Breaking Down the Food Trends You'll See in 2026
Every year, Whole Foods releases their top food trend predictions—basically, a sneak peek at what’s about to take over your feed (and grocery cart). As a dietitian, I want to help you cut through the noise, so let’s talk about which ones actually matter and what’s worth trying or skipping. Health and wellness has gotten very “noisy”, so here’s your no-BS breakdown.
Beef Tallow: Animal fat is making a comeback, showing up in everything from snacks to skincare.
Positives: Uses the whole animal (nose-to-tail sustainability win), naturally rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K, great for high-heat cooking
Negatives: High in saturated fat, which can raise cholesterol and calorie-dense. A little goes a long way.
Products to Try: Jesse & Ben’s Beef Tallow Fries or Masa Chips. Personally, I’ll take my tallow in skincare instead.
Focus on Fiber: 100% here for this! As a RD, I’m a long time fan of fiber and now it's in the spotlight.
Positives: Supports digestion, blood sugar, cholesterol, and satiety, boosts gut health, energy and most of us don’t get enough (we need 25–40g/day!)
Negatives: Too much too fast leads to GI discomfort. More isn’t always better.
Products to Try: Hero Bread (13g/slice), Einkorn Pasta (6g/2 oz), or Oat Flour (7g/100g). Don’t forget fruits, veggies, beans, and whole grains still reign supreme.
Freezer Fine Dining: The freezer is the new pantry. Think gourmet ingredients, intact nutrients and global flavors.
Positives: Often fresher than “fresh” since it’s frozen at harvest, no preservatives needed. A lifesaver for busy nights or budget-friendly meal planning.
Negatives: Still check labels for sodium, saturated fat, fiber, and protein to avoid more “comfort” than “clean”.
Products to Try: House of Kajaana (amazing Indian meals with a nutrition facts panel that nails it) and Mila Soup Dumplings. Wins for grown-ups and kids.
Vinegars: From sipping vinegars to infused cooking blends, this trend is sour in the best way. Gut-loving benefits and tons of flavor variety. I’ve been a long time fan of apple cider vinegar (ACV) and now we have options!
Positives: Supports gut health, blood sugar, and cholesterol while adding flavor w/out extra calories or sugar.
Negatives: The taste is not for everyone and please never “take a shot” of vinegar (dilute in 4 oz water)!
Products to Try: Stick with classic Bragg’s ACV or try a Whole Foods Pear & Honey Balsamic Salad Kit, flavor and function!
Sweet but Mindful: Finally, sugar talk that makes sense. Shifting from fake uber-sweet sweeteners to real sugar used thoughtfully.
Positives: Real, less processed ingredients (honey, fruit, maple, dates) in small amounts which can reduce cravings over time.
Negatives: Still sugar! Even natural forms count toward daily intake.
Products to Try: Hu Hazelnut Butter Dark Chocolate Bites, Smash Foods Fruit Spreads & Snack Bites, or Solely Organic Mango & Blueberry Gummies.
Now you’re officially in the know! Which trend do you plan on trying? Share with us, we want to know!