Stefani Sassos, a registered dietitian, recently appeared on "Good Morning America" to unveil the anticipated food trends for 2025, as compiled by the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab. These trends forecast a significant shift in consumer preferences, emphasizing sustainable practices and diverse flavors. The spotlight is on farmer's cheese, labneh, and sparkling water with unique flavors, along with the luxurious rise of high-end produce and the growing momentum of upcycling ingredients.
Farmer's cheese, known for its firm texture and tangy flavor, is gaining traction among consumers seeking alternatives to traditional cottage cheese. Alongside this, labneh, a savory dairy staple in many cultures, is entering mainstream markets, providing a creamy option rich in probiotics. Sparkling water continues to captivate palates with innovative offerings such as Aura Bora’s distinctive flavors and Sanzo's Asian-inspired blends.
"Sparkling water is also a fantastic option and has become anything but boring, like Aura Bora's super unique flavors. Sanzo is a sparkling water that celebrates Asian flavors and fruits without excess sugar or artificial additives." – Stefani Sassos
Sassos highlighted the burgeoning popularity of luxury produce within American markets. Traditionally rooted in Japanese gifting culture, these high-end fruits are now captivating U.S. consumers. Among these are Oishii strawberries and Fresh Del Monte Pinkglow Pineapples, each offering a unique taste experience cultivated through specialized growing techniques.
"High-end fruits are popular in Japanese gifting culture, and we’re seeing this idea gaining traction in the U.S." – Stefani Sassos
"These more expensive options are often grown in a special way." – Stefani Sassos
A notable trend is the emphasis on upcycling ingredients, a practice gaining momentum since its prediction by Whole Foods in 2021. This sustainable approach addresses the staggering statistic that nearly 40% of food in the U.S. ends up in landfills. Products like "I am Grounded" Supr Bars exemplify this trend by utilizing ingredients that would otherwise go to waste.
Sourdough bread remains a favorite for its nutritional benefits. The lactic acid present in sourdough aids nutrient absorption, while prebiotics promote gut health. Despite its simplicity, Sassos advises consumers to review nutrition labels to ensure minimal additives.
"From a nutrition standpoint, sourdough contains lactic acid that can help your body absorb more nutrients." – Stefani Sassos
"The prebiotics can impact microbiome health, and most sourdough products have very minimal ingredients, though you should always check the nutrition label just in case." – Stefani Sassos
Hydration options are expanding with innovations like Pricklee's cactus water. Made from prickly pears, this beverage provides electrolytes, antioxidants, and vitamin C with a refreshing fruity taste.
"Pricklee's cactus water is made from real prickly pears and is a natural source of electrolytes, antioxidants and vitamin C, and has a light and fresh fruity taste," – Stefani Sassos
The role of protein in diets remains pivotal. It supports muscle building and repair, hormone balance, and immune system regulation. As consumers become more health-conscious, protein-rich foods continue to dominate dietary choices.
"Protein plays a pivotal role in building and repairing muscle, balancing hormones, regulating our immune system and more." – Stefani Sassos
