The food and drink industry continues its meteoric evolution, driven by changing consumer expectations, advances in technology, and global influences. As industry professionals look ahead to 2026, these trends are shaping not just what’s on our plates and in our glasses, but also how brands connect with consumers and build resilient, agile businesses.
2025: The year of conscious choice
1. Global Flavours & Fusion Cuisine:
Consumers in 2025 are hungry for adventure and authenticity. Menus increasingly spotlight lesser-known cuisines, from Southern States and Argentinian to Greek, Turkish, and Swiss dishes. Fusion foods, think kimchi tacos, sushi pizza, and Filipino-Italian pasta hybrids, are taking off, often fuelled by viral social media waves.
2. Local Comforts, Premium Experiences:
There’s a growing appreciation for British and Irish heritage foods. Expect dishes like Scottish salmon, Aberdeen Angus steak, Welsh lamb, Welsh cakes, and potato farls appearing on restaurant menus, blending tradition with innovation. Meanwhile, premium sandwiches and elevated “buns and bowls” are transforming on-the-go dining.
3. Sustainable & Ethical Eating:
Sustainability is now a core value—not just a trend. From regenerative agriculture and local sourcing to upcycled “would-be-wasted” ingredients, brands are prioritizing their ecological impact. Plant-based innovation is surging, with consumers pursuing balance between “meaty” indulgence and high-quality alternatives (jackfruit, plantain, nopalitos).
4. Functional Foods & Gut Health:
Wellness is central. Products and menus highlight friendly fiber, gut-friendly pulses, nuts, seeds, and wholegrains. There’s increased awareness of foods that impact blood sugar, hormone health, and mental well-being.
5. Indulgence with a Twist:
Consumers are craving comfort, tradition, and shared experiences—but with a modern twist. “Chocolicious” beverages (premium hot chocolates, frozen hot chocolates, flavoured mochas) are exploding in popularity, alongside impulse sweet treats and mood-boosting flavours.
Ahead to 2026: What food professionals need to watch
1. Value-Driven, Multifunctional Eating:
Consumers are seeking convenience and value, which will dominate decision-making. Ecommerce and mass retailers are likely to gain further traction, especially as cost pressures continue to shape choices.
2. Protein Innovations & Wellness:
Expect higher-protein diets, expanded plant-based meals, and a reduction in alcohol and “empty calorie” snacks. Products boasting “premium and health-driven ingredients” will perform best.
3. Bold, Unexpected Flavours:
Flavor innovation will continue as the biggest differentiator—look for increased use of umami, complex heat, global mashups, super spices, and bold tropical notes (like chipotle and umami-rich mushrooms in snacks and plant-based items).
4. Ethical & Technological Storytelling:
Transparent sourcing, ethical claims, and stories of humanized technology—from AI-enabled food delivery to precision agriculture—will build consumer trust and engagement.
The opportunities for Food & Drink Industry professionals
With change comes opportunity. At The Oval Partnership, we specialise in connecting ambitious talent with innovative businesses across the food and drink sector, positions span everything from product development and regulatory management to executive leadership, manufacturing, and hospitality.
Ready to make your next move?
Browse our latest industry roles on our dedicated jobs page, all are carefully curated to match professionals with employers shaping the future of food and drink.
Whether you’re focused on sustainable innovation, flavour development, operational excellence, or culinary creativity, we have the openings and insights to support your career journey.
Join the conversation about food and drink’s exciting future, discover market-leading opportunities, and let The Oval Partnership help fuel your next career milestone.
