Vitafoods Europe 2026 once again established itself as the premier gathering for the international nutraceutical industry. Over the course of three days at Fira Barcelona, we were able to see where the market is headed, which formats are gaining traction, and how brands are responding to consumers who are increasingly discerning, health-conscious, and focused on holistic well-being.
At Trades, we were there alongside some of our key partners, exploring the innovations that will shape future developments in dietary supplements, functional foods, and wellness.
What We Saw at Vitafoods 2026: The Big Trends
#1 The “shot” format continues to grow
One of the most common formats featured in the Tasting Centre was the functional shot. Consumers are looking for quick, convenient, and “on-the-go” solutions, especially in categories such as energy, hydration, digestive health, beauty, and recovery.
Immediate functionality and convenience are emerging as key purchasing factors.
#2 Functional Hydration: Much More Than Just Sports
Electrolytes and minerals are evolving into broader offerings related to daily well-being, energy, and recovery.
We saw strong growth in effervescent tablets, instant drops, functional sticks, and easy-to-consume (on-the-go) solutions.
Hydration is no longer viewed solely as a key factor in sports nutrition, but rather as a cross-cutting category.
#3 Creatine: From Sports Supplement to Ingredient for Overall Well-being
Creatine was one of the highlights of the event, but its scope extended far beyond physical performance.
The new formulations are designed to support cognitive health, rest, mental clarity, and concentration.
This reflects how ingredients traditionally used in sports supplements are making their way into categories such as longevity and cognitive health.
#4 Hormonal and sexual health takes center stage
Hormonal and sexual well-being was another of the event's most prominent categories.
Brands are focusing on formulas tailored to each stage of life, adaptogens, clinically backed ingredients, and more holistic and preventive claims.
#5 The GLP-1 phenomenon hits the natural wellness scene
The influence of GLP-1 was also very much in evidence at Vitafoods Europe 2026. Many brands are exploring natural ingredients aimed at promoting satiety, weight management, appetite control, and metabolic support.
A trend that will continue to grow in the coming years.
#6 The customer experience matters more than ever
Beyond the ingredients, consumers are looking for appealing and experiential formats.
Innovations from our clients at Vitafoods Europe 2026
In addition to identifying trends, Vitafoods also provided an opportunity to see firsthand the latest developments from the companies we represent and how they are driving innovation across various categories.
Nektium: scientifically backed functional botanicals
Nektium presented solutions focused on resilience, cognition, and smart energy. Highlights included:
– Vanizem®, a two-time winner at the NutraIngredients Awards in the Botanical and Mind & Mood categories.
– Zynamite®, for mental and physical performance.
– Rhodiolife®, an adaptogen for cognitive and athletic health.
The company also reinforced its commitment to traceability, quality, and the science of functional botanicals.
Abyss Ingredients: Marine Innovation for Wellness and Beauty
Abyss Ingredients showcased functional solutions derived from sustainable marine bioresources. Its portfolio includes:
– Dermatidyss®: a complex of marine peptides that soothes the skin and mind
– Mnemosyss®:marine peptides and Omega-3 to prevent cognitive decline.
– Peptidyss®:marinepeptidesfor stress management and sleep
– Cartidyss®: beautyand joint health. More than just type II marine collagen.
A clear commitment to natural ingredients backed by science and already proven in the market.
PharmaNutra: Bioavailability and Delivery Systems
PharmaNutra once again stood out with its patented Sucrosomial® technology, designed to improve the absorption and bioavailability of nutrients.
Notable among the solutions presented are SideMag, UltraD3®, UltraZin®, and UltraChrome®.
Bioavailability remains one of the key areas of innovation in the nutraceutical industry.
Fermedics: Advanced Fermentation and New Product Launches
Fermedics introduced new fermented ingredients designed to enhance bioavailability and functionality: Fermogranate, FRG12®, and Fermakinon-7®.
In addition, he highlighted the low-FODMAP certification of Fibriotics® AF+, which aligns with the growing demand for digestive comfort.
Tirlán: functional proteins for high-protein applications
Demand for high-protein solutions continues to grow, and Tirlán showcased functional dairy applications with outstanding technical performance. Its Solmiko® and Solago®solutionsenablethe development of products with improved texture, greater stability, and excellent functionality in protein-based beverages and snacks.
Glanbia Nutritionals: Functionality + Sensory Experience
Glanbia reinforced the concept of Pleasure with Purpose, where functionality and sensory experience go hand in hand. The main areas of focus were snacks, functional beverages, and metabolic health.
