For the food industry in craft, retail, and industry, the market research platform Innova has analyzed the markets in 90 countries to identify new developments, trends, and innovations in the nutrition sector. We have summarized some of the findings in the RAPS Trend Report 2025. Take the opportunity to recognize changes in the food market early and to expand and develop your offerings accordingly.
RAPS is dedicated to all these trend topics and has corresponding product solutions ready. Do you have questions or would you like further suggestions and information? Feel free to contact us.
Background on Nutrition Trends 2025
The macroeconomic environment remains a challenge for consumers. The health of the planet is the global problem #1 that worries consumers worldwide. Climate change is becoming increasingly noticeable and has impacts on health, food security, and the economy. At the same time, an aging and growing population, rising obesity, and the global mental health crisis continue to put pressure on health systems. Global economic growth in 2025 is also expected to remain moderate, while economic uncertainties continue to burden consumers.
Against this backdrop, the search for security, particularly regarding product quality and integrity, is becoming increasingly important. Consumers are looking for the genuine, tangible, and secure. At the same time, they long for experiential moments of joy and entertainment that convey a sense of connection, liberation, adventure, and wonder.
Food Trends 2025 at a Glance
After the trend in 2024 towards "STAR INGREDIENTS", the focus in 2025 is on how to stand out in terms of quality. In our first trend highlighted here, INGREDIENTS AND BEYOND, the development of a coherent narrative around quality is crucial.
Food trend number two, FLAVORS - WILDLY INVENTIVE, deals with the desire for extraordinary and innovative flavors. Over 40% of consumers worldwide say, “I am looking for crazy creations that offer me the ultimate taste experience.”
Every fourth consumer worldwide already considers authenticity to be the most important factor in food. At the same time, nearly every second consumer worldwide states that traditions are a very important value in their diet. All of this describes the significance of our third food trend FOOD CULTURE - TRADITION REINVENTED quite well.
Food Trend 1 "Ingredients and Beyond"
Product differentiation through the quality of ingredients is becoming a central factor for purchasing decisions in the food and beverage industry. Consumers are increasingly valuing health-conscious decisions and are looking for products with functional ingredients that offer nutritional physiological benefits, freshness, longer shelf life, and a focus on naturalness.
Products with high-quality, functional ingredients not only meet the changing consumer demands but will also have a significant impact on the purchase of food and beverages. By using high-quality clean-label ingredients, companies can also strengthen consumer trust and promote brand loyalty. Quality is the top priority for food consumers worldwide. The use of star ingredients in spices, in particular, ensures that food is perceived as high quality.
Food Trend 2 "Flavors - wildly inventive"
Food and beverage trends thrive in a digital world full of inspirations. Consumers are looking for extraordinary and innovative taste experiences that go beyond traditional boundaries. To capture consumers' attention on social media channels, one must be bold, unexpected, and proactive: whether through creative fusion dishes, intercultural combinations, or novel ingredient mixes – the possibilities are endless to create the wow factor in terms of flavors, textures, indulgence, and fun.
Bold flavors, vibrant colors, and unique textures are in focus. In addition to the visual factor and novel ingredient mixes, health-oriented indulgence is also gaining importance, for example through ingredients like adaptogens or probiotics. These developments offer companies in the food industry great opportunities to attract consumer attention with innovative product solutions and eye-catching designs.
Food Trend 3 "Food Culture - Tradition Reinvented"
Tradition and authenticity are at the center of our third consumer trend. Many people want to preserve and celebrate their culinary heritage in a world full of cultural fusion, whether through regional cuisine, family recipes, or authentic ingredients and cooking methods passed down from generation to generation.
More than every second consumer wishes for new products that combine traditional values with modern innovation. This interplay of tradition and innovation offers companies a great opportunity to stand out in the market. Products that honor local heritage while offering contemporary formats resonate with consumers.