Gen Z is redefining traditional eating with ‘picky teas’
Gen Z is redefining traditional eating with ‘picky teas’ - as 68 per cent often feel stuck in a food rut when deciding what to eat for dinner.
A poll of 2,000 adults found 51 per cent of this age group prefer picky dinners over more traditional offerings because they’re quick and easy (58 per cent), while 34 per cent want something to enjoy between plans and 22 per cent find them great for sharing with friends.
The average Gen Z turns to a ‘snackable meal’ three times per week, with 34 per cent finding inspiration for their dinners on TikTok and 27 per cent on Instagram.
The research was commissioned by Doritos which has launched ‘Doritos Loaded Month’, welcoming fans across London, Manchester and Glasgow to bring their own bag of the triangle-shaped crisps to over 200 vendors - and have it transformed into a unique loaded meal for a fiver.
Elise McDonald, a spokesperson for the brand said: “We’re seeing a real shift in how people approach food, with more looking for flexible, informal meal occasions that still feel bold, satisfying and social.
“People want exciting flavour mash-ups, customisable toppings and food experiences that feel a little unexpected - and that’s exactly what Doritos Loaded Month delivers. It’s all about letting people explore new flavour combinations and textures in a way that fits their lifestyle.”
From grazing boards to picky bits, the study found the perfect adult nibbly dinner consists of crisps (55 per cent), sausage rolls (48 per cent), cheeses (48 per cent) and dips (37 per cent).
It was also found the ultimate snacking meal consists of five different foods and 44 per cent said they opt for a combination of sweet, salty and spicy foods. Convenience (63 per cent) and time (45 per cent) are leading the charge, 26 per cent said they enjoy snackable meals because of the cost.
The OnePoll.com study found Gen Z are spending more than £2,400 per year on eating out and takeaways, with 62 per cent holding back from trying new flavours because of the cost. The total spent by Gen Z on eating out is almost double what Boomers (£1,482) and Gen X (£1,539) spend per year.
Elise McDonald added: “Doritos Loaded Month taps directly into the growing popularity of customisable food experiences that have taken off across social media - building on the ‘Bring Your Own’ trend with our ‘Bring Your Own Doritos’ mechanic."