Tasty Trends: Food Predictions That Delivered in 2024

Written By Amy Byxbe

    Each year begins with bold predictions—personal resolutions to get fit, master a new skill, or take that dream trip. But how often do we pause to reflect on those predictions? Revisiting them allows us to celebrate successes, recalibrate expectations, and close the chapter with clarity. The food service industry is no exception, making forecasts about trends that will define the dining services experience. Let’s revisit a few 2024 predictions and how they unfolded:

  • Simmer Down—The industry’s growth rate was predicted to (finally) return to pre-pandemic levels, which would benefit limited-service dining services over full-service operations. (1) This held true as growth rates evened out, and value-conscious customers were more drawn to limited-service dining for its affordable options.

  • Tech-Tronic Shift—It’s no surprise that technology continued its march into dining operations, as expected. From AI-powered customer service chatbots to automated kitchen workflows, tech adoption became a cornerstone for efficiency and customer satisfaction.

  •  Offbeat Eats – Dishes that tested new and inventive combinations of flavors were expected to become increasingly popular.  This prediction proved spot on with dishes like a Kimchi Caesar at Noko in Nashville or Chicken Tinga Egg Rolls at La Chinesca in Philadelphia. (2)

      Next year’s predictions have been made, and they include functional foods that enhance wellness, climate-sensitive ingredients that reflect environmental responsibility, and mood-supporting menu options that promote mental well-being. (3) We’ll have to wait to see if these trends triumph. Until then, let us know what you’d like to see in 2025 by clicking the link below.

 

1.      Staff, P. F. E. (2024, October 18). Reflecting on 2024: How did foodservice trend predictions measure up? Prepared Foods.

2.     Gibson, A. (n.d.). A look at Chaos Cooking in 2024. US Foods.

3. Williams, L. A. (2024, November 13). Top 10 trends for 2025: Insights and innovations shaping the future of food and beverage. Prepared Foods.                                                                                                      

Amy Byxbe
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