As contemporary living proves ever more fast-paced and demanding, the Food To Go category has emerged as a crucial, exciting and innovative sector.
So the TFP team had plenty of exciting trends and innovations to explore for our Food To Go 2026 report! From holistic health to all-out indulgence, the category offers a full remit of food and drink options, no matter the time, taste or budget.
Here are some takeouts from our 2026 report:
- The 3 T's – consumer choice has never been better with, quite literally, something for everyone readily available at an accessible price point. With such an abundance of choice, producers are upping the ante to lure diners their way. How? Taste, texture and talkability; bold and far-ranging flavours combine with contrasting textural elements to help keep the brain engaged when eating.
- Protein Power – appetite for protein-rich products continues to evolve, resulting in formats ranging from the edible to the drinkable, breakfast to dessert-aligned, hot, cold, fresh, frozen, and everything in between. Protein is understood as an everyday essential, no longer just a 'health' focused subcategory - and consumers are looking to reach their daily intake goals by any means on offer.
- The Lipstick Effect – the food to go category presents an opportunity for consumers to indulge on a daily basis. The so-called 'Lipstick Effect' - where consumers will continue to spend a little extra on what are deemed to be permissible treats, even during times of economic downturn - manifests in the moderate use of premium ingredients (e.g. truffle, aged cheeses, rare-breed meats, seasonal fruits and vegetables) and high-end technique applied to sandwiches, baked goods, craft beverages and more. Such purchases are acts of self-care because… well, why not? You're worth it.
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