In a world that’s constantly changing, the kitchen has become both a refuge and a playground – where creativity, connection, and curiosity are shaping what comes next.
At Nestlé, our brands are in 97% of US households, giving us a unique perspective on what’s happening in consumers’ kitchens and the ways they’re driving the food and beverage category forward.
Today’s Consumer: How are they Evolving?
We know today’s landscape is complex, and consumers face a wide range of factors that influence what they put in their baskets and prepare in their kitchens. People are adapting in real time and turning everyday meals into moments that matter. These rituals are rooted in comfort and self-expression, signaling a new era in how consumers live and eat at home.
In 2026, there’s plenty on the menu, from expanded textures to nuanced spices, and of course, more coffee. Let’s dive into the trends and how Nestlé is innovating to meet consumers along the way.
“Swangy” & “Swavory:” The Next Wave of Heat
The “swicy” era marked the beginning of America’s enthusiasm for spice. And interest shows no signs of slowing down. The next wave signals an expanded spectrum of flavor consistent with rising interest in global cuisine and accessible exploration across generations. Expect new twists on heat that add an extra depth to flavors, like “swangy” (spicy + sweet + tangy) and “swavory” (spicy + sweet + savory). With over half of Americans identifying as adventurous eaters, nuanced flavors will win big.
Nestlé is no stranger to bold pairings. For example, our Maggi Chinese Spicy Garlic Noodles strategically balances savory noodles with garlic and chili peppers, while our Korean Spicy BBQ option includes a blend of sweet chili, garlic, and smoky BBQ for a unique kick. From baking sheets to the coffee bar, “swavory” and “swangy” offerings will kick-start 2026.
Taste Meets Touch: The Texture Revolution Evolves
Texture is the new frontier of food and beverage. While #CrunchTok amassed over 1.5 billion views last year, the trend is evolving and smoother textures will take center stage in 2026. Already, creamy textures are on 45% of menus and social media posts mentioning “velvety” have surged 40% quarter over quarter. The demand for expanded texture speaks more broadly to the ways consumers are looking for an experience that engages their senses in the food that fuels them.
Our LIBBY’S Pumpkin is meeting the moment, grown using our unique seed which lends to a creamy texture perfect in pies and pastas. Our DiGiorno Wood Fired Style Crust Frozen Pizza is another example of the way we’re leading with texture, leveling up the pizza aisle with its artisanal, crispy crust, no flame required.
Embrace It: At-Home “Weirdness” is Winning
Combine younger consumers’ desire to stand out with a larger want for at-home comfort, and you’ve got an increased demand for inventive options. In fact, 90% of Gen Z and Millennials seek out new food and beverage flavors with the majority saying “the wilder, the better.” Take our Tombstone French Fry Style-Crust Pizza and Seattle’s Best Campfire S’mores Ground Coffee as proof “weird” combinations aren’t just novelties — they're a market-winning strategy for companies, brands and retailers alike, allowing consumers to express their individuality from the comfort of their own kitchens. With the majority of consumers interested in trying new and distinct flavors, 2026 will be a runway for wackier flavors, partnerships and formats.
Grab your favorite mug, and let’s dive into Coffee Trends:
Layering in Indulgence: Build Your Own Brews
Customization and flavors with depth are dominating the coffee category, fueled by a booming at-home coffee culture, social media inspiration and a surge in experimentation and flavor exploration. With a heightened interest in accessible indulgence, consumers are leaning into layering their brews - a multi-sensory experience in sight, taste, and texture in one cup. In fact, the average coffee drinker has two to three creamers in their refrigerator at any given time, displaying the interest in layering up on flavors at home. With one in five coffee drinkers craving whipped toppings on their beverages, Nestlé products like Coffee mate Peppermint Mocha Cold Foam Creamer are designed to put the power of indulgence and creativity in consumers’ hands.
Global Flavors: Traveling Through Every Cup
Consumers want immersive flavor experiences inspired by global traditions and ingredients, ushering in a wave of “flavor tourism.” Specialty coffee is emerging as a ticket to international education and exploration. Today, one in four consumers are interested in globally inspired coffee drinks, and our brands are drawing on cultures around the world to reimagine what’s possible in a sip — from NESCAFÉ Clasico Instant Coffee used in Cafecito recipes to Starbucks Horchata Shaken Espresso Inspired Creamer. Through global brews, consumers are tasting the world without leaving their kitchens.
Final Thoughts
The future of food isn’t something we predict, it’s something that’s provoked. And as the largest food and beverage company in the world, we’re not chasing trends, but co-creating the future alongside the consumers who inspire it.
As we turn the page to 2026, the rules of food and beverage will be redefined, pushing past the boundaries of today to create new innovations tomorrow.
