What food trends are on the menu for 2026? We ask the experts

With everything from homegrown greens and booze-free bottles to indulgent old-school desserts set to trend on dinner tables, five industry experts share their food and drink forecasts for the year ahead. It’s a must-read for all food and drink brand managers, marketing teams, and social media managers.

Planning your brand strategy for 2026? You’re in the right place.

The food and drink landscape is shifting faster than ever, and staying ahead of the curve isn’t just helpful – it’s essential. Whether you’re launching a new product, refreshing your brand positioning, or planning your content calendar, understanding what’s coming next can make all the difference between leading the conversation and playing catch-up.

That’s why we’ve gathered insights from five respected voices across the industry to bring you our 2026 Food and Drink Trends Guide. This isn’t just another list of predictions. It’s a practical resource built by people who live and breathe this industry, designed to help you make smarter decisions for your brand.

What you’ll discover inside

Our experts have spotted some fascinating movements taking shape. Sustainability continues to evolve beyond buzzwords, with homegrown produce and local sourcing becoming genuine priorities for consumers. The zero-alcohol revolution shows no signs of slowing, with sophisticated alternatives demanding shelf space alongside their boozy counterparts. And perhaps most intriguingly, we’re seeing a swing back to comfort and nostalgia, with classic desserts and traditional flavours making a very welcome comeback.

But it’s not just about knowing what’s trending – it’s about understanding why these shifts matter to your customers and how you can position your brand to respond authentically.

Why your team needs this guide

Whether you’re crafting your social media strategy, planning product development, or pitching to retailers, having a finger on the pulse of emerging trends gives you credibility, relevance, and a competitive edge. This guide offers you:

• Real insight from industry specialists who understand the nuances of the UK food and drink market
• Practical applications you can use immediately in your brand planning
• Consumer behaviour context to help you understand the ‘why’ behind the trends
• Inspiration for content creation across your marketing channels

Your 2026 strategy starts here

The brands that will thrive in 2026 are the ones preparing now. Download our free guide and give your team the insights they need to plan with confidence, create with purpose, and connect with consumers in meaningful ways.