Whole Foods forecasts top food and beverage trends for 2026
From traditional cooking staples to mindful alternatives, Whole Foods Market is forecasting the trends that could shape the culinary landscape in 2026.
The retailer’s Trends Council—a collective of more than 50 team members ranging from foragers to buyers to culinary experts—released its 11th annual trends predictions report this week.
Read on for the eight food and beverage trends Whole Foods expects will dominate grocery aisles next year:
Tallow takeover
Beef tallow is predicted to make a comeback as a nourishing fat. Once a staple in traditional cooking and prized for its high smoke point and rich flavour, tallow is being rediscovered by consumers who are looking for oil alternatives.
Focus on fibre
Fibre is gaining popularity as consumers seek gut health, holistic digestive wellness and natural ways to feel fuller longer. Brands are launching more fibre-forward callouts on packaging and more products with added fibre like pastas, breads, crackers and bars. Roots like cassava and chicory are regulars on ingredient panels of prebiotic beverages, and pantry staples like oats are heavily highlighted on up-and-coming products.
Year of the female farmer
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations declared 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer.
“With multigenerational farms dwindling and fewer young people choosing careers in farming, it’s more important than ever to celebrate changemakers in the industry”, notes a press release.
Consumers may have already started to notice an increase of women in agriculture highlighted in media, event panels, and on brand websites and packaging.
Kitchen couture
Also referred to as “dopamine décor,” this design concept features bright, bold colour and designs intended to enhance countertops or kitchen shelves. Today’s consumers are drawn to eye-catching artwork that bring an aesthetic appeal to everyday items and staples.
Freezer fine dining
A wave of new frozen meals, appetizers and sides makes it easier for consumers to create enhanced eating experiences at home. Customers are looking to pair high-quality ingredients with globally inspired flavors and time-saving hacks.
Very vinegar
Consumers are getting creative with vinegars, seeking out premium, small-batch options, bold flavours and innovative formats that elevate everything from home-cooked meals to craft cocktails and mocktails. Vinegars are also finding their way into the creamy condiment space.
Sweet, but make it mindful
Alternative sweeteners have seen an uptick as consumers are more mindful of sugar intake, opting for products sweetened with real cane sugar, whole fruit, honey or maple syrup. Content creators on TikTok are continuing to make knockoff candy bars with peanut butter and dates (something Whole Foods noticed back in 2023 "The Great Date" trend).
Instant reimagined
Innovative, better-for-you instant meal options are peaking consumers interests. TikTok is helping to reshape instant’s reputation, with creators showing travel-ready, barista-level lattes and “desk drawer ramen” that uses bone broth bases, chili crisps and adaptogenic add-ins. Brands have also responded by making products like single-serve premium pour-over lattes, trendy meals-in-a-cup and more shelf-stable meal solutions, all ready in seconds and easy to prepare.
