Circana examines how America eats and drinks in 2026

CHICAGO — Circana has released its 2026 edition of “Eating Patterns in America,” offering a broad look at how evolving consumer eating and drinking behaviors are shaping opportunities for food and beverage manufacturers, retailers and foodservice operators.

Now in its 41st edition, the annual report examines U.S. consumption, covering more than $1.8 trillion in consumer spending and 618 billion eating-and-drinking occasions. Circana said the research links in-home and away-from-home consumption to provide a more complete picture of what, when, where, and why Americans eat and drink.

The report is designed to help companies identify emerging consumer behaviors, determine which occasions, segments, and channels offer the greatest growth potential, and develop more effective strategies for innovation, marketing, merchandising, and activation.

Circana said shifts in how consumers decide what to eat and drink are creating both challenges and opportunities across the marketplace. By examining consumption occasions across channels, the research aims to help businesses identify behavioral changes before they become mainstream and pinpoint where future demand could emerge.

“Eating Patterns in America 2026” draws on Circana data across food and beverage, foodservice, broadline distribution, small appliances, housewares, and other categories. The company describes the report as a 360-degree view of U.S. consumption, intended to connect consumer behavior to actionable business opportunities.