When choosing a restaurant, 34% of people check the available sauces and condiments first, according to the 2024 Technomic Flavor Consumer Trend Report. Gen Z is leading this trend, with one in four young diners—especially millennials and Gen Z—carrying their own condiments, particularly hot sauce, to restaurants.
A New Love for Customization
Many restaurants don’t offer the exact flavors young diners want, so they bring their own. A study by NCSolutions found that younger generations enjoy customizing their meals. Dianna Fricke, director of culinary at Simplot, explains, “Sauces give millennials and Gen Z what they love: the ability to personalize their food.”
The Rise of Spicy Condiments
Hot sauce is the top choice for young diners. A Food Dive article reports that over half of Gen Z considers themselves hot sauce experts. They carry bottles of Cholula and sriracha to spice up tacos, eggs, and more.
Rachel Lessenden, a writer at Health My Lifestyle, says, “Many of my millennial friends bring their own hot sauce to restaurants. I haven’t, but as a vegan, I understand the appeal since dairy- and egg-free condiments are hard to find.” Other popular spicy options include Tajin, a chili-lime seasoning often sprinkled on fries and fruit.
Young food lovers are also embracing the “swicy” (sweet and spicy) trend. They drizzle hot honey on pizza, fried chicken, and even ice cream. Gochujang, a Korean chili paste, is a favorite for ramen and rice bowls, while chili crisp, an oil-based chili condiment, is used on fast food and sushi.
More Than Just Hot Sauce
It’s not just about spice. Some diners bring their own mayonnaise, ranch dressing, or seasonings. The viral Everything but the Bagel seasoning is popular for avocado toast, bagels, and salads.
As this trend grows, brands are responding. Kraft Heinz recently introduced small, portable Velveeta packets for fries and hot dogs. Keychain hot sauce holders and mini squeeze bottles make carrying favorite condiments easier.
The demand for portable sauces even influenced holiday gifts in 2024. Food writer Michelle Price says, “I gave my college-age son small bottles of condiments for Christmas, and it was his favorite gift. Now he can add Kansas City BBQ sauce to pulled pork and teriyaki sauce to his meals.”
How Boomers Compare
While younger generations prefer bold, global flavors, baby boomers stick to classic condiments. A survey by NCSolutions found that boomers are the only generation that still prefers ketchup over hot sauce. They also favor traditional choices like yellow mustard, mayonnaise, and Worcestershire sauce.
Impact on the Food Industry
Since younger consumers want more diverse flavors, restaurants and food manufacturers are adjusting. Some chains now offer more sauce options while keeping traditional choices for older customers. In 2024, 14 major brands introduced new sauces, and Kraft Heinz expanded its portable condiment line to match demand.
Changing the Flavor Game
Bringing personal condiments to restaurants isn’t just a trend—it’s a sign that younger generations want more control over their food. Whether it’s a mini bottle of Sriracha, Everything but the Bagel seasoning, hot honey, or gochujang, Gen Z and millennials are making it clear: restaurant condiments just aren’t enough anymore.
