A. M. 
Consumers worldwide are increasingly seeking functional, convenient, protein-rich foods that can contribute to a more balanced relationship with food, according to reports from Mintel, Euromonitor, McKinsey, and WGSN.
This movement reflects a significant shift: instead of focusing solely on taste or practicality, there is a growing interest in products that contribute to improved mood, promote healthy aging, aid in weight management, and deliver real health benefits.
Discover the 10 trends that could shape eating habits in 2026:
1. Protein, Yes! And from various sources
Protein remains the most sought-after ingredient globally, driven by interest in satiety, weight management support, and lean muscle mass maintenance—a trend that intensified with the popularization of injectable weight-loss medications. This opens up space for snacks, fortified beverages, yogurts, protein ice creams, and combinations of animal and plant protein, which could gain even more traction in 2026. “And it shows that people are understanding the importance of protein for weight management and healthy aging,” says nutritionist and Master in Nutrition Ana Cristina Gutiérrez, a member of Herbalife’s Nutrition Advisory Board.
2. Eating to live longer and better
The healthy aging economy is among the fastest-growing segments in wellness, according to McKinsey. Consumers are increasingly seeking products rich in antioxidants, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and anti-inflammatory compounds, looking for long-term benefits—such as improved cognitive, immune, and metabolic health.
3. The era of smart foods
Consumption of convenient and nutritious products is gaining ground. These include beverages with electrolytes, collagen, or natural caffeine, vitamins, probiotics, protein snacks, and fast food with a good nutritional profile. Euromonitor estimates that healthy convenience categories will grow above the industry average through 2028. “It’s not enough to be nutritious: the product also needs to be practical and versatile”, says Gutiérrez.
4. “Mood food” en destaque
Foods that help regulate mood and reduce stress are on the radar. Ingredients like flavonoid-rich cocoa, magnesium, tryptophan, and relaxing tea blends may gain relevance. Deloitte reports indicate that more than 50% of Generation Z seeks foods that positively impact mental well-being, a trend that could strengthen in 2026.
5. Gut health at the center of the conversation
Science reinforces the importance of microbiome for health and well-being, driving the consumption of foods with soluble fiber, prebiotics, probiotics, and naturally fermented foods. The global probiotics market could exceed US$100 billion by 2030, reflecting the interest in solutions that influence digestion, immunity, mood, and metabolism.
6. Glycemic stability as the new mantra
Maintaining stable glucose levels has become synonymous with consistent energy and less hunger. Global searches for low glycemic foods have grown by more than 70% in the last two years, according to Google Trends. This leads consumers to prioritize products with sustained energy release, especially those rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
7. Scientific evidence and transparency
Consumers still value short labels and recognizable ingredients, but now they also demand scientific evidence and transparency—especially in functional beverages, supplements, and protein foods. “Consumers want clean formulas, but they also want to know if they work,” the nutritionist emphasizes.
8. Non-alcoholic options are gaining ground
Global alcohol consumption is declining, especially among young adults, boosting categories like dealcoholized wines, 0% beers, and adaptogen-infused drinks. The global firm IWSR forecasts that this segment will grow by more than 7% annually until 2027. “The new luxury is waking up feeling good. People want to enjoy their social lives without neglecting their health”, says Gutiérrez.
9. Mindful indulgence
The search for guilt-free pleasure is growing, with desserts in smaller portions, more natural ingredients, less sugar, and nutritionally balanced formulations. “It’s about enjoying flavor with smarter choices”.
10. Technology-driven nutritional personalization
Adaptive nutrition may gain even more traction in 2026: plans that change based on sleep, physical activity, mood, and health and wellness goals. Personalization, previously limited to premium niches, is becoming more accessible with wearables, AI, tracking apps, and even microbiome tests. “Personalized nutrition has moved from the lab to your phone—it’s already a reality in countries like the United States and could soon expand to the rest of the world”, says Gutiérrez.
Companies like Herbalife, which are expanding their portfolio of proteins and functional foods, can help these trends gain ground in the routines of those seeking wellness and convenience.
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