In 2025, pay close attention: 8 bright prospects in the food sector for your portfolio

Why Consider Food Stocks?

In a world where the economy remains uncertain, investors are increasingly focusing on the food sector because the fundamental nature of this business is quite different from other industries — humans need to eat. Regardless of whether the economy is good or bad, food remains an essential commodity. Brands in this sector have stable purchasing power and relatively consistent profits.

From an investor’s perspective, stocks in the restaurant and general food manufacturing sectors are divided into several main groups: animal feed and processed foods, beverage producers, sugar producers, and restaurant chains.

4 Thai Food Stocks to Watch for Your Portfolio in 2025

1. Charoen Pokphand (CPF) - The Giant of the Industry

Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited (is the leader in comprehensive food production in Thailand. Founded in 1978, the company drives three main business axes: animal feed, livestock, and food processing.

Its operations span over 17 countries, with exports reaching 40 countries. Export revenue is crucial for CPF’s growth.

Market Data: Current price 22.0 THB, P/E ratio 11.9, target price 30.00 THB, dividend yield 2.06%, market cap 183.41 billion THB

) 2. Thai Union ###TU( - The Leader in Seafood Products

Thai Union has built its reputation through seafood exports since 1977. The company owns globally recognized brands such as Seafood, TUNY, and Chicken of the Sea, giving TU a strong position in the global market.

Its investment strategy includes expanding into new markets like the US and Europe, as well as health-related and related product segments.

Market Data: Current price 12.40 THB, target price 16.90 THB, dividend yield 4.51%, market cap 52.93 billion THB

) 3. Asian Sea ###ASIAN( - A True Bloodsucker

Since 1983, Asian Sea Corporation has established itself as one of Thailand’s largest processed seafood producers. The company specializes in high-quality products with a global market network.

Market Data: Current price 7.85 THB, P/E ratio 7.8, target price 30.00 THB, dividend yield 9.29%, market cap 6.31 billion THB

) 4. The Minor Food Group ###MINT( - The Restaurant Business Pioneer

Starting with “The Pizza Company” in 1978, MINT has grown into a major restaurant group. It manages global brands such as Burger King, Dairy Queen, and The Coffee Club. The company continues to expand in food and beverage sectors.

Market Data: Current price 22.0 THB, P/E ratio 42.7, target price 30.00 THB, dividend yield 2.06%, market cap 183.41 billion THB

4 Strengths of Global Food Stocks

) 5. Nestlé ###NESN( - The King of Global Food

The growth potential in global markets is becoming clearer. Nestlé has become a natural choice for international investors. Founded in 1866 in Switzerland, it started with baby food and now produces products ranging from Nescafé coffee, KitKat chocolates, Nestlé Pure Life water, Milo, to Purina pet foods.

This management oversees operations in over 190 countries.

Market Data: Current price 74.04 CHF, P/E ratio 17.28, target price 87.64 CHF, dividend yield 3.99%, market cap 193.12 billion CHF

) 6. Coca-Cola ###KO( - The Iconic Beverage of the World

Since establishing its brand in 1886, Coca-Cola has become one of the fastest-growing companies. Its portfolio includes over 200 brands across more than 200 countries, from Coca-Cola Classic, Sprite, Fanta, Minute Maid, Smartwater, to Dasani.

Market Data: Current price 62.54 USD, P/E ratio 25.37, target price 68.14 USD, dividend yield 3.14%, market cap 263.08 billion USD

) 7. PepsiCo ###PEP( - More Than Just Beverages

Besides being known for beverages, PepsiCo expanded significantly after merging Pepsi-Cola with Frito-Lay in 1965. Its products include Pepsi, Lay’s chips, Gatorade, Tropicana, Quaker Oats, Mountain Dew, Cheetos, and Doritos, making it a key player in the snack food market.

Market Data: Current price 177.89 USD, P/E ratio 20.91, target price 195.73 USD, dividend yield 3.70%, market cap 195.70 billion USD

) 8. Unilever ###UL( - The Pioneer of Consumer Goods

Unilever was formed from the merger of Margarine Unie from the Netherlands and Lever Brothers from the UK. Today, it operates in over 190 countries, covering three main categories: food and beverages, personal care, and cleaning products. Its brands include Knorr, Hellmann’s, Dove, Lux, Magnum, and Wall’s.

Market Data: Current price 55.13 USD, P/E ratio 21.56, target price 62.98 USD, dividend yield 3.29%, market cap 139.56 billion USD

Easy-to-Understand Comparison Table

New Health Food Stocks to Watch

The health food market is rapidly diversifying and growing. Companies like Beyond Meat, Oatly, Tattooed Chef, The Hain Celestial, Danone, Nomad Foods, Sprouts Farmers Market, and Ingredion are key players in this sector, responding to consumer trends toward healthier eating.

Profit vs. Risk: Balance with Caution

) The Positives

• Necessity: Food is an unavoidable necessity. This trait makes food stocks more stable than other industries.
• Profitability: Established companies in this sector have a loyal customer base and steady cash flow.
• Geographical Diversification: Multinational companies can adapt to different economic conditions.
• Dividends: Many food companies have a history of consistent and reliable dividend payments.
• Innovation: The market is evolving; healthy foods and plant-based meats are growth opportunities.

Potential Challenges

• Economic Variables: Despite being essential, high inflation or financial instability can reduce purchasing power.
• Intense Competition: The market has many players, and competition is fierce.
• Raw Material Costs: Inflation increases costs for energy, labor, and key commodities.
• Changing Consumer Preferences: Rapid shifts in demand mean companies that fail to adapt may suffer.

Why Have Food Stocks in Your Portfolio?

1. Predictable Stability: When markets fluctuate wildly, food stocks often remain resilient.
2. Strong Recovery Potential: Economic downturns impact food businesses less than other sectors.
3. Steady Demand Growth: Global population increases exert long-term pressure on food demand.
4. Dividend Income: Many companies offer attractive and reliable dividends.
5. Innovation Adaptability: Leading companies can capitalize on new trends.
6. Global Presence: Many operate in over 190 countries.

Three Main Investment Approaches

1. Direct Stock Purchase
Open a brokerage account ###in Thailand or abroad( and buy the food stocks you’re interested in. You gain ownership, dividends, and voting rights at shareholder meetings.

2. Mutual Funds )Mutual Fund(
Investors pool resources, managed by experts who select assets to optimize returns.

3. Contract for Difference )CFD(
Popular because it allows: leverage, trading on both rising and falling markets, and potentially higher returns )but with higher risk(.

Summary

Food and restaurant stocks are essential parts of a portfolio because they generate steady income, offer high stability, and provide reasonable valuation and dividend income. Examples include Thailand’s CPF, TU, ASIAN, MINT, and international giants like Nestlé, Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Unilever—all worthy options.

When investing, carefully study the business model, fundamentals, financial ratios, and dividend yield to ensure your portfolio remains balanced and aligned with your goals in 2025.