Weekly Roundup – Week of 3.24.25

March 28, 2025

Explore this week’s trending food and beverage topics – all curated by our team of strategists and food enthusiasts:

Is The Meat Movement In A Resurgence Or Maintaining Its Ground?

According to the 19th annual Power of Meat report released by FMI and the Meat Institute:

• 80% of Americans identify as meat eaters, with 98% of households purchasing meat—a figure consistent with previous years.
• The number of individuals aiming to reduce meat consumption has decreased by 20% since 2020.
• 71% of shoppers believe meat and poultry are integral to a healthy, balanced diet, though 33% are attempting to reduce their intake, primarily due to cost concerns (52%) rather than health reasons.

For the food and beverage industry, these insights suggest a sustained demand for meat products, highlighting opportunities to cater to health-conscious consumers by offering affordable, high-quality protein options and emphasizing meat’s role in a balanced diet. Read Article

Food Culture & Its Relationship To Personal Identity

In the article from Food & Wine, “From Squeezable Olive Oil to Chili Crisp — How Pantry Staples Became Status Symbols,” Maggie Hennessy explores how everyday food items have evolved into symbols of cultural capital. This transformation is driven by influencer culture, strategic branding, and a societal shift toward valuing unique culinary experiences. This commercialization of foodie culture reflects a broader movement where consumers use curated food products to express personal identity and social status. Chefs and food brands can capitalize on this trend by offering specialty products that resonate with consumers seeking authenticity and exclusivity. Read More

How Food Brands Can Adapt In Uncertain Times

In the Food Institute Podcast episode titled “How Food and Beverage Can Contend with Uncertainty,” Lou Biscotti from CBIZ’s Food and Beverages Services Group discusses strategies for the food and beverage industry to navigate challenges such as tariffs, geopolitical tensions, and inflation. He emphasizes the importance of adaptability and proactive planning for industry leaders to maintain stability during uncertain times. For food brands and the restaurant industry, this emphasizes the necessity of resilience and proactive strategies to maintain stability in a fluctuating market. Listen Now

Why Transparency In Labeling Equals Consumer Trust

“What Makes Clean Label Products Clean?”, an FI Spotlight video, features Brittany Borer as she interviews Jackie Bowen, Executive Director of The Clean Label Project, about the significance of clean-label certification. They explore the meaning of terms like “organic,” “non-GMO,” and “keto,” and discuss why transparency in labeling is crucial for consumer trust. Food brands that adopt clean-label practices can meet consumer expectations and differentiate products in a competitive market. Watch Video

Gen Z: A Generation Of Purchasing Power

To effectively engage Gen Z consumers, restaurants must adapt to their evolving behaviors and values. This demographic demands clarity, viewing brands as extensions of their personal identity; any perceived dishonesty can lead to a loss of loyalty. Gen Zers are less likely to maintain long-term brand allegiances, preferring to support businesses that consistently align with their values. For food manufacturers, this accentuates the importance of clear labeling, ethical sourcing, and authentic communication to resonate with this conscientious generation. Learn More

Looking for more insights on food and beverage? Visit our weekly roundup every Friday, featuring trending topics and industry news.