How to win in 2025: Mastering the top 10 health-driven innovations for success

The bakery and snack industries are undergoing a transformation fuelled by evolving consumer preferences, regulatory changes, and advancements in food science. Health and wellness are now at the forefront of innovation, presenting producers with exciting opportunities to meet demand while staying ahead in a competitive landscape. As we approach 2025, embracing these changes is key to success.

Here are the top 10 health-driven trends shaping the future, backed by insights from industry leaders and actionable steps to guide producers of all sizes.

1. Sugar and salt reduction: A tasteful challenge

The push to reduce sugar and salt has reached unprecedented levels, fuelled by health-conscious consumers demanding healthier options without sacrificing flavour. Regulatory changes, such as the USDA’s updated school meal guidelines and the upcoming Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2025-2030, are accelerating reformulation initiatives across the food industry.

Meeting these evolving demands while maintaining taste is a key challenge. However, “breakthroughs in natural sweeteners and flavour-modulating technologies are empowering producers to craft healthier recipes without compromising on flavour,” says the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT).

Innovations like stevia, monk fruit, and erythritol offer effective alternatives for reducing added sugars, while potassium chloride blends and yeast extracts are proving instrumental in cutting sodium levels in savoury products. These advancements provide the tools needed for brands to deliver both health and flavour.

Actionable steps:

• Experiment with small-batch trials of reduced-sugar recipes, inviting customer feedback through local events or online polls.
• Use fruit purees or natural flavour boosters like vanilla to enhance sweetness without adding sugar.
• Offer sampler packs of reformulated products to gauge acceptance and build trust with your audience.

2. Functional ingredients: Making every bite count

Trend researcher Trendincite highlights that functional foods have shifted from being a niche to becoming a standard consumer expectation. Ingredients like probiotics and prebiotics, which promote gut health, alongside adaptogens such as ashwagandha and nootropics like L-theanine, are increasingly incorporated into everyday bakery and snack products. These ingredients align with wellness goals, addressing stress relief, digestion, and weight management.

Products targeting multiple health concerns are no longer optional; they are becoming staples. COMET reports a 20% annual growth in digestive health claims, underscoring the heightened demand for holistic wellness solutions. “Consumers now expect their food to contribute to their overall health and wellness, not just nutrition,” says the ingredients expert.

Actionable steps:

• Develop limited edition products featuring popular functional ingredients (eg, a seasonal granola bar infused with turmeric).
• Create educational content, like recipe cards or blog posts, that explain how functional ingredients work and their benefits.
• Introduce functional product bundles – such as a snack pack designed to support energy, focus, or relaxation.

3. Protein redefined: From fitness to everyday nutrition

Protein has evolved beyond the gym, becoming an essential part of daily nutrition. The rise of GLP-1 weight-loss medications such as Ozempic has underscored the critical role of protein in preserving muscle mass. COMET reports that “demand for high-protein products is expected to grow at a 29.6% CAGR through 2030”, reflecting a shift toward prioritising protein-rich diets. Plant-based proteins, like pea and almond protein, are increasingly popular as vegan and flexitarian lifestyles expand.

“Protein is no longer just about muscle – it’s about life,” adds plant-based protein expert KOS, emphasising its broader health benefits, including brain function, hormone regulation, and immune support. Beyond its nutritional value, consumers are gravitating toward innovative formats such as protein powders in indulgent flavours or snacks that seamlessly blend taste and function. This rising demand positions protein as a cornerstone of overall wellness, fuelling healthier, more balanced lifestyles.

Actionable steps:

• Offer single-serve protein snacks that cater to grab-and-go lifestyles, like protein muffins or fortified crackers.
• Use creative flavour profiles – think savoury protein biscuits or sweet-spicy jerky – to differentiate your products.
• Add clear protein content labels – eg, ‘12g protein per serving’ – to emphasise nutritional benefits and stand out.

