In an ambitious move reflecting the changing landscape of consumer preferences, Fresh Thyme Market has published its second annual food trend predictions for 2025. This report, created in partnership with Spins, a trusted retail data and intelligence provider based in Chicago, aims to guide grocery shopping habits in the Midwest, showcasing a range of innovative products and healthy options for consumers.
Fresh Thyme Market President Liz Zolcak emphasizes the importance of understanding shopper needs and providing excitement in the aisles. “Our annual trends report helps us curate our shelves with the freshest, innovative, and local products,” she states. This proactive approach to market demand not only helps retailers stay ahead of trends but also enhances the shopping experience for consumers who are increasingly focused on health and wellness.
Here are Fresh Thyme’s top 10 Midwest grocery trend predictions for 2025:
1. Functional Ingredients: The push for health-promoting ingredients continues. Customers are now looking for products that do more than just satisfy hunger. They desire functional ingredients that offer specific health benefits, such as colostrum for immune support and probiotics for gut health. Retailers can capitalize on this trend by highlighting these options in their marketing materials.
2. Evolution of the Mushroom: Adaptogenic mushrooms, known for their potential benefits in stress and anxiety relief, are set to gain traction. Expect an increase in mushroom-infused products ranging from pasta to coffee. By increasing visibility of such items in stores, retailers can cater to consumers eager to incorporate these health supplements into their everyday diets.
3. Rise of Non-Alcoholic, Mood-Enhancing Beverages: The market for non-alcoholic beverages is expanding beyond sodas. In 2025, consumers will seek mood-enhancing drinks containing ingredients like kava and CBD. These beverages not only provide relaxation but also serve as social alternatives at gatherings, meeting the needs of a more health-conscious customer base.
4. Spicy Foods Takeover: The growing demand for complex flavor profiles suggests a rise in the popularity of spicy products. Consumers are increasingly experimenting with fresh and dried chilis, pushing retailers to expand their hot sauce ranges and promote spicy snacks. Emphasizing local and unique varieties can help differentiate offerings.
5. Mango Everything: With its nutritional profile and culinary versatility, mango is no longer just a summer fruit. Expect it to appear in a plethora of products, from beverages to savory snacks. Highlighting the vitamins and sweet, creamy texture of mango can appeal to consumers looking for tasty yet healthy options.
6. Nature’s Natural Sweeteners: The preference for natural sweeteners like honey and maple syrup is on the rise. As consumers seek to minimize their intake of refined sugars, stores can draw attention to these products and suggest recipes that incorporate natural alternatives.
7. Boosting Brain Power: Cognitive health is emerging as a critical focus for consumers. Products enriched with ingredients such as ginkgo biloba and magnesium will likely gain popularity. Retailers can engage consumers by offering educational information on the benefits of these ingredients and recommending product pairings.
8. We’re Heading to Seoul: Korean flavors are making their way into the American palate. Ingredients like gochujang and kimchi are expected to appear in more households, driven by the increasing interest in global cuisines. Stocking these ingredients and providing recipe ideas can facilitate the transition for adventurous home cooks.
9. Next-Gen Sustainability: As environmental concerns rise, consumers are becoming more interested in products grown using innovative and sustainable practices. Controlled-environment agriculture (CEA) will attract attention, and retailers should leverage marketing that highlights eco-friendly sourcing and production methods.
10. Prioritizing Protein: In 2025, protein will not only be a feature of meats and seafood but will also find its way into a broader range of products like cereals and sauces. As consumers become more health-conscious, emphasizing protein content in various foods will resonate with them.
These emerging trends suggest a shift towards healthier, more sustainable, and globally inspired culinary choices. With more than 70 stores across 10 states, Fresh Thyme aims to educate and inspire local communities through innovative product offerings and noteworthy health trends.
Retailers looking to leverage these insights should focus on marketing strategies that effectively communicate these trends to the audience. Creating promotions that highlight these products, integrating educational content on health benefits, and emphasizing sustainability practices will help retailers meet consumer demands.
In conclusion, as these grocery trends forecast the future of shopping behaviors, retailers who are agile in adapting their inventory and marketing will find success in attracting and retaining a savvy health-conscious customer base. The grocery landscape is shifting, and those who recognize and act upon these changes will inevitably thrive.
