Trend forecasting sits at the heart of our work at ROOT, informing everything from media storylines to what our clients spotlight across channels, activations, and product or menu development. But our trend work doesn’t start—or end—with reading reports.
We spend the year immersed in the places where trends are born, tested, and debated. This includes judging the NEXTY Awards finals, where ROOT Founder Kuvy had a front-row seat to the most innovative natural products entering the market; walking the floors of Natural Products Expo West and Newtopia Now, where we scout emerging ingredients, formats, and standout brands; attending local pitch events like the Colorado Food & Agriculture Collision Pitch Competition and Naturally Rising: The Conscious Business Pitch Competition, where Colorado-based founders showcase new ideas; and attending national competitions like the Naturally Network Pitch Slam, where regional winners compete for major prizes, mentorship, and industry exposure.
We bring trend-spotting to life on our YouTube channel, Dig Deep, where we taste-test new products and chat with founders, buyers, and category disruptors shaping what’s next.
We also share what we see in post-expo trend reports after major shows, plus our annual trends blog (what you’re reading right now!)
By combining what we experience on the ground with the bigger picture from the industry—founders, retailers, investors, and trusted trend reports—we get a clear sense of what’s trending now and what’s coming next.Two years ago for example, we predicted that by 2024, everyday treats, functional mushrooms, and Filipino food would break through in a big way—and as we head into 2026, it’s safe to say we called it.
So who should you follow to stay on top of trends? In addition to keeping an eye on what’s emerging on the ground, here are a few of the industry resources we consistently trust:
- Fresh Thyme’s Top 10 Trends Report, which includes ROOT client wildbrine under the “Gut Health Gets Personal Goal”
- Food Institute’s 6 Food Trends to Watch in 2026
- Nielsen’s Consumer Outlook: Guide to 2026
- New Hope’s 10 CPG trends for 2026
While preparing this list, our team researched, traded links and ideas, debated, discussed, and ultimately distilled which trends matter most right now.
ROOT’s Top 5 Food, Flavor, and CPG Trends for 2026
1. Renaissance of Real Dairy and Primal Products
Consumers are rediscovering butter, dairy, and meat—elevated through quality, sustainability, and ethical sourcing. It’s not about restriction—it’s about enjoyment and authenticity. Beef tallow and other traditional fats are enjoying renewed interest as the debate over seed oils continues.
Highlight heritage ingredients, ethical sourcing, and culinary craftsmanship. Small luxuries—like a buttery finish or traditionally rendered fat—can be positioned as both indulgent and better-for-you alternatives.
2. Nutrient-Dense Convenience
Shoppers want convenience and nutrition. Ready-to-eat snacks, frozen foods, and beverages now deliver protein, fiber, and functional benefits alongside portability. Chomps, for example, are experiencing “explosive” growth (161% year-over-year) with low-calorie, high-protein sticks.
Prioritize snacks and on-the-go products that offer measurable nutritional value. Protein, fiber, or micronutrient claims are no longer optional—they drive purchase and loyalty.
3. Broth with Benefits
According to food scientists and food trend forecasters (like those at Harvard!), the rise of bone broth can be attributed to the continued interest in low-carb, keto-adjacent diets.
Now that the trend is fully mainstream, variations of bone broths are on the rise, similar to how pickles and pickle flavor has been dominating shelves lately. From broth spritzers and freezer tubes to beauty-focused collagen broths and broth-based noodle bowls, the category is evolving fast.
Reimagine functional foods as experiences. Look beyond standard formats—portable, ready-to-use, and wellness-enhanced options can capture attention and expand your audience.
4. Beauty from the Inside Out
Fermented foods are poised to become the next beauty ritual. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickles are gaining traction not just for gut health but also for skin, hair, and overall vitality, as seen in mainstream media such as this Vogue article “What to Eat for Younger-Looking Skin, Backed by Science.
Position products at the intersection of wellness and beauty. Messaging around “functional nutrition” or “inner beauty” resonates with health-conscious, ingredient-savvy shoppers.
5. Beyond Meat and Whey
Protein is everywhere—from high-protein pastas and condiments to single-origin whey and mainstream products like Protein-Boostin’ Pop-tarts. The category is expanding across formats, channels, and audiences.
Think beyond bars and shakes. Integrate protein in familiar products, snack formats, and everyday meals. Accessibility and convenience are key to reaching a broader audience.
None of these trends are flash-in-the-pan moments. They’ve been quietly gaining steam for years—and in 2026, they’re set to explode. Protein is no longer niche, broth is no longer boring, beauty is no longer skin-deep, and dairy is officially back in the spotlight. Expect unprecedented levels of consumer curiosity, innovation, and investment—and a clear dividing line between brands that react and brands that lead.
Let’s talk about how your brand leads the conversation in 2026.
