FrieslandCampina Ingredients has launched its sixth annual trends report, spotlighting the food and nutrition trends influencing what ends up in consumers’ baskets. Curated as an essential guide for innovation leaders, the latest edition combines valuable insights, fresh research and application expertise to help brands anticipate evolving consumer needs and translate trends into actionable innovation strategies for the year ahead.
Commented Floor van de Horst, Global Marketing Director, Performance and Active Nutrition: “2026 marks a turning point for the nutrition landscape, ushering in a new era of more accessible health. Technology and knowledge-sharing are breaking down barriers, sparking the rise of personalised, accessible nutrition for all. Supported by AI and social media, consumers can discover and shop tailored nutrition solutions more easily than ever. But with greater accessibility comes greater expectations – 2026’s most successful brands will combine science, technology, and innovation to deliver trusted, effective components of consumers’ everyday wellness routines.”
The protein realm is set to continue expanding – with novel treats, ready meals and drinks taking up increasing shelf space. But in 2026, protein fortification is just the baseline. To stand out, brands need to look beyond fortifying with just this powerhouse nutrient alone. In fact, 50% of Gen Z and Millennial consumers are already seeking functional foods enriched with not only protein, but also fibre and other ingredients for gut health benefits.
GLP-1s are reshaping the health and nutrition market – unlocking new innovation opportunities for companion products. From craving-curbing snacks to nutritional support solutions, GLP-1 users are seeking convenient products that support their weight management journey by delivering essential nutrients in on-the-go formats.
As focus shifts from lifespan to healthspan, consumers recognise that incorporating long-term wellness is built on healthy everyday habits. 2026 is all about small, sustainable nutrition choices rather than radical diet changes, with convenient, functional products – such as fortified, nutrient-rich yoghurts – fitting seamlessly into daily routines.
Fibre is making a fresh comeback; no longer confined to cereal aisles, today it’s a social media health hero. In 2026, consumers are looking to ‘fibre-maxx’ – meet or exceed their daily fibre goals – with multifunctional products in fun formats. With 20% of consumers aiming to increase their fibre intake, the fibre frenzy presents a significant opportunity for nutrition brands.
Added van de Horst: “As scientific understanding, regulation and consumer priorities continue to evolve, navigating the nutrition world has never been more complex. With our 2026 nutrition trends magazine, we’re aiming to help nutrition brands stay ahead in a dynamic landscape. By combining science-led insights and market analysis, our specialists support brands in translating emerging trends into meaningful innovation – backed by unparalleled application expertise – to help consumers get the most out of life.” For more visit FrieslandCampina Ingredients
