The Future of Ingredients 2026
"Ingredient innovation will unlock new potential in the ingredients we already know, embedding clear, trusted and inclusive benefits into the foods of tomorrow."
Yunn Lim, Senior Analyst, Food Science
Discover the most important future trends in the global ingredients market with Mintel’s Future Of report. The report identifies the key consumer and industry trends that will impact the ingredients industry over the next five years.
The most important upcoming trends in ingredients are analysed and succinctly presented alongside relevant insights from Mintel’s consumer data. So you can understand how consumer demands will change and identify future innovation and growth opportunities.
This report also presents Mintel’s analysts’ pick of the most innovative and inspirational launches in the global ingredients market. Understanding the future of the ingredients industry has never been so easy.
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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
- Where we are now
- In the next two years
- In five years and beyond
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IN THE NEXT TWO YEARS
- Mintel’s perspective
- Ingredients will deliver purpose, proof and transparency
- Protein obsession is resetting consumer expectations in food and drink
- Consumers will expect tangible benefits from ingredients
- The protein conversation will shift from quantity to quality
- Brands will emphasise ingredient specificity and quality to deliver real benefits
- Digestibility will become a top differentiator
- Fibre will emerge as the next essential partner to protein
- Brand spotlight: Beyond Immerse protein drink
- Staple ingredients will unlock new value
- Cost pressures will reinforce the value of familiar ingredients
- Staples will be leveraged as innovation platforms
- Traditional animal fats will regain attention as seed oil faces scrutiny
- Millennials are set to drive the demand of traditional and heritage ingredients
- Upcycled ingredients will deliver benefits beyond sustainability
- Brand spotlight: All Things Dairy
- Ingredients will be designed for inclusive wellness
- The future of ingredients will be adaptive and inclusive
- Inclusive wellness will be the next wave of personalised nutrition
- Ingredients will help destigmatise taboo health concerns
- Performance ingredients will expand beyond athletes to light exercisers
- Ingredient to watch: creatine will support more than athletic performance
- Brand spotlight: Like Milk
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IN FIVE YEARS AND BEYOND
- Mintel’s perspective
- Plant-based aquatic proteins will grow as animal protein demand accelerates
- APAC leads in innovations with plant-based aquatic proteins
- Prepare psychobiotics to move mainstream as part of mental health support
- Educate consumers and innovate with targeted psychobiotic strains that support cognitive function
- Use benefit-led language that consumers already understand
- Authenticity is a major concern regarding AI use in food and drink
- The future of ingredients must be AI-enabled but human-led
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KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Key takeaways
What is a 'Future of' Report?
Have you ever wondered how to get a clear view of what’s next for your industry? Forget the crystal ball, what you need is a Mintel ‘Future of’ reports. The reports offer a forward-looking perspective, helping you identify upcoming opportunities and navigate the trends that will shape your business for the next five years and beyond.
How Mintel Builds a Picture of the Future
Creating a ‘Future of’ report is a comprehensive process that combines deep data analysis with expert human insight. Here’s a look at the core components that make these reports so valuable.
Expert Insights from Category Analysts
Our dedicated category analysts are at the heart of these reports. They bring years of industry experience and a deep understanding of global markets. They interpret complex data, connect the dots, and provide you with expert recommendations on what to expect in the next two years, five years, and even further into the future. They provide the strategic thinking you need to stay ahead.
Powered by Robust Data
Our analysis is grounded in solid data. A key source is Mintel’s Global New Products Database (GNPD), a powerful resource that tracks product innovation and launches around the world. By analysing this wealth of information, we can spot emerging patterns and shifts in the market. This data, combined with our knowledge of consumer behavior, allows us to anticipate what consumers will want next.
Designed for Forward-Thinking Strategy
Our ‘Future of’ reports are designed to help you look ahead with confidence. By focusing on trend forecasting and identifying future opportunities, these reports provide the insights you need to innovate and plan effectively. They are crafted specifically to help you anticipate market shifts and make proactive decisions, ensuring you and your business are prepared for what’s to come.
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