1 in 6 shoppers choose their favorite grocery store based on the range of products in the dairy aisle
Source: The DairyNews
Research from the National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) sheds light on evolving consumer habits, particularly the increasing preference for home-cooked meals. The survey, based on responses from over 12,000 US consumers, reveals that 81% of shoppers now cook more than half of their meals at home, indicating a sustainable shift following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key trends identified in the survey include a focus on healthier eating and a preference for taste, quality, and healthiness in grocery choices.
Home cooking has driven the demand for convenient options, such as precut frozen fruits and vegetables. In this context, products in the dairy aisles, including alternatives, have an opportunity to stand out as consumers seek ingredients for home-cooked meals.
The survey highlights that 1 in 6 shoppers choose their favorite grocery store based on the range of products in the dairy aisle.
Additionally, 75% of shoppers reported consistent milk purchases during main shopping trips, with 26% indicating a likelihood to buy more milk over the next 12 months.
Interest in dairy alternatives is on the rise, with 68% of dairy milk buyers actively looking for deals on milk alternatives or flavored milk. The survey also emphasizes that consumers often purchase dairy and dairy alternatives together, challenging the notion of exclusive preferences.
Top dairy aisle purchases, aside from milk, include eggs, cheese, butter and spreads, coffee creamers, yogurt/kefir/skyr, and sour cream/cottage cheese/cream cheese.
Frozen dairy products are gaining traction, with 1 in 5 consumers expressing likelihood to buy more non-dairy ice cream or frozen yogurt over the next 12 months. Gen Z and Millennials are identified as key drivers of this trend.
The report also underscores the influence of technology and social media on food choices, with 54% of shoppers learning about food and cooking through platforms like TikTok and YouTube. Online grocery shopping and automated recommended purchases contribute to consumers' convenience and budget-conscious habits.
In conclusion, the research suggests that manufacturers and retailers have opportunities to target consumers, especially Gen Z, by offering a variety of frozen products and engaging them through interactive and educational content.
Home cooking has driven the demand for convenient options, such as precut frozen fruits and vegetables. In this context, products in the dairy aisles, including alternatives, have an opportunity to stand out as consumers seek ingredients for home-cooked meals.
The survey highlights that 1 in 6 shoppers choose their favorite grocery store based on the range of products in the dairy aisle.
Additionally, 75% of shoppers reported consistent milk purchases during main shopping trips, with 26% indicating a likelihood to buy more milk over the next 12 months.
Interest in dairy alternatives is on the rise, with 68% of dairy milk buyers actively looking for deals on milk alternatives or flavored milk. The survey also emphasizes that consumers often purchase dairy and dairy alternatives together, challenging the notion of exclusive preferences.
Top dairy aisle purchases, aside from milk, include eggs, cheese, butter and spreads, coffee creamers, yogurt/kefir/skyr, and sour cream/cottage cheese/cream cheese.
Frozen dairy products are gaining traction, with 1 in 5 consumers expressing likelihood to buy more non-dairy ice cream or frozen yogurt over the next 12 months. Gen Z and Millennials are identified as key drivers of this trend.
The report also underscores the influence of technology and social media on food choices, with 54% of shoppers learning about food and cooking through platforms like TikTok and YouTube. Online grocery shopping and automated recommended purchases contribute to consumers' convenience and budget-conscious habits.
In conclusion, the research suggests that manufacturers and retailers have opportunities to target consumers, especially Gen Z, by offering a variety of frozen products and engaging them through interactive and educational content.