An Insight into 2026 Taste Trends: Preparing for the Future of Flavor

Kerry’s 2026 Taste Trends provide a comprehensive look at how global consumer behaviors, cultural shifts, and economic factors are reshaping flavor preferences. The report offers insights into why consumers’ tastes are evolving and presents specific flavor profiles set to gain traction over the next several years.

The trends signal critical insights for food manufacturing leaders, indicating where demand is heading, and helping teams prioritize flavors likely to succeed under cost constraints and operational realities. In a recent Q&A, Shannon Coco, Senior Sales and Marketing Director at Kerry, shares insights on these trends and their implications for food manufacturers.

Maximalist Flavor Movement

Q: Can you share an example where bold, layered flavors have grown sales? What metrics should major brands monitor?

SC: Maximalism is shifting from visual design to a flavor revolution. It’s about rich, complex, and multi-sensory flavors that embrace originality. Successful examples include Little Caesar’s Cheesesteak Crazy Puffs and Wingstop’s Hot Honey Rub, which initially captured consumer interest and demonstrated strong sales, propelling them to permanent menu items.

Embracing Category Crashers

Q: How can brands blend “hybrid” products across categories without losing their identity?

SC: The rise of “Category Crashers” signifies the blending of traditional food and beverage categories, such as savory energy bars and dessert-flavored drinks. Brands with diverse portfolios can leverage their signature flavors across various categories, much like the PepsiCo Flamin’ Hot profile, expanding into new territories while maintaining consumer expectations.

Simplicity with Impact

Q: How can brands keep strong flavor while utilizing shorter, cleaner labels?

SC: As consumers demand transparency, brands can adopt “Simplicity Amplified” strategies by focusing on whole foods and natural flavors. Utilizing flavor extracts, natural fermentation, and clean-label preservatives can effectively maintain flavor while satisfying consumer tastes and regulatory requirements.

Reimagining Heritage Flavors using AI

Q: How are companies utilizing AI to innovate heritage flavors?

SC: Today’s consumers are remastering traditional flavors through digital tools and AI, aiming to create globally inspired cuisine. Tools such as Kerry’s internal insight platform and the Kerry Kalaido product ideation tool streamline development while ensuring authenticity.

Addressing Supply Chain Challenges

Q: What solutions can help manage risks associated with volatile ingredient prices?

SC: Supply chain turbulence has led to soaring prices of essential ingredients like cocoa and citrus. Innovative alternatives and extenders can stabilize supply and maintain flavor consistency, mitigating risk while meeting consumer expectations.

Premiumizing Everyday Staples

Q: What’s the playbook for elevating everyday items through flavor?

SC: Consumers seek comfort and quality in everyday staples. Strategies include introducing global flavors in familiar forms and extending product lines into chef-inspired offerings, ensuring that premiumization adds value without sacrificing speed or quality in manufacturing.

Everyday Escapism through Flavor

Q: How are brands tapping into consumers’ desires for relaxation and energy through food and beverages?

SC: With many consumers focusing on mental well-being, there’s growing demand for food and beverages that provide emotional uplift. Brands can utilize natural flavors and extracts to evoke the desired effects of relaxation and energy, appealing to this trend.

For a deeper dive into these seven macro trends, explore Kerry’s full Taste Trends report.