Healthy eating looks different in 2025. It’s less about counting calories and more about choosing foods that boost energy, improve recovery, and support long-term wellness. From protein-forward snacks to functional ingredients, these are the foods earning top marks for how they fuel everyday life.
2025 Healthy Food Awards
Here are this year’s “winners” - seven trends shaping how we eat smarter, feel stronger, and snack better.
🥇 Best Protein Trend: Plant-Based Power Blends
Pea and rice protein blends are redefining what plant-based strength looks like. When combined, they deliver a complete amino acid profile that rivals whey. It’s the foundation of many modern protein snacks, including Lenny & Larry’s cookies and bars (proof that plant protein can taste amazing while providing real fuel).
🥈 Best Breakfast Revival: High-Protein Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese has officially made its comeback. Its high protein, low fat, and mild flavor make it perfect for pairing with fruit, oats, or even savory add-ins. In 2025, it’s less of a “diet food” and more of a balanced breakfast staple that keeps you full longer.
🥉 Best Comeback Food: Oats in Everything
Oats are having another big year. Beyond oatmeal, they now show up in snack bars, protein cookies, and even smoothie bases. The reason? Their fiber supports digestion and heart health, and their versatility makes them a powerhouse ingredient for all-day nutrition.
🏅 Best Gut Health Hero: Fermented Foods
Fermentation continues to shine as one of the simplest ways to boost gut health. Foods like kimchi, kefir, sauerkraut, and probiotic yogurts promote healthy digestion and may support immunity. More people are reaching for these foods daily to keep their microbiome in balance.
🏅 Best Smart Snack: Protein Pretzels
Meet the snack that satisfies both crunch cravings and protein goals. Protein pretzels offer the perfect combo of salty flavor and staying power (especially when made with plant-based protein like Lenny & Larry’s Fitzels). They’ve become the go-to choice for an afternoon pick-me-up that actually fuels you.
🏅 Best Functional Ingredient: Adaptogens & Mushrooms
Adaptogens like ashwagandha and mushroom extracts such as lion’s mane and reishi are popping up everywhere (from snack bars to coffee blends). They’re valued for their ability to support focus, reduce stress, and promote mental clarity. Functional food innovation is taking these ingredients mainstream in 2025.
🏅 Best Hydration Upgrade: Electrolyte-Enhanced Drinks
Hydration isn’t just about water anymore. The latest electrolyte drinks help replenish sodium, magnesium, and potassium (sans the excess sugar found in older sports drinks). Expect more functional hydration options designed to complement active lifestyles.
Final Thoughts
Health in 2025 is about smarter choices that match how you live. Whether it’s adding more protein, fiber, or function to your diet, these food trends show that good nutrition can taste incredible.
Lenny & Larry’s keeps fueling that shift with plant-based snacks that make balanced eating effortless (and delicious).
Lenny and Larrys