A new wave of food trends is emerging for 2026, with sweetcorn desserts and nettles expected to become popular choices for health-conscious consumers. According to food futurologist Dr Morgaine Gaye, the introduction of maize-flavoured ice cream in the UK is set to captivate taste buds while promoting wellness.
Nutritionist Lily Keeling from Green Chef UK emphasizes that the rise of sweetcorn in desserts showcases how healthy eating can be both innovative and enjoyable. “Who would have guessed sweetcorn ice cream would be on the menu for 2026?” Keeling stated. “These trends are a great reminder that healthy eating can be exciting and surprising.”
In addition to sweetcorn, the trend towards incorporating dandelion greens and nettles into various dishes is expected to gain traction. Keeling notes that these ingredients can enhance nutritional value, providing a boost to overall health. The increased interest in natural and foraged foods aligns with a growing consumer desire for fresh and nutritious options.
Bananas are also anticipated to have a significant presence in 2026, with their use in desserts, drinks, and pies inspired by the popular offerings from Magnolia Bakery in New York. Keeling explains that bananas are rich in potassium and prebiotic fibre, which support nerve function and gut health. Their natural sweetness and creamy texture make them ideal for healthier dessert alternatives.
The spice of the year is projected to be cardamom, which is likely to influence a variety of foods and beverages, inspired by the popularity of Scandinavian cardamom rolls and Middle Eastern desserts. Keeling highlights cardamom’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it well-suited for health bars and drinks. She recommends trying dishes such as Chickpea Tikka Masala with Cardamom Turmeric Rice to explore this flavorful spice.
Another trend gaining momentum is the increasing use of tahini and black sesame in both sweet and savory dishes. These ingredients are expected to dominate menus as consumers become more adventurous with their culinary choices.
In a surprising turn, beef tallow is anticipated to make a comeback in restaurants, fueled by a rising interest in the carnivore diet and a decline in the popularity of meat substitutes. This follows a previous year where oat milk and plant-based comfort foods were at the forefront of consumer preferences.
Despite the surge in popularity for oat milk, not all experiences have been positive. A recent incident involving a woman who purchased a carton of oat milk from Lidl has drawn significant attention. After discovering unsettling white lumps at the bottom of the carton, she expressed her dissatisfaction and criticized Lidl for not removing the product from their shelves. In response, Lidl announced that they are reformulating the oat milk following customer feedback, which will be available in stores soon.
As 2026 approaches, these trends indicate an exciting shift in the culinary landscape, encouraging consumers to embrace healthful ingredients while exploring new flavors. The upcoming year promises to offer a wealth of innovative dining experiences, showcasing the evolving relationship between food and wellness.
