2025 is shaping up to be a watershed year in food safety as organizations prepare for new federal traceability rules, respond to high-profile foodborne outbreaks, and integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into food safety solutions.
“Digital technologies loom large on the list—from the growing impact of artificial intelligence to the need for tech-enabled traceability across the food supply chain,” says the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) Top Ten Food Trends for 2025.
All Eyes on Federal Government and Food Safety
All eyes are on the federal government and a new administration in place.
“Major change could be in store for the food manufacturing industry this year,” reported Manufacturing Dive in January. “Regulators are more closely watching over the industry, including the new federal traceability rule and the Food and Drug Administration’s move this month to ban red food dye No. 3.”
Manufacturing Dive says a key turning point is the FDA’s Final Rule on Requirements for Additional Traceability Records for Certain Foods, which begins enforcement on Jan. 20, 2026 and will force companies to act during 2025 to make sure they are in compliance come next year.
“Businesses must start preparing in 2025 to comply with the additional recordkeeping requirements for entities that manufacture, process, pack, or hold foods on the Food Traceability List, like specific cheeses, eggs, cucumbers, herbs, and leafy greens,” Leanne Blommaert, manager of food research and development at NSF, told the publication.
All of this plays out against a backdrop of some uncertainty as the Trump administration makes changes with Food Safety magazine reporting earlier this month that two key food safety advisory committees have been terminated – the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods (NACMCF) and National Advisory Committee on Meat and Poultry Inspection (NACMPI).
“Most recently, NACMCF was charged with reviewing USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Services’ (FSIS’) regulatory approach for Listeria monocytogenes, prompted by the fatal listeriosis outbreak linked to Boar’s Head deli meats that occurred in the later half of 2024,” notes the magazine.
Let's look closer at food safety trends for 2025.
Advanced Traceability Systems
Recent high-profile food recalls, such as those involving McDonald's and Boar's Head, have underscored the critical need for robust traceability systems. The ability to quickly trace food from source to plate is no longer just a nice-to-have; it's becoming a necessity for food companies worldwide.
Wholesale distributors should invest in tech-enabled traceability solutions that can:
- Provide real-time visibility across the supply chain.
- Enable rapid response to potential contamination issues.
- Support compliance with the upcoming FDA Food Traceability Rule.
Increased Consumer Demand for Transparency
Today's consumers are more informed and demanding than ever when it comes to food safety and transparency, according to Food Industry Association data:
- 66 percent of food shoppers say they would switch to a brand that provides more detailed product information.
- 80 percent of consumers consider factors like value-based information, certifications, and allergen information in their purchasing decisions.
- 53 percent of respondents want more transparency regarding food safety, product content, allergens, and hygiene.
Food companies must be prepared to provide detailed information about their products, including sourcing, processing methods, and ingredient lists. This transparency not only meets consumer demands but also builds trust and loyalty.
“In addition to heightened traceability, manufacturers are doubling down on ensuring their hazard analysis critical control point systems and food safety certifications are up to date, especially as retailers and governments hold them to more stringent requirements,” Blommaert told Manufacturing Dive. “Manufacturers will continue to prioritize certification to food label claims to earn the trust and loyalty of consumers with healthy lifestyles and food allergens.”
Clean Label Trend Continues
The clean label trend shows no signs of slowing down in 2025. Consumers are increasingly prioritizing products with easily understandable ingredients, perceiving them as healthier.
Wholesale distributors should:
- Work with suppliers to offer products with simpler, more natural ingredients.
- Ensure clear and accurate labeling of products.
- Be prepared to provide detailed information about ingredients and processing methods to customers.
“What’s in our food also figures prominently. Consumers will continue to demand clean labels. Conversation, scrutiny, and advocacy surrounding food additives and chemical contaminants will persist,” says IFT.
Sustainability and Food Safety Integration
Sustainability is increasingly intertwined with food safety concerns. Consumers and regulators alike are focusing on:
- Reducing food waste through improved inventory management.
- Adopting sustainable packaging that preserves product freshness.
- Implementing efficient logistics practices to minimize spoilage during transportation.
The food industry should look for ways to integrate sustainable practices into operations while maintaining the highest food safety standards.
Technology-Driven Food Safety Solutions
AI and other digital technologies are playing an increasingly important role in food safety:
- AI is being used to accelerate product development and capture consumer insights.
- Tech-enabled quality control systems are becoming more common in restaurants and food production facilities.
- Continuous monitoring technologies are replacing point-in-time inspections for more effective food safety management.
Food and beverage companies should explore how these technologies can be integrated into their operations to enhance food safety practices and efficiency.
Focus on Vulnerable Populations
The FDA's Closer to Zero initiative aims to reduce dietary exposure to contaminants, particularly for vulnerable populations like children and pregnant women.
This program focuses on reducing levels of arsenic, lead, cadmium, and mercury in foods.
Foods manufacturers should:
- Stay informed about the latest initiative guidelines and recommendations.
- Work with suppliers to ensure products meet or exceed safety standards.
- Be prepared to provide detailed information about contaminant levels in products, especially those marketed for children or pregnant women.
Preparing for the Future
As we navigate these trends, it's clear that the food industry is facing a period of significant change and heightened responsibility. Wholesale distributors must be proactive in adapting to these new realities to ensure compliance, maintain consumer trust, and stay competitive in the market.
FreshByte Software’s comprehensive solutions are designed specifically for the wholesale distribution industry, helping you navigate these complex food safety trends with ease.
With FreshByte, you can:
- Implement robust traceability systems that comply with the latest FDA regulations.
- Manage detailed product information to meet consumer demands for transparency.
- Optimize inventory management to reduce waste and improve sustainability.
- Integrate advanced technologies for enhanced quality control and food safety management.
Partner with FreshByte Software to streamline your operations, ensure compliance, and build trust with your customers. Our 24/7 support ensures you're never alone in facing these challenges.
Contact FreshByte Software today for a demo of our industry-leading solutions that will help keep your operations safe, efficient, and ahead of the food safety curve in 2025 and beyond.
