Sustainability, Dietary Preferences, and Plant-Based Trends in 2025
A growing awareness of climate change and environmental issues are reshaping what people want to eat, how they make purchasing decisions, and the expectations they have for the businesses they support. From plant-based foods to local sourcing and eco-friendly practices, the demand for sustainability is reshaping the landscape of foodservice. For operators, navigating these trends can be complex. Foodbuy can provide valuable support in meeting these challenges while maintaining your operation’s profitability.
Sustainability has moved from a niche concern to a mainstream value. In 2024, a striking 80% of consumers are somewhat or very concerned about climate change. This growing awareness is leading to more intentional consumer behaviour. Nearly 87% of consumers report having made at least one change to their eating habits to be more eco-friendly, a significant increase from 63% in 2022. Interestingly, price remains a significant barrier, with 67% of consumers citing high costs as a reason they may hesitate to purchase sustainable products.
By partnering with leading suppliers known for their strong sustainability initiatives, Foodbuy provides access to sustainable products at competitive prices, streamlining sourcing and leveraging purchasing power to make eco-friendly choices more affordable. McCain Foods Canada, for example, is committed to ensuring 100% of their potato acreage is grown using sustainable practices by 2030, while their plant-based innovations, such as Sweet Potato Fries and Poutine Toppers, cater to the growing demand for healthier, more sustainable menu options. Additionally, the convenience and cost-efficiency of frozen products help save both time and money.
The plant-based food trend is continuing to grow, as more consumers prioritize health and sustainability in their diets. In fact, 55% of consumers are more likely to buy plant-based foods for health reasons, with many associating plant-forward diets with both personal wellness and positive environmental impact. The shift toward plant-based eating is also being driven by the growing desire for healthier dining options, with 38% of consumers saying that access to healthy foods is important when dining away from home. Eggs remain a cornerstone of breakfast and brunch menus. Burnbrae Farms’ line of egg products enables operators to serve dishes that appeal to environmentally conscious patrons, in addition to their innovations in eco-friendly packaging and sustainable farming.
Consumers are increasingly selecting vegan, vegetarian, and plant-based foods, not just for their health benefits, but also because of their perceived environmental benefits. From 2022 to 2024, 22% of consumers reported increasing their consumption of plant-based foods. In 2024, plant-based snacks are particularly popular, followed by plant-based options for breakfast. This growing demand presents an opportunity for foodservice operators to cater to consumers seeking sustainable and health-conscious options, especially in fast-casual or grab-and-go settings. Maple Leaf Foods offers a versatile array of plant-based proteins and prepared foods via their Greenfield and Field Roast brands. These products not only cater to vegetarian and vegan diners but also appeal to flexitarians.
A large percentage of consumers—72%—express a preference for locally sourced items, and 70% are more likely to buy products produced in Canada. This trend aligns with the broader eco-conscious desire to reduce carbon footprints and support local economies. Nearly one-third of consumers are even willing to pay a premium for these locally sourced or Canadian-made items, with 38% supporting local farmers and growers as part of their broader commitment to sustainability.
Foodbuy can help by offering consolidated purchasing programs that include access to locally sourced products at competitive prices. The Sysco Earth Plus program emphasizes reducing waste, improving energy efficiency, and offering sustainable product lines. With initiatives like locally sourced produce and sustainable seafood certification, Sysco empowers operators to make environmentally responsible choices. Foodbuy partners with all national and many regional broadline distributors such as Mayrand, Pratts, Morton Foodservice, Stewart Foodservice, Flanagan Foodservice, as well as direct service delivery vendors to provide you with the necessary flexibility to source local items.
In 2025, sustainability will no longer be a trend—it will be a necessity. Consumers are increasingly demanding eco-friendly, plant-based, and locally sourced food options, with many willing to make dietary changes in response to environmental concerns. Foodservice operators who embrace these changes can build stronger connections with customers and differentiate themselves in a competitive market.
Source: online survey conducted by E15 in June 2024 polling 1,500 Canadian adults who either work or visited an industry that Compass Group Canada serves