President Donald Trump is back to announcing trade threats through a new series of letters to leaders of various countries. These letters outline tariffs on goods imported from their countries starting in August.
The most notable announcement came late on Wednesday as President Trump announced a 50% tariff on goods from Brazil in a letter sent to the country’s president, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Trump criticized Brazil for how it is treating former President Jair Bolsonaro, who is on trial in Brazil’s Supreme Court for allegedly plotting a coup in 2022.
Trump called the trial a “Witch Hunt that should end IMMEDIATELY!”
Earlier on Wednesday, Trump also dictated tariffs ranging from 20% to 30% to the leaders of the Philippines, Brunei, Moldova, Algeria, Iraq, Sri Lanka, and Libya. These tariffs were mostly in line with the duties he had announced previously in April.
On Monday, Trump sent 14 letters to countries, including South Africa, Malaysia, and Thailand, outlining tariffs between 25% to 40%. These tariffs will start on August 1.
On Tuesday, China responded by warning Trump against restarting trade tensions and said it would retaliate against countries that enter into deals with the US in order to exclude China from supply chains.
Now that we’ve briefly talked about the ongoing trade tensions, let’s take a look at the 11 best food stocks to buy according to Wall Street analysts.
A chef in a professional kitchen demonstrating ways to use the company’s products to cook healthy and functional food.
Our Methodology
To compile our list of the 11 best food stocks to buy according to Wall Street analysts, we looked for the largest food companies by market cap. We also reviewed our own rankings, financial media reports, and various online resources to compile a list of the best food stocks. Next, we focused on the top food stocks that analysts believe have the most potential for growth. We ranked the 11 best food stocks to buy based on their average price target upside potential according to analysts as of July 8, 2025.
Additionally, we mentioned the hedge fund sentiment surrounding each stock, which was taken from Insider Monkey’s Q1 2025 database of 1,000 elite hedge funds.
Why do we care about what hedge funds do? The reason is simple: our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. Our quarterly newsletter’s strategy selects 14 small-cap and large-cap stocks every quarter and has returned 373.4% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 218 percentage points (see more details here).
11 Best Food Stocks to Buy According to Wall Street Analysts
11. McCormick & Company, Incorporated (NYSE:MKC)
Average Price Target Upside Potential According to Analysts: 13.09%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 42
McCormick & Company, Incorporated (NYSE:MKC) is one of the best food stocks to buy according to Wall Street analysts. On June 27, Bernstein SocGen Group increased its price target on McCormick & Company, Incorporated (NYSE:MKC) from $101 to $102 and kept a “Market Perform” rating.
This decision came after McCormick & Company, Incorporated (NYSE:MKC) reported results for the second quarter of 2025, which were described as “solid” by Bernstein. The company also reaffirmed its full-year 2025 guidance, even when there were concerns about tariffs impacting its global supply chain.
McCormick & Company, Incorporated (NYSE:MKC) sources its ingredients from different countries. It faces a 10% tariff on imports from most countries and an additional 30% tariff on imports from China.
Bernstein pointed out that the company’s ability to reaffirm its guidance while digesting these tariff costs shows “the strength of the underlying business.”
McCormick & Company, Incorporated (NYSE:MKC) is an American food company that specializes in flavor. It manufactures, markets, and distributes herbs, spices, seasonings, condiments, and flavors to retailers, food manufacturers, and foodservice businesses.
10. United Natural Foods, Inc. (NYSE:UNFI)
Average Price Target Upside Potential According to Analysts: 15.17%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 26
United Natural Foods, Inc. (NYSE:UNFI) is one of the best food stocks to buy according to Wall Street analysts. On June 11, UBS lowered its price target on United Natural Foods, Inc. (NYSE:UNFI) from $30 to $26 and kept its “Neutral” rating.
This decision came after United Natural Foods, Inc. (NYSE:UNFI) reported its third quarter fiscal 2025 results, which beat both expectations for both top and bottom line. The company’s Natural segment helped drive revenue growth.
United Natural Foods, Inc. (NYSE:UNFI) also improved its adjusted EBITDA by almost 21% compared to last year. UBS analysts also noted that the company made good progress in reducing its debt.
