Datassential Unveils Insights on Food and Beverage Trends for 2026

Datassential Reveals 2026 Food and Beverage Trends

On November 6, 2025, the prominent food and beverage intelligence platform Datassential rolled out its anticipated 2026 Trends report, spotlighting the emerging food, flavor, and beverage trends that are expected to dramatically reshape menus and retail foodservice options.

According to Jaclyn Marks, Senior Publications Manager and Trendologist at Datassential, this year’s report marks a significant turning point in consumer behavior towards food and beverage trends. "With retail emerging as a primary source of trend innovation instead of traditional restaurants, brands must adapt to these changes swiftly," she stated.

The report shines a spotlight on several key themes for 2026:

Fiber Takes Center Stage

Perhaps the most groundbreaking insight from the report is the assertion that fiber is poised to surpass protein as the new health trend. Consumers are increasingly recognizing the health benefits associated with fiber, particularly in relation to gut health. A remarkable 50% of consumers indicated that enhanced gut health will be a priority for them in 2026, establishing fiber as the top nutrient to look out for in forthcoming food and beverage products.

Retail: The New Trendsetter

The competition between retail venues and traditional foodservice establishments is intensifying, with retail more frequently emerging as a trend incubator. Current consumer behavior reflects this shift, with 69% of consumers stating they discover new trends through packaged food products, while 63% mention prepared foods from grocery and convenience stores as their information sources. This marks a shift in discovery methods away from restaurants, emphasizing the need for foodservice businesses to adapt.

Animal Meat Makes a Comeback

The landscape for plant-based meat alternatives appears to be stabilizing, with a noticeable resurgence of interest in animal protein among consumers. A substantial 72% of consumers affirm that they find animal meat to be more satisfying compared to its plant-based counterparts. This sentiment underscores the notion that for some dishes, plant-based options simply cannot replicate the unique comfort, texture, or taste of traditional animal proteins.

Teatime Reimagined

As the low/no alcohol movement gains traction, foodservice operators are rethinking the concept of happy hour. Tea-based mocktails and cocktails have seen a rise, aligning with growing interest among consumers in reducing alcohol intake. Nearly half of Gen Z respondents expressed a desire to lower their alcohol consumption in 2026, and this demographic is significantly more inclined to choose tea or tea-infused beverages during social outings than older generations.

Cuisine to Watch: Keralan

Keralan food, derived from the Indian state of Kerala, is capturing attention in the culinary scene, with various U.S. operators integrating Keralan dishes onto their menus. This cuisine, which 39% of U.S. consumers are eager to explore, features vibrant seafood, rice, coconut, vegetables, and an array of spices, including curry leaves and turmeric.

Key Foods and Flavors for 2026

Exclusive to the report are ten new classic foods and flavors that Datassential anticipates will gain popularity in 2026, such as monosodium glutamate (MSG), ube, butter chicken, and Basque cheesecake. Furthermore, the report forecasts ten foods and flavors likely to trend in subsequent years, featuring unique items like stracciatella cheese, ancient grain beer, and fermented black beans.

In summary, the 2026 Trends report by Datassential provides invaluable insights for foodservice operators and brands, equipping them with the knowledge necessary to adapt to the evolving preferences of consumers. Those interested in exploring further can access a preview of the report through Datassential's website, with the full report available for subscribers only.

As the food and beverage industry continues to evolve, the insights from Datassential are vital for any brand seeking to stay ahead of the curve and meet the ever-changing demands of consumers.