How TikTok is changing what Gen Z cook for midweek meals in Britain

How TikTok is changing what Gen Z cook for midweek meals in BritainGen Z less likely to eat traditional British midweek meals like jacket potatoes as four in ten turn to TikTok for recipe inspiration insteadCommentsLifestyleCharlie Biggs-Thomas16:05, 14 Apr 2026Updated 16:08, 14 Apr 2026View 2 ImagesGen Z have turned their backs on British staples(Image: Getty Images)Britain's midweek dining habits are shifting, as Gen Z turn their backs on British staples, according to a fresh survey. A poll of 2,000 adults found that just 12% of younger people sit down to jacket potatoes or soup for their evening meals, while traditional favourites such as sausage and mash and chilli con carne are falling out of favour amongst Gen Z compared to older age groups.‌The research revealed that 23% of those born between 1997 and 2012 put taste first when choosing what to eat, with 39% heading to TikTok for recipe inspiration – more than any other generation, while one in five admit to trying a dish simply because it went viral.‌View 2 ImagesOnly 12% will have a jacket potato for dinner(Image: Getty Images)‌Rob Watson from Homepride, which commissioned the research, said: "Social media has completely changed how people approach cooking. Gen Z are discovering new cuisines and flavours online and bringing that inspiration straight into their kitchens."What's interesting is that while people are experimenting more, there's still a real appetite for nostalgic classics. People still want those satisfying, familiar flavours, but they're looking for faster, easier ways to achieve them."That's where cooking sauces can really help, making it simple to recreate both classic dishes and new favourites at home."‌Homepride has unveiled a new interactive quiz designed to uncover your midweek cooking personality.Based on your favourite dinners - from the dependable staples of a 'Classic Comforter' to the adventurous, internationally influenced dishe...