Education

Meet your new target: Generation Alpha, the foodie kids of the Millennials!

Nourishing food experiences contribute to successful educational outcomes. Young children starting school, those attending secondary schools and students in college or university rely heavily on their daily meals for the essential nutrients they need to be at their mental and physical best.

School  food programmes are a key driver of health and education among children. They also lead to increased productivity in adulthood.

In the next few years, the Generation Alpha consumers – born after 2010 – should be watched. Worldwide, they will reach 2 billion individuals in 2025. As for Gen Z consumers – born 1995-2010 – their food choices are heavily influenced by trends, especially those being talked about on social media. Did you know that 71%  of Gen Z consumers have watched social media content on food and nutrition in the past year alone?

Both generations have in common a constant attention to social media that play a #1 role in defining food trends flowing all around the planet and creating instant massive cravings and food fads. Watch for YouTube & TikTok to know all about their expectations.

Kids and teens are also more ethnically diverse today. This is leading to large appetites for global cuisine, big flavours (especially Asian and Mexican), exciting new twists and love for bite sized lunches and snacks (with dips). Gen Z consumers also have high awareness around sustainability and are major drivers of demand for low impact & veggie food: so should be Gen Alpha.

students high school

Adding the rich diversity of cheese and fruits to every menu

chefs education

Creating a varied menu with healthy nutrition at its core is key, especially in the education sector where balancing food preferences, costs, and ingredient availability is crucial.

However, rising costs and skilled labour shortages are making this task more challenging, while government regulations on nutrition and the increasing plant-based ingredients and meals, serving more vegetables and reducing sugar have to be taken into account for primary and secondary schools. This makes choosing the right ingredients essential.

Cheese and fruit meet this need very well. Cheese is a highly versatile culinary ingredient, flavourful and easy to use, allowing chefs of all skill levels to create tasty dishes. Rich in calcium and protein, it supports healthy nutrition, when included in appropriate quantities, and fits perfectly into popular ‘street food’ favourites like burgers, sandwiches, pizzas, and pasta. Healthier and even vegan versions of these meals are possible with quality plant-based cheese alternatives.

When it comes to snacking, ready-to-eat cheese portions are an ideal snack for both Gen Z and Alpha consumers, offering a healthier, more balanced option that also helps reduce food waste.  They also make a great addition to meal trays, vending machines and self-service buffets.

Fruit is another valuable ingredient. Convenient fruit pouches like GoGo squeeZ® can be enjoyed as a snack or as part of a delicious dish. Classic flavours like apple, banana, and strawberry satisfy kids and parents alike. Seasonal fruits or trendy flavours inspired by TikTok can add creativity and fun to any meal or snack, making them more appealing and engaging for young consumers.

Our brands meet the evolving needs of Generation Alpha and beyond

As Generation Alpha rises, it’s crucial to create menus that meet their tastes and nutritional needs. Heavily influenced by social media, this generation seeks food that’s both fun and nutritious. Combined with Gen Z’s focus on sustainability, you have a unique opportunity to craft offerings that resonate with today’s young consumers. Our iconic brands offer the versatility needed to meet these evolving demands.

Offering iconic cheese portion packs like Babybel® adds a unique and tasty option for lunch trays or on-the-go snacking. The Laughing Cow® portions, loved for their creamy texture, are a delicious choice at any time of the day. For a more premium experience, Kiri® portions offer a luxurious indulgence, perfect for elevating breakfast, lunch, or enjoying as a refined snack between meals. GoGo squeeZ® pouches – made with real fruit and no added sugar – offer a fun and healthier snack choice for school and college meals.

While exploring new ideas for your menu, have you tried The Laughing Cow® Professional to elevate your recipes with its smooth, creamy taste? Ideal for both hot and cold dishes, it is versatile and easy to mix, perfect for sandwiches, soups, burgers, and vegetables. For your plant-based menu options, the wide Nurishh® range provides easy alternatives for dairy cheese, making it simple to create delicious vegan meals and snacks.

To further enhance your menu,Kiri® Professional, a highly regarded cream cheese ingredient, especially popular in sweet pastries, dessert creations, as well as bagels, sandwiches, and wraps, you can create everything from indulgent desserts to balanced, savoury dishes with ease, ensuring your menu stays exciting and nutritious for the next generation.

Boost your food offer with these delicious cheeses