2024 Food Trends

Customers want to reduce their food waste at every step of their meal. In 2024, that will mean purchasing food that is made with usable food scraps, or in other words, upcycling. From product off the shelf to prepared foods and meal kits, waste is not on the menu. Rather than throwing out leftover vegetable stalks, for example, they can be used in items such as FreshDirect's Cauliflower Gnocchi Meal Kit. Similarly, the trimmings from salmon steaks do not have to end up on the cutting room floor; they can be upcycled in FreshDirect's salmon cakes. Products across a variety of categories making creative use of upcycled food scraps will be in higher demand. (Yes, this includes FreshDirect's banana bread and blueberry pound cake as well!)

These brands work with farmers and use ingredients that go a few steps further than just organic. That means practices rooted in regenerative agriculture and supporting a healthy food system. This ensures the welfare of the land, animals, and people for years to come.

It's no secret that everyone likes a good spread. Premium tinned seafood, snacking cheeses, and specialty dips have been huge growth drivers this past year and will continue to gain popularity as folks come together and find easy, nutritious ways to satisfy their party guests. The versatility and quick preparation of appetizers and small plates are a host¿s dream. Guests get to try an array of flavors and feed their adventurous appetites. From dairy-free options and plant-based dips, to alternative protein options like tinned fish that add that extra salty goodness to a salad or charcuterie board, there is something for everyone at the party table.

As customers seek products that are highly nutritious, they have also expressed a desire for beverage products that go beyond nutrition. Beverage purveyors are stepping up to meet heightened consumer demands, crafting products like better-for-you energy drinks tailored to wellness enthusiasts. As digestive well-being gains prominence, the market sees the rise of probiotic offerings, moving beyond kombucha to whey-based tonics, driven by heightened health awareness and prebiotic sodas with immunity boosting properties are also increasing in popularity.

The impact of proper Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) representation resonates with consumers, enhancing brand loyalty and trust. The growing movement of integrating DEI into the selection and representation of products, not just in the grocery space, but across multiple industries, underscores a fundamental shift in consumer preferences and expectations. This paradigm reflects the awareness that our grocery choices extend beyond mere consumption; they echo our values, beliefs, and commitment to a harmonious, equitable world. This journey toward DEI representation is not just a reflection of changing times; it's a commitment to embracing the richness of the human experience in every aspect of our lives, even the choices we make at the grocery store. FreshDirect partners with brands like Sanzo, the first Asian inspired sparkling water, and Mexican-American food brand Siete to give customers a variety of choice from brands led by multicultural founders. In addition, FreshDirect recently launched the Rising Industry Producers and Entrepreneurs Program where they will work with emerging and diverse-owned businesses to help them grow their brands. The participating brands will receive expert advice and be able to leverage internal FreshDirect resources to grow their brands, including help adapting strategies for ecommerce success and expanding their customer base in the tri-state area.