AUSTIN, Texas (Oct. 16, 2024) – Whole Foods Market, a leader in the Wholefoods Food industry, has released its highly anticipated 10th annual Trends predictions report, forecasting the top 10 food trends for 2025. The report, curated by the Whole Foods Market Trends Council, highlights innovative and evolving consumer preferences that are set to shape the wholefoods food landscape in the coming year. Expect to see a surge in hydrating beverages, a wave of underutilized aquatic ingredients, a focus on adding satisfying crunch to meals, and globally-inspired snack fusions, among other exciting trends.
The Whole Foods Market Trends Council, composed of over 50 team members including foragers, buyers, and culinary experts, meticulously develops these predictions. Their process combines extensive industry experience, careful observation of consumer tastes, and collaborative sessions with both emerging and established brands in the wholefoods food sector. This deep-dive approach ensures the trends identified are not just fleeting fads, but represent meaningful shifts in how consumers are engaging with food.
“Celebrating a decade of trend forecasting is a significant milestone for Whole Foods Market. It reflects our ongoing commitment to sharing culinary innovation and exploration across all food categories,” stated Sonya Gafsi Oblisk, Chief Merchandising and Marketing Officer at Whole Foods Market. “This year, we are particularly thrilled to showcase trends for 2025 that not only mirror evolving consumer desires but also push the boundaries of what’s possible within the wholefoods food world. We are eager to see these trends come to life and inspire our customers in the coming year as they explore the diverse and exciting world of wholefoods food.”
Cathy Strange, Ambassador of Food Culture for Whole Foods Market and a key member of the Trends Council, added, “Whole Foods Market has always been at the forefront of identifying and highlighting key innovations in food and beverage. From critical movements surrounding animal welfare, climate consciousness, and transparency in sourcing, to the ever-changing tastes of consumers, food trends are powerful drivers of conversations and inspire the best ideas and solutions for the future of wholefoods food and the broader food industry.”
Whole Foods Market’s Top 10 Food Trend Predictions for 2025 in Detail:
1. International Snacking: Global Flavors in Wholefoods Food
The snack aisle is ripe for adventurous exploration, and brands are stepping up by infusing global flavors into familiar snacks, creating exciting fusion foods. This trend encourages consumers to broaden their palates and experience the world through their snacks. Packaging is becoming a storytelling medium, with brands sharing their cultural heritage and childhood food memories, adding a layer of authenticity and connection. From traditional international snacks like chamoy candy to innovative combinations such as mango sticky rice chips or chili crunch oil edamame and nut mixes, these products offer a passport to global cuisines within the wholefoods food snacking category.
Try the Trend: Daily Crunch and Fly by Jing Sweet Sichuan Sprouted Cashews, Aaji’s Tomato Lonsa Original Recipe (available in select stores), Dang Mango Sticky Rice and Thai Chili & Lime Thai Rice Chips (launching in 2025), Confusion Snacks Chili Masala Popcorn (available in select stores), Whole Foods Market Plantain Tostones, Siete Grain Free Hint of Mexican Vanilla Chocolate Chip and Grain Free Fresas con Crema Cookies, Sosi’s Spinach Jalapeno Armenian Yogurt Dip (available in select stores), Tamalitoz by Sugarox Divine Watermelon Mexican Candy and Chili Pops (available in select stores), CHUZA Spicy Mango (available in select stores), Yaza Labneh Za’atar & Olive Oil, Geem Korean Seaweed Chips (part of Whole Foods Market’s 2024 LEAP Early Growth Cohort).
2. Ever-Adaptable Dumplings: Pocket Foods Revolutionizing Wholefoods Food
Dumplings, versatile dough pockets filled with savory ingredients and cooked in various ways (boiling, steaming, frying), are making waves across multiple aisles in grocery stores. These “pocket foods” are appearing in frozen and shelf-stable single-serve formats, tapping into several key trends. Many dumpling varieties are rooted in authentic cultural traditions, while others embrace fusion and unexpected flavor combinations, reflecting trends popular on platforms like TikTok and in restaurant menus. Dumplings, being a staple in cuisines worldwide, offer a universally relatable and exciting trend within the wholefoods food movement.
