Shauna Golden

New year, new trends. Based on ever-evolving consumer demand, retailers and manufacturers alike – including Kroger and Conagra Brands – are predicting the largest drivers of consumer food and beverage spending in 2026.

Celebrity-backed baby and kids nutrition brand Once Upon a Farm is eyeing a valuation of up to $764.4 million in its U.S. initial public offering (IPO), the company announced on Monday

Blue Bell Ice Cream is tapping into the high-protein craze with the upcoming release of PRO pints, the brand announced on Instagram today.

Early-stage venture fund Rising Tide Ventures has backed Dr Bombay, the ice cream brand co-founded by Snoop Dogg and The Happi Co. under Bosslady Foods.

Global food giant Smithfield Foods announced today that it has agreed to acquire hot dog brand Nathan’s Famous in an all-cash transaction valued at $450 million.

Protein- and fiber-filled condiment brand She’s the Sauce is making its retail debut with Pop Up Grocer as part of a three-month rotation.

Meat snacks have long been dominated by strips, sticks and jerky, but for beef puff snack BUFFS, that’s even more reason to innovate.

Magic Spoon is again expanding beyond the cereal bowl, launching a new line of Protein Pastries at Target.

Better-for-you gummy candy brand Rotten has landed in Dick’s Sporting Goods stores nationwide, doubling down on its core parent-and-child demographic and bringing its total retail door count to over 5,000.

DDC Enterprise Limited has exited its U.S. operations and pivoted to focus its core food business on Asian markets and accelerate its Bitcoin Reserve Strategy, according to a letter to shareholders released today.