First look: the 2026 nutrition trends you need to know

2026 is shaping up to be the year of accessible nutrition, driven by powerful forces reshaping how people discover, choose and benefit from food. From AI tools that personalise nutrition to the growing influence of social platforms and the rise of GLP-1 medications, access to guidance and health support has never been greater. But with this new level of access comes higher expectations – and meeting them will define the brands that lead in 2026.

1. The push for nutrition support for whole-person health is set to intensify – think fortified foods that deliver multiple benefits across high-impact formats.
2. As GLP-1 agonists continue to reshape consumption habits, consumers will seek nutrient-dense products that help keep cravings under control.
3. As lifespan makes way for healthspan, consumers are looking at their daily choices – and demand ramps up for nutrition that fuels everyday micro-moments.
4. In 2026, fibre isn’t just fundamental, but cool. Consumers increasingly recognise the importance of gut health and fibre is the vehicle to get them there.
5. Hydration alone isn’t enough for the 2026 functional beverage trends connoisseur, they’re thirsty for soft drinks that deliver hard benefits, one drink at a time.

Protein foods are now the status quo – so innovation must expand beyond just this one macro nutrient. The “protein+” trend is defined by concepts that blend high-quality protein with functional ingredients that promise broader wellness benefits. Younger consumers are especially primed to gravitate toward solutions that centre protein alongside other targeted nutrients like fibre, vitamins and minerals.

While whey protein offers a quick protein hit, caseinates are a class of versatile protein ingredients that unlock slow, steady amino acid release

Reitelseder et al., Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab , 2011​



to support long-lasting muscle protein synthesis.

Lacroix, M., Bos, C., Léonil, J., Airinei, G., Luengo, C., Daré, S., Benamouzig, R., Fouillet, H., Fauquant, J., Tomé, D. and Gaudichon, C. (2006). Compared with casein or total milk protein, digestion of milk soluble proteins is too rapid to sustain the anabolic postprandial amino acid requirement. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 84(5), pp.1070–1079. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/84.5.1070.



This unique property makes them suitable for creating on demand solutions like ready-to-drink solutions for an on-the-go boost or tasty bars that support recovery throughout the day. But perhaps even more novel would be an indulgent pre-bedtime treat designed to promote overnight satiety and muscle recovery. The possibilities are truly limitless!