Our team of experts has already looked into 2025 and beyond with our 2025 Food, Flavor and Beverage Trends and our 2025 Foodservice Forecast, but it’s always helpful to take stock of where the food and beverage industry is today, and how that may inform tomorrow. 

Last week, Datassential presented our 2024 Year-End Review Webinar, diving deep into the trends and insights shaping the food and beverage landscape in the year ahead. From shifting consumer habits and the rise of global cuisines to the ever-evolving role of AI in foodservice, the discussion was packed with actionable data, emerging ideas, and thought-provoking perspectives.

If you missed the live event, don’t worry—you can still catch the full recording to explore these topics in far greater depth. Below, we’ve summarized the key themes from the webinar, but for a more comprehensive dive into these critical conversations, be sure to watch the full session – and sign up for a fresh set of insights-packed webinars in 2025.

2024 Consumer Social & Financial Habits

Consumer behavior in 2024 is heavily shaped by economic uncertainty and shifting societal priorities. Concerns about inflation and job security continue to affect how people approach spending and saving. Many consumers are prioritizing value and convenience but remain cautious about overspending, reflecting a broader “mindful spending” mindset. Socially, there’s a growing tension between optimism about progress and fears of societal instability, which influence how people engage with brands and businesses.

Changing Perspectives on Health & Wellness

Health and wellness trends are ever-evolving, but consumers are now perhaps more than ever navigating the balance between indulgence and healthful eating. While “food as medicine” is gaining traction, thanks to increased awareness of functional foods, the popularity of glp-1 treatments, like Ozempic, is changing how people view weight management and diet culture. This duality presents opportunities for both indulgent comfort foods and functional, health-oriented options.

The Resurgence of Snacking and Little Treat Culture

Snacking is back in a big way, with “little treats” becoming a cornerstone of consumer routines. As people continue to seek moments of joy in their day, snackable indulgences, mini desserts, and on-the-go options are gaining traction. This trend is less about sustenance and more about self-care, aligning with the cultural emphasis on small moments of pleasure.

Evolving Business Challenges

Operators are grappling with ongoing business challenges, including labor shortages, rising costs, and lower traffic. The key issue remains driving visits while maintaining profitability. Creative promotions, loyalty programs, and hyper-local marketing are emerging as critical strategies for addressing these hurdles.

Value & Convenience, 2.0

In 2024, value and convenience remain non-negotiables, but they’ve taken on a new definition. It’s not just about low prices—it’s about perceived value, whether through portion sizes, quality ingredients, or added perks like rewards programs. Convenience is also evolving, with consumers expecting faster, more seamless digital and physical experiences.

Restaurant Segment Blurring

Boundaries between restaurant segments are increasingly murky. Fast casual restaurants are borrowing elements from fine dining, QSRs are incorporating premium menu items, and ghost kitchens are redefining how and where meals are prepared. This blending creates opportunities for innovation while challenging traditional business models.

The Next Stage of (Unavoidable AI)

AI is no longer a future trend—it’s an unavoidable reality. From menu development to personalized marketing, AI is reshaping the food industry. Operators are using it to optimize labor, predict trends, and improve customer experiences. While it presents opportunities, businesses must also address ethical and operational challenges tied to automation.

Rise of Global Cuisines (Across Retail and Foodservice)

The demand for global cuisines is continuing to surge as consumers seek authenticity and cultural connection. From the rise of West African spices to a renewed love for regional Mexican and Chinese dishes, foodservice and retail alike are embracing diverse flavors to attract adventurous eaters.

Personal Values, Shifting Identity, and Chaos Branding

Consumers are increasingly aligning purchases with personal values, whether sustainability, inclusivity, or ethical sourcing. Simultaneously, “chaos branding” is on the rise, with brands embracing unconventional, playful, and even polarizing approaches to stand out in a cluttered market.

Social Media Trend Recap + The Little Food Trends That Captured the Internet

From the “big French fry” phenomenon to TikTok-inspired layered dips, bite-sized foods dominated the internet. These trends reveal not only what consumers find shareable but also the growing influence of platforms like TikTok and Instagram in shaping food culture. Although not all fads develop into full-fledged trends, it’s worth being aware of this social media inspiration and finding ways to incorporate what feels aligned with your business.

The trends above are vast but provide some rich opportunities for food and beverage businesses. With consumer habits, technology, and cultural shifts driving innovation, staying agile and attuned to these trends will be crucial for success in the coming year.

Samantha Des Jardins is the Content Marketing Manager at Datassential.

To explore more of Datassential’s vast research on the topics above, become a subscriber. To sign up for the 2025 Simply Smarter Webinar Series, visit this page.