Image Source: Classy – https://www.classy.org/blog/gen-z-next-generation-donors/
There has been so much talk about Millennials lately that many have forgotten the next Generation right around the corner – Generation Z.
Generation Z are those born in 1995 or after (some say it’s more like 1996, depending on who you ask). Some of them are teenagers, while others are in their early 20’s and are in or starting college. Either way, they are starting to shape their own food future.
This generation, even more so then millennials wants to make a difference in the world – especially their food world.
- 60% want their work to make a difference in the world
- 76% are worried about the planet
- 75% of this generation consider themselves foodies
It’s no surprise as many of them are children of parents that were born in the 60’s or 70’s – the decades that started the food revolution. You know, the generation lost in space!
So what do we have to look forward to with this next generation of food enthusiasts?
#1. They care deeply about sustainability
- Gen z’ers are a very environmentally and socially conscious generation
- They want to know the story of their food from farm to table
- Gen z’ers want an abundance of sustainable food that has a positive impact on people and the planet
#2. They want health supporting foods
- Gen z’ers love to snack but want healthy snack options
- They prefer to snack on the go vs. sitting down for a meal
- Gen z’ers have learned how to set healthy eating habits in school and at home
- They know that whole, unprocessed foods are the more nutritious choice
They are also interested in boosting energy throughout the day – so energy drinks are on the rise!
#3. They accept new foods easily
- Gen z’ers are more likely to have been exposed to new and different foods early in life and are willing to try new ones
- They have been exposed to foods from all over the world and enjoy them!
- Gen z’ers are willing to at least try unusual flavors and ingredients
#4. They are starting to purchase their own food
- Gen z’ers want foods that taste good, contain quality ingredients and are a good price
- They care more about small, local foods vs. the big name brands
- Gen z’ers buy from companies that share their values
- They are willing to pay for foods that support the environment and support food companies with a social mission
#5. They love to cook!
- Gen z’ers love to express themselves through the meals they make
- They like to make their own creations and often do not follow a recipe
- Gen z’ers may take pictures of their creation and share on social media
- They generally learned how to cook at an early age
Cooking is very empowering to them!
So… any of you that educate students; you know teachers, parents community members, have this unique opportunity to help shape the food habits of this young, amazingly socially conscious generation. You can have a conversation with them about sustainable foods or explain the benefits of choosing more whole, nutritious foods. You can bring this information to life by taking them on a tour of a farm or community garden, introducing them to more fresh and local food manufacturers or just helping them learn how to cook – a skill that lasts a lifetime!
