Fresh Thyme Market, a better-for-you Midwest-based grocer known for its innovation, creativity and customer-first approach, is rolling out its third annual “Top 10 Trends” report. Developed in partnership with SPINS, the leading provider of data, insights and commerce solutions that power the entire CPG ecosystem, 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.
Image Source: Fresh Thyme
“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 recent press release. “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 our customers explore what’s new, what’s next and what truly works.
Fresh Thyme Market’s top 10 health and wellness trends of 2026 include:
- 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.
- 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.
- Protein Expanded: Protein isn’t just for shakes anymore. In 2026, we expect to see high-protein (10g+) options across new categories: from crunchy chips and cereal to clear, refreshing ready to drink protein beverages, consumers want protein that feels approachable, fun, and refreshing — not heavy or chalky.
- 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.
- Regenerative Agriculture Rises: Beyond organic, customers want products that also restore soil health, protect biodiversity, and promote sustainability. Regenerative agriculture is
- 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.
- Women’s Wellness at Every Stage: From stress management to 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 are becoming increasingly more popular.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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. Fresh Thyme Market is leading the way in helping our customers meet these evolving needs with fresh, whole, and functional choices.
About Fresh Thyme Market
Fresh Thyme Market is a better-for-you, Midwest-based grocer with a mission to foster healthier communities by offering real, fresh food, vitamins and body care products. The grocery retailer was born from a genuine desire to help people live better and healthier lives and does so by focusing on three core pillars: quality, experience, and community. Every day Fresh Thyme Market works to be a trusted resource in our communities, bringing people access to real food at affordable prices. By offering an immersive, intuitive shopping experience and a local focus on what the community needs, each store provides fresh, natural, and organic food, as well as vitamin and body care products. To learn more, visit freshthyme.com.
About SPINS
SPINS is the leading CPG growth partner, uniting data, technology, and expertise to power discovery, decode choice, and engage shoppers with confidence. Anchored in three commercial platforms—SPINS Foundry, SPINS Intelligence, and SPINS Journey—SPINS empowers brands and retailers to navigate disruption, unlock growth, and build a healthier, more sustainable future. To learn more, visit spins.com.
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