SIAL 2026 trade fair highlights food trends

The SIAL 2026 trade fair, held from October 17 to 21, showcased the latest developments in the food industry, emphasizing innovation across various sectors. The event attracted participants from around the world, focusing on products that reflect current consumer preferences and technological advancements.

Health and taste no longer mutually exclusive

Jean-Gabriel Mollard, director of the international fair, emphasized a growing trend toward health and well-being through food. He noted that consumers are increasingly seeking products that offer both nutritional value and enjoyable taste, indicating a shift in how food is consumed and perceived.

Innovations in snacking and functional foods

Innovations in snacking have led to the development of healthier options that prioritize quality and functionality. Functional foods and beverages, such as those containing adaptogens and skyr milkshakes, were prominent at the fair. Unusual products like pickled cucumber juice also drew attention, showcasing the diversity of new food concepts.

Solutions for reducing food waste

The fair also featured innovations aimed at reducing food waste. Startups presented products such as juices made from by-products of coffee and cashew nuts, demonstrating how waste can be repurposed into valuable food items. These solutions reflect a growing awareness of sustainability in the food industry.

New technologies and unique products

Among the notable innovations was a Swiss company, Zeen Tech, which introduced a machine that uses water vapor to fry food, preserving its nutritional quality and reducing energy consumption. Other products included Green Matcha's coffee machine-compatible matcha capsules and Brets' crepe chips, which were praised for their taste.

Trends in aesthetics and unusual offerings

The color purple, associated with ube, was a visible trend at the fair, although the ingredient itself did not bring significant gustatory novelty. The influence of digital platforms, especially social media, was evident in the emphasis on Instagrammable aesthetics and product differentiation. One of the more unusual products was a lollipop that produces sound through the bones of the skull when sucked.