Fresh Thyme’s Top 10 Predictions for Midwest Grocery Trends

Fresh Thyme Market, a Midwestern grocer focusing on better-for-you options, has released its second annual food trend predictions for 2025. Collaborating with Spins, a Chicago-based retail data provider, the report highlights the top 10 food trends that will influence shopping and eating habits in the Midwest over the coming year.

Liz Zolcak, President of Fresh Thyme Market, stated, “Our annual trends report helps us not only understand the needs of our shoppers, but ensures we’re exciting them by curating our shelves with the most fresh, innovative, and local products.”

Here are Fresh Thyme’s predictions:

1. Functional Ingredients: Shoppers will seek products with functional ingredients offering specific health benefits, such as colostrum for immune support and probiotics for gut health.
2. Evolution of the Mushroom: Adaptogenic mushrooms, like Chaga and Lion’s Mane, will gain popularity in pantry staples such as pasta, broth, and coffee, thanks to their anti-inflammatory properties.
3. Rise of Non-Alcoholic, Mood-Enhancing Beverages: Sophisticated non-alcoholic drinks featuring plant-based ingredients like kava and cannabinoids will become more mainstream, catering to holistic wellness.
4. Spicy Foods Takeover: Demand for complex flavors will increase, leading to more use of fresh and dried chilis and a variety of hot sauces.
5. Mango Everything: Mango-flavored products will proliferate, appealing to consumers for their sweetness, creamy texture, and nutritional benefits.
6. Nature’s Natural Sweeteners: As consumers aim to reduce processed sugar intake, natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, and dates will see greater prevalence.
7. Boosting Brain Power: Ingredients like ginkgo biloba and magnesium will become more sought-after as consumers focus on cognitive health and mental clarity.
8. We’re Heading to Seoul: The rise of Korean barbecue will lead to greater use of Korean ingredients like gochujang and kimchi in home cooking.
9. Next-Gen Sustainability: Produce and grains grown using controlled-environment agriculture (CEA) will attract shoppers looking for sustainable options.
10. Prioritizing Protein: Shoppers will explore more protein-boosted options in various categories, from cereals and pasta to innovative meat products.

Fresh Thyme operates 70 stores across 10 states in the Midwest and employs about 4,000 associates, aiming to inspire communities with a curated selection of innovative products and fresh offerings. The company ranks No. 87 on The PG 100, Progressive Grocer’s 2024 list of top food retailers in North America.