Year after year, our diet is influenced by market trends that are reflected in our shopping baskets. Over time, concerns about health, the environment and values such as transparency, shape food trends and therefore, what we eat.
What will we eat in 2025?
Food, much more than a basic necessity : a health ally
In 2025, food is being “reinvented” around wellness, pleasure, and ecological responsibility. Food is no longer just a basic necessity—it has become a way to take care of oneself, to enjoy life, and to respect the environment.
Consumers no longer only look for nutritional balance, with the right amount of calories, proteins, glucids, fatty acids and micro-nutrients. They are now trying to get away from industrial foods and increasingly favouring local and traditional products while seeking unique taste experiences. Health and transparency are at the heart of their choices, with growing demand for healthier, less processed foods.
Environmental impact has also become a key priority, pushing people toward more responsible eating habits. Major food retailers are therefore adapting and offering increasingly innovative foods.
Among the strongest trends this year :
More proteins, why ?
Proteins are in high demand—not just among athletes looking to build muscle. Many people are trying to maximize their protein intake because of their numerous health benefits.
Indeed, in addition to helping repair and build muscle tissue, proteins promote satiety, support the health of skin, nails, and hair, and are essential for the production of several hormones and enzymes.
Proteins can be animal-based—such as chicken, beef, fish, cheese, dairy products, and eggs—or plant-based, such as quinoa, tofu, and legumes like chickpeas and lentils.
In response to pollution and the health impacts of animal farming, consumers are increasingly changing their habits and turning to, new protein options .
Which alternative sources or protein ?
In 2025, faced with environmental and health challenges, more and more consumers are turning to alternative protein sources: insects (which contain between 30% and 65% protein), sea weeds (30% to 60%), mycoproteins (mushroom-based proteins with a meat-like texture), and more. Insects are :
- High in protein – they offer complete proteins with all essential amino acids.
- Low in fat – particularly in saturated fats.
- Rich in micronutrients – They’re packed with iron, zinc, magnesium, and B12.
- Digestible – Insect proteins are easily absorbed and digested by the human body.
- Low allergen risk – Compared to shellfish or dairy, insects may cause fewer allergies.
- Low in carbs so perfect for keto diets.
- Sustainable nutrition – Healthy for the body and the planet.
- A clean source of protein – they can be raised without antibiotics or hormones.
Functional foods : what are they ?
More consumers are also looking for nutritious products with health benefits, such as nutraceuticals and functional foods.
· Nutraceuticals are products made from natural foods but sold in pills, powders, or syrup forms, and are believed to have physiological benefits. Examples include vitamin supplements, probiotics, and prebiotics.
· Functional foods are those that offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition.
They help improve well-being or reduce disease risk. For example :
Probiotic yogurts support gut health with live beneficial bacteria.
Fortified cereals contain added vitamins like B12 and folic acid.
Oats are rich in beta-glucan, which helps lower cholesterol.
Fatty fish like salmon provide omega-3s for heart and brain health.
Green tea contains antioxidants that may reduce cancer risk.
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties from curcumin.
Garlic may support immune function and reduce blood pressure.
Soy products contain isoflavones linked to hormone balance and heart health.
They are particularly beneficial for or our gut microbiota. While fiber-rich foods, probiotics, polyphenols, and prebiotics support a healthy microbiome, researchers are also studying components that harm it—such as artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose, and certain food additives.
Fermented food : which ones to help your microbiota ?
Another major trend for 2025: fermentation. Fermentation boosts the bioavailability of nutrients, making vitamins and minerals easier to absorb.
They may enhance immune function, as a large portion of the immune system is in the gut.
Fermented foods like kimchi or sauerkraut are high in antioxidants that fight inflammation.
They can improve mental health, with links to reduced anxiety and depression due to the gut-brain connection.
Fermentation also helps preserve foods naturally, offering a sustainable, nutrient-dense option.
Fermented foods are rich in probiotics, which support gut health by promoting beneficial bacteria.
They help improve digestion and can reduce symptoms of bloating and constipation.
Probiotics and prebiotics are being consumed more than ever to support good digestive health. Kombucha, kimchi, kefir, lacto-fermented vegetables, and miso are increasingly marketed—and easy to make at home.
The food industry's response
In response to the effects of climate change on food (e.g., supply chain issues, rising prices), as well as quality of nutrition and health the food industry is also evolving and innovating through initiatives such as:
· Using more sustainable ingredients;
· Upcycling: transforming food production byproducts into value-added products (e.g., turning spent grains into flour or citrus peels into flavorings);
· Reducing food waste (e.g., donating unsold groceries to lcharities and ocal organizations);
· Using compostable or low-impact packaging.(yoghurt pots made with sea-weeds)
The industry is also working to produce less-processed, plant-based foods that are healthy and environmentally friendly, in order to meet consumer expectations.
How can QR codes promote your health ?
QR codes will become increasingly common on packaging. They will provide access to information about ingredient origins, product certifications, production steps, and even transportation to the point of sale.
Additional nutritional information, and even videos with ideas on how to prepare the product, will also be accessible. Transparency is increasingly sought after by consumers.
Home-cooked foods : the best solution ever !
Home cooking is becoming more common in households, supported by practical and high-performing appliances such as cooking robots, yogurt makers, and bread machines. Consumers want to eat more consciously and responsibly while continuing to favor local products.