Despite these positive developments, a recent cyber attack raised some concerns and introduced “considerable uncertainty” about customer retention and how United Natural Foods, Inc.’s (NYSE:UNFI) future earnings might be affected. The cyber attack’s potential impact on the company’s business was an important factor in the research firm’s decision to lower its price target for United Natural Foods, Inc. (NYSE:UNFI).
However, on June 26, United Natural Foods, Inc. (NYSE:UNFI) reported that it had restored the main systems its retail customers and suppliers use to do business with the company. The report said that the incident had been contained, and its electronic ordering and invoicing systems are back online.
United Natural Foods, Inc. (NYSE:UNFI) is a leading natural and organic food company. It is one of the largest wholesale distributors of healthy, fresh, branded, and owned brand products in North America.
9. Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ:WING)
Average Price Target Upside Potential According to Analysts: 15.29%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 39
Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ:WING) is one of the best food stocks to buy according to Wall Street analysts. On June 30, BTIG maintained its “Buy” rating for Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ:WING) with a price target of $430.
This decision came after a meeting with Wingstop Inc.’s (NASDAQ:WING) leadership at the company’s headquarters.
BTIG analyst Peter Saleh pointed out that Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ:WING) is at an important point in its history as it benefits from technology investments made in recent years.
The firm highlighted the company’s focus on improving its digital and advertising efforts and noted that international expansion is beginning to gain momentum. These are seen as key factors driving growth for Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ:WING).
BTIG highlighted that the company is currently facing its toughest comparisons this quarter, with sales expectations reset for the year. However, the analysts believe that Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ:WING) is setting itself up for a new phase of multi-year comparable sales growth.
Additionally, the firm pointed to the rollout of Smart Kitchen technology and loyalty programs by the company as key emerging drivers of sales. BTIG reaffirmed Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ:WING) as a “Top Pick.”
Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ:WING) is an American fast-casual restaurant chain that operates and franchises more than 2,500 locations around the world. It specializes in classic and boneless wings, tenders, and chicken sandwiches.
8. Restaurant Brands International Inc. (NYSE:QSR)
Average Price Target Upside Potential According to Analysts: 15.64%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 32
Restaurant Brands International Inc. (NYSE:QSR) is one of the best food stocks to buy according to Wall Street analysts. On June 24, Loop Capital kept its “Buy” rating for Restaurant Brands International Inc. (NYSE:QSR) with a price target of $93.
Loop Capital’s research shows that Burger King’s same-store sales in the US grew stronger-than-expected in the second quarter of 2025.
According to Loop Capital’s checks with US franchisees, comparable sales growth went up from 1.0-1.5% in the first seven weeks of the quarter to 4.5-5.0% in the last five weeks.
This acceleration suggests that quarter-to-date same-store sales have grown by 2.5-3.0%. This surpasses both Loop Capital’s earlier estimate of 2.0% growth and the consensus expectation of 1.5% growth.
The firm’s positive outlook on Restaurant Brands International Inc. (NYSE:QSR) is supported by this improvement in Burger King’s sales performance in recent weeks.
Restaurant Brands International Inc. (NYSE:QSR) is a Canadian multinational fast food holding company and one of the largest quick service restaurant companies in the world. It owns famous restaurant brands like Tim Hortons, Burger King, Popeyes, and Firehouse Subs.
7. McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE:MCD)
Average Price Target Upside Potential According to Analysts: 15.83%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 75
McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE:MCD) is one of the best food stocks to buy according to Wall Street analysts. On June 27, UBS reiterated its “Buy” rating for McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE:MCD) with a price target of $350.
McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE:MCD) experienced a decline since May 19, which the firm sees as creating an attractive entry point for investors.
UBS noted that McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE:MCD) is well-positioned to make multi-year market share gains, even though quick-service restaurant sales are currently under pressure.
The research firm expects McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE:MCD) to see improved same-store sales in the second half of 2025. This improvement is expected to be supported by new products, value initiatives, and marketing efforts. UBS believes these will drive performance despite ongoing spending challenges faced by lower and middle-income consumers.
According to UBS analysts, McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE:MCD) is expected to improve its international business in the coming quarters. The firm highlighted that the company’s longer-term outlook includes speeding up unit growth to 4-5% and to gain efficiencies in general and administrative expenses.
McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE:MCD) is an American multinational fast food chain with more than 38,000 restaurants around the world.
6. Domino’s Pizza, Inc. (NASDAQ:DPZ)
Average Price Target Upside Potential According to Analysts: 16.54%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 45
Domino’s Pizza, Inc. (NASDAQ:DPZ) is one of the best food stocks to buy according to Wall Street analysts. On May 27, UBS maintained its “Buy” rating for Domino’s Pizza, Inc. (NASDAQ:DPZ) with a price target of $540.
The analysts at UBS are confident that the company has strong potential to increase sales momentum in the US. This confidence is based on various initiatives that Domino’s Pizza, Inc. (NASDAQ:DPZ) has put in place to improve its performance and equip itself with important sales drivers and competitive advantages.
This positive outlook by the research firm is based on the UBS Evidence Lab 2025 Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) Survey, which showed that consumers like Domino’s Pizza, Inc. (NASDAQ:DPZ). Various attributes of the brand resonate well with the consumers
UBS analysts consider Domino’s Pizza, Inc. (NASDAQ:DPZ) as one of the top picks in the restaurant industry. The research firm sees potential upside as the company’s same-store sales in the US are expected to improve. UBS also expects to see positive customer traffic and accelerating in net unit growth in the coming years.
Domino’s Pizza, Inc. (NASDAQ:DPZ), or simply Domino’s, is an American multinational pizza company. With over 21,000 stores in more than 90 markets, it operates one of the largest restaurant chains in the world.
5. Performance Food Group Company (NYSE:PFGC)
Average Price Target Upside Potential According to Analysts: 18.68%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 44
Performance Food Group Company (NYSE:PFGC) is one of the best food stocks to buy according to Wall Street analysts. On May 29, BMO Capital Markets maintained an “Outperform” rating on Performance Food Group Company (NYSE:PFGC) with a price target of $105.
BMO Capital’s analysts discussed important takeaways from the company’s Analyst Day. Performance Food Group Company (NYSE:PFGC) has set high goals as it now aims for a compound annual growth rate of 10-13% in EBITDA over the next three years. This target exceeds earlier estimates. The growth is expected to come from improvements across the company’s business segments.
The research firm did not change its projections for Performance Food Group Company (NYSE:PFGC) for fiscal years 2025 and 2026. However, BMO Capital did raise its forecast for 2027 and 2028. The firm now expects EBITDA growth to 10% for 2027 and 2028. This is an increase from the previous estimate of 8%.
Performance Food Group Company (NYSE:PFGC) is a leading food and foodservice distribution company in North America. The company markets and delivers food and related products to independent and chain restaurants, businesses, schools, healthcare facilities, vending and office coffee service distributors, big box retailers, theaters, and convenience stores.
4. International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (NYSE:IFF)
Average Price Target Upside Potential According to Analysts: 19.44%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 47
International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (NYSE:IFF) is one of the best food stocks to buy according to Wall Street analysts. On June 4, Tigress Financial Partners initiated coverage on International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (NYSE:IFF), assigning a “Buy” rating and setting a price target of $105.
The research firm highlighted key drivers for the company’s growth. These included strong industry trends, smart investments, and a broad product portfolio.
Tigress Financial pointed out that International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (NYSE:IFF) performed well in its core segments, as shown in its first quarter results for 2025. The company improved its margins and took strategic steps to successfully meet growing consumer demand for healthier foods and healthcare products. These actions are also expected to help mitigate economic challenges.
According to Tigress Financial analysts, International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (NYSE:IFF) is well-positioned for long-term growth as it capitalizes on favorable industry trends and invests in areas like taste, scent, nutrition, and biosciences. These moves align with global trends like healthy eating and sustainable sourcing.
The analysts also noted that International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (NYSE:IFF) keeps reinvesting its cash flow into research and development and important growth initiatives.
International Flavors & Fragrances Inc. (NYSE:IFF) is a leading company in flavors, fragrances, food ingredients, and health & biosciences. The company’s solutions are used in a range of consumer goods, including food, beverages, health and personal care items, and pharmaceuticals.
3. Yum China Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:YUMC)
Average Price Target Upside Potential According to Analysts: 19.80%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 31
Yum China Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:YUMC) is one of the best food stocks to buy according to Wall Street analysts. On July 7, BofA Securities reduced its price target for Yum China Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:YUMC) from $60.50 to $56.50 but kept a “Buy” rating.
