Ahead of the International Pizza Expo set for March 24-26 in Las Vegas, Hormel Foods, a leading producer of pizza toppings, has identified five dominant pizza trends for 2026, headlined by the rise of Calabrian chili specialized heat, premium proteins, and global fusion flavors.
Heat is becoming more specialized as consumers move past generic spice toward identified, regional pepper varieties like the Italian Calabrian chili. Recent market innovations confirm the rising demand for complex heat with interest in Calabrian chili growing over a four-year growth period.
“While spicy isn’t new, what is new is the specificity. Consumers are moving beyond generic heat toward distinctive, global flavors,” said Logan Kumm, a brand manager wirth Austin, Minnesota-headquartered Hormel Foods Foodservice.
Fontanini Hot Calabrian and Hot Calabrian Chili Pepperoni will be in high profile at Hormel’s stand (#1725) during Pizza Expo.
“To see partners like Hormel Foods and Fontanini infuse ingredients like Calabrian chili or hot honey into products that they’ve been making for generations gives a new exciting twist that makes it much more fun for the pizza consumer,” said World Pizza Champions team member Tony Scardino.
Bing On the Brisket
Brisket is increasingly moving into the pizza oven as a topping, emerging as a premier protein anchor that upgrades the traditional barbecue profile.
“Pulled pork or chicken barbecue has long been a favorite on pizza and continues to resonate,” said Kumm. “What’s changing is how it is being elevated. As consumers gravitate toward more premium, comfort-driven flavors, brisket is emerging as a way to upgrade that familiar barbecue profile with deeper, richer character.”
Meat Forward
The traditional meat enthusiasts category has transformed into a high-demand powerhouse, specifically through the rise of the Triple Pepperoni pie.
“The current protein craze has significantly increased the demand for meaty pizzas. This trