Functionality, convenience and value remain core drivers of innovation in the global food and beverage market, according to Innova’s Top Ten Trends of 2026. Affordability concerns are influencing retailers' strategies, while trends like plant-based proteins and occasion-based products gain prominence. Brands are also targeting senior health needs amid an ageing population.
The global food and beverage sector is seeing innovation shaped by functionality, convenience and value, as outlined in a recent analysis mirroring Innova’s Top Ten Trends of 2026. Key areas include plant-based proteins, purposeful beverages and occasion-based offerings, with affordability impacting omnichannel approaches.
In functional beverages, launches targeting skin and hair health have risen by over 20 percent CAGR from 2021 to 2025. Collagen and green tea are prominent ingredients, particularly in liquid formats. Nöm Ag, an Austrian dairy brand, introduced three products for inner beauty: a collagen cappuccino and two collagen waters containing vitamin C, biotin and zinc for cellular support. Similarly, Gorgie’s Sparkling Protein Energy Drinks incorporate B vitamins, green tea and L-theanine to enhance caffeine and focus.
Plant-based innovations extend beyond substitutes, with pea protein leading new launches, alongside fava beans, textured pea protein and chickpeas. Nutriyummy’s High Protein Chips Pro offers 30 grams of pea protein in salt-and-vinegar flavour. Turtle Nature Products launched plant-based protein cereals with prebiotic fibre, while Saarioinen in Finland expanded its plant-based pizza line using broad bean protein, textured pea protein, coconut and vegetable fat, and potato starches.
Occasion-based products address snacking trends, as more than two in five Gen Z and Millennial consumers replace meals with snacks daily. Sargento’s Balanced Breaks Cheese + Crunch provides portable cheese and snack platters. Egglife Foods’ gluten-free Grab & Go egg white wraps deliver 16 grams of protein for quick meals. Aldi Süd’s Chefs’ Cupboard Slow Cooker Recipe Base Products, such as Classic Beef Casserole and Garlic & Rosemary Lamb Shank, simplify family dinners.
For senior health, an ageing population prompts focus on Boomers’ needs like weight management, gut health and sleep, per Innova’s Health & Nutrition Survey 2025. Farmers Studio’s snacking seeds from prickly water lilies in India promote antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, collagen, minerals and tryptophan for longevity and sleep. Mala Girl in France offers a powdered broth with basil and turmeric to balance stress, support immune health and reduce inflammation. Beverages, especially teas with green tea, ginger, lemongrass and cinnamon, lead launches, with protein as a top growth ingredient—half of Boomers are increasing protein intake. Supplements target immune, heart, bone and joint support, with botanicals and herbs surpassing vitamins. Emerging options include hydrogen waters for antioxidants and NMN research for age-related concerns, as in Biohack Wanderlust Enzymes products.
Consumers are shifting from eating out to groceries due to rising costs, with half reporting less dining out. Retailers emphasize value, while weight-loss medications drive GLP-1-friendly foods with smaller portions, high nutrients and low carbs. Future opportunities involve AI for personalization, stacked protein and weight-management claims, fast delivery and experiential events.
