Written by UConn Dietetics Masters student Samantha Poli
Food and nutrition trends are shifts in what people choose to eat, how they prepare the food, and how they think about their dietary health. These trends can be influenced by factors like wellness, science, technology, and culture.
Here are the Top 5 2026 Food and Nutrition Trends:
“Fibermaxxing”
This trend encourages people to eat more fiber. More than 90 percent of women and 97 percent of men do not meet the recommended daily intake for dietary fiber. Most adults should aim for 14 grams of fiber for every 1,000 calories they consume. This is about 25 grams of fiber for women and 38 grams for men each day, although, exact needs can vary. Find the fiber content on package nutrition labels! Fiber is heart and gut healthy! High-fiber foods: oatmeal, whole grain cereal, beans, lentils and fruits and veggies with skin/peel left on! Wash first!
Is Fibermaxxing a Sound Nutrition Trend? UCLA Article
Swicy: Sweet Meets Spicy
The sweet and heat combination is reaching products found in the pantry. This trend has become so successful because there are multiple flavors occurring at the same time! A Swicy Food: Hot Honey Chicken! Here is an easy and delicious recipe!
A Red Meat Portion Can Be Healthy!
Red meat (beef, pork, lamb) is nutrient dense and gives your body iron, zinc, and high-quality complete protein. While rich in nutrients, it also contains saturated fat and cholesterol which means that you should be mindful to consume the recommended 3-ounce portion at a meal.
Health Benefits of Beef WebMD Article
Your Heart Loves Olive Oil
Olive oil provides both flavor, nutrition, and even antioxidants which can help limit inflammation in the body. This can help protect the heart and improve cardiovascular health. It is a very healthy ingredient in the kitchen and can be used for bread dipping, drizzling over finished entrées, and light sautéing.
Exploring the Health Benefits of Olive Oil Mayo Clinic Article
Cabbage Takes the Stage
A versatile vegetable that is available throughout the year. Cabbage is replacing the cauliflower obsession with full steam. Live, laugh, leaf! What can you make with cabbage? Try stuffed cabbage dumplings, shred raw cabbage into green salads, or do a stove top sauté with white and purple cabbage, onions, mushrooms and some olive oil for a yummy side dish.
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