Gen Z tends to have strong opinions and behaviors when it comes to food preferences and nutrition—and they aren’t afraid to share their thoughts with the world! Through this list, discover some of the foods that Gen Z doesn’t recommend people continue eating and why.
Non-Organic Produce
There’s a clear preference for organic produce among Gen Z. Those born from 1997 to 2012 have an increased willingness to pay more for environmentally friendly, organic products. Many of Gen Z’s food choices are influenced by environmental sustainability. According to Food Navigator, 79% of Gen Z-ers consider processed foods unhealthy and prefer whole, organic food.
Fast Food
Despite the popularity of certain fast-food chains, such as Chipotle and McDonald’s, there’s a growing trend toward healthier, more sustainable options. Gen Z is more likely to opt for quick service models with healthy options, and there is increased demand among them for more nutritious and environmentally conscious choices in fast-food menus.
Animal Products
Many in Gen Z are reducing their consumption of animal products. The impact of vegan diets on reducing greenhouse gas emissions is being increasingly recognized by the generation, resulting in a move toward flexitarian eating habits. This typically involves incorporating vegan or vegetarian lifestyles, at least partly.
Highly Processed Foods
Gen Z tends to favor whole, organic foods, viewing processed foods as unhealthy. They’re said to have a preference for foods with natural and clean ingredients and an inclination toward healthier, more sustainable food choices. With that in mind, they’d suggest avoiding ultra-processed foods such as sugary cereals and sodas.
Non-Plant-Based Meals
According to Statista, “In December 2022, Generation Z was the generation with the highest share of responding adults who planned not to eat meat in the coming year in Great Britain. Approximately 43 percent stated that they did not plan on eating meat in 2023.” If not totally plant-based, many of the environmentally-conscious generation are willing to eat meatless meals at least once or twice a week.
Sugar-Loaded Snacks and Beverages
Gen Z is more likely than older generations to avoid sugars entirely, and a shift toward healthier snacking habits is evident. This generation has a tendency to choose snacks and drinks that have natural sweetness in them or will go for healthier alternatives instead.
Non-Sustainable Food Products
As mentioned, Gen Z is highly concerned with the environmental impact of their food choices. They have a preference for carbon-neutral brands and sustainable production methods, desiring foods that are produced in an environmentally friendly way. With this in mind, they’d recommend you reduce your consumption of non-sustainable products.
Alcoholic Beverages
Interestingly, Gen Z shows less interest in alcohol than previous generations. According to Forbes, “Gen-Z drink on average 20% less than millennials, who also drink less than the previous generation.” The popularity of non-alcoholic beverages like mocktails is on the rise, and when Gen Z does consume alcohol, there’s a trend toward lower calorie options.
Foods Lacking Mental Health Benefits
Gen Z tends to seek out foods that contribute positively to their mental health. However, they also place an emphasis on avoiding diet narratives that solely focus on physical health or calorie counting. The generation has a holistic approach to health, encompassing both physical and mental wellness.
Foods With Unclear Labels
Gen Z demands greater transparency from brands about food processing and ingredients. They prefer labels that clearly indicate natural, clean ingredients, and organic status. Gen Z-ers also have a desire for more detailed information from brands on how food is made.
Foods Not Sourced Locally
There’s a slight preference among Gen Z for locally sourced ingredients due to environmental and health concerns. Gen Z is also more likely to choose restaurants and products that use local ingredients, as this aligns with their commitment to sustainability and health.
Frozen Foods
Although there was an increase in frozen food purchases during the pandemic, Gen Z generally prefers fresh foods. As shared by NDTV, “One thing we all know is frozen food can simply not be better than a freshly cooked healthy meal.” This is why Gen Z would go for fresh, wholesome foods instead.
Non-Ethnic and Monotonous Cuisines
Gen Z is experimental with food, showing interest in diverse, global cuisines. Their preferences include Indian, Middle Eastern, and African cuisines. The generation is more open to trying new and varied food experiences, encouraging others to do so as well!
Inconvenient and Time-Consuming Meal Options
Convenience is a significant factor in Gen Z’s food choices due to their busy lifestyles, so they tend to have a preference for quick and easy eats (especially those that are healthy). This is evidenced by the rise in popularity of food delivery services, meal prep services, and on-the-go meal options.
Foods Not Suited for Snacking
Snacking is a key theme in Gen Z’s eating habits, and they rely on snacks to hold them over until meal times. Why is this? NDTV says, “Gen Z, known for its hustle culture, is used to fast-moving technology and immediate gratification, and that translates into their food habits as well.”
Non-Photogenic Foods
Gen Z values food that is not only tasty but also visually appealing. Social media influence, particularly Instagram and TikTok, drives their food choices, and as a result, they’re more likely to visit places that serve attractive-looking food. Combine this with the trend of sharing food experiences online and you’ll see why Gen Z favors aesthetically pleasing dishes.
Overly Sweetened Beverages
Gen Z is also increasingly avoiding sugary drinks in favor of healthier beverage options. The health-conscious generation tends to have a preference for drinks with natural sweeteners or low sugar content, such as zero-calorie sodas.