Essential Schema Markup in 2025 Recipes, Local, and Reviews

In 2025, Schema Markup is no longer optional. With the evolution of Google’s search experience and AI-powered overviews, structured data has become a core requirement for SEO. Whether you run a recipe blog, manage a local business, or sell products online, adding structured data can mean the difference between being invisible and standing out with rich results.

In this guide, we’ll explore:

• What Schema Markup is and why it matters more than ever in 2025

• How to use Schema for recipes, local businesses, and reviews

• Best practices and common mistakes

• FAQs on rich snippets and SEO

What Is Schema Markup and Why Does It Matter in 2025?

Schema Markup (also known as structured data) is code you add to your website so search engines better understand your content.

It doesn’t change how a page looks for visitors, but it helps Google decide how to display your page in search results.

In 2025, this matters more because:

1. AI Overviews: With Google’s AI-powered search, structured data helps your site be picked up for conversational answers.

2. Rich snippets drive clicks: Listings with stars, cooking times, or map pins stand out compared to plain text results.

3. Competition is tougher: Everyone does basic SEO. Schema is now the differentiator that boosts visibility.

Schema for Recipes

If you run a food or lifestyle blog, recipe Schema is a must. It allows Google to display:

• Featured images of dishes

• Cooking and prep times

• Calories and nutritional information

• Average ratings from users

Example JSON-LD Code

Why it matters: Recipe Schema can increase click-through rates by up to 35% because users see rich details in the SERP before clicking.

Schema for Local Businesses

For local shops, restaurants, gyms, or service providers, Schema is critical for appearing in Google’s Local Pack and Maps results.

Google pulls business details like:

• Address and location

• Opening hours

• Phone number

• Price range

Example JSON-LD Code

Why it matters: LocalBusiness Schema makes it easier for customers to find you, call you, and visit you, directly from the search results.

Schema for Reviews

If you sell products or services, review Schema can highlight ratings directly in the SERPs. Seeing stars and review counts immediately increases trust.

Example JSON-LD Code

Why it matters: Products with star ratings in Google SERPs get up to 20% more clicks compared to competitors without structured data.

Best Practices for Schema in 2025

• Use JSON-LD (Google’s recommended format)

• Validate code with Google’s Rich Results Test

• Keep information updated (hours, addresses, ratings)

• Combine multiple Schema types (e.g., LocalBusiness + Reviews)

• Ensure markup matches the actual page content

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Copy-pasting Schema without customizing
Adding fake reviews (Google penalties in 2025 are stricter)
Conflicting multiple markup types on the same page
Forgetting to update seasonal info (holiday hours, prices)

FAQs About Schema Markup

1. Does Schema guarantee rich snippets?

No, it increases the chances, but Google decides when to display them.

2. Do I need coding knowledge?

Not necessarily. Plugins like Yoast SEO or Rank Math handle Schema automatically for WordPress users.

3. What’s the most important Schema in 2025?

• For recipe bloggers → Recipe Schema

• For restaurants and stores → LocalBusiness Schema

• For e-commerce → Reviews & Product Schema

4. Can Schema improve voice search visibility?

Yes. Structured data makes it easier for AI assistants and Google to pull accurate answers for voice queries.