On the Menu: From the back-of-house to the customer’s plate, growing ingredients can tell us a lot about what’s driving operational decisions and consumer preferences. Whether it’s to reduce prep time, meet flavor expectations, or streamline ordering, smart operators keep a pulse on what’s gaining traction.
Based on recent data pulled from Buyers Edge Platform, here are the five growing ingredients that saw the most growth within our member operators at the end of 2024—along with tips on how you can make them work harder in your kitchen.
1. Westminster Oyster Crackers
📈 +16% in Concepts | +7% in Locations
These classic crackers are making a comeback—likely thanks to seasonal menus featuring soups, chowders, and bisques. They’re cost-effective, easy to portion, and add to that nostalgic crunch guests crave. This item is a perfect example of growing ingredients being driven by seasonal demand and comfort food trends.
How to Use It:
- Serve with house-made soups or chili
- Add to grazing boards or small bites
- Use as a crunchy topping for lobster mac & cheese or chowder-style seafood dishes
2. Daisy Brand Sour Cream (Cultured 18%)
📈 +10% in Concepts | +5% in Locations
This high-quality sour cream delivers consistent texture and rich flavor—ideal for kitchens where versatility matters. As growing ingredients like Daisy Sour Cream show, operators are leaning on versatile products to elevate flavor and reduce prep work across multiple menu types.
How to Use It:
- Signature sauces and creamy dressings
- Taco toppers or baked potato sides
- Dessert applications (yes, really—try it in cheesecake!)
3. Ocean Spray Cranberry Juice Cocktail (Shelf-Stable)
📈 +3% in Concepts | +3% in Locations
Shelf-stable juice that performs across dayparts? Yes, please. Growing ingredients like cranberry juice are being leveraged beyond the bar cart—think breakfast stations, mocktails, and health-forward offerings.
How to Use It:
- Feature in non-alcoholic craft mocktails or juice blends
- Offer as part of a brunch beverage station
- Reduce into glazes or vinaigrettes for protein entrées and salads
4. Ole Mexican Foods 12” Flour Tortillas
📈 +7% in Concepts | +36% in Locations (YoY)
An eye-popping 36% increase in locations makes these tortillas one of the fastest-growing ingredients in our dataset. Perfect for fast casual, catering, or multi-daypart menus, their versatility is unmatched.
How to Use It:
- Breakfast burritos, wraps, and quesadillas
- Build-your-own taco bars
- Cut and baked into house-made chips
5. Fresh Yellow Onions (Jumbo 025 LB)
📈 +5% in Concepts | +12% in Locations (YoY)
A foundational ingredient that continues to grow. Whether it’s due to increased scratch cooking or demand for cleaner ingredient lists, yellow onions are are growing ingredients that prove even the basics can drive operational value.
How to Use It:
- Batch-prep caramelized onions for burgers, flatbreads, or signature sides
- Roast for grain bowls, tacos, or upscale garnishes
- Use skins and scraps to enrich soups, sauces, or house-made stocks
Ready to Rethink Your Ingredient Strategy?
Buyers Edge Platform helps foodservice operators uncover the trends behind the trends. By identifying growing ingredients through real-time data and providing procurement support, we make it easier to adjust your inventory, source smarter, and stay ahead of what’s next.
Curious what other ingredients are heating up? Tap into exclusive data reports and real-time insights built for foodservice operators who want to stay ahead of the curve. Click here to contact us or visit our Foodservice Operator Support Center to explore more trending ingredients and sourcing strategies tailored to your kitchen.
