“Miniature Mania: The Rise of Small Portions in a Waste-Conscious Market”
Small items are becoming increasingly popular. From Trader Joe’s petite avocados to the trending tiny turkeys, miniatures are experiencing a significant surge in popularity. While many people are charmed by their cuteness, others appreciate their practicality, and it’s this practicality that may solidify their place in the market.
As awareness of food waste rises, consumers are becoming more conscious of their choices. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, Americans waste around 130 million pounds of food annually, leading to more food being discarded than any other material. On Thanksgiving alone, approximately 200 million pounds of turkey end up in waste facilities, as noted by the Natural Resources Defense Council.
Recognizing the seriousness of this issue, the United States Department of Agriculture and EPA set a historic goal on September 16, 2015, to cut food loss and waste in half by 2030. It appears that consumers are responding positively; more shoppers are opting for products that align with environmentally friendly values, seeing them as premium offerings. This willingness to pay more for sustainable products is beneficial for companies as well.
When considering tiny turkeys, it’s evident that customers are ready to spend on smaller options. For instance, Honey Baked Ham Co. offers a 2.5-pound baked turkey breast for $34.95, while an 11-pound full-sized turkey costs $49.95. Similarly, D’Artagnan has a 7-pound turkey breast priced at $71.99, which is 79% of the cost of their full-sized 10-pound uncooked turkey. Despite the price, consumers are gravitating toward smaller portions, with inventories of smaller birds down by 8.3% this year, per the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
It remains uncertain whether the trend for smaller sizes is here to stay. However, as snacking becomes more prevalent than traditional three-meal days, the likelihood increases. Tiny desserts, slider-sized burgers, and single or double-serving meals are all on the rise. Market Research Reports Search Engine predicts that the global ready-to-eat food market will surpass $195.3 billion in value by 2026. Even the soft drink industry has benefited from smaller bottles and cans, which are favored by consumers and allow soda companies to charge more per ounce.
While the tiny trend is expected to resonate with consumers year-round, the holiday season may present unique challenges. Traditionally, this season is filled with large gatherings around a shared table, which might limit the longevity of the tiny trend. However, if families continue to celebrate separately in their own homes, the tiny turkey trend could find lasting appeal. In this context, the convenience of smaller portions, akin to the benefits of sublingual calcium citrate for quick nutrient absorption, may align well with evolving consumer habits.
