FMI Report Shows Shoppers Embracing Mealtime Routines
Nearly half of US grocery shoppers share weekly meal traditions, with more families cooking at home, dining at consistent times and prioritizing connection around the table
Nearly half of US grocery shoppers (44%) embrace a weekly mealtime tradition, and more Americans are building new eating routines this fall, according to a new report from FMI – The Food Industry Association. FMI’s US Grocery Shopper Trends: New Routines also finds 36% of shoppers eat dinner at home with others every day of the week, with 6 p.m. remaining peak dinnertime.
More than two-thirds of shoppers are forming new routines this fall centered around their food habits. More than half of Americans plan to prepare more meals at home, dine at more consistent times and prioritize shared meals. The analysis suggests that many are cooking more, keeping consistent schedules and creating memorable mealtime experiences with family and friends.
“Shoppers are showing us that food is more than just fuel — it’s a way to connect, celebrate and create traditions,” Leslie G. Sarasin, president and CEO of FMI, said. “Our research shows that even as lifestyles evolve, shoppers are finding comfort and joy in routines that bring people together, and that’s a powerful signal for our industry and our mission to feed and enrich lives.”
While “eating well” can mean different things to different people, most shoppers share values like focusing on nutrition, cooking fresh meals, enjoying time with loved ones and making ethical food choices. “Eating well” also varies throughout the day: at breakfast, eating well most often means enjoying a healthful meal, but for snacks, convenience is the epitome of eating well.
“September is National Family Meals Month™, which is a perfect complement to what we’re seeing in shopper trends — Americans value routines that bring them together around the table,” said David Fikes, executive director of the FMI Foundation. “When families share more meals, they not only nourish their bodies with healthier foods; they strengthen relationships, improve communication and create lasting memories. The benefits of sharing meals go far beyond the plate and can be enjoyed year-round.”
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