FMI: New Challenges Impact Consumer Grocery Shopping Habits

The combination of several factors including inflation and supply chain issues are impacting how consumers purchase and consume food, according to new data from FMI - The Food Industry Association.

In the fourth installment of FMI’s U.S. Grocery Shopper Trends 2022, new data points to opportunities for grocers as they continue to serve as solution providers. 

“Our relationship with food continues to be complicated due to a host of factors, including a strained economy, a continued pandemic, ongoing supply chain issues, adoptions of new technology, and how we hold ourselves accountable for our food choices and our overall approach to eating,” said Leslie G. Sarasin, president and CEO of FMI. 

Sarasin noted that while consumers continue to cook at home more than ever, the level of enthusiasm has waned to pre-pandemic levels. This suggests that shoppers are looking for fresh prepared and ready-to-prep meals to address inconsistent schedules and tightening budgets.

According to FMI, most consumers said they plan their meals in advance, and meal preparation is getting faster. Nearly three-quarters (74%) say it takes less than one hour to prepare their meals. Additionally, 30% said they spend less than 30 minutes making meals at home. Nearly half said they are following a specific approach to eating, incorporating certain principles that reflect kindness to oneself, an awareness of holistic wellness, and careful attention to how food makes them feel.

Consuming healthier meals is also a growing concern for consumers. Recent FMI data show 28% of Americans putting “a lot of effort” into selecting nutritious and healthy options, while 48% said they put in “some effort.”

The FMI survey also found that more shoppers have learned how to best use a hybrid approach as they buy groceries. As consumers plan more meals in advance, they are shopping online with greater frequency. As a result, FMI said food retailers will need to adjust to shopper expectations that put the consumer in control as it relates to the online experience, while in-person store visits will need to enhance convenience.