4. Clean labels: Trust through transparency

Consumers are increasingly rejecting ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and artificial additives in favour of clean label options with minimal, natural ingredients. Transparency and simplicity are top priorities as consumers scrutinise ingredient lists. The Specialty Food Association (SFA) highlights this shift, noting that “clean label products resonate because they represent authenticity and health-conscious choices”. Natural colorants like beetroot powder and spirulina are gaining traction, offering vibrant aesthetics alongside health benefits.

That’s it! emphasises that avoiding controversial ingredients, such as Red Dye No. 3 – which is banned in cosmetics but still found in snacks – is a growing consumer demand. “Products with recognisably simple ingredient lists resonate strongly with consumers seeking cleaner options,” explains Katie Eshuys, president of That’s it!

The clean label movement goes beyond ingredient swaps, with brands weaving narratives around natural origins and functional benefits to align with consumer values. Authenticity, transparency, and simplicity remain the cornerstones of this trend.

Actionable steps:

• Clearly label ingredients using simple language and highlight their natural origins, eg, ‘colour from spirulina’.
• Invest in compact, eco-friendly packaging that emphasises simplicity and sustainability.
• Include a short Did You Know? section on packaging to educate customers about ingredient benefits.

5. Gut health: A whole-body connection

Gut health has become a mainstream priority, as consumers increasingly associate it with benefits beyond digestion, such as immunity and mental wellness. According to COMET, 76% of consumers recognise the connection between gut health and overall wellness, reflecting a shift in awareness that is driving demand for gut-friendly products. Fermented foods like sourdough bread – which naturally introduce probiotics – are enjoying renewed popularity, while prebiotic fibres such as inulin and chicory root are being incorporated into snacks and baked goods to support a healthy microbiome.

“Gut health is now seen as foundational to overall wellbeing,” says COMET. Digestive health claims for new products have grown 20% annually, highlighting the increasing consumer demand for prebiotic- and probiotic-enriched options. From fermented baked goods to gut-friendly beverages, these products are becoming staples for health-conscious shoppers, emphasising the importance of the microbiome in achieving holistic wellness.

Actionable steps:

• Introduce fermented products like sourdough breads or kimchi crackers that highlight their natural probiotic content.
• Offer DIY kits for making fermented foods at home, such as sourdough starters or yogurt cultures.
• Provide clear storage instructions to preserve the active cultures in gut-friendly products, ensuring maximum benefit for consumers.

6. Mental wellness: Food for the mind

With mental health becoming a top consumer priority, food is increasingly being recognised as a tool for emotional balance and cognitive support. Ingredients like adaptogens (eg, ashwagandha), nootropics (eg, L-theanine), and postbiotics are finding their way into snacks, addressing stress, focus, and mood enhancement.

The SFA highlights this trend, stating, “Consumers are increasingly seeking foods that support mood, mental clarity, and overall wellness.” This demand reflects the growing awareness of neurodivergence and the role of diet in mental health management.

“Mental health is a priority, and products that address it in a tangible way will stand out,” adds the SFA. Functional foods like adaptogen-infused cookies or nootropic-enriched beverages are meeting the need for snacks that support emotional and cognitive wellbeing. As conversations about focus and emotional resilience expand, products targeting mental clarity and stress relief are becoming essential staples in consumers' diets.

Actionable steps:

• Develop mood-specific snack lines, such as calming teas paired with oat-based biscuits or focus-enhancing trail mixes.
• Use calming imagery and relatable messaging on packaging to align with mental wellness themes.
• Host mindfulness or relaxation-themed events featuring your products to engage your community and create a sensory connection.

7. Free from: Catering to dietary diversity

Inclusive products catering to dietary needs – gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and allergen-friendly, among others – have become integral to the food industry. Bob’s Red Mill Natural Foods notes a significant increase in demand for options like almond flour and specialised baking mixes, driven by both health-focused consumers and those managing allergies or intolerances.

“Meeting dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste or quality is critical for today’s consumers,” says the whole-grain miller. As awareness of food sensitivities grows, brands are expected to provide solutions that maintain the flavour and texture of conventional offerings.

