Survey: 7 in 10 consumers say they will keep cooking at home after the pandemic

The pandemic has left a mark on consumption habits with 85% of consumers saying they have altered their eating habits as a result of the pandemic, according to a study by the International Food Information Council. However, with the promise of widespread vaccination inching closer, manufacturers are wondering if they will be able to retain the momentum they gained in 2020.   

Some studies have shown consumers are getting increasingly tired of always cooking at home. The Hunter data reflects this, showing takeout and delivery orders are up significantly, compared to the onset of the pandemic when restaurant takeout sales declined 8%. These data indicate while dining-in may still be limited, restaurants are still centerpieces of the American dining culture, providing the convenience and variety that diners crave. From 2015 until the pandemic began, foodservice surpassed sales for retail food and beverage. The recent shift in dining behavior may be indicative that the resurgence of CPG sales is a function not of consumer habit, but of circumstance.

Although some are becoming less interested in cooking in their own kitchens, many are finding they like it. According to a September report by sales and marketing agency Acosta, 35% of people have developed a newfound passion for cooking, which is 10% more than those tiring of having to cook frequently.

Although Hunter's findings similarly showed that cooking at home may be a long-lasting trend, what people are cooking may soon shift. According to a survey from Mattson last spring, 58% said they will immediately be ready to purchase new products and introduce variety into their diets when the pandemic is over. Consumers seeking out different products is nothing new, but this is a reversal from 2020, when consumers made do with what was available on shelves and manufacturers whittled down the number of SKUs in their portfolio in favor of focusing on popular products.