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Sweet, Spicy, and Everything in Between: The Evolution of Food and Beverage Flavors in 2026
In 2026, consumers are craving a mix of sweet, spicy, new, and nostalgic flavors when it comes to food and beverages. This year, unique flavor and texture combinations are taking center stage in the grocery aisle, driven by social media trends and a resurgence in home cooking. Generation Z, in particular, is seeking out unexpected flavors from around the world and inventive combinations that push the boundaries of taste.
“People are looking for experiences that surprise and delight them, without any compromises,” said Mike Van Houten, Vice President of Commercial Excellence at Nestlé.
According to internal research by Nestlé, nearly half of consumers are willing to try a new product and brand for the first time if it offers an intriguing flavor. This growing interest in unique and unexpected food and drinks is complemented by a desire for nostalgic tastes that remind consumers of their childhood favorites.
Layers of Flavor and Texture: The New Frontier
2026 is expected to see a significant rise in demand for nuanced and complex flavor combinations. From “swicy” (sweet and spicy) to “swangy” (spicy, sweet, and tangy) and “swavory” (spicy, sweet, and savory), consumers are seeking out multi-dimensional taste experiences.
Texture plays a crucial role in enhancing these flavor profiles, with consumers looking for a dynamic sensory experience that goes beyond just taste. Velvety textures like creamy pistachio are redefining the coffee creamer market, where customization and layered flavors are becoming increasingly popular. Creamers are now being added to soft drinks to create “dirty sodas” that offer a range of colors, mouthfeels, and flavors.
According to Van Houten, layering flavors not only adds a visual aesthetic but also allows consumers to playfully engage with their food and enjoy a more immersive sensory experience.
Similar trends are emerging in the candy aisle, with products like Nerds Gummy Clusters and freeze-dried candies offering bold flavors and exciting textures. Non-chocolate candies like lollipops, gummies, and licorice are experiencing a surge in demand due to their innovative flavors and textures.
Tropical Fruits and Foraged Flavors: A Global Palate
Consumers are increasingly drawn to complex and global flavors that come with a health halo. Berries, botanicals, and tropical fruits are in high demand, with fruits like black currant, dark sweet cherry, and dragon fruit making a splash in the market.
These vibrant and exotic fruits provide consumers with an approachable way to explore new flavors while also offering potential health benefits. Tropical profiles such as guava and passionfruit are being used to create better-for-you innovations that cater to the growing interest in fruit and gut health.
Foraged flavors inspired by nature, such as woodsy berries and botanicals, are also gaining popularity. Consumers associate these flavors with innovation and adventure, making them a sought-after choice for those looking for unique taste experiences.
Nostalgia with a Modern Twist
Combining old favorites with new and exciting elements is a winning formula for enticing consumers to try different flavors and ingredients. The trend of blending familiar and novel flavors is a gateway for consumers to explore a world of culinary possibilities.
While there is a plethora of new flavor combinations and innovations available, many consumers still gravitate towards comforting and nostalgic formulations that remind them of simpler times. Heritage brands are seeing a resurgence as consumers seek reliability and familiarity in an ever-changing world.
Classic soda flavors like lemon-lime and cherry are making a comeback, with companies adding functional ingredients to create healthier versions of these beloved drinks. Brands like Poppi and Stiller’s Soda are reinventing nostalgic flavors with a modern twist, offering consumers a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies their cravings.