Barcelona, Spain—The 2026 Vitafoods Europe event drew a record number of natural products industry representatives from 135 countries. The three-day event, which took place from May 5-7, attracted an all-time high 26,767 members from the nutraceutical, functional food and beverage, and dietary supplement industries. Attendees explored the latest offerings from 1,550 exhibitors.

Show guests were welcomed by event coordinators and participants like the events flagship sponsor, Ixoreal, which continued to spread the word on shatavari to the European market. Several team members were in attendance discussing the latest research for their latest offering and sharing their thoughts on the recent developments concerning the use of Ashwagandha leaves. Catch up on the recent headlines here. 

Other exhibitors debuted new offerings, like Groupe Berkem, which introduced Cocoa Mind, a polyphenol-rich ingredient developed for functional food and beverage applications tied to cognitive and mood support. (Explore more of the launches debuted at the show: New Products: Vitafoods Europe 2026 Edition.)

With a steady 5% attendance increase year-over-year, Vitafoods expanded its floorspace in 2026 with a new exhibition hall to accommodate the growing number of innovations and ingredient and solution exhibits. The added show room floor created additional opportunities for participants like Natural Remedies, winners of several show awards including the Innovation Award in the Sports Nutrition & Active Lifestyle Ingredient category for its botanical ingredient, Ashwa.30, and Arla Foods Ingredients, which highlighted evolving protein formats aimed at attracting broader demographics, particularly women looking for lighter, more approachable protein products, to have more one-on-one time with potential clients and collaborators. 

WholeFoods Magazine Publisher and Chief Business Officer, Heather Wainer, covered this year's show, noting several significant trends.

Biggest Ingredient & Supplement Trends from Vitafoods Europe 2026

• Evidence-based nutrition
• Women's wellness innovation
• Microbiome health solutions
• GLP-1 companion products and supplements
• Longevity supplement ingredients

"Exhibitors showcased how science-backed innovation is reshaping the supplement and functional food categories.," Wainer shared. "The trends were centered around women’s health, GLP-1 companion products, longevity, and postbiotics."

Other key focuses and takeaways from this year's participants included:

AB-BIOTICS made their return to Vitafoods Europe to showcase its new functional food applications - from gummies to market-ready food matrixes, including dairy, drinks and candy. Visitors were able to learn about the company's portfolio of targeted next-generation probiotic solutions for joint, immune, cardiovascular, skin  and menopausal health.

ACG focused a presentation on advanced delivery technologies, including the company's controlled-release beadlet systems with pH-targeted coatings designed to release active ingredients in the small intestine.

At ADM, Alicia Humpert, Global Marketing Director for Microbiome Solutions, highlighted the company’s growing research around sleep, stress, mood, and women’s health. ADM presented clinical work spanning younger women during the menstrual cycle through menopause, along with studies focused on athletes and physical recovery. One notable study evaluated students undergoing exam stress, reinforcing the growing interest in microbiome solutions tied to mood and cognitive resilience.

The company also highlighted postbiotic solutions for pets and other key ingredients, including:

• Efsflorin1, a postbiotic for allergy rhinitis that demonstrated stronger performance than traditional probiotic approaches in studies.
• Fibersol, positioned as both a sugar replacement solution and an easy way to boost daily fiber intake.
• S41 Anchor, designed for beverage and gummy applications.
• BPL1 probiotic and postbiotic solutions designed to support metabolic health, particularly for consumers transitioning off GLP-1 medications and looking to help the body adjust.

AIDP won Vitafoods Europe 2026 Innovation Awards for their Ashwa.30 and Magtein products:

• Sports Nutrition & Active Lifestyle Ingredient - Ashwa.30. The next generation ashwagandha extract, Ashwa.30, is derived from 100% roots and a low daily dose of 30 mg supports energy, endurance, and stress resilience. 
• Cognitive & Emotional Health Ingredient - Magtein. The highly bioavailable form of magnesium L-threonate, Magtein is clinically shown to raise neuronal magnesium levels and support cognition, sleep, and emotional resilience. Magtein was also recognized recently with the NutraIngredients Europe Award 2026 for Nutrition Research Project. (
• For more on AIDP, check out our recent leadership profile spotlight.)

Balchem shared information on active nutrition, prenatal health, cognitive wellness, and healthy aging. Highlighting OptiMSM for skin and joint support, K2VITAL, Optifolin, and the relaunch of choline citrate solutions as demand for choline continues to rise. Representatives discussed new research examining postmenopausal women and the relationship between estrogen decline and reduced choline levels. Functional MRI data demonstrated measurable brain expansion with choline supplementation, reinforcing its potential role in supporting cognitive health and addressing brain fog.

Marketing Director for Human Minerals and Nutrients, Tom Druke, emphasized the importance of “choline through the lifespan,” positioning the ingredient as a key player in longevity and healthy aging strategies. The company also noted growing interest in convenient ready-to-mix and beverage applications that align with consumer demand for mind-body wellness and active lifestyles.

BGG team members were in attendance discussing the science behind the company's ‘Dream Team’ of solutions for the body and mind including:

• ApplePhenon, an apple extract rich in procyanidins that delivers proven results for weight management and metabolic health
• TheraPrimE, a tocotrienol that can deliver improvements to memory and significantly reduce sleep disorders
• AstaZine astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant with a vast range of health benefits. BGG is the world’s largest producer of natural astaxanthin

Biotexia discussed its rebranding efforts alongside their continued focus on preventive health ingredients. The company recently released white papers focused on digestive and metabolic health, while also expanding into pet applications.

CoreFX shared news of the opening of their newest facility in Ireland. The company also highlighted its dual-path CoreNhanced platform, featuring newly trademarked eXoFunction and BioTransport technologies, alongside patent activity and application-ready prototypes in high-demand actives like creatine, berberine, vitamin C, and CoQ10.

DolCas Biotech, LLC introduced a new format for its Morikol marine collagen tripeptide ingredient. The new format consists of 1g and 2g single-serving sachets of Morikol’s melt-in-your-mouth collagen tripeptide that is neutral in odor and flavor and can be opened and ingested directly.

“This new format offers consumers a fast, convenient way to take collagen anywhere, anytime, which can also help support rapid absorption due to the highly bioavailable tripeptide structure,” explained K G Rao, founder and CEO of DolCas Biotech. “Conventional collagen peptides often recommend consumption on an empty stomach for optimal absorption, but when DolCas performed a comprehensive critical review of the ingredient, superior standardization properties were revealed that made it unique compared to other collagen products.”

FrieslandCampina Ingredients shared their views on how GLP-1 usage is reshaping consumer expectations around protein and nutrient density. The company emphasized the importance of delivering convenient, enjoyable high-protein products that satisfy cravings while helping consumers maintain proper nutrition. The company showcased beverage applications, bars, and expanded whey capabilities following the acquisition of Wisconsin Whey Protein. With Europe leading much of the high-protein innovation push, FrieslandCampina stressed balancing convenience, taste, and science-backed nutrition.

Fytexia, the recently merged health and nutrition businesses within ABF Ingredients, comprising of Fytexia, ABbiotek Health and Anzchem (with a new name to be revealed soon), showcased  clinically supported solutions in metabolic, immune and digestive health, as well as healthy aging and vitality.

Gnosis by Lesaffre introduced a new “Standards of Human Health Solutions” positioning, evolving from a house-of-brands strategy into a more unified science-driven approach centered around fermentation and category-specific health solutions.

Kemin Industries celebrated the 30th anniversary of FloraGLO lutein while unveiling refreshed branding and new consumer education initiatives running from May 2026 through May 2027. The company emphasized that lutein is no longer viewed solely as an ingredient for aging populations and eye health and demonstrated the importance of lutein across all life stages with new research including pediatric studies.

Kerry Group showcased its leading-edge health and wellness solutions; solutions that combine premium, clinically proven ingredients with the team’s unmatched ingenuity in taste, blending the very best of science and sensory experience to drive human-led impact in the supplements space.

Guests were invited to attend several high-profile education sessions, including: 

• Nutraceutical Showcase: "Ashwagandha Under the Microscope: Exploring Safety, Science and Innovation" with Dr. Laura Collins and Dr. Mukesh Summan.
• Women's Networking Breakfast: "Hormones in motion" featuring Dr. Monica Maria Olivares.
• Future of Nutrition Lunch & Learn: Kerry’s Health and Nutrition Institute will be participating in a discussion on "The Healthspan Stack: Biohacking Meets Longevity Science."

Following the divestment of its Capsules & Health Ingredients business to Lone Star Funds, Lonza made its return to Vitafoods to showcase their plant-based capsules, European manufacturing capabilities, dosage form solution expertise and health ingredients.

Lubrizol treated guests to its full range of science-backed, consumer-friendly solutions, including a new gummy application concept for its Curcushine microcapsules which transforms curcumin into a bioavailable form ideal for gummies. At their booth, the company featured several different "zones" to highlight their offerings:

• A Science Zone, where visitors can discover how microencapsulation technology ensures better bioavailability and stability
• A Corporate Zone, which will showcase Lubrizol’s innovation and credibility
• A Sensory Zone, where visitors can sample formats that connect science to pleasure, including glow lattes, gummies and dispersible powders
• A Women’s Health Growth Platform, demonstrating how Lubrizol’s solutions address real health needs across life stages, including energy, skin glow and menopause support
• A Carousel of Personas, where the experiences of five archetypal women will bring insights to life, demonstrating how personalization shapes science.

"Beauty and wellbeing are integrating more and more,” said Isabel Gómez, Global Marketing Manager for Lubrizol Nutraceuticals. “And while consumers are taking a proactive approach to maintaining their outer glow and inner comfort, they also want products that are natural and serve as an enjoyable part of their daily routines. The current rise in the prejuvenation trend clearly illustrates this growing demand. With Curcushine gummies, we’ve created a nutra-ready concept that is indulgent and connects directly with what consumers are seeking: simple, flavor-forward experiences that can help support radiant and lush-looking skin.”

MartinBauer Nutraceuticals took home top honors at the Vitafoods Europe Innovation Awards event for their branded ingredient, 360GUT. Developed from wild thyme (Thymus serpyllum), 360GUT merges traditional ethnobotanical knowledge with modern clinical science. The polyphenol-rich, standardized extract delivers clinically proven digestive relief at a low daily dose of just 600mg, positioning it as a compelling alternative to conventional fiber-based prebiotics. “360GUT represents a new chapter in prebiotic innovation,” shared Julia Wiebe, Director of Scientific Affairs and Marketing. “By combining a unique polyphenol profile with robust clinical validation, we’re delivering meaningful digestive benefits at a low, consumer-friendly dose. This award recognizes not only the science behind 360GUT, but its potential to impact how future gut health solutions are formulated and experienced.”

Nektium took home two NutraIngredients Awards for their botanical innovations. Representatives met with clients and guests to explain the next generation energy concepts of their Vanizem Aframomum melegueta extract which include:

• Rhodiolife coffee. The Rhodiola rosea extract has been shown to support mental energy, stress, and athletic performance.
• Zynamite RTDs, gummies and powders. The mango leaf extract is a natural caffeine alternative that is proven to boost focus and cognitive performance without side effects.

Nutriearth used their stage to highlight their latest advances in natural, sustainable vitamin D₃ with superior absorption, as the company moves closer to European market entry for its bioactive oil and expands its international commercial reach. Guests were presented with their portfolio designed for both nutraceutical and functional food applications. Visitors were able to sample madeleines enriched with the brand's natural vitamin D₃, delivering 25% of the recommended daily intake, while learning more about the company’s oil and powder formats, their potential across a range of food applications, and N-utra—their functional food fortification powder commercial availability across Europe.

Prinova focused their messaging on “whole body solutions” as reps presented their health, wellness, sports and lifestyle solutions in addition to the new beverage and gummy concepts. Guests were introduced to their clinically supported pre-workout ingredient CITRAPEAK and clear pea protein solutions for modern functional beverages, reemphasizing the shift toward “everyday wellness,” noting that consumers increasingly want benefits with less effort.

Puredia was a big time winner at this year's event, taking home honors for:

• Omegia FFA (Winner, Healthy Ageing) – Positioned for estrogen-free menopausal and mucosal hydration support.
•  4.5K Seaberry (Highly Commended, Sustainability) – A genuinely regenerative supply chain. Wild-harvested sea buckthorn grown at altitude on the Tibetan Plateau without fertilizers or pesticides.
• CyanthOx (Finalist, Nutricosmetics) – Beauty at a cellular level. A sea buckthorn polyphenol complex rich in proanthocyanidins and flavonoids, targeting stem cell exhaustion as a key hallmark of ageing.

Guests were invited to celebrate (and sample) with clinically proven sea buckthorn mimosas during a special gathering.

Robuvit was highlighting the clinical research behind its French oak extract. Found in Oak trees, scientists have uncovered its value for human health through clinical studies across four key areas; energy increase, detoxification and liver function, recovery, and promoting muscle mass and sports performance. Members from the Robuvit team were at the company's booth sharing details on the latest research initiatives including, a double-blind placebo-controlled study investigated the effects of Robuvit on patients, recovering from hysterectomy, the surgical removal of the uterus.

The participating women started the supplementation three days after surgery. After four weeks, general and mental health were significantly better in the Robuvit group compared to placebo controls by 18 and 12%, respectively. The energy levels in the Robuvit group increased by 3%, whereas the placebo group experienced a 10% decrease. The investigators suggested that Robuvit can be used to relieve post operative general and mental symptoms.

Rousselot presented new research suggesting collagen peptides may help support the body’s natural GLP-1 production while also helping consumers avoid the “roller coaster” often associated with appetite and weight management. Because the solutions are collagen-based, they additionally support muscle retention, recovery, skin health, and hydration all critical considerations for consumers using GLP-1 medications.

As the event's Official Longevity Sponsor, Sabinsa used the event to debut their latest immune health innovation, ImmunoSpore, a postbiotic derived from heat-inactivated Heyndrickxia coagulans (MTCC 5856), standardized to 15 billion spores per gram. Bringing attention to their entire longevity-focused ingredient portfolio, the company also displayed their clinically researched actives that support longevity:

• Curcumin C3 Reduct - The first EFSA-approved tetrahydrocurcuminoid formulation derived from curcumin, offering colorless, bioactive metabolites with enhanced bioavailability and efficacy to help support antioxidant activity and overall cellular health.
• Cirpusins - A patented, standardized extract from the dried rhizomes of Cyperus rotundus, clinically studied to support safe, natural weight management and healthy lipid metabolism.
• Saberry - Derived from Emblica officinalis (amla) and standardized to 10% beta-glucogallin, this superfruit is clinically studied for its role in supporting healthy lipid and glucose metabolism, along with antioxidant activity.
• Nigellin - Sourced from Nigella sativa (black cumin) seeds and standardized for 5% and 20% thymoquinone, formulated to support a healthy immune response and overall wellness.
• Shagandha - An ashwagandha root extract standardized to 2.5% withanolides using USP methodology, designed to support stress resilience and a balanced mood.
• Sabeet - A standardized beetroot extract backed by two recently published studies demonstrating benefits for heart health and improved key markers of muscle quality and neuromuscular performance in postmenopausal women.

Symrise presented their Health Active and Probi solutions for the first time following the launch of their Care & Wellness Division. Guests were able to enjoy samples from their preconcept taste bar showcasing innovative applications. “By jointly showcasing our Health Active and Probi solutions at Vitafoods Europe, we demonstrate the powerful offering of our Care & Wellness strategy in action,” said Eloi Fontaine VP Health Active Solutions at Symrise. “By combining strong expertise in health actives, biotics, and formulation, we have uniquely positioned ourselves to translate science into relevant, consumer-centric solutions that support everyday health and wellbeing for the entire family.”

TSI demonstrated how science-backed formulation and enjoyable delivery come together to create differentiated products consumers actually want to take. OptiCreatine was a key example of how TSI combines ingredient innovation, proprietary processing technology, formulation expertise, and advanced delivery systems to overcome traditional challenges associated with difficult-to-formulate ingredients like creatine. They also highlighted their personalized nutrition capabilities through Tailored Script and functional, root-cause-driven formulation approaches designed to support long-term consumer adherence.

Vantage Nutrition discussed the shift towards clean-label supplements and its translation into formulation and delivery, and the increasing role of capsule-based systems. As part of the ACG group, Vantage Nutrition works with brands to develop products that meet clean-label expectations without compromising on efficacy. Guests were able to discover:

• Delivery technologies such as liquid-filled capsules, beadlets and multi-phase release systems
• How clean-label capsule formats are enabling simpler ingredient profiles
• Practical considerations for balancing performance, compliance and consumer expectations

Until next time

2026 registered as one of the events more notable years, with the return of key learning platforms and presentations from over 100 nutraceutical sector experts, including Professor Tim Spector OBE as keynote speaker at the Future of Nutrition Lunch and Learn, the showcase truly created an environment for colleagues to discuss market updates and the major consumer trends influencing the global nutraceutical market. The Women’s Networking Breakfast also returned for 2026, featuring a panel discussion exploring how women’s health is shaping resilience, product development and business success across the industry. “We are in what is perhaps the most dynamic period of nutraceutical innovation in recent history," said Gareth Baguley, Brand Director, Vitafoods Europe, Informa Markets, discussing the 2026 agenda. "Advances in science and technology are rapidly reshaping what is possible and raising expectations around how nutrition can support health. As a result, we are seeing a fundamental shift towards solutions that support health in more personalized, preventative and holistic ways. The Vitafoods Europe 2026 program is designed to bring these shifts into sharp focus, enabling the global nutrition community to explore the ideas, research and collaborations that will define the next chapter of nutraceuticals.”

With Vitafoods Europe celebrating its 30th anniversary next year, the event will serve as a celebration and representation of the industry's growth. "Vitafoods Europe 2026 made it clear that the industry is moving toward highly targeted, science-backed solutions that support consumers through every life stage," shared Wainer. "Women’s health, microbiome science, cognitive performance, GLP-1 support, and longevity are no longer niche categories—they are driving mainstream innovation across supplements, beverages, functional foods, and even pet health."

Related: New Products: Vitafoods Europe 2026 Edition

Expo West 2026 Trend Report: Innovation, Transparency & Functional Wellness