The global beverage market continues to undergo rapid transformation. Changes in consumer behavior, technological advances, and regulatory pressures are shaping new demands and new opportunities.
To keep up with this scenario, more than following trends, it is necessary to understand them deeply and act strategically. Below, we have gathered the key movements expected to impact the beverage industry in 2026, and how Loop is prepared to support its customers in each of them.
1. Clean and traceable ingredients
Consumers are increasingly attentive to what they consume. Clean label is no longer a differentiator and has become a prerequisite. Natural ingredients, shorter ingredient lists, and known origins are gaining strength.
In practice:
- Natural flavors are gaining space;
- Reduction of additives and preservatives;
- Transparent communication on labels.
How Loop responds:
With a vertically integrated supply chain, we ensure traceability from raw materials to the final product. In addition, we offer natural flavors, clean label bases, and technical support to ensure cleaner formulations without compromising flavor.
2. Beverages with functional benefits
In 2026, health and convenience will be even more integrated. Beverages that offer clear functional benefits, such as immunity, energy, focus, relaxation, or digestive support, will stand out.
In practice:
- Supplementation with extracts and active ingredients;
- New formats: shots, flavored waters, and functional teas;
- Integration with healthy habits.
How Loop responds:
We offer customized blends and solutions that meet specific technical and sensory requirements. We work side by side with clients to balance functional performance and consumption experience.
3. Sensory experiences and differentiation
With increased competition, the importance of standing out on the palate grows. Exclusive sensory profiles and sophisticated aromatic notes will be key tools for differentiation at the point of sale.
In practice:
- Creation of unique sensory signatures;
- Exploration of regional or nostalgic flavors;
- Reinterpretation of classics with new ingredients.
How Loop responds:
Our R&D team works closely with clients to create custom-made flavors, focusing on sensory appeal, stability, and performance at industrial scale.
4. Sustainability as a purchasing decision
More than a reputational topic, sustainability is becoming a real decision criterion for consumers and retailers. Environmental impact will increasingly be questioned and monitored.
In practice:
- Valuing local suppliers;
- Reduction of waste and emissions;
- Preference for companies with recognized certifications.
How Loop responds:
With in-house production, optimized logistics, the use of solar energy, and FSSC 22000 certification, Loop turns sustainability into practice rather than just discourse.
But we go further: we also control part of our supply chain through ISAU, our company located in the southern region of the country, specialized in apple and orange juice. There, we promote family farming, ensure traceability from fruit to formulation, and secure stable supply even during periods of scarcity.
This type of structure allows Loop to deliver consistency, quality, and safety in every shipment.
5. More demanding regulations
The search for healthier, more transparent, and safer foods and beverages is pushing regulatory bodies around the world to update their standards.
In practice:
- More detailed and standardized labeling, such as front-of-pack warnings about sugar, sodium, and fat;
- Restrictions on ingredient composition, especially regarding artificial additives, sweeteners, and synthetic colorants;
- Stricter advertising rules, especially for products aimed at children and adolescents.
These changes require industries to adapt quickly, revise their formulations, and rely on partners that offer technical support and traceability throughout the entire production chain.
More than complying with laws, it is about being ahead, offering consumers safe, reliable products aligned with new global expectations.
How Loop responds:
Our technical team supports clients from briefing to regulatory assistance. Supply chain integration allows for fast, traceable, and validated adjustments with accuracy and speed.
The future is built on preparation
The trends for 2026 are not distant predictions: they are ongoing movements that require planning starting now. At Loop, we stand alongside our clients to turn challenges into solutions through technology, agility, and market insight.
Want to know how to apply these trends to your portfolio?
Talk to our team: www.loopbr.com.br
