Wondering if SEO still matters for food blogs in 2025? Despite what you might have heard, Google remains the largest source of traffic on the internet, and food blogs are still ranking prominently in search results. Today, I sit down with Carl Ross from Uku Digital for a discussion all about what’s really working right now, from smart content strategy to the technical elements that can make or break your site’s performance!
Has your food blog been impacted by Google’s recent updates? You’re not alone. While some creators are abandoning SEO altogether, successful food bloggers are adapting their strategies to thrive in this new landscape. Here’s what you need to know about SEO in 2025:
Understanding the HCU Impact
Google’s Helpful Content Update (HCU) has reshaped the SEO landscape. Key markers of HCU impact include:
- Sharp traffic drops around September 17, 2023
- Additional declines after October 2023’s core update
- Further changes following March 4, 2024 update
Why User Experience Matters More Than Ever
Google tracks user behavior through Chrome browsers, regardless of traffic source. Critical factors include:
- Time spent on page
- Scroll depth
- Interaction with pop-ups and ads
- Overall site navigation experience
Building Authority Through Multiple Channels
Today’s successful food blogs need more than just great content:
- Strong social media presence
- Active Pinterest profile
- Engaged email list
- Quality backlinks from reputable sources
- Consistent brand presence across platforms
Technical SEO Fundamentals
Don’t overlook these technical elements:
- Clean site architecture with logical navigation
- Optimized category structure
- Proper URL configuration
- Regular broken link checks
- Efficient redirects management
Content Strategy for 2025
Focus on creating content that:
- Matches your site’s authority level
- Targets achievable keywords
- Meets genuine user search intent
- Provides unique value
- Benefits from your existing expertise
Measuring Success
Track these key metrics:
- Google Search Console data
- User engagement metrics
- Traffic from multiple sources
- Keyword rankings
- Core Web Vitals
While the landscape has changed, Google remains the largest source of recipe-related searches. Success requires a balanced approach between technical optimization and user experience, supported by strong content and multiple traffic sources. For a stronger SEO for your blog, start by auditing your site’s technical foundation and diversifying your traffic sources.
Carl is an engineer who spent many years in corporate technology consulting roles which gave him a unique perspective on the application of technology, processes, and getting a return on your investments literally spent decades helping customers make sense of technology products. While he works with bloggers in many different niches, food bloggers are his bread and butter. You can connect with Carl on Facebook and on UkuDigital.com.
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hey friend, i’m madison
Food blogger turned web designer
I’ve been where you are. Growing fast, feeling overwhelmed by the tech side of things, and realizing that somewhere between hitting 100k sessions and launching that new revenue stream, the foundations of your business got left behind.
I started out as a food blogger, so I get it. The constant juggling. The feeling that your site doesn’t match who you’ve become. The frustration of working way too hard while your brand and tech hold you back.
That’s why I created Grace + Vine Studios—to help monetized food bloggers like you finally catch up. Whether it’s your branding, your website, or just figuring out what the heck comes next, I’m here to help you build a business that reflects where you are now and actually improves your life instead of consuming it.
Thanks for this great podcast! I’ve worked with Carl and find him to be very thorough, patient, and kind. He gives solid advice, and won’t hold back if he feels strongly about a subject. He will also go out of his way to solve any issues, or find someone who will. I’m certain his suggestions regarding backlinks, internal linking and updating my authority have helped my blog move forward in a positive direction. He has definitely taught me how important SEO can be.
Thank you for sharing this with us Debi! We’re thrilled to hear Carl’s SEO expertise made such a positive impact. We also love working with him and value his exceptional attention to detail. We’re glad this episode was helpful and appreciate you sharing your experience with us!