Food Trends for 2026 Focus on Fiber-Maxxing, Global Foods, and More

Protein 

Emphasis on high protein consumption will continue to be the dominant trend during 2026 through both social media trends and the emphasis on protein through red meat and animal fats in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA), published recently in January. In contrast to the new DGA, CLF experts believe that Americans get plenty of protein, but not enough fiber. Many will continue eating more meat and, to a lesser extent, alternative forms of protein, to boost their health with food. “Protein-maxxing” will dictate consumer products, populating the aisles of supermarket products and restaurant menus in a variety  of foods, from protein-fortified to protein-alternative versions that Americans consume frequently. This trend could lead to high consumption of red meat and foods high in saturated fat, which are linked to heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic diseases. Instead, focusing on plant-based alternatives (beans, lentils, soy, etc.), which are high in protein, fiber, and other important nutrients, can help consumers who are interested in increasing their protein intake while ensuring that the foods that they consume are beneficial for not only their own health, but also the planet. 

Fiber 

Protein has a rival macronutrient that may surpass it in popularity in 2026: fiber. Following the general desire for wellness-based foods, consumers are beginning to understand the importance of fiber’s role in maintaining good gut health. EatingWell cites a 9,500% increase in the number of page views on articles that mention fiber within the past year. In response to the virality of fiber, Whole Foods predicts that fiber-fortified foods and “fiber-forward callouts on packaging” are the next big marketing scheme that companies will focus on. Beans, legumes, and other foods high in fiber could rise to the forefront for consumers seeking to “hit their macros.” cites a 9500% increase in the number of page views on articles that mention fiber. Beans, legumes, and other foods high in fiber could rise to the forefront for consumers seeking to “hit their macros.”      

Similar to what we saw during the “protein-maxxing” trends of 2025, AP News predicts an emerging “fiber-maxxing” trend for the year and warns against sharply increasing intake; a better practice is to slowly increase intake while drinking plenty of water to prevent constipation or other side effects.  

Global Flavors 

Globalization of foods around the world has continued to reach U.S. consumers as grocery stores, restaurants, and everything in between recreate viral flavors often promoted through social media.  

Food Business News discusses how trendy flavors mimic experiences of traveling, encouraging mashup flavors to keep consumers interested. For example, Dubai chocolate (chocolate with pistachios and crispy shredded phyllo dough) in 2025 brought about a combination that found its way into a multitude of items. Other flavors previously uncommon in America, such as pandan (a vibrant green plant with a flavor similar to vanilla), black sesame, hojicha (roasted green tea), and black currants, continue to gain popularity in a similar way. 

GLP-1s and Dietary Shifts 

Based on a survey of 58 nutrition specialists, a prediction from US News suggests that an increase in the use of GLP-1 medications will continue to influence Americans’ diets. According to a poll conducted by KFF, nearly 1 in 8 adults in 2025 reported taking GLP-1 drugs for weight loss, treating diabetes, or other conditions. A common side effect of GLP-1 drugs (and hence contributing to their popularity as a weight loss alternative) is a decreased appetite. With less desire to eat food throughout the day, Americans also must now more carefully consider what constitutes meaningful and intentional food choices for them.  

Food as Health 

This shift toward a more careful consideration of what we consume will continue to encourage the intertwining of food and health. Americans will seek out foods that are nutrient-dense or turn to supplements to hit their intake goals. In addition, healthier alternatives to beloved foods, such as honey or maple syrup instead of sugar, will continue to define what companies seek to push towards consumers according to their demands. Many companies are incorporating the flavors of plants into their products as another way to lean into the connection between food and health, putting emphasis on various floral, fruity, or nutty flavors. Finally, the “Food as Medicine” movement is in full swing, as consumers turn to nutrient-rich foods to combat their personal risk of diet-related chronic diseases. This means an increased consumption of whole, unprocessed foods, with a focus on nutrient-rich items to boost immune response and increase cellular function. Products promoting gut-health, like fermented foods (think kimchi), fibrous foods (chia seeds, leafy greens, legumes), are particularly popular among those seeking to maintain good health holistically with the foods that they consume.  

With trends focusing on specific foods and food groups, it is more important than ever for consumers to understand that excess consumption of any one food or nutrient is not the best way to improve one’s health. Instead, nutritionists recommend a diet that emphasizes moderate portions for a variety of whole foods, echoing the “Food as Medicine” trend that will continue to perpetuate into the new year. US News cites that most nutritionists (69%) continue to recommend the Mediterranean diet as the healthiest due to its emphasis on whole grains, fruits, legumes, and vegetables. To follow the Mediterranean and other similar diets, reducing meat intake and increasing consumption of plants will be the quickest way to eat healthily for the new year and for the planet.