Try the Trend: MìLà Pork Soup Dumplings, Laoban Mala Beef Dumplings and Chinese Style BBQ Pork Bao Buns, House of Yee Miso Jade Vegan Dumplings (available in Canada stores), Plant Up Asian Dumplings and Shawarma Bites (available in Canada stores), Jaju Sweet Potato and Caramelized Onion Pierogi, Baozza! Pepperoni Pizza Bao Buns, Himalayan Momo Paneer and Vegetable Dumplings (available in select stores), 365 by Whole Foods Market Basil Pesto Plin, 365 by Whole Foods Market Chick’n Naan Bites, Fillo’s Bean Salsa Verde Walking Tamales, Mimi Cheng’s Chicken Parm Dumplings (available in select stores).
3. Crunch: The Texture Taking Over Wholefoods Food
Texture is becoming a crucial element in food experiences, and crunch is leading the charge. Consumers are increasingly seeking out crispy grains, granola, sprouted and fermented nuts, roasted chickpeas, and mushroom chips to enhance their meals. These crunchy additions are perfect for adding textural complexity to breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Brands are innovating with crunchier versions of chili crisp and introducing seasonings specifically marketed for their textural appeal in salads and roasted vegetables. The dehydrated fruit and candy trend on social media further emphasizes the desire for that light, airy crunch, extending even to beverages and desserts like crème brûlée espresso martinis or pistachio-topped pastries in the wholefoods food and dessert categories.
Try the Trend: Daily Crunch Turmeric & Sea Salt Sprouted Almonds, GoodSAM Crispy Crunchy Pineapple Chips, Fly By Jing Chengdu Crunch, Whole Foods Market Organic Spicy Sesame Garlic Crunch, 365 by Whole Foods Market Lemon Tahini Crunch Chopped Salad Kit, 365 by Whole Foods Market Freeze-Dried Strawberries and Mangoes, Brad’s Balsamic Salad Snack, Madly Hadley Coconut Bacon Bits (available in select stores) and Pistachio Crumble (launching January 2025), Life Raft Treats® Not Fried Chicken® Ice Cream (available in select stores), Popadelics Crunchy Mushroom Chips Trippin’ Truffle Parm (available in select stores), Freezcake Freeze-Dried Cheesecake Bites (part of Whole Foods Market’s 2024 LEAP Early Growth Cohort).
4. Hydration Hype: Beyond Basic H2O in Wholefoods Food
Reusable water bottles are commonplace, but consumers are now demanding more from their hydration. Enhanced hydration is a major focus, with consumers seeking added electrolytes and innovative formats. Trade shows are showcasing electrolyte popsicles, sparkling coconut water, chlorophyll water, and even protein water. New players are emerging, such as cactus waters rich in antioxidants and electrolytes, and healthier alternatives to sugary sports drinks. This hydration trend is even reaching children with tasty and fun beverage options like pouches and mini coconuts, making healthy hydration accessible to all ages within the wholefoods food and beverage market.
Try the Trend: Skratch Labs Strawberry Lemonade Hydration Sport Drink Mix (available in select stores), Cocobear Organic Raw Coconut Water, Local Weather Wildberry, Pricklee Cactus Water (available in select stores), KOR HYDRATE Superfood Quench Organic Sports Drink, BruMate Era 40oz Leakproof Straw Tumbler, Once Upon a Coconut + Watermelon (available in select stores), Harmless Harvest Organic Sparkling Coconut Water, True Nopal Cactus Water.
