Food Trends Influenced by Social Media
In today’s fast-paced world, what you eat might just hinge on what you see scrolling through your social media feed.
A recent study of 5,000 American adults reveals that a whopping 77% are shaping their dietary choices around online trends. Interestingly, many believe that fries are at the forefront of these trends.
Commissioned by McCain, the findings from Talker Research emphasize that food content isn’t just for entertainment but serves as a source of inspiration for many.
Nearly everyone—93% to be exact—has encountered food content on social media, with such posts filling up nearly 40% of their feeds. Over half (58%) of those surveyed have saved enough viral recipes to fill an entire cookbook.
Previously dominated by dance challenges and memes, social media platforms are now buzzing with amateur cooks and late-night snack ideas. From cooking hacks (56%) to discovering new dishes (44%), cooking has transitioned firmly into the digital realm.
Fries seem to be the standout dish for many. About 72% of Americans who discovered a viral recipe online reported seeing fries featured. Millennials, in particular, appear to have a soft spot for them, with 76% expressing enthusiasm.
Other viral favorites include Caesar salads with fries—often dubbed the “girl dinner”—and the trendy espresso martini, which is ingrained in social food culture (30% and 17%, respectively). A surprising 8% of those polled enjoy pairing a martini with fries.
Fries, however, are noted for their significant presence and viral potential, with 69% of respondents indicating they are the most likely food to explode in popularity on social media, outpacing chicken (67%), pasta (63%), and pizza (62%).
Tracy Hostetler, a marketing VP at North American Potato, remarked, “Food content provides a creative outlet and serves as a shared language. Fries are an ideal medium—familiar, versatile, and universally loved. This is why they resonate so well online.”
The research suggests that today’s food culture extends beyond just appealing visuals; it’s also about fostering connections.
About six in ten Americans regularly share food experiences with friends, while nearly half (47%) exchange recipes and food content through digital means. Fries make a strong showing as a favorite sharable option, coming in just behind pizza (71% and 73%, respectively). Chips, wings, and dips round out the list of popular shareable snacks.
Interestingly, chatting about shared snacks often involves certain unspoken rules. For instance, 68% adhere to a “double dipping” guideline, and 43% agree that seeking permission before taking the last fry is a matter of sacred etiquette.
“Whether you’re sharing fries from the same basket or trading viral recipes in group chats, food connects us,” Tracy added. “Fries are a universal dish that brings everyone to the table, whether that’s in person or online.”
“From ‘girl dinner’ to Friday-night gatherings, food culture has evolved, and fries remain at the heart of it all. McCain is delighted to celebrate these moments of togetherness and joy with our beloved fries.”
Research Method:
The study conducted by Talker Research involved a survey of 5,000 American adults, with 100 respondents from each state. This research, commissioned by McCain, took place from May 28th to June 5th, 2025.