This surge in interest underscores the importance of inclusivity in product development. Producers who prioritise allergen-friendly recipes and transparent labelling are better positioned to capture this growing market. By addressing dietary diversity with high-quality alternatives, companies can build trust and loyalty among consumers seeking safe and enjoyable options that align with their unique needs.

Actionable steps:

• Create recipes that showcase alternative flours, such as almond or chickpea flour, to broaden appeal.
• Offer smaller portions or sample packs of allergen-free products to encourage trial.
• Engage directly with customers via surveys to understand their dietary needs and preferences.

8. Sustainability: Marrying health with planetary care

Sustainability has evolved from a trend to a core expectation, with consumers prioritising brands that address environmental challenges while promoting health. Upcycling – transforming food waste into valuable ingredients – is emerging as a prominent practice. Producers are embracing innovative approaches, such as repurposing spent grains into flours or transforming citrus peels into natural flavourings. These efforts align with the growing demand for clean and sustainable eating while reducing waste in the supply chain.

Sourcing from regenerative farms, adopting zero-waste practices, and using eco-friendly packaging further resonate with ethically driven shoppers. According to the SFA, sustainability is no longer optional but an integral part of building trust and loyalty. Brands that seamlessly integrate environmental responsibility with health-focused products are positioned to thrive in this evolving landscape.

Actionable steps:

• Adopt biodegradable or recyclable packaging to minimise environmental impact.
• Print sustainability facts on your packaging to build awareness of your eco-friendly practices.
• Build partnerships with regenerative farms to source eco-friendly, nutrient-rich ingredients.

9. Personalised nutrition: Meeting unique needs

Consumers are increasingly seeking personalised solutions for their unique health goals, from weight management to improved energy levels. Advances in AI and consumer analytics are making tailored nutrition more accessible, transforming the way products are developed and marketed.

“Personalised nutrition is becoming a significant driver of product innovation and consumer loyalty,” says COMET. Technology is enabling brands to create offerings that align closely with individual dietary needs, fostering deeper connections with health-conscious shoppers.

Customisable snacks and AI-powered platforms allow consumers to select products tailored to their specific requirements, making it easier to achieve their wellness objectives. This shift not only empowers consumers but also presents an opportunity for brands to stand out by delivering highly targeted, data-driven solutions. By integrating personalisation into product development, companies can enhance customer satisfaction and build lasting loyalty in an increasingly competitive market.

Actionable steps:

• Use AI tools to create dynamic product recommendations based on consumer preferences and goals.
• Include QR codes on packaging that link to customisable meal ideas or usage tips tailored to different goals.
• Offer customisable options, like build-your-own granola packs with functional add-ins (eg, seeds, dried fruits).

10. Fermentation: An ancient innovation reimagined

Fermented foods are enjoying a revival as consumers embrace their gut health benefits and artisanal appeal. Conagra highlights significant growth in demand for gut-friendly frozen options, reflecting a broader trend toward integrating wellness into convenient formats.

“Fermented foods bridge tradition and cutting-edge health trends,” says the CPG major, emphasising their dual appeal to health-conscious and culinary-savvy consumers.

From sourdough crackers to probiotic-rich frozen snacks, fermentation is carving out space in both traditional and innovative categories. Its natural link to gut health and immunity is resonating strongly, especially as consumers seek products that support holistic wellness.

Producers can capitalise on this trend by highlighting fermentation’s role in delivering flavour complexity and health benefits. Educating consumers about its impact on gut microbiomes and overall wellbeing further enhances product appeal, creating opportunities to align tradition with modern health priorities.

Actionable steps:

• Experiment with fermentation workshops or demonstrations to attract local customers and build product loyalty.
• Develop fusion products that incorporate fermented ingredients, like miso cookies or kimchi chips.
• Offer fermentation kits to empower consumers to create their own gut-friendly foods at home.