While grocery shoppers continue to seek tasty, nutritious food, the impact of food labels appears to be waning. Less than half of consumers “usually read” the information on labels. Mintel’s custom consumer research finds that the influence of food labels declines with age, with iGen/Millennial and Gen Xers less likely than older shoppers to say labels factor into purchase decisions. What’s more, differentiation exists across generation groups in terms of the type of information sought from labels. Inspiring purchase can come from boosting ingredient transparency, enhancing functional packaging elements that preserve freshness, and engaging consumers with brands beyond the store.

For the purposes of this report, Mintel will cover trends in food packaging, including all packaging types commonly used for shelf-stable, refrigerated, and frozen food items. In addition, food labeling and claims are discussed, particularly as they relate to themes applicable to the report.

This report builds on the analysis presented in Mintel’s Food Packaging Trends – US, July 2014 and 2013 reports, as well as Packaging Trends in Food and Drink – US, March 2009 and Food and Drink Packaging Trends – US, April 2008.

Value figures throughout this report are at retail selling prices (rsp) excluding sales tax unless otherwise stated.