Generation Z, born roughly between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, is shaping the future of food. This generation has grown up with technology, social media, and a global perspective. They care about health, sustainability, and new experiences. For hotels, resorts, and restaurants, meeting Gen Z’s expectations means offering fresh, creative, and ethical food options.

But staying ahead of these trends can be challenging. That’s where a Food GPO like Entegra comes in. By helping with food purchasing and sourcing, a Food GPO allows operators to respond quickly to new trends without breaking budgets.

1. Plant-Based and Flexitarian Foods

One of the strongest trends among Gen Z is plant-based eating. Many young consumers are reducing their meat consumption, but they are not always fully vegetarian. They want flexible menus that include plant-based proteins alongside traditional dishes.

Offering plant-based meals is not just about health it’s about choice. Gen Z wants flavorful, satisfying meals that are good for them and the planet. Popular options include meat alternatives, vegan cheeses, plant-based dairy, and innovative protein blends.

Using a Food GPO makes it easy to source these items. Entegra works with trusted suppliers to provide a wide range of plant-based products. This helps hotels and restaurants save time and money while offering appealing menu options. With a Food GPO, operators can keep menus fresh and responsive to evolving customer tastes.

2. Wellness and Functional Foods

Wellness is a priority for Gen Z. They look for foods that support mental health, gut health, and overall well-being. This includes ingredients like probiotics, prebiotics, adaptogens, vitamins, and minerals.

Functional foods, those designed to have added health benefits are becoming mainstream. Drinks, snacks, and meals that boost immunity, focus, or energy are highly appealing. This trend also ties into Gen Z’s interest in personalized nutrition.

A Food GPO helps operators access these specialty ingredients efficiently. Entegra works with suppliers to provide wellness-focused foods while managing costs. By using a Food GPO, hotels and restaurants can introduce functional foods without overcomplicating procurement.

3. Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing

Sustainability is no longer a “nice-to-have” for young consumers, it’s essential. Gen Z cares about how their food is sourced, how animals are treated, and the environmental impact of packaging and waste.

Alternative proteins, such as lab-grown meat, insect-based snacks, and plant-based substitutes, are gaining attention because they are more sustainable. Many young diners are willing to try these products because they align with their values.

Partnering with a Food GPO helps operators manage the complexities of sourcing sustainable products. Entegra connects hotels and restaurants with suppliers that offer ethical and environmentally friendly options. This makes food purchasing easier, more cost-effective, and aligned with Gen Z values.

4. Bold Flavors and Global Cuisine

Gen Z loves to explore new tastes. Global flavors and fusion dishes are extremely popular. Examples include Korean tacos, Indian-inspired pizzas, or sweet and spicy desserts.

This generation is adventurous with food. They want unique combinations and dishes that challenge their taste buds. Traditional menus are no longer enough. Bold flavors, international spices, and creative recipes capture attention and encourage repeat visits.

A Food GPO like Entegra makes sourcing specialty ingredients easier. By providing access to a broad network of suppliers, a GPO simplifies food purchasing and ensures hotels and restaurants can offer exciting, globally inspired menus.

5. Social Media and Shareable Food

Food is no longer just about taste it’s about the experience. Gen Z diners want meals that are visually appealing and shareable on social media. Instagram, TikTok, and other platforms influence what they eat and where they go.

“Instagrammable” dishes colorful, creative, and fun, can drive interest and increase traffic. Limited-time menu items, themed dishes, and unique presentation all help a restaurant stand out.

A Food GPO can support operators in sourcing trending ingredients quickly and efficiently. Entegra helps hotels and restaurants stay on top of social media-driven food trends while keeping food purchasing costs under control.

6. Convenience and Quick Service

Gen Z values convenience and speed. They are digital natives and expect easy ordering through apps, online menus, or self-service kiosks. They also favor grab-and-go meals, shareable plates, and room service options.

Menus must be designed for flexibility. Portion sizes, delivery-friendly packaging, and fast preparation are key. Hotels and resorts that optimize for convenience appeal to Gen Z and make the dining experience seamless.

Using a Food GPO simplifies sourcing these types of products. Entegra helps operators find portioned, delivery-ready items that meet the needs of fast-paced service. Efficient food purchasing allows menus to remain diverse and modern without increasing complexity.

7. Nostalgia with a Modern Twist

Even though Gen Z loves new flavors, they also enjoy foods from their childhood but updated for today’s tastes. Classic snacks, comfort foods, and traditional dishes are reimagined with better ingredients, bold flavors, or global influences.

Nostalgia-driven menus can create emotional connections. They appeal to comfort and familiarity while still feeling fresh. Hotels and restaurants can use these trends to create memorable experiences for guests.

A Food GPO can help source nostalgic ingredients efficiently. Entegra provides access to high-quality products, enabling operators to innovate without overcomplicating procurement.

Why a Food GPO Like Entegra Matters

Keeping up with Gen Z’s food trends can be challenging. A Food GPO provides several benefits:

• Access to plant-based, wellness, and sustainable products
• Specialty ingredients for global flavors and fusion cuisine
• Support for trending, social media-friendly dishes
• Simplified, cost-effective food purchasing
• Assistance in sourcing products for convenience, delivery, or grab-and-go formats

Entegra helps hotels, resorts, and restaurants stay ahead of trends while managing costs and improving efficiency. With a Food GPO, operators can focus on creating exceptional guest experiences instead of spending excessive time sourcing and negotiating.

Conclusion

Generation Z is reshaping food and dining. They care about wellness, sustainability, bold flavors, and social experiences. Hotels and restaurants that embrace these trends can attract this influential group of consumers.

A Food GPO like Entegra makes it easier to meet Gen Z expectations. It helps operators source the right products, manage costs, and stay flexible in a fast-changing market. By partnering with a Food GPO, hotels and restaurants can deliver menus that are exciting, ethical, and profitable all while keeping Gen Z guests coming back for more.

Staying ahead of trends is not just about having the right menu. It’s about sourcing smartly, innovating confidently, and offering experiences that Gen Z values. With Entegra, operators can do all of this efficiently, saving time, money, and resources.

Get more Insights in our 2026 Trends Report