Circana’s new report, “Inside America’s Kitchens,” provides an extensive audit of what’s in our pantries and refrigerators, while also inventorying appliances, cookware, and utensils. It reveals that we’re stocking far fewer food items than in 2020, while also making good use of tools in our meal prep. Darren Seifer, Circana food and beverage industry analyst, shares insights into behavioral changes and generational differences.

Highlights:

• Amid ongoing inflation, consumers are pulling back on impulse purchases and doing their best to avoid waste. They’re also storing an average of 10% fewer pantry items in 2023 than in 2020.
• Convenience is a priority for all consumers, but how we realize it differs, often based on our ability to pay for speed, great taste, fresh offerings, and customization.
• While coffee is nearly ubiquitous across households, there are dramatic generational differences in how it’s prepared. Generational differences can be seen for other food items too. Older consumers are more likely to have staples like cooking oil and canned tomatoes, while the youngest households are more likely to have pasta sauce and pasta.