We’ve explored this topic before, but as with all trends, things change, and quickly; foodservice and foodservice supplies are no exception. As we highlighted in that article, what happens in the foodservice industry in the education sector at the college and university level often dictates what will be popular across all other industries including healthcare and long-term care foodservice. Taking a look at what is happening there is often a good prediction of what's to come for foodservice everywhere.
When we last looked at trends in the foodservice industry, Millennials were influencing the cuisine. Now Gen Z, attending colleges and universities, has the influence on what is being served and how it is being delivered. Gen Z is the first generation of students to grow up surrounded by digital technology - social media, enhanced smartphones, and even AI technology. That, and being fresh off a global pandemic, Gen Z has been raised in a virtual world that has only seen increasing reliance on digital technology. This has had a huge impact on what they look for and expect with regards to their dining experiences.
New Trends in the Foodservice Industry
Gen Z has introduced trends that are changing the foodservice industry into a more sustainable and also more automated experience. These are some of the trends that have gained popularity in 2023.
Authenticity in Food
In general, Gen Z wants a more "authentic" experience while in college - and food is no exception. This is especially true for multicultural students who are looking for more authentic international dishes. Some higher ed dining teams are meeting with on-campus multicultural groups to understand what kind of dishes students are seeking. This authenticity in food makes for a more personal and satisfying food dining experience.
Locally Sourced Foods
Students today are more environmentally conscious and looking for more sustainable food options. While previous generations may have been concerned with sustainability, Gen Z's complete immersion in the digital world gives them more instant information about the need for sustainability than ever before, highlighting the importance for it in their everyday lives. Part of living sustainability is consuming locally sourced foods which don't need to be transported long distances.
In addition to sustainability there are many other benefits to eating local and in-season food. For Gen Z, eating local, in-season produce is not only sustainable but also more nutritious. Eating food that has been picked early and possibly preserved to be shipped across the country offers fewer nutrients and is not a sustainable choice compared to local food picked at peak ripeness. It also supports local business which is becoming more important to younger generations.
At Home Meal Kits
Meal kits are becoming popular not just busy parents in the U.S., but also among college students. Meal kits offer the convenience of having ingredients sent right to a dorm or apartment while also offering healthier food choices. At home meal kits are often more economical, too. Services like Chegg, where students can rent textbooks, often send discounts and promo codes for meal kits when they send their rentals.
Sustainable Packaging
As mentioned above, concern for the environment is top of mind for younger generations. Therefore food options packaged sustainably, such as in reusable containers or in containers made from recycled materials, are more appealing. If given the choice, Gen Z is likely to choose the more sustainable option, and may even ask for it if not presented.
Foodservice Automation and Robots
Some college campuses have started implementing smart fridges and automated kiosks with options from brands like Subway and Jamba Juice to bring students fresh food without the need for extra staffing. Grubhub has a presence at more than 250 colleges and universities across the country and is expanding to utilize delivery robots. These robots can carry up to 25 pounds, move at the same speed as a person walking, and can get to hard-to-reach areas of campus. Automation in foodservice is not only affecting delivery, but also how it is prepared with the use of smart technology in the kitchen to streamline foodservice.
Foodservice Supply Trends We Saw Before that Are Still Relevant
Our last look at foodservice trends prove many to still be relevant, if not more so, for Gen Z. So what are the trends that stuck?
Cleaner Labels on Food Products
Like Millennials, Gen Z wants full transparency with their food. When looking at food, they are opting for selections that are organic and made with less processed and more whole-food ingredients. Gen Z is proving to be more health-conscious than the previous generation.
Vegetarian and Vegan Food Products
Vegetarian and vegan options continue to be in high demand. Whether for dietary restrictions, overall health, or environmental reasons, Gen Z is opting for plant-based options where they can. According to research by Chartwells Higher Ed, nearly 80% of Gen Z consumers eat plant-based meals on a weekly basis. In addition, the market for vegan snacks is expected to double by 2030.
Gluten Free Food Products
Gluten free foods - and food options for other dietary restrictions - remain an important foodservice option for Gen Z. In response, the food service industry is developing even more creative options to cater to those who avoid wheat and gluten products, among other allergens.
Save on Foodservice Supplies with a Group Purchasing Organization (GPO)
Keeping up with foodservice industry trends can be costly. However, not catering to the wants and needs of your target market can be even more costly in the long run. As a group purchasing organization, we use the power of numbers to help reduce foodservice supplies costs. We have contracts with thousands of vendors across the US offering the supplies needed to stay on top of these trends, at a reduced cost. Learn more about a group purchasing organization and how we can help you save.