The Natural List: 2026 CPG innovations, trends from NEXTY judging

In this episode of The Natural List, host Adrienne Smith is joined by Meredith Kaufman to explore the most exciting trends and surprises from this year’s NEXTY judging. The “Meat and Dairy” category saw the highest number of submissions ever; the judges were thrilled to see integrity-driven products that are as delicious as they are innovative.

One of the biggest surprises? The “Meat alternative” category is dwindling, while the “Dairy alternative” category continues to boom. Values-based categories, like “Planet-forward” and “People-forward” products, are stronger than ever, with regenerative organic and biodynamic certifications leading the charge. Meredith shares her excitement about the growth of these categories, which now span everything from sweet and salty snacks to oils and more.

This year, a new NEXTY category—Product design and storytelling—celebrates brands that excel in creating visually appealing packaging while telling compelling stories. Adrienne and Meredith discuss their excitement about the traction this category is gaining in its first year, as the Natural Products Industry has always had a strong connection to beautiful, informative packaging.

Looking ahead, the NEXTY Finalist judging panel in January will bring together the largest and most diverse group of industry experts ever, including investors, branding professionals, academics and founders of acquired brands.

Tune in to hear all the insights and surprises from this year’s first round of NEXTY judging and learn what’s next for the natural products industry.
This episode is sponsored by Advantage Solutions, A Greener World, Daabon, Lakanto, and FrieslandCampina Ingredients.

In this episode:
0:00 Welcome to The Natural List! Thank you to our Q1 sponsors.
0:13 – Thank you to our sponsor, Advantage Solutions.
0:49 – Thank you to our sponsor, Lakanto.
1:35 – Welcome to our guest, Meredith Kaufman!
2:18 – What is the most surprising thing about NEXTY judging that people might not know?
4:01 – What have been some highlights or surprises about our nominations this year?
4:20 – The Meat and Dairy category had the most nominations it has ever had. From nearly disappearing a few years ago, it’s come back with a vigor.
5:20 – Are there any categories that completely surprised you this year?
5:36 - Lots of innovation in the dairy alternative category with fermentation, plant milks and more.
6:07 – Values-based categories like People-Forward, Planet-Forward, Regenerative Organic and Biodynamic Certified category continue to grow year after year.
6:30 – Thank you to our sponsor, Daabon.
7:09 – The breadth of the Regenerative Organic and Biodynamic Certified category was a highlight for Meredith. These products span categories and the aisles of the store.
7:42 – Comfort food and indulgent flavors are making a comeback.
8:33 – Overarching trends include Dubai chocolate, seed-oil-free, tallow and protein-packed everything.
8:35 – What format of protein from our submissions surprised you the most?
9:47 – The supplement categories stayed strong with many submissions, including multiple organic supplement companies and sustainability stories across categories.
10:10 – Pantry Staples and Prepared Pantry categories had innovative, inventive ingredients our judges loved, and many Indian and Asian flavors.
11:32 – New category: Product Design and Storytelling! The CPG industry is a leader in visually pleasing packaging and educating consumers on their packaging. This gives them a chance to shine.
12:35 – NEXTY season is just beginning! Our finals judging begins in January with our largest group of guest judges to date and includes retailers, industry experts, investors, academics, founders and more.
13:33 – Thank you to our sponsor, FrieslandCampina Ingredients.
14:00 - Thank you to our sponsor, A Greener World.