Oklahoma State University’s Robert M. Kerr Food and Agricultural Products Center (FAPC) explores the future of flavor with a look into some of the 2025 food trends.

The culinary landscape is buzzing with new trends, some familiar and others emerging as frontrunners in the industry. Social media has played a powerful role, catapulting certain foods to popularity overnight or giving them a steady rise over recent years. In anticipation of the new year, the FAPC has highlighted the trends likely to shape plates in the coming months.

“Consumers crave products that add value to their lives and can keep up with their busy schedules,” said Andrea Graves, FAPC business planning and marketing specialist. “Food manufacturers need to know what their consumers want now and in the future to fill that demand and generate sales.”

The following concepts are food trends to watch for in 2025.

Sweet and heat: Combination foods with a sweet-and-heat profile — like pepper jellies, preserves and salsas — are all the rage. 

Homemade bread: A fan favorite in recent years, it will continue to be a staple in many homes, with new recipes and ingredients that add nutritional value and offer different flavor profiles. Homemade bread allows for the customization of ingredients, and kneading the dough can be a great way to relax. 

Protein: With the rise of various specialized diets, many will focus on increasing protein intake to help with weight management and energy levels. Great sources of protein include eggs, seafood, milk, cottage cheese, nuts and seeds, lean beef, chicken, oats and beans. 

Beverages with function: Some days it’s hard to consume all the necessary vitamins, gut health supplements and minerals, but now some drinks include them. Brands like Olipop, Poppi and Hint Water offer healthier, more fun beverages. Olipop and Poppi are changing the soda world with less sugar, fewer calories and prebiotics.