Fresh Thyme Market, Downers Grover, Ill., rolled out its third annual “Top 10 Trends” report. Developed in partnership with SPINS, the predictions for 2026 draw on consumer insights and wellness research to offer a roadmap of the key ingredients and products that will be in high demand in grocery aisles this coming year, the company says.

“Each year, our trends report is about more than forecasting what’s next in wellness ― it’s about our customers. We listen closely to what inspires and energizes them,” said Liz Zolcak, president of Fresh Thyme Market, in a statement. “Midwestern shoppers want food that fuels them to better health and a longer, more vibrant life. Every store visit is designed to be an experience rooted in discovery, inspiration and quality, where customers can explore new products that make healthy living both approachable and exciting. This report is our way of sharing insights about shopping, eating and caring for our bodies and how Fresh Thyme Market is leading the way to healthier lives.”

Fresh Thyme Market, driven by an engaged team who actively source a wide range of local and national products from reliable vendors, curates yearly trends with curiosity and intention ― tracking early signals across nutrition, sustainability and lifestyle shifts to help its customers explore what’s new, what’s next and what truly works, it states.

Fresh Thyme Market’s Top 10 health and wellness trends of 2026 are as follows:

1. Gut Health Gets Personal: Consumers are going beyond kombucha and yogurt to explore a new wave of prebiotic and probiotic sodas, indulgent dessert with added benefits, and quick on-the-go snacks that fuel with a purpose. Shoppers are looking for convenient, flavorful ways to support digestion and immunity while still enjoying grab-and-go snacks and refreshing drinks. Gut goals made easy: Bolthouse Farms Real Fruit Soda, Alecs Culture Cup, Supergut Nutritional Bars, wildbrine Green Organic Kraut

2. Longevity Lifestyle: The rise of the “lifespan mindset” is fueling demand for nootropics, super mushrooms, and beverages with benefits that support cognitive health, memory, immune support, joint mobility, and heart-brain wellness. Longevity products are no longer just about aging gracefully — they’re about staying sharper, more energetic, and radiant at every life stage. Sip to the future: Four Sigmatic Mushroom Coffee, Hiyo Non-Alcoholic Adaptogen Beverages, Just Made Turmeric Juices

3. Protein Expanded: Protein isn’t just for shakes anymore. In 2026, we expect to see high-protein (10 gram-plus) options across new categories, including crunchy chips, cereal, clear ready-to-drink protein beverages. Consumers want protein that feels approachable, fun and refreshing — not heavy or chalky. Power up with protein: Seven Sundays Protein Cereal, Clean Simple Eats Clear Protein Drinks, Legendary Protein Chips

4. Beauty from the Inside Out: Wellness and beauty continue to merge with food and beverages. Shoppers are reaching for algae, moringa, collagen-infused bars, beauty shots, and portable jellies to support hair, skin and nails. Even skincare is trending natural with beef tallow creams, mists, serums and sunscreens gaining traction for their nutrient density. Feel the glow: Stoked Beekeeping Vanilla Rose Tallow Balm, Sea Moss Beverages, Kuli Kuli Moringa Gummies

5. Regenerative Agriculture Rises: Beyond organic, customers want products that also restore soil health, protect biodiversity and promote sustainability. Regenerative agriculture is becoming a badge of honor for brands and a value-add for shoppers who care about leaving the planet better than they found it. Good for people and the planet: Patagonia Provisions Canned Seafood, Lotus Foods, Painterland Sisters Yogurt, Force of Nature

6. Private Label Power: Shoppers continue to seek high-quality organic foods at prices that fit everyday budgets. Fresh Thyme Market’s own brand expansion is answering shoppers’ needs who seek high-quality, organic foods that fit every-day budgets. The own brand line showcases transparent and trusted ingredients, offering early access to emerging flavors that reflect Fresh Thyme’s commitment to quality and customer delight. Honest goodness in every sip and bite: Fresh Thyme Cold Pressed Juice, Regenerative Eggs, Avocado Oil

7. Women's Wellness at Every Stage: Whether its stress management or menopause, women are demanding products tailored to their unique health journeys. Expect growth in ashwagandha, L-theanine, and magnesium-based products to support mood, sleep and stress. Supplements with formulas designed specifically to support women’s beauty, bone, heart and hormonal health across all life stages increasingly are becoming more popular. Wellness at every stage: Buddha Teas Ashwagandha Tea, Ancient Nutrition Women's Vitality, Solaray Her Life Stages

8. Global Flavors, Local Tables: 2026 is the Year of the Avocado. From avocado-based sauces and condiments to Southwest-inspired spice blends and simmer sauces, fresh produce is driving bold, global flavors. Think taco and fajita blends, avocado dips, and veggie-forward skillet sauces that make it easy to bring restaurant-worthy meals home. Global flavor right in your backyard: Primal Kitchen Avocado Lime Dipping Sauce, Somos Taco Simmer Sauce, Zack’s Mighty Organic Chips Made with Avocado Oil, Pitaya Frozen Avocado

9. Clean Caffeine & Functional Energy: Energy is being redefined. Instead of high-sugar, high-crash drinks, shoppers want green tea, green coffee bean, and functional blends with vitamin B and adaptogens for smooth, sustained energy. Functional energy beverages are now about fuel plus focus — with zero jitters and added health benefits. Fuel plus focus: Gorgie Energy Drinks, Verb Energy Bars, Neuro Gum Focus Gummies

10. GLP-1 Lifestyle Support: With the rise of GLP-1 medications, shoppers are prioritizing nutrient-rich foods that support metabolism, satiety and balanced nutrition. This means demand for lean proteins, fiber-rich foods like fresh organic fruits and veggies, probiotics and calming stress-support supplements will keep growing. The power of protein, plants and probiotics: Thomas Farms Grass Fed & Finished Ground Beef and Steaks, Grimmway Carrot Fries, Garden of Life Probiotics, Fresh Thyme Organic Dark Leafy Green Salad Mixes