Gen Z and Millennials are shaking up Christmas traditions, with many favouring plant-based roasts and globally-inspired dishes over traditional festive favourites like mince pies, Christmas pudding, and cranberry sauce.
The survey of 2,000 people revealed that 78% of younger adults would prefer a more diverse spread on the Christmas table, claiming classic Christmas dishes need a contemporary update to stay relevant.
Over half of these respondents consider traditional festive foods, such as Christmas pudding, to be ‘dated’, with Brussels sprouts and bread sauce also losing popularity.
In response to this shift in tastes, Aldi has introduced a Christmas Pudding Exchange Service for customers who want to swap their dried fruit sponge for something different.
Julie Ashfield, managing director of buying at Aldi, said: “We’re aware that tastes are evolving, so whether you want turkey and all the trimmings, or loaded fries and pizza for Christmas, we have something for everyone.
“This Christmas, we’re launching a Christmas Pudding Exchange Service to help customers end their meal with a dessert they love.”
It has been revealed that 34% of Christmas celebrants would prefer to alter their traditional festive meal to better suit their personal tastes.
A significant 27% would modify the menu to accommodate dietary restrictions, while 26% are seeking a more thrilling or adventurous dining experience.
Interestingly, for 67% of Gen Z, an Instagram-worthy Christmas dinner is a must. The top cuisines this generation would like to incorporate into their holiday feast include American-style loaded fries (29%), African-inspired dishes (26%), and Chinese food (20%).
For dessert, they favour cheesecake (33%), chocolate gateau (29%), and ice cream (25%). Despite these preferences, Aldi’s data indicates that single servings of Christmas puddings are gaining popularity, with the supermarket predicting sales of over 2.3 million this year.
From now until 28th December, customers can return any Christmas pudding to their local store’s foodbank, provide photographic evidence to christmaspuddings@aldi.co.uk, and receive a £10 voucher for a Christmas dessert of their choice.
Despite these preferences, Aldi’s data indicates that single servings of Christmas puddings are gaining popularity, with the supermarket predicting sales of over 2.3 million this year.
Furthermore, two-thirds of Gen Z believe their parents will still serve a traditional Christmas pudding.
CHRISTMAS FOODS GEN Z ARE TURNING THEIR BACK ON:
1. Mince pies
2. Christmas pudding
3. Christmas cake
4. Cranberry sauce
5. Brussels sprouts
6. Bread sauce
7. Chestnuts
8. Brandy butter
9. Turkey
10. Trifle
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