As coronavirus spreads nationwide, a recent survey by First Insight found that news of the virus is impacting the shopping behavior of 75% of respondents, up from 45% (a 70% increase) when comparing to a survey fielded in late February. The survey by First Insight, Inc., a leading technology company transforming how retailers make product investment and pricing decisions, also pointed to significant swings in behavior by women and Baby Boomers over the last three weeks. 

Mintel’s Global COVID-19 Tracker trends changes in global consumer behavior directly related to COVID-19.

In findings from the EcoFocus Worldwide 2019 US Trends Survey, millennials put a significantly higher priority on sustainability than have the generations before them.

Adults under age 40 are especially prone to value healthy, premium, and fresh foods, including organic produce and meat.

“Each year, our team of registered dietitians, nutrition experts and consumer researchers takes a look at what we can expect in the coming year,” Joseph Clayton, president and CEO, said in a statement. “In 2020, we predict that topics surrounding sustainability, alternative foods and healthy diets will move in some unexpected directions.”

Millennials, born 1981-1996, are the top consumers of plant-based meat alternatives, finds the NPD study. This generational group has adopted plant-based meat alternatives as a way to indulge sensibly, while addressing long-term health goals and animal treatment concerns.

One trend that emerged from the survey is that of "better informed purchasing decisions." A majority of millennials want to know where their food comes from and how it is sourced. Transparency in food sourcing is important to more than 65% of millennials, particularly for fresh meat and seafood.

While soy protein and beverage consumption has risen among millennials, industry trends among all age demographics show potential for market growth as consumers prioritize healthy food choices and sustainably produced foods. The plant-based foods category grew by 20% between 2017 and 2018, outpacing sales of all retail foods by 10-times.

New research from Innova Market Insights identifies key characteristics and differences among Generation Z, Millennials, Generation X and Baby Boomers and the way that holistic nutrition approaches can be tailored to these generational groups.

The meal kit industry is arguably the best example of a food industry segment that’s making it easier for adults to start cooking more at home again.