Ever peeked into your parents' or grandparents' pantry and wondered why it looks like a time capsule? There are certain foods that only boomers seem to stock up on, like religiously. Some of it makes sense (hello, oatmeal), and some of it… We're still trying to understand. But one thing's for sure: if you check someone over 60's grocery cart, these items are almost always there. Take a look and see how many of them your family swears by, too.
Note: The content of this article does not reflect the Writer's personal beliefs.
Yogurt
Boomers have always treated yogurt like a miracle food, and honestly, they might be onto something. It’s their go-to remedy for an upset stomach to “just not feeling right.” But beyond the health perks, I have to admit that yogurt is brilliant, versatile, easy to eat, and works with both sweet and savory dishes. It’s also budget-friendly, which makes it even more appealing. If there’s one thing you’ll always find in their fridge, it’s a tub of plain yogurt.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal has serious boomer energy, and I mean that in the best way. It’s affordable, filling, and packed with nutrients, which makes it a no-brainer for anyone trying to eat well without much fuss. Boomers love that it’s quick to make and easy on the stomach, especially in the morning. Add a handful of fruit or a drizzle of honey, and it’s a simple breakfast that never goes out of style. It sounds so good. I am seriously thinking of trying it.
Flour
Boomers and flour go way back, like, back when baking from scratch was just called "cooking." They always seem to have a giant bag in the pantry, and somehow, it disappears faster than you'd expect. That's because older generations still bake regularly, whipping up cookies, cakes, and breads without blinking. For them, flour isn't just a staple. It's tradition. And honestly, if it means more homemade treats, we're not mad about it.
Processed fried foods
Our parents sure have a lot of fried foods in their grocery baskets for someone who limited our intake of the same foods as kids.
But perhaps older people just want to keep stuff like this so their grandkids can enjoy the meal. Or perhaps they just like the idea of not having to make nuggets from scratch. Who knows, but they buy it up like crazy.
Jam
There’s something in jams, we’re telling you, because this sweet goodness is always available at older folks' houses, even if they’re diabetic. And if you haven’t noticed yet, some sugar-free jams are even marketed toward seniors. Everyone loves a good jam, but people over 60 are seriously obsessed.
Tea
Boomers don’t just drink tea. They believe in it like it’s medicine and magic in one cup. Got a headache? Tea. Feeling anxious? Tea. Can’t sleep? You guessed it—tea. Their cupboards are filled with every herbal blend imaginable, each one with a purpose. For them, a warm mug of tea fixes almost everything (or at least makes it feel better).
Canned beans
Let us ask you one thing: have you willingly gone for canned beans over fresh? No, right? That’s because canned beans are only popular with older folks who don't want to cook from scratch.
Canned beans are also quite nutritious, so for people who can no longer muster the energy to make whole meals, they serve as a quick boost of energy and can last a while in the fridge.
Canned soup
Have you noticed older folks have a penchant for canned foods? This might be because canned food was so popular when they were younger, and they are just used to its convenience.
Canned soup has other reasons to be liked, though. It’s an easy meal that only needs to be placed on the stove to be enjoyed, and it’s also a safe option for older folks who no longer want to cook.
Pasta sauce
While younger generations are tempted to make food from scratch in attempts to promote healthy and hearty eating, our parents often no longer want to spend that long in the kitchen.
For them, having everything made for you is like a goldmine. Of course, some make their own sauces, but they’re a small portion of the population. For most, having a pasta sauce you can eat out of the jar is good enough.
Canned tuna
We grew up with canned tuna because our parents refused to buy it fresh. For them, canned tuna was a convenient source of a quick and easy meal, plus it came prepared, so there wasn't extra work on their side.
It’s also cheaper than other seafood options, and we all know our parents won’t let a good deal slide. Part of why they still buy it is because they’re used to it, but we can’t deny its benefits.
Alcoholic beverages
And, of course, it isn’t an older person’s house without there being some form of alcohol. While alcohol is a way to unwind and relax and even make some new pals, there are many reasons why the older generations love to buy it. They are often simply in the habit of having a drink at the end of the day, so they keep the tradition going, stocking up bottle after bottle.
Decaf Coffee
Older generations absolutely love coffee. However, many of them don't want all that caffeine. They want to taste the coffee, not get all hyped up! That is why baby boomers always buy decaf coffee. It is a staple in every baby boomer's house.
Anchovies
Everyone over 60 loves canned foods, and anchovies are just another must-have canned item. Anchovies are extremely healthy and have lots of benefits for the mind and body. Our parents and grandparents know this, and they will gladly eat an entire can of anchovies just to get that youthful glow. Not many of us are willing to eat slimy fish just to stay young, but those over 60 are!
Artificial Sweeteners
The older generations just looooove artificial sweeteners. They stay far, far away from regular sugar and load up on the fake stuff. Every baby boomer out there has a healthy stock of Splenda, Equal, Truvia, and definitely Stevia. They wouldn't dare let that supply get low, so they are constantly buying those sweeteners at the store.
Pre-Cut Fruit
We aren't sure why the older generations love pre-cut fruit so much. It is probably just because it is convenient and hassle-free. They skip over the fresh fruit and go right for the chopped stuff. Who is going to tell Grandma that the pre-cut fruit costs soooo much more than the whole fruit?
This article was first published at Spatula Desserts.
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