Thanksgiving 2025 Unveiled: Top Food & Drink Trends to Watch!

As we look towards the future, Thanksgiving meals are anticipated to adapt to changing consumer demands. Our forecast for 2025 includes insights into various segments such as food, beverages, sauces, bakery items, desserts, and packaging.

New Horizons

A 2023 Statista survey indicates that Thanksgiving rivals Christmas in popularity (79% compared to 78%) among U.S. consumers. As the holiday becomes less traditional and more inclusive, reflecting a mix of cultures and a broader palate, its observance is expected to become more relaxed.

While many young Canadians in 2023 adhered to traditional Thanksgiving dishes, about 35% are looking to blend both classic and innovative recipes in the future (Butterball, 2023).

The trend of Friendsgiving, or celebrating Thanksgiving primarily with friends rather than family, is gaining momentum. The percentage of Americans who celebrate exclusively with their immediate family decreased to 31% from nearly 50% in 2020.

Here, we explore three out of five key opportunities for Thanksgiving food and beverage innovations projected in our Thanksgiving 2025 Forecast.

Culinary Creativity

There is a growing appetite for distinctive, bold dishes that bring a fresh twist to the Thanksgiving table.

Our Food Forecast highlights an increased emphasis on creative combinations and culinary fusions that encourage experimentation.

Expect to see more use of exotic and lesser-known ingredients from Southeast Asia, such as the Filipino ube, calamansi, and pandan, as innovators continue to explore these flavors.

Brands can captivate consumers looking for complex flavor experiences by offering combinations of sweet, sour, umami, and creamy elements that enrich the overall taste.

Gifting with Purpose

Enhance the dining experience with thoughtful gifts that also serve as decorative elements and contributions to the meal.

Consider offering edible arrangements made from vegetables or other food-based table decor for Thanksgiving. Innovative packaging that introduces small delights or ‘Glimmers’ can transform ordinary products into special holiday features.

Health and Sustainability

Develop Thanksgiving offerings that prioritize health, community, and environmental well-being.

In 2023, Americans discarded approximately 312 million pounds of food during Thanksgiving. There is a continued need for solutions that repurpose food waste.

Incorporate eco-friendly ingredients like Fava beans to address health and environmental concerns. Also, consider using versatile ingredients like mushrooms to create dishes that are inclusive and appealing to a wide range of dietary preferences.