ASSERJ on RJTV: noodles gain strength in the carts of the people of Rio de Janeiro

ASSERJ has been closely following the changes in the purchasing behavior of consumers in Rio de Janeiro. And in 2025, one change stands out in families' basic food baskets: a reduction in the consumption of rice and beans, symbols of Brazilian identity and food security, and an increase in demand for pasta.

The topic was on the agenda of RJTV1 this Saturday, October 25, World Pasta Day. And, of course, as the voice of the supermarket sector and a reference in consumer behavior analysis, our Association contributed with the participation of Fábio Queiróz, president of ASSERJ and the Americas Supermarket Association (ALAS).

Even with a significant drop in prices this year, with rice seeing a reduction of more than 20% and beans around 30%, according to data from the Broad Consumer Price Index of the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IPCA/IBGE), consumption in volume of these products has decreased. Comparing September 2025 with the same month last year, rice fell by 7.9% and beans by 2%, according to information from Scanntech. This behavior has remained constant throughout the year.

On the other hand, pasta has been consolidating its presence in consumers' shopping carts. Despite the practically stable price variation, with a slight drop of 0.63%, the product has seen an increase in consumption.

"In these economic times, creativity is in charge. Consumers often opt for products that cost them less money," says Fábio Queiróz.

The trend reflects a habit that is increasingly present in families' daily lives: the search for practicality, versatility and good value for money. The fast pace of routine, combined with the ease of preparation and the diversity of options available on the shelves, has driven this choice.

Although modern consumers are diversifying their diets, incorporating alternatives that are quick and affordable to prepare, the traditional "rice and beans" remains a cultural and nutritional icon, says Fábio Queiróz: "Rice and beans still occupy a very important position in the basic food basket and that's why they continue to sell so well. Both for cultural and nutritional reasons".

Check out the full RJTV1 story below:

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uBArFeSLF84[/embed]