Sustainability, personalisation, and cutting-edge technology will define success in 2025, giving producers powerful tools to meet the values of eco-conscious and health-conscious consumers. By blending tradition, innovation, and transparency, brands can create offerings that resonate deeply with modern buyers.
Success in the bakery and snack industries in 2025 will depend on balancing sustainable practices with technological advancements. By adopting eco-friendly strategies, harnessing AI-driven solutions, and crafting immersive, multisensory experiences, producers can stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market while meeting the demands of increasingly discerning consumers.
Here are the top 10 technology and sustainability trends reshaping the industry, along with actionable steps to help producers of all sizes thrive in this dynamic landscape.
Articles one and two of three-part trend guide
1. Reducing waste, one wrapper at a time
In 2025, eco-friendly packaging is no longer just an added benefit: it’s an expectation. According to the Specialty Food Association (SFA), over 60% of consumers actively support brands with visible eco-conscious efforts, starting with what surrounds the product. Biodegradable materials, compostable wraps, and recyclable designs have become the gold standard for eco-conscious buyers. Beyond reducing waste, packaging also serves as a visual and tangible reflection of a brand’s commitment to sustainability. The rise of minimalist, nature-inspired aesthetics and reusable containers speaks to a generation that values both practicality and environmental responsibility.
Actionable steps:
- Invest in compostable materials – such as corn-based bioplastics or seaweed wraps – to meet eco-conscious demands.
- Explore multi-use packaging, like refillable jars or tins, to encourage customer participation in waste reduction.
- Clearly communicate packaging sustainability through bold, visible claims like ‘100% biodegradable’ or ‘zero plastic’.
2. Closing the loop
Circular food systems are redefining how brands approach sustainability. Producers are embracing upcycled ingredients, transforming food byproducts into high-value components. This not only reduces waste but also aligns with consumer preferences for transparency and ethical practices.
Actionable steps:
- Use upcycled materials like spent grains, coffee grounds, cocoa husks, or citrus peels to create innovative and eco-friendly products.
- Share the story of circular food systems on your packaging, highlighting the environmental and health benefits to engage eco-conscious buyers.
- Collaborate with providers of sustainable byproducts, integrating waste reduction practices seamlessly into your product development process.
3. The recipe whisperer
Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionising how products are conceptualised and created. According to the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), AI is poised to be a cornerstone of food innovation in 2025, driving both efficiency and creativity. By leveraging AI, producers can anticipate market shifts, refine product formulations, and even tailor offerings to individual dietary needs. It’s not just about efficiency: it’s about creating products that resonate deeply with individual tastes and lifestyles.
Actionable steps:
- Use AI platforms to identify emerging market trends, such as the rising demand for plant-based or low-sodium products.
- Optimise recipes to balance nutritional value, flavour, and cost-effectiveness.
- Add interactive elements, like QR codes on packaging, to provide consumers with insights into product sourcing and development.
4. Snacks tailored to you
In 2025, one size no longer fits all. Consumers are seeking snacks that meet specific health goals, such as boosting energy or supporting gut health. Advances in AI and digital platforms have made it easier for producers to customise offerings. COMET notes that personalised nutrition is a cornerstone of the growing functional food movement.
Actionable steps:
- Offer customisable snack kits that allow consumers to adjust protein, fibre, or flavour levels.
- Create pre-portioned packs designed for specific wellness goals, like immunity or focus.
- Use digital tools to recommend products tailored to consumer preferences.
5. Tech-savvy sustainability
As consumer trust and environmental responsibility grow increasingly critical, technology is emerging as the backbone of sustainability and transparency in the food industry. Blockchain technology ensures ethical sourcing and traceability, while IoT sensors and predictive analytics optimise resource use and reduce waste. As IFT points out, these tools empower brands to align with eco-conscious values while meeting growing demands for accountability and efficiency. From tracking food journeys to reducing carbon footprints, tech-enabled solutions are reshaping how producers meet sustainability goals.
Actionable steps:
- Leverage blockchain technology to ensure ingredient traceability and ethical sourcing, providing consumers with transparent insights, such as ‘track your product’s journey’ labels.
- Adopt IoT sensors to monitor energy and resource usage during production, minimising environmental impact and enhancing operational efficiency.
- Utilise predictive analytics to forecast demand more accurately, reducing food waste and streamlining inventory management for a greener supply chain.
6. Back to the future: Reviving traditional methods sustainably
Traditional techniques like fermentation and sprouting are experiencing a renaissance, thanks to their health benefits and artisanal appeal. Pairing these age-old methods with sustainable practices breathes new life into heritage foods. The SFA emphasises that these approaches meet the consumer demand for authenticity and premium quality.
Actionable steps:
- Introduce fermented products, such as probiotic-enriched breads or crackers.
- Experiment with sprouted grains for added nutrition and flavour complexity.
- Highlight artisanal processes in marketing to appeal to premium buyers.
7. Feast for the senses
Kerry’s 2025 Taste Trends report reveals that sensory-driven products are especially popular among younger consumers. In an age of digital sharing, products that engage multiple senses – taste, sight, smell, and touch – stand out. Vibrant natural colours like spirulina blue and beetroot red, combined with bold textures and aromas, are driving consumer excitement.
Actionable steps:
- Develop snacks with unique textures, such as crunchy exteriors with creamy centres.
- Use natural, vibrant colours to enhance visual appeal and social media shareability.
- Add aromatic spices or glazes to elevate the sensory experience.
8. Stories that sell
Transparency isn’t just about what’s inside the product; it’s about how brands communicate their values. Mintel reports that 72% of consumers value companies that actively highlight their sustainability efforts. Storytelling allows brands to connect emotionally, turning eco-friendly initiatives into compelling narratives.
Actionable steps:
- Create behind-the-scenes content showing sustainable production practices.
- Launch campaigns highlighting reduced waste or innovative eco-friendly methods.
- Collaborate with like-minded influencers to amplify your brand’s values.
9. Edible innovations
Edible packaging and 3D food printing are pushing the boundaries of sustainability and customisation. These cutting-edge technologies minimise waste while offering consumers novelty and convenience. Forward-thinking brands are already exploring applications like seaweed wraps and intricate 3D-printed designs.
Actionable steps:
- Trial edible packaging options using rice paper or plant-based materials.
- Use 3D printing to create limited-edition snacks with intricate textures or shapes.
- Monitor consumer reactions to refine and expand these innovations.
10. Roots that run deep
Ethical and sustainable sourcing is no longer optional. According to the SFA, transparency in sourcing is becoming a top priority for consumers who value both ethics and quality. Practices like regenerative farming and local partnerships not only reduce environmental impact but also enhance a brand’s reputation.
Actionable steps:
- Partner with local farms to ensure fresh and sustainably grown ingredients.
- Highlight certifications like Organic or Fair Trade on packaging.
- Share the story of your sourcing practices to build trust and engagement.
