2026 Flavor Trends

This month, The Food Institute analyzed new, nascent, and mature flavor trends to understand their impact on the food and beverage industry and identify the movements innovating taste buds and formulations across CPG and foodservice.

We spoke with F&B experts across the industry to understand how businesses are responding to emerging consumer needs and their appetite for novel food and beverage experiences.

The report includes a look at:

• The macro trends affecting the industry: next-generation fusion cuisine and health and wellness preferences
• New and nascent flavors gaining a larger “share of mouth”
• The market forces dictating modern flavor trends

Additionally, the report explores the growing movement in beverages (including alcoholic and non-alcoholic) wherein savory flavor profiles are becoming associated with premium experiences.

The report also evaluates high-impact, current data to support these trends.

This individual report is $99 but is included for FI Essential, Pro, and Enterprise members.