing down and focusing on the meal experience, consumers report feeling more satisfied with smaller portions according to the Harvard School of Public Health.

11. Hyperlocal Sourcing

Consumers are increasingly interested in knowing where their food comes from. Hyperlocal sourcing, including rooftop gardens, urban farms, and indoor hydroponics, will be more prevalent in restaurants and markets. The local food market in the U.S. alone was valued at $20.2 billion in 2019 and is projected to grow to $23.3 billion by 2025, according to Allied Market Research .

12. Personalized Nutrition

Advances in technology are enabling more personalized approaches to nutrition. DNA-based diets and personalized meal plans tailored to individual health needs and preferences will become more accessible. The personalized nutrition market is projected to grow from $8.2 billion in 2020 to $16.4 billion by 2025, at a compound annual growth rate of 15%, according to MarketsandMarkets.

13. AI & Automation in Food Prep
Artificial intelligence and automation are transforming the food industry. From AI-driven recipe development to robotic chefs, technology will play a major role in food preparation and serving. By 2025, AI ​​in the food and beverage market is expected to reach $29.94 billion, growing at a CAGR of 45.77%, according to Mordor Intelligence.

14. Ghost Kitchens & Virtual Brands

The rise of takeout food delivery has led to a rise in ghost kitchens and virtual brands. These delivery-only operations will continue to grow, offering diverse and specialized culinary experiences. Euromonitor estimates that ghost kitchens could create a $1 trillion global market by 2030.

15. Experiential Dining

With an emphasis on unique and immersive dining experiences, restaurants will offer more than just a meal. Interactive elements, storytelling, and multi-sensory experiences will become key components of dining out. According to Eventbrite, 75% of millennials value experiences over products, driving the trend toward experiential dining.

“By embracing these 15 top food trends, food and beverage operators can ensure they remain competitive and maintain their place in hospitality in 2025,” Samson Hospitality emphasizes, underlining: “From the continued rise of plant-based and lab-grown foods to developments in personalized nutrition and experiential cuisine, the future of food is vibrant and diverse. By monitoring these trends, we can improve our offerings and contribute to a more sustainable and healthy food landscape.”

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