As we look to the future, Kroger has set its sights on what will shape our plates in 2025, identifying the flavors, ingredients, and culinary themes expected to dominate kitchens and grocery stores. In a world where convenience, health-consciousness, and bold flavors are top priorities, here are Kroger’s top five food trends, featuring must-try products designed to transform your pantry.
1. Food Dupes
Consumers are seeking convenient, quality options that replicate restaurant favorites or high-end treats at home. Kroger is rolling out a lineup of “Food Dupes” — accessible versions of beloved classics and trending bites without sacrificing flavor. This trend lets foodies enjoy an elevated experience from the comfort of their own kitchens.
Highlights include:
- Simple Truth® Cheese & Uncured Bacon Egg Bites for a breakfast boost.
- Kroger® Strawberry Acai Iced Refresher Pods to recreate a favorite café pick-me-up.
- Kroger® Fully Cooked Frozen Chicken Bites for quick, protein-rich snacking.
- Private Selection® Salmon Rolls Crunchy Sushi for a sushi fix at home.
- Big K® Dr K Zero Sugar Zero Calorie Soda Cans as a sweet, no-calorie refreshment.
- Kroger® Pepperoni Pizza Snack Rolls and Private Selection® Wisconsin 5 Cheese Blend Macaroni & Cheese for a satisfying, savory bite anytime.
2. Bold & Briny
Flavor is taking center stage with a growing appreciation for briny, tangy, and pickled foods. Kroger predicts that items with a kick of acidity and depth will continue to be in high demand, especially as people seek more adventurous tastes.
Kroger’s lineup is perfect for those who crave complex, umami-rich flavors:
- Kroger® Breaded Dill Pickle Chips add crunch with a tangy punch.
- Simple Truth® Korean Style Kimchi brings a spicy, probiotic-packed boost.
- Private Selection® Greek Olives & Feta and Non-Pareil Capers offer an instant Mediterranean vibe to any meal.
- Simple Truth Organic® Small Batch Artisanal Sauerkraut for a vibrant, fresh topping to sandwiches and salads.
3. The Protein Renaissance
Protein is evolving beyond just meat, as shoppers look for diverse, plant-forward, and functional protein sources. The “Protein Renaissance” emphasizes innovative products packed with nutrients that cater to varied diets.
Kroger’s Simple Truth® collection is leading the way:
- Simple Truth® Collagen Peptides for adding to smoothies or coffee.
- Simple Truth Organic® Shelled Hemp Seeds as a crunchy, protein-rich topping.
- Simple Truth Organic® 90 Second Black Pepper 100% Whole Grain Brown Rice with Ancient Grains for a quick, protein-filled side dish.
- Simple Truth® Buttermilk Vanilla Protein Waffles for a high-protein breakfast treat.
- Simple Truth Organic® Gluten-Free Red Lentil Penne Pasta for a fiber and protein boost.
- Simple Truth Organic® Super Firm Sesame Ginger Baked Tofu adds plant-based protein to any meal.
4. Pepper Palette
Heat and spice enthusiasts rejoice! Kroger predicts a “Pepper Palette” trend that highlights pepper-forward flavors, from mild warmth to fiery heat, across a variety of products.
This trend brings exciting options for those who love adding a spicy twist to their meals:
- Private Selection® Medium Hatch Chile Peppers for a smoky flavor.
- Private Selection® Spicy Salami Nduja Sausage & Burrata Frozen Pizza combines heat with rich, creamy flavors.
- Private Selection® Calabrese Salami and Pepper Thin Crust Frozen Pizza for a bold Italian-inspired experience.
- Private Selection® Bronze Cut Spicy Poblano with Aged Cheddar Creamy Macaroni & Cheese adds a kick to a classic comfort food.
- Private Selection® Hot Pepper Bacon Spread and Hatch Green Chile Ranch Artisan Seasoning Blend Petite Potatoes to spice up sandwiches, burgers, and side dishes.
5. Hail, Caesar
The classic Caesar salad is getting a 2025 makeover with innovative ingredients that breathe new life into this beloved dish. Kroger’s “Hail, Caesar” trend goes beyond the typical salad, bringing Caesar-inspired ingredients into new forms:
- Kroger® Classic Caesar Salad Dressing for a quick Caesar-inspired meal.
- Simple Truth Organic® Tahini and Kroger® Flat Anchovies in Olive Oil & Salt to add a unique, savory twist to Caesar salads.
- Simple Truth® Parmesan Cheese Crisps offer a crunchy, cheesy topping or snack on their own.
- Simple Truth Organic® Chopped Tuscan Kale for a nutrient-dense Caesar base.
- Simple Truth Organic® Classic Thin & Crispy Vegan Pizza Crusts serve as a base for Caesar-inspired flatbreads.
Kroger’s 2025 food forecast shows how evolving tastes and lifestyles are shaping what we eat. From bold flavors to protein innovation, these trends reflect the growing demand for convenience without sacrificing quality. Ready to dive into 2025’s food scene? Kroger’s forecasted favorites will soon be waiting for you on the shelves!
