Key Highlights – 2026 at a Glance
- Fiber takes center stage as the next nutrient hero, driven by gut health, mood, immunity and weight management.
- Food becomes a multi-sensory experience, blending indulgence, texture, color and emotional connection.
- Functional beverages lead innovation, combining hydration, convenience and targeted health benefits.
- GLP-1 solutions reshape eating behaviors, creating demand for smaller portions, satiety and nutrient density.
- Mental well-being moves into everyday food, with botanicals and adaptogens supporting focus, stress and emotional balance.
Introduction: Why 2026 will redefine Food & Beverage innovation
As we move into 2026, the Food & Beverage industry is entering a new phase of holistic, purpose-driven innovation. Consumers are no longer looking at nutrition in silos; instead, they expect food and beverages to support body, mind and lifestyle in a seamless way.
Global consumer insights and market data point to five strong, interconnected directions shaping product development in 2026: fiber-forward formulations, sensory-led experiences, functional beverages, GLP-1-driven nutrition shifts, and foods that support mental well-being.
For B2B brands, manufacturers and formulators, these trends translate into clear opportunities to differentiate through science-backed ingredients, clean-label solutions and multifunctional benefits.
How is fiber influencing food innovation in 2026?
Protein? Still a wellness powerhouse. But in 2026, fiber is stepping into the spotlight. Because consumers now see gut health as the foundation of overall well-being, impacting digestion, immunity, mood, and even stress management. Fiber is under-consumed yet highly praised on social media, making it the next big nutrient hero.
What “fiber maxxing” means for brands:
- Rising demand for prebiotic fibers that support the gut microbiome
- Increased interest in the gut–brain axis, including mood and cognitive benefits
- Opportunities to develop fiber-rich snacks, bars and beverages that feel indulgent, not medicinal
#GutTok
#fibermaxxing
New popular trend on social media
Fiber-rich formulations are no longer limited to digestive claims. In 2026, fiber supports satiety, weight management, emotional balance and metabolic health, making it highly relevant in the context of GLP-1 and mindful eating.
Food is becoming a full-on experience
Eating is no longer just about taste, it’s about creating a multi-sensory experience that feels exciting and meaningful. Consumers want products that look beautiful, feel interesting, and smell amazing, all while delivering wellness benefits.
Think textures that surprise, vibrant colors, and aromas that elevate the moment. Brands are layering sensations to make every bite memorable, whether it’s a snack with multiple textures or softer options designed for older consumers.
Beverages with Purpose: Why are functional beverages important in 2026?
Beverages are leading the next wave of wellness innovation. In 2026, drinks are expected to do more than hydrate – they must deliver clear, targeted benefits.
Key growth areas include:
- Digestive and gut health beverages (with prebiotics and fibers)
- Energy and focus drinks with natural botanical extracts
- Stress-relief and relaxation beverages using adaptogens
- Immune-support formulations for daily resilience
From sparkling adaptogenic drinks to prebiotic kombucha and relaxing botanical waters, Nexira has developped an exclusive collection of 10 functional beverage concepts, combining natural origin, nutritional benefits, and market insights to help you innovate faster. Contact us to get it!
Functional beverages align perfectly with modern lifestyles: they are convenient, portable and easy to integrate into daily routines. Importantly, consumers no longer separate health and pleasure – taste, texture and enjoyment remain essential.
👉 Learn more about Nexira’s natural solutions for functional beverages.
How is GLP-1 changing consumer eating habits?
Around 40% of global consumers follow a diet and 17% use GLP-1 drugs. The rapid adoption of GLP-1 solutions is significantly influencing eating behaviors and product expectations.
With millions of consumers adjusting to smaller portion sizes, reduced appetite and digestive sensitivity, brands now face new formulation challenges and opportunities.
Key innovation opportunities:
- High-nutrient-density foods that deliver maximum value in smaller portions
- Fiber and protein combinations that support satiety and digestive comfort
- Products designed to naturally stimulate GLP-1 pathways
- Solutions that help manage common discomforts, such as bloating
This trend reinforces the importance of fiber-forward, gut-friendly and easy-to-digest formulations.
Food that feeds the mind: Mental well-being takes the lead
Mental well-being is no longer a niche concern. In 2026, consumers actively seek foods and beverages that support:
- Stress resilience
- Emotional balance
- Cognitive performance and focus
There is a clear shift away from ultra-processed options toward natural, plant-based and botanical solutions that align with holistic wellness routines.
Botanical extracts and adaptogens are becoming essential ingredients in everyday products, from snacks to beverages, helping brands address the growing demand for mind–body nutrition.
Turning 2026 trends into competitive advantage
The Food & Beverage trends shaping 2026 are clear: holistic health, sensory pleasure, functional convenience and mental well-being.
For brands and manufacturers, success will depend on the ability to:
- Formulate with multi-benefit ingredients
- Balance indulgence with functionality
- Anticipate lifestyle shifts such as GLP-1 adoption
- Build trust through natural, transparent solutions
With the right ingredient partners, these trends become not just challenges – but powerful opportunities for growth.
Nexira is ready to support your journey into 2026 and beyond.
Our portfolio offers:
- Prebiotic fibers for gut health, satiety and metabolic balance
- Natural texturizing solutions that enhance sensory experience
- Botanical extracts supporting cognitive health and stress management
- Clean-label ingredients for functional beverages and snacks
By combining scientific expertise, natural sourcing and formulation know-how, Nexira helps B2B partners transform consumer trends into successful, future-ready products.
Connect with our experts for a tailored innovation discussion ⤵️
Julie Impérato
Marketing & Communication Manager, Nexira
Sources: Innova Market Insights and FMCG Gurus 2026 reports
This communication is not intended to the final consumer. It provides scientific information for professionals only. Communication to final consumer has to be checked according to local regulation in force, since the conditions of use are beyond our control. This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
