Gen Z Embraces 'Picky Teas' as a Cheaper Meal Alternative with Doritos' New Initiative
Gen Z ditch main meals for 'cheaper' alternative – and Doritos are here to help

Image: Dailystar Co Uk
A study reveals that 68% of Gen Z often feel stuck in meal choices, leading them to prefer 'picky teas'—a selection of finger foods—over traditional meals. This trend is partly driven by cost, with Gen Z spending around £2,400 annually on dining out, nearly double that of older generations. Doritos is capitalizing on this trend with its 'Doritos Loaded Month' campaign, encouraging customizable meal experiences.
- 01Over half of Gen Z prefer 'picky teas', consuming them about three times a week.
- 02Two-thirds of respondents find 'picky teas' quick and easy, while 22% appreciate their shareability.
- 03Gen Z's annual dining out expenditure is approximately £2,400, compared to £1,482 for Boomers and £1,539 for Gen X.
- 04The ideal 'picky tea' includes crisps (55%), sausage rolls (48%), cheeses (48%), and dips (37%).
- 05Doritos Loaded Month allows customers in London, Manchester, and Glasgow to create unique meals by bringing their own Doritos.
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Gen Z is shifting away from traditional meals, opting instead for 'picky teas'—a combination of finger foods that offer flexibility and social sharing. A recent survey of 2,000 adults found that 68% of Gen Z often feel indecisive about dinner, leading to a preference for these snackable alternatives, which they consume an average of three times a week. The trend is fueled by cost considerations, with Gen Z spending around £2,400 annually on dining out, nearly double the amounts spent by Boomers and Gen X. In response to this trend, Doritos has launched 'Doritos Loaded Month', encouraging fans in cities like London, Manchester, and Glasgow to bring their own Doritos to over 200 vendors for a unique meal experience at just £5. Elise McDonald, a spokesperson for Doritos, noted that this initiative aligns with the growing demand for customizable food experiences, particularly among younger consumers who seek bold flavors and social dining occasions. The survey also revealed that the ideal 'picky tea' includes a mix of five different foods, with popular choices being crisps, sausage rolls, cheeses, and dips.
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This trend indicates a shift in dining habits that could affect local food vendors and restaurants, as they may need to adapt their offerings to cater to Gen Z's preferences for flexible and affordable meal options.
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