The firm pointed out that Yum China Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:YUMC) has underperformed the MSCI China index by 16% since Liberation Day. This weaker performance was mainly attributed to investors reassessing the company’s long-term growth after Yum China Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:YUMC) shifted its focus to smaller stores and franchising.
BofA’s channel checks showed that Yum China Holdings, Inc.’s (NYSE:YUMC) same-store sales growth (SSSG) was around 0-1% in the second quarter. There were also indications that the performance in June might surpass expectations. BofA also observed sequential delivery order growth of over 10% in the past weekend.
The research note also mentioned that Meituan and Alibaba have started offering strong delivery subsidies. These discounts could help Yum China Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:YUMC) achieve same-store sales growth in the third quarter of 2025, which is usually a busy season for the company. The research firm expects same-store sales to improve in the second half of 2025.
Yum China Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:YUMC) is the largest restaurant company in China, operating more than 16,000 restaurants under 6 brands across more than 2,300 cities. The company operates and franchises restaurants under brands like KFC, Pizza Hut, and Taco Bell.
2. Bunge Global SA (NYSE:BG)
Average Price Target Upside Potential According to Analysts: 20.01%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 38
Bunge Global SA (NYSE:BG) is one of the best food stocks to buy according to Wall Street analysts. On July 3, UBS maintained its “Buy” rating on Bunge Global SA (NYSE:BG) with a price target of $100.
This decision came after Bunge Global SA (NYSE:BG) completed its merger with Viterra, which created a premier global agribusiness solutions company for food, feed, and fuel.
As a result of this transaction, Bunge Global SA (NYSE:BG) is now a stronger company with more capabilities and expertise to meet the changing needs of its customers and deliver more value to its stakeholders.
UBS analyst Manav Gupta pointed out that the merger is anticipated to help improve the balance of value chains across geographies. Gupta also expected Bunge Global SA (NYSE:BG) to achieve significant synergies while producing more stable cash flows.
Bunge Global SA (NYSE:BG) is a global agribusiness and food company that specializes in grain origination, storage, distribution, and oilseed processing and refining. The company offers a broad portfolio of plant-based oils, fats, and proteins.
1. CAVA Group, Inc. (NYSE:CAVA)
Average Price Target Upside Potential According to Analysts: 31.44%
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 41
CAVA Group, Inc. (NYSE:CAVA) is one of the best food stocks to buy according to Wall Street analysts. On July 2, KeyBanc initiated coverage on CAVA Group, Inc. (NYSE:CAVA) and gave it an “Overweight” rating with a price target of $100.
The research firm believes CAVA Group, Inc. (NYSE:CAVA) is the top brand in the fast-growing Mediterranean fast-casual restaurant segment. KeyBanc noted that there are not many direct competitors in this segment.
The firm’s analysts compared CAVA Group, Inc.’s (NYSE:CAVA) potential growth to what Chipotle has achieved over the past two decades. This suggests that the company could become the main name in Mediterranean food and expand into new markets across the US.
KeyBanc analysts pointed out CAVA Group, Inc.’s (NYSE:CAVA) new stores are performing well, bringing in returns that rank among the best in the industry. This strong performance is expected to help the company sustain double-digit unit growth. Same-store sales are also expected to perform well, even if there is moderation in the near term.
While acknowledging CAVA stock trades at approximately 115 times and 45 times KeyBanc’s 2026 estimated EPS and EBITDA, respectively, the firm believes the company’s pricing power, expansion opportunities, and potential operational efficiencies can drive sustainable earnings growth.
KeyBanc noted that CAVA Group, Inc. (NYSE:CAVA) is trading at about 115 times its estimated earnings per share and 45 times its estimated EBITDA for 2026. However, the firm believes that the company’s pricing power, opportunities for growth, and operational efficiencies can support earnings growth.
CAVA Group, Inc. (NYSE:CAVA) is a food and restaurant company that operates a chain of Mediterranean fast-casual restaurants.
While we acknowledge the potential of CAVA as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns and have limited downside risk. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than CAVA and that has a 100x upside potential, check out our report about this cheapest AI stock.
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