With the new year just a day away, the food industry is looking ahead to the trends and innovations that will shape 2025.
This month, we asked our LinkedIn audience of industry professionals to share their flavor and formulation predictions as we roll into another year.
Flavor innovation goes global
Respondents anticipate that global fusion flavors will dominate food trends in 2025, with 47% selecting this as the key flavor direction. Consumers will be filling their plates with complex, multicultural tastes that blend ingredients and culinary traditions from around the world. The rise of global fusion aligns with the increasing globalization of food culture, where consumers are more adventurous and willing to explore new combinations, such as Korean BBQ tacos or Indian-inspired pizza.
Fewer food industry professionals believe that hyper-local foraged ingredients (19%) and fermented and funky flavors (19%) are key trends. However, consumer interest in sustainability and environmental responsibility could continue to drive demand for locally sourced and foraged ingredients, while desire to improve gut health may boost fermented foods.
Nostalgic and retro flavors follow at a distant 16%, but consumers will likely continue to crave classic comfort foods and flavors in 2025 and beyond.
Gut health tops priorities for food fortification
More than four in 10 poll respondents (42%) expect gut health to be the leading focus for fortification in food products next year. This is consistent with the rising consumer awareness of the gut microbiome’s crucial role in overall health, particularly its connection to digestion, immunity, and even mood regulation. Food companies are responding by incorporating functional ingredients that promote gut health, such as fermented foods, fiber-rich prebiotics, and probiotic-rich additives.
Immune support comes in second at 24%, which is no surprise given the ongoing global health concerns and the growing interest in boosting the body’s defenses with natural ingredients. Products fortified with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants will continue to be in high demand as consumers look to maintain health and wellness.
Mood / stress management (18%) and cognitive function (16%) may be less of a priority for food companies going into 2025, but consumers hoping to improve their mental health will be looking for ingredients that support brain function, reduce stress, and enhance overall mood.
Technology drives formulation innovation
When asked which emerging technology will have the biggest impact on food formulations in 2025, responses show an equal preference for precision fermentation and AI-driven flavor creation, each securing 38% of the vote.
Precision fermentation has been gaining attention in recent years, especially in the context of plant-based food innovations and sustainable protein production. This biotechnological process allows for the production of specific ingredients, such as proteins, enzymes, and other compounds, using microorganisms. This technology will likely play a crucial role in creating more sustainable and functional food products in the years to come.
Advancements in artificial intelligence allow food manufacturers to use algorithms and data analysis to develop new and unique flavor profiles. Leveraging AI not only optimizes existing formulations, but also helps companies predict and create entirely novel taste experiences that align with consumer preferences.
Meanwhile, CRISPR gene editing (15%) and nanoencapsulation (8%), which both show significant promise for the future of food, may not yet be as mainstream or accessible as precision fermentation and AI.
Whether it’s the blending of diverse flavors, the fortification of foods to support gut health and immunity, or the embrace of cutting-edge technologies, food manufacturers are poised to meet the evolving demands of consumers in 2025.
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