Compared to earlier times, India’s eating habits are changing faster than ever. Technology, rising incomes, and a growing curiosity to try new flavours are shaping the way people choose their food today. To understand these shifts better, Swiggy has released its “How India Eats 2025” report in partnership with Kearney. Scroll down to know more.
Inside Swiggy’s ‘How India Eats 2025’ Report
The Indian food industry is set to witness a massive jump by 2030. According to Swiggy’s report, the food market could cross US$125 billion by 2030. How? Most of this growth will come from restaurant chains and branded outlets. Right now, food services make up just 1.9% of India’s GDP. Whereas China’s contribution is 5% and Brazil’s 6%.
The biggest change in the food industry is how people are now craving different flavours. Customers are trying nearly 20% more unique cuisines, and they are ordering from 30% more restaurants than earlier. Two trends—indulgence and healthy eating- are growing at the same time.
One of the most surprising twists is that compared to dinner orders, people’s cravings for late-night food are rising. Late-night food orders are increasing almost three times faster than dinner orders, with Pizzas, Cakes and soft drinks leading the list. Meanwhile, health-focused meals are rising 2.3 times faster than overall orders, especially protein, low-calorie dishes and items with less added sugar.
Also Read: Did You Know That Carrying THIS Food Item On Indian Trains Can Land You In Jail?
India Is Rediscovering Its Rich Culinary Heritage
People in India are loving local flavours like Goan, Bihari, and Pahari food. They are growing 2 to 8 times faster than mainstream choices. Traditional Indian drinks like Buttermilk and Sherbet are also seeing a four to six times faster growth than overall beverage growth.
With this change, global food chains are encouraged to innovate with Indian flavours, like Kala Khatta Cold Brew or Chilli-Guava drinks. Even the everyday tea break is going digital, with tea orders growing at more than three times the pace of the beverage category.
Global cuisines are now part of everyday meals in India. Korean food is growing 17 times, Vietnamese 6 times, and Mexican 3.7 times faster than before. Drinks like Boba Tea and Matcha Tea are also booming, with search interest up 11x and 4x in five years. Even Sushi, Tacos, and Korean BBQ are becoming regular weeknight favourites!
Food trends aren’t just in big cities anymore—smaller towns near schools, tourist spots, and industrial areas are catching up fast. Gen Z is driving the buzz, hunting for fun experiences like coffee raves and picture-perfect cafés.
What are your thoughts on this? Tell us in the comments below!
Also Read: West Bengal Is Indias 2nd Most Popular State For Foreign Tourists; THIS State Ranked 1st
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ Dragon Images