Flavor company Kerry released its 2026 Taste Trends forecast report, developed through a combination of proprietary research, global consumer insights and flavor innovation expertise. The trends reflect emerging consumer behaviors, cultural shifts and new ingredient preferences.
“From maximalist flavor explosions to ingredient profiles with amplified simplicity, this year’s trends reflect how consumers are redefining taste in a world of shifting routines, cultural remixing and climate-driven change,” said marketing manager Christina Furlong. “Whether you’re a product developer, marketer or brand strategist, these insights are designed to spur ideas and guide execution.”
Each trend in the report includes a definition of the flavor movement and real-world examples of food, beverages and ingredients within that trend.
2026 Taste Trends
1. Maximalist Flavor: Maximalist Flavor is a bold new movement that turns up the volume on taste. No longer just a visual aesthetic, maximalism in food is about layered, multi-sensory experiences that defy restraint and celebrate originality.
2. Category Crashers: Category Crashers is a trend that celebrates the breakdown of traditional food and beverage boundaries. As consumer routines blur and eating occasions become more fluid, brands are responding with hybrid formats that defy expectations.
3. Simplicity Amplified: Simplicity Amplified is not just a response to consumers’ growing demand for transparency and nutrient-dense ingredients. It’s not just about clean labels. It’s about stripping things back to their essence and celebrating what’s left.
4. Heritage Reclaimed: Heritage Reclaimed is about reclaiming cultural roots through modern taste. It's a remix of tradition and innovation, where authenticity is defined by the individual, not by the past.
5. Chain Reaction: In 2026, Chain Reaction explores how global shocks – from climate volatility to ingredient shortages – are reshaping the flavor landscape. Consumers are adapting to disruption with creativity.
6. Elevated Staples: Elevated Staples brings joy to the everyday. It’s about upgrading familiar formats with premium ingredients and indulgent touches.
7. Everyday Escapism: Everyday Escapism is about bite-size comforts that offer joy amidst chaos. These small indulgences provide a moment of happiness and relief.
