Articles Tagged with ''consumer trends''

Yum! Brands and Collider Lab have released their inaugural 2026 Food Trends Report, drawing on insights from more than 62,000 restaurants worldwide. The findings show consumers increasingly using food as a form of self-expression, control, and emotional connection in a fast-changing world.

Whole Foods Market’s 2026 trends point to a year defined by fiber-forward innovation, fine-dining-inspired frozen meals, elevated instant foods and a renewed appreciation for heritage ingredients.

As consumers navigate climate, economic and wellness pressures, they’re turning toward functional ingredients and holistic health solutions. Innova’s 2026 trends highlight the rise of gut health, mental wellbeing, authentic plant-based options and beverages designed to deliver targeted benefits.

Mintel’s latest predictions highlight how resourcefulness, inclusive nutrition, and multisensory experiences will redefine product development through 2026 and beyond. Brands embracing heritage, diversity and empathetic design will be best positioned to meet the needs of the next generation.

Datassential’s 2026 Trends report outlines key themes expected to shape menus and retail foodservice, from fiber emerging as the next major wellness driver to retail becoming a primary trend incubator.

Innova Market Insights has identified the five forces redefining food and beverage choices in 2026. From relaxed sociability to simplified living, these trends reveal where consumers are heading—and where brands should follow.

Consumers are entering 2026 feeling overwhelmed, skeptical and hungry for what’s real. This feature breaks down five ways brands can cut through the chaos and build authentic connection.

New data from Circana reveals that GLP-1 households are rapidly altering US food and beverage spending, favoring higher-protein, higher-fiber options while reducing purchases of sugary, carb-heavy items. With users projected to influence more than a third of all retail units by 2030, retailers and manufacturers face a growing need to adjust product mixes and marketing strategies.

Circana’s latest outlook points to modest dollar sales growth, tighter volumes and evolving value expectations as consumers lean into convenience and functionality. These insights anchor Prepared Foods’ new Predictions issue, which gathers expert perspectives on what’s new and next for food, beverage and retail trends in 2026.

New research from NYU Stern’s Center for Sustainable Business finds that consumers respond strongly to social sustainability claims—especially when tied to a product’s core purpose. Messages focused on access, basic needs and community support significantly outperformed traditional category claims across demographics.