Hot food trends for retailers

You asked to see more trends to implement for July, August and September. The important ones we are seeing now are: artisan-style focaccia and mocktails, snack boards, and others. This blog breaks down five fast-moving trends.

Focaccia - projected increase

Focaccia is rising fast as a trending product opportunity, with strong online traction and consumer interest in artisan-style, no-knead recipes. Social platforms like TikTok and YouTube are fuelling the momentum with quick, easy recipe tutorials featuring popular variations like garlic butter and rosemary. This surge in engagement signals a clear demand for ready-to-bake doughs, gourmet bread mixes, and fresh bakery options that cater to at-home bakers and food explorers alike. For retailers, now is the time to spotlight focaccia-themed products—think herb-infused oils, toppings, or pre-seasoned mixes—across baking aisles and deli sections to capture shoppers inspired by this viral bread trend.

Mocktails - high search per capita

Mocktails are emerging as a high-potential category for summer retail, driven by growing consumer demand for low-sugar, alcohol-free beverage options. Search interest is surging—particularly around easy, healthy mocktail recipes—and platforms like TikTok are fuelling this trend with creative, home-friendly drink ideas. Products like Craftmix Passionfruit Paloma are performing well, signalling strong market appetite. For retailers, this presents a timely opportunity to expand non-alcoholic assortments, spotlight seasonal mocktail kits, and merchandise alongside fresh produce or wellness items. In-store displays, influencer collaborations, and short-form video content can further drive engagement and sales in this fast-growing, Gen Z-fuelled category.

Snack Boards - social media heavy

Snack boards are trending as both a culinary craze and decor statement—offering retailers a unique opportunity to merchandise across categories. With rising visibility on TikTok and Google Search, snack boards are being embraced for their dual purpose: stylish party centerpieces and functional serving displays. Popular formats include charcuterie boards, seasonal assortments, and themed boards for events and holidays. Consumers—especially DIY-focused and event-planning audiences—are seeking easy-to-assemble, visually appealing board elements like cheeses, fruits, dips, and crackers. Retailers can tap into this demand by curating pre-assembled kits, bundling complementary items, and partnering with home and lifestyle influencers to inspire customers and boost basket size.

Fruit Salad - summer seasonal

Fruit bowls are trending as a vibrant, seasonal staple, with strong consumer interest peaking during the warmer months. TikTok and YouTube are fueling the rise of visually stunning, easy-to-make fruit salad content, often featuring tropical or colorful combinations like oranges, strawberries, and even ambrosia-style mixes. Google search data supports this momentum with nearly 10,000 monthly searches, while related Amazon kitchen tools are seeing fluctuating demand. For retailers, this opens up opportunities to promote fresh-cut produce, tropical fruit bundles, prep kits, and salad accessories. Engaging influencers and sharing short, step-by-step recipe videos can drive discovery, especially among Gen Z and millennial shoppers drawn to quick, healthy, and aesthetic meals.

Homemade Frozen Treats - high social engagement

Frozen treats are heating up as a summer trend, with strong social media buzz and seasonal search interest driving consumer demand. Platforms like TikTok are spotlighting easy, homemade recipes—like peanut butter chocolate yogurt bars—while brands such as Halo Top, Enlightened, and Yasso are gaining traction for their low-sugar and seasonal flavour offerings. This momentum signals a growing market for better-for-you indulgences that balance taste with health-conscious ingredients. For retailers, there’s a clear opportunity to stock innovative frozen desserts, highlight limited-time seasonal flavours, and develop content partnerships that showcase simple prep ideas using in-store products. Think DIY kits, freezer aisle signage, and influencer-led recipe videos to convert interest into sales.

Granularity's live search function empowers retailers by providing real-time, data-driven insights into current market trends. By analyzing top Google searches, trending keywords, and live social media updates, retailers can swiftly identify emerging consumer interests and adjust their strategies accordingly. This proactive approach enables businesses to optimize inventory, tailor marketing campaigns, and enhance customer engagement, ultimately driving sales and maintaining a competitive edge in the dynamic retail landscape.

Highlights from speaking at the Canadian Retail Collective

At the Canadian Retail Collective, Tali Remennik joined industry leaders to explore how AI is transforming retail. The panel also included the CTO of Sobeys, the CTO of Groupe Dynamite and leadership from EY. They clarified that retailers are not looking to cut jobs, but enhance forecasting and store planning. Read more about key retail AI use cases being implemented.

As we step into 2025, the way we approach food continues to evolve, with a growing focus on health, sustainability, and affordability. From high-protein meals to budget-friendly recipes, consumers are prioritizing food choices that align with their wellness goals and lifestyles. The rise of DIY sauces, vegan alternatives, and innovative meal prep solutions highlights a shift toward personalization and mindful eating. Whether it's exploring plant-based options like trumpet mushrooms or finding new ways to enjoy comfort foods without compromising nutrition, these trends are shaping the future of healthy eating. Dive into the top 15 healthy food trends for 2025 and discover how they’re impacting kitchens and menus.