Research conducted by TUCO highlights the latest trends popular amongst students, in order to help university caterers stay competitive against the high street.

The latest Global Food & Beverage Trends Report by The University Caterers Organisation (TUCO) identifies 12 themes, driven by the demand for more meaningful food experiences. The report, conducted in partnership with thefoodpeople agency, investigates the motivations behind the food and drink purchases made by millenials and Generation Z and how their choices infulence the latest market trends.

Matt White, chair of TUCO and director of catering, hotel and conference services at the University of Reading, said "Millennials are among the most passionate and discerning foodie demographics, so it's vital that we support our members to stay ahead of the curve."

According to the report, the 12 overarching trends are:

Health for All: Health and healthy eating are at the forefront of consumers' minds, particularly among those aged 18-25. With the vast amount of information available, people are more aware than ever about the health benefits of what they are consuming. There is a large community seeking out low sugar, low alcohol and high protein options.

Conscientious Consuming: Within the 18-25 year old demographic, there is a focus on conscientious eating. 72% of Generation Z say they are willing to pay more for products and services with positive social and environmental impacts.

Crafted and Curated: Consumers are keen to be involved in the curation of food and drinks, with companies now offering bigger back stories and more details about the processes involved. 

Plant Perfection: Plant-based eating is not only popular with vegetarians and vegans, but increasingly amongst those who generally eat meat. An increasing number of caterers are incorporating botanicals, florals and plant-based foods onto menus.

Imbibing: Creative and innovative alcoholic drinks produced by mixologists are becoming increasingly popular, with Generation Z consumers perferring one special drink over binge-drinking.

Just the Way You Want It: Generation Z want to be able to customise their diets, and respond well to flexible options. Being able to eat whatever they want, whenever they want is also a strong desire for many young people, resulting in the popularity of all day menus (such as all day brunch options).

Having Fun: Although passionate about staying healthy, millenials and Generation Z still like to have fun with their food. Indulgent deserts, drinks and savoury snacks are incredibly popular, resulting in exciting and unusual creations such as the Starbucks unicorn frapuccino and sushi doughnuts.

Experimental: Generation Z have been raised on technology, so encouraging involvement through apps allowing consumers to place orders, skip queues, or otherwise interact with the dining experience has proved highly successful.

Next Generation: Millenials and Generation Z are exposed to a wide variety of influences, resulting in a willingness to try new things, such as new twists on comfort food, gourmet street food, or drinkable deserts.

Trending Tastes: Big and bold flavours dominate the food and drink scene, with chilli heat, coffee flavours, and ecotic spices proving popular - particularly when incorporated in a new and exciting way.

The Importance of Breakfast: Breakfast is extremely popular among millenials and Generation Z. Brightly coloured porridge, 'pimped' eggs with Hollandaise or truffle oil and international creations are dominating the menu.

Global Larder: International food is increasingly popular, with almost half of millennials looking for globally inspired cuisine.

Click here to download TUCO's full Global Food and Beverage Report 2017.