24 Finds That Prove Machines Don’t Know Flavor: BODIES & BOTS #3

Tastes Like Longevity!

Fresh from the Winter Fancy Faire (formerly the Fancy Food Show), I am again realizing the benefits of analog over digital in our existence.

Although we use our trackers to manage calories, carbs, and protein grams, nothing can replace the unique fragrance of chocolate or cinnamon, the crunch of a salty snack, or the soothing power of an exotic hot tea.

Plus, the passionate founders who create and sell new food and beverage products bring their energy to their booths to share their creations with buyers, media, and the rest of the world!

Although Part 2 of the video will cover some technologies revolutionizing food manufacturing and distribution (and trade show attendance), here are the edible “longevity” products I discovered.

Just to be sure I was “on trend,” I asked Beulah (my AI agents) to confirm these five categories, and here’s what she said:

“Here are the key food trends for 2026:

• Protein: Plant-based proteins are maturing beyond meat alternatives into hybrid products, while high-protein versions of traditionally carb-heavy foods (pancakes, pasta, snacks) continue gaining shelf space.
• Carbs: “Smarter carbs” featuring ancient grains, legume-based pastas, and low-glycemic options are trending as consumers seek sustained energy rather than avoiding carbs entirely.
• Fruits & Vegetables: Vegetable-forward snacking and “ugly produce” programs are expanding, with more creative applications like veggie-based chips, dried fruit clusters, and convenient pre-prepped vegetable kits.
• Snacks: Functional snacks promising specific benefits (gut health, energy, stress relief) are booming, alongside nostalgic flavor revivals and globally-inspired taste profiles from regions like Southeast Asia and West Africa.
• Home Cooking: Meal kits are evolving into “semi-homemade” hybrid approaches where people combine convenience items with fresh ingredients, while AI-powered recipe apps suggest dishes based on what’s already in the fridge to reduce waste.”

If your preferences lean more to technology than tasty treats, check out my new Silver Hair Playbook series here.