West Caldwell, NJ—Plant-based proteins and nootropics will lead the supplement categories in 2026, this according to a new Top 2026 Supplement Trends report from contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), Vitaquest International. Now in its third year, the 2026 report identified 7 key growth areas:
Plant-based proteins: Ideal for vegans and vegetarians, plant-based options are a favorable option for individuals with sensitivities to dairy or other common allergens. Pea and rice are the most widely used options.
Nootropics: Increasingly popular for their mental performance boosting effects, Rhodiola rosea, Bacopa monnieri, and Lion’s Mane mushroom are among the most popular options for customers.
Gut Health: Postbiotics are next up in the digestive and immune health space. Because they are non-living compounds there is no concern for stability.
Longevity: Consumers want to live longer and maintain higher quality of life levels. Younger generations are helping boost these supplements' popularity numbers.
Women's Health: Menopause, urinary health, and fertility are the main segments within the space. Ingredients such as chaste berry, maca, and vitamin D have all been associated with improved fertility outcomes in clinical research.
Hydration Supplements: Consumers understand the importance of hydration for their active lifestyles and skin health.
Personalized Experience: Wearable devices and personalized supplements are growing in popularity amongst consumer looking for products formulated with specific demographic in mind that cater to unique health needs.
“With category growth in these areas and rising demand for advanced delivery forms, the market is becoming both more innovative and competitive,” says Patrick Brueggman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Vitaquest. “Increasingly informed consumers favor products combining efficacy, transparency, and convenience. By aligning product development with emerging science, evolving consumer preferences, and validated quality standards, companies can position themselves for success in the next wave of supplement innovation.”
In addition to supplement trends, Vitaquest also examined the manufacturing trends of the upcoming year. According to SPINS data, changes in consumer delivery format preferences suggest changes in dollar sales to:
- Powders: +8%
- Capsules: +5.3%
- Tablets: -0.9%
- Gummies: -8%
“For brands looking to optimize product format based on consumer preferences, powders and capsules are currently the most promising conventional options,” said Lauren Samot, Registered Dietitian and Commercial Innovation Leader at Vitaquest.
For more on the report, please visit vitaquest.com/supplement-trends-2026.
