Beyond chicken nuggets and plain pasta, Kodomo Shokudo’s menu is different than before. Today’s young diners are more adventurous than ever, embracing bold flavors, international cuisine, and creative presentations that rival trends for adults. From spicy dishes that pack just the right kick to build-your-own bowls and Instagram-worthy healthy treats, the latest food trends for kids are all about blending fun, flavor and nutrition. Culinary experts and registered dietitians from all over the world gather to meet your needs. Chartwells K12 identified the top 10 children’s food trends for 2025, using insights gained from serving 2.2 million meals per day to students in 4,500 schools across the United States. This proved that kids are ready to think outside the box lunch box when it comes to food.
“Our top priority is creating menus that kids really want to eat, and we do that by listening to the students we serve.” says Chef Peter Gilhooley, Chartwells K12 Senior Vice President Culinary. “We work with children to revolutionize the cafeteria by creating meals that are not only exciting and delicious, but also healthy, meeting children’s evolving tastes and invigorating their busy days.”
Chartwells K12’s top 10 kids food trends for 2025 are:
– Bouldover: Want healthy, fully customizable meals all rolled into one convenient bowl? No matter! The hot bowl trend offers layers of delicious ingredients such as grains, proteins, vegetables, and sauces in a colorful and fun-to-eat way, while the cold bowl trend offers nutrient-rich acai and more. A smoothie base with unlimited toppings is provided. From hearty ginger chicken and edamame bowls and Baja pork rice bowls to refreshing mango chili lime smoothie bowls, the options are endless.
– Ingredients included: With familiar ingredients at the forefront, this culinary trend ensures that every student has a seat at the table and something delicious on their plate. From perfectly spiced halal taco meat to vegetarian sopes polenta, comprehensive ingredients meet a variety of dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. Think plant-based entrees, nut-free options, and dishes inspired by cultures around the world, all coming together to create a unified experience for everyone.
– Crunch time: Mealtime should be a sensory experience, especially for children. Chewy options not only add a fun texture to your food, but they also add excitement and even health benefits. But don’t reach for the chips or pretzels just yet. Instead, have a bento box of crunchy veggies and hummus with roasted beet crisps, or pick up a mixed berry yogurt parfait with granola and make every bite count.
– (Healthy) Small Snacks: Thanks to social media, “little treat culture” has permeated Gen Z and Gen Alpha. Who can blame them for wanting a little reward for completing a difficult task or getting through school? This trend puts a healthy spin on the viral concept, replacing added sugar with nutritious ingredients. Black bean brownies, apple cranberry crisps and sunbutter banana pizza are just a few of the healthy little treats kids enjoy at school.
– Earth-conscious meals: When it comes to sustainability, it’s no secret that eating fresh, local food not only benefits humans, but also the planet. Plus, kids will have fun learning about what grows in their area and community, from apples in the fall to juicy strawberries in the summer. Eating local makes meals more enjoyable and helps children understand where their food comes from. With farm-to-school initiatives and opportunities for schools to support local farmers, eating local and seasonal is a delicious way to support your hometown and stay healthy.
– Global Flavors: The next destination is a flavorful adventure! Taking cues from restaurant trends, kids are no longer tied to the dishes they’re used to at home, but are expanding their palettes through different flavors from around the world. From exploring Korean spices like radish salad and kimchi tofu grain bowls to trying Mexican-inspired comforting dishes like brisket tostadas, they choose their own culinary adventures.
– Bringing fun into functionality: Kids today are busier than ever, and when they stop to refuel, they’re looking for tasty snacks and meals that help them stay alert, calm, and confident no matter what the day throws at them. We focus on maximizing your appetite by consistently incorporating foods like cucumber and apple salad and strawberry spinach salad.
– “New Stalgic” recipe: A perfect blend of old and new, the new-stalgic trend reimagines familiar dishes with creative updates, bringing a fresh twist to the feel-good classics kids know and love and creating a nostalgic twist. It adds a modern flair while maintaining warmth. Think mac and cheese enhanced with BBQ pulled pork, or a sandwich reinvented as bite-sized buffalo chicken sliders with a spicy kick. Newstalgia is all about honoring cherished food memories while incorporating today’s flavors and techniques.
– Spice is good: Spices like chili, paprika, and sriracha are now being used in children’s dishes, only adding fuel to the fire. This trend isn’t just about heat passing; It’s an exploration of flavor and helps kids discover the exciting world of spices in a fun and approachable way. Chartwells recently introduced the What’s Shaking Spice Station to its cafeteria, giving kids the chance to add flavor to their lunchtime favorites without adding extra salt.
– Bold and bright: Fermented foods bring a fun, flavorful punch to meals for kids brave enough to try them. Pickles and fermented foods packed with probiotics are good for your gut and can be a delicious surprise. From pickled red onions to spicy pickled vegetable slaw, bold, salty trends transform ordinary ingredients into special experiences.
As the primary school food service partner serving school districts in approximately 40 states, Chartwells K12 leverages decades of experience and expertise in understanding children’s food preferences to present the 5th Annual Children’s Meal Service. We have created a trend list.
