Author background:
Brian Berk is a journalist and editor with more than 25 years of experience. He has served as Editor-in-Chief of Music & Sound Retailer and Managing Editor of Convenience Store News, leading trade publications in their respective segments. He has also worked in pharmaceutical retail, the photo industry, and natural products. He holds a bachelor’s degree from SUNY Cortland and a master’s degree from Quinnipiac University. He resides in Port Washington, New York, USA.
In his editorial letter for Dairy Foods, Brian Berk summarized key expert expectations for the development of the dairy industry in 2026. This time, he chose to present the outlook as an overview of the most important trends shaping the industry agenda.
Consumers expect more
According to Dan O’Connell, CEO of FoodMix Marketing Communications, today’s consumers seek “greater transparency, greater nutrition, and more meaningful experiences.” Brands that adapt quickly to changing consumer behavior will gain a competitive edge.
Below are some of the most notable forecasts highlighted this year:
2026 — The Year of Fiber
Experts predict a sharp rise in interest in fiber. The average American consumes only about half of the recommended daily intake. Amid the growing popularity of weight-loss medications, fiber is becoming a key ingredient for digestive support, weight management, and blood sugar control.
Food as a Health Tool
Rafael Acevedo, President of the Yogurt Business Unit at Danone North America, emphasizes that consumers “are not just eating — they are optimizing their diets.” Demand is increasing for functional products that support gut health, satiety, and overall well-being without complicating daily routines. Dairy products remain an important part of this trend.
Clean Labels and Ingredient Control
Greater scrutiny of product formulations is expected. Interest in clean labels and reducing ultra-processed ingredients continues to grow. Even if regulatory requirements do not change significantly, brands are likely to take a more cautious approach to recipes.
Protein 2.0
Protein is no longer just about quantity. Consumers are seeking additional health benefits and differentiated functional advantages. Demand is expected to rise for protein products tailored to individuals using GLP-1 medications for weight management.
Gut Health
Despite the viral popularity of the microbiome topic in 2025, half of Americans remain unaware of its impact on immunity, mood, and sleep. In 2026, demand is projected to grow for products containing prebiotics, probiotics, and fiber — particularly in the yogurt segment.
Global Flavors
OSF Flavors forecasts stronger influence from Asian and Latin American flavors in the U.S. market. Trending profiles include ube, yuzu, pandan, salted egg, chili-lime, salsa macha, and dulce de leche. Brands are transforming these flavors into new product platforms rather than simply replicating traditional recipes.
Examples of innovation include siggi’s new Tropical Yuzu skyr and Frosted Star Anise, named Flavor of the Year 2026 by dsm-firmenich.
AI in Marketing
FoodMix also highlights the growing role of artificial intelligence in creative processes. The key question is whether AI will serve as a supportive tool for brand strategies or gradually replace traditional approaches to idea generation.
Conclusion
Brian Berk notes that the past year was successful for many segments of the dairy industry. At the same time, he emphasizes that regardless of whether all forecasts materialize, 2026 has the potential to bring new opportunities and positive sales momentum to the sector.
Source:Dairy Foods