5. Tea’s Time: Tea Taking Center Stage in Wholefoods Food
Tea is experiencing a resurgence in popularity across various food categories. Tea flavors like chai, Earl Grey, and London fog are trending in desserts and granola. New steeping formats are emerging, including tea strips, cold-brew bags for water bottles, and powders. A wave of new hot products, such as plant-based milk teas and sparkling teas, is also gaining momentum. Vintage-inspired adult tea parties are becoming a sophisticated alternative to happy hour, with consumers seeking functional brews with adaptogens and added health benefits. This trend builds upon previous Whole Foods Market trend predictions like “New Brew: Yaupon” and “A Better Boost,” highlighting the continuous evolution of tea in the wholefoods food and beverage space.
Try the Trend: Heritage Kulfi Cardamom Chai Ice Cream (available in select stores), Kola Goodies Sri Lankan Milk Tea Latte, One Degree Organic Foods Coconut Hibiscus Tea Infused Granola (available in select stores), Twrl Jasmine Pu’erh Milk Tea (available in select stores), Camellia Grove Kombucha Oolong Tea Kombucha, Whole Foods Market Bakery Figgy Foggy Chantilly Cake, Whole Foods Market Bakery Vanilla Earl Grey Scone (launching November 2024), Van Leeuwen Blue Jasmine Tea Ice Cream Bars, Remedy Organics Super Chai Fuel (available in select stores), Bubbies Milk Tea Mochi, Big Heart Tea Co. Minty Blue Herbal Tea (available in select stores), teapigs Cold Brew Peach & Mango, Maté Party Sparkling Yerba Mate (part of Whole Foods Market’s 2024 LEAP Early Growth Cohort).
6. Next-Level Compostable: Sustainable Packaging in Wholefoods Food
As sustainability remains a top priority, brands are innovating with packaging solutions. While eliminating packaging entirely isn’t always feasible, many are transitioning to compostable options, making some or all packaging components compostable. Companies like Compostic are pioneering home-compostable products, allowing for disposal in home bins rather than requiring commercial composting facilities. Even in produce, companies like Rainer Fruit are developing commercially compostable produce stickers, showcasing a holistic approach to sustainable packaging within the wholefoods food industry.
Try the Trend: SIMPLi Regenerative Organic Certified Gigante Beans, Whole Foods Market Organic Steeped Coffee Single Serve Compostable Coffee Bags, Alter Eco Classic Dark Chocolate Truffles, Compostic 100% Home Compostable Cling Wrap, Coyotas Organic Cassava Tortillas, PACHA Sourdough Sprouted Buckwheat Bread.
7. More-Sustainable Sips: Eco-Conscious Beverages in Wholefoods Food
The beverage industry is increasingly focused on reducing environmental impact. While natural and organic wines have been available, brands are now pushing further by adopting regenerative practices and lower-impact packaging. The Sustainable Wine Roundtable, of which Whole Foods Market is a founding member, aims to reduce bottle weights by 25% by 2026. Beer and whiskey brands are also incorporating sustainable ingredients like drought-resistant fonio or regeneratively farmed kernza, highlighting a growing commitment to sustainability across the alcoholic beverage sector within wholefoods food retail.
Try the Trend: Patagonia Provisions + Deschutes Kernza Lager & Kernza Non-Alcoholic Golden Brew, Brooklyn Brewery Fonio Rising Pale Ale, New Belgium Fat Tire Ale, Allagash White Belgian-Style Wheat Beer, Athletic Brewing Co. Free Wave Hazy IPA and Run Wild IPA, Firestone Walker Brewing Company Mind Haze IPA, Bonny Doon Vineyard Carbon…nay!, Harthill Farms Pinot Grigio, Tablas Creek Vineyard Patelin de Tablas and Patelin de Tablas Blanc.
8. Sourdough Stepped Up: Sourdough Beyond Bread in Wholefoods Food
The pandemic-driven sourdough baking trend has evolved beyond home kitchens and is now making its way into grocery aisles in diverse and innovative forms. Sourdough is being incorporated into pizza crusts, flatbreads, brownies, crackers, chocolate, and more, offering consumers the sought-after flavor and benefits of sourdough without the lengthy home baking process. Whole Foods Market Bakery is also launching innovative sourdough breads, including Pumpkin Turmeric, demonstrating the versatility and enduring appeal of sourdough in the wholefoods food market.
Try the Trend: Bionaturae Organic Sourdough Spaghetti (launching February 2025), Jesha’s Sourdough Pancake & Waffle Mix, Wasa Swedish Style Sourdough Crispbread, Whole Foods Market Bakery Pumpkin Turmeric Sourdough, Rudi’s Gluten Free Sourdough Texas Toast with Garlic, Berlin Natural Bakery Old Fashioned Sourdough Spelt Bread, Base Culture Sourdough, Essential Bake-at-Home Sourdough, Patagonia Provisions Sourdough Sea Salt Organic Crackers, Pinsa Love Artisan Pepperoni and Pesto Mushroom Pinsa (launching in select stores in November 2024).
9. Plant-Based Aquatic Ingredients: Sea Greens in Wholefoods Food
Seaweed’s popularity continues to rise, and there’s growing interest in utilizing readily available aquatic plants for sustainable protein and nutrient sources. The focus is shifting towards foods made with sea and freshwater greens. Sea moss, in particular, is gaining attention as a wellness ingredient, praised for its iron, magnesium, and iodine content and appearing in beverages and gummies. Duckweed (water lentils) is emerging with a higher protein content than other leafy greens, and agar-agar (a plant-based gelatin from red algae) is valued for its fiber content and digestive benefits. These aquatic plants represent a significant expansion of plant-based options within the wholefoods food sector.
Try the Trend: Atlantic Sea Farms Sea-Chi and Seaweed Salad, Copina Co. Passionfruit Sea Moss Refresher, Barnacle Foods Alaskan Sea Verde Kelp Salsa (available in select stores), MaryRuth’s Sea Moss Gummies, Simply Organic Sea Lettuce Finishing Salt, Umaro Applewood Smoke Sea Moss Bacon (available in select stores), Homiah Sambal Chili Crunch, Kamuni Creek Mango Seamoss (available in select stores).
10. Protein Power-Up: Wholefoods Food Protein Beyond Powders
Consumers are seeking to increase protein intake beyond traditional powders and bars, prioritizing protein consumption during meals and through “whole food” snacking. The popularity of cottage cheese recipes may have spurred interest in whole food protein sources, with animal protein now taking center stage. Organ meats are being recognized as superfoods, rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. This trend is leading to meat blends combining muscle meat with organ meats, making it easier for consumers to access the nutritional benefits of organ meats without the preparation challenges. This signifies a shift towards more natural and diverse protein sources within the wholefoods food market.
Try the Trend: Whole Foods Market Caribbean Style Protein Frozen Vegetable Blend, Painterland Sisters Organic Skyr Yogurt Meadow Berry Yogurt (available in select stores), FOND Bone Broth (available in select stores), 365 by Whole Foods Market Kale & Spinach Egg Bites, 365 by Whole Foods Market Hot Smoked Atlantic Salmon Snack Cubes, Good Culture Cottage Cheese, organicgirl protein greens, Force of Nature Beef Ancestral Blend and Bison Ancestral Blend, Eel River Organic 100% Grass-fed Primal Blend (available in select stores), Diestel Family Ranch Primal Blend Ground Turkey with Turkey Heart and Liver (available in select stores), Bob’s Red Mill Organic Protein Oats.
About Whole Foods Market
Founded in 1980 and based in Austin, Texas, Whole Foods Market is the leading retailer of natural and organic foods globally and the first certified organic national grocer in the United States. As part of Amazon’s Worldwide Grocery Stores, Whole Foods Market operates over 530 stores across the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. For more information about Whole Foods Market and its commitment to wholefoods food, please visit https://media.wholefoodsmarket.com/.
