6• November / December 2026• abasto.com especialInserto PLMA The supermarket chain and SPINS predict a focus on fiber, protein, and global flavors. BY ABASTO THE 2027 SHOPPING CART FRESH THYME ANTICIPATES plexity to their lives.” The specialist added that the list reflects an infor- med and intentional con- sumer base. This customer seeks a shopping basket that is innovative, practi- cal, and aligned with their long-term health goals. NUTRITION WITH A PURPOSE Three of the trends revolve around nutritional densi- ty. The first, “Fiber First,” places fiber at the center of innovation. According to the report, consumers no longer associate fiber solely with digestive heal- th. They now link it to sa- tiety, balanced nutrition, and overall well-being. As a result, the company anticipates more breads, cereals, snacks, and be- verages that highlight this nutrient. As examples, it cites the prebiotic soda Oli- pop and Hero seed bread. This interest aligns with independent data. A sur- vey published by the Inter- national Food Information Council (IFIC) in February 2026 revealed a significant gap: Two-thirds of Ameri- cans consume too little fi- ber or are unaware of how much they consume. Furthermore, “More in Every Bite” caters to those seeking greater nutritional value in small portions. The retailer attributes this demand to busy schedu- les, changing eating ha- bits, and the popularity of GLP-1 medications. In this regard, a November 2025 KFF survey indicated that 12% of adults in the coun- try take one of these drugs. In addition, 18% said they had used them at some point. Meanwhile, “The Brain Food Era” reflects the in- terest in cognitive health. According to the study, brands will incorporate omega-3s, antioxidants, functional mushrooms, and creatine into more everyday items. • Sigue en la pág. 8 Special PLMA insert F resh Thyme Market is already outlining what U.S. consumers will want in 2027. The Midwes- tern supermarket chain released its annual “Top 10 Trends” report, which it developed in collabo- ration with SPINS, a firm specializing in packaged consumer goods data. The report predicts the flavors, ingredients, and wellness priorities that will hit store shelves over the next year. Taken together, the pre- dictions paint a picture of a shopper who demands more from every product. They want fiber, protein, and essential nutrients. However, they also seek enjoyment, convenience, and variety. “Grocery shoppers are redefining wellness on their own terms,” said Ce- cily Martínez, a registered dietitian at Fresh Thyme Market, in a press release. “People want fresh, orga- nic, and healthier foods that offer meaningful be- nefits without adding com-
Abasto Magazine November | December 2026 ENGLISH Page 55 Page 57