A standard large grocery store can stock over 50,000 distinct items, and the selection is set to transform significantly in 2025, alongside various marketing approaches.

Expect to see an increase in protein-rich foods, vinegar-based items, diverse international flavors, and more ready-to-eat meals aimed at families rather than just individuals. Here are 10 trends that grocery experts predict will emerge next year, based on insights from Progressive Grocer, a leading trade publication:

1. Growing Appreciation for Sour Flavors

Citrus and vinegar tastes are predicted to become more prevalent in dressings, sauces, and condiments, according to Arlin Wasserman, managing director of Changing Tastes, a consultancy focused on food strategies. This shift is influenced by an influx of consumers from Latin America, Asia, and Africa who generally enjoy more acidity in their meals. Additionally, experts at Kroger Co., which manages Fry’s Food Stores in Arizona, foresee an increased interest in “briny” foods, including olives, pickles, and kimchi.

2. More Global Cuisine Options

Whole Foods anticipates a rise in snacks and packaging inspired by international flavors, such as mango sticky rice chips, plantain tostones, and chile-crunch edamame oil and nut blends. Dumplings may also gain broader appeal with flavors like pizza bao or chicken parmesan, adding excitement to this traditional favorite.

3. Increased Demand for Healthy Seafood

An increasing number of stores are offering sustainable seafood. However, not all industry certifications guarantee that these products are free from antibiotics, which are typically absent in wild-caught options, Wasserman noted. This has led consumers to carefully reconsider whether fish is as healthy as they once believed. He believes producers will need to enhance transparency and assurance regarding the safety of farmed seafood.

4. Focus on Grab-and-Go Meals

More supermarkets are set to expand their ready-to-eat meal selections as office workers gradually return. “Items like pizza, sandwiches, fried chicken, and sushi will remain popular for lunch, along with deli and salad bar offerings,” Wasserman stated. “However, the variety of choices needs to be refreshed more regularly.” There will also be a shift towards ready-made meals suitable for two or more people, especially for dinner options.

5. Emphasis on Budget-Friendly Options

As consumers seek to make the most of their grocery budgets — a trend amplified by food price inflation — there will likely be a rise in preference for private-label products. These are items sold under a grocery chain’s brand but produced by other companies, according to experts at Kroger. Supermarkets will need to emphasize not just competitive pricing, but also the high-quality taste of these products.

6. Surge in Protein Options

While protein-rich foods have always been in demand, many trend analysts predict an expanded selection. Whole Foods, for instance, believes that consumers will seek food options that go beyond typical protein bars, potentially including combinations of organ meats and traditional muscle meats.

7. Rising Interest in Tea and Water

These globally popular beverages will likely experience a boost in creativity and demand. Whole Foods suggests consumers look for innovative tea-infused desserts, milk teas, and novel cold-brew tea bags suitable for water bottles. Could adult tea gatherings begin to replace traditional happy hours? It’s a possibility, according to Whole Foods. Also expected is an increase in the variety of bottled water options, including antioxidant-rich cactus waters.

8. A Mix of Everything

Along with previous trends, Kroger anticipates a surge in pepper-flavored foods, featuring varieties like Calabrian chiles and guajillo peppers, as well as modern takes on classic Caesar salads. Simultaneously, Whole Foods foresees a greater focus on crunchy snack options for various meals, including mushroom chips, dehydrated fruits, and perhaps even beverages like crème brûlée espresso martinis.

9. Eco-Friendly Packaging on the Rise

Whole Foods and other groups predict a shift towards more compostable packaging materials, ranging from cling wraps to single-serve coffee packets, and more sustainable options for wines, beers, and other drinks. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, food waste, including its packaging, constitutes about 25% of the total landfill waste, indicating significant potential for progress in this area.

10. Increased Technology Use Across Supermarkets

Another emerging theme highlighted by Progressive Grocer is the growing dependence on technology by grocery chains. A notable example involves the escalating use of QR codes, or 2D barcodes, on product packaging to provide consumers with information such as expiration dates. Additionally, shoppers are expected to increasingly employ artificial intelligence services like ChatGPT for tasks such as product research prior to making purchases.

Contact the writer at russ.wiles@arizonarepublic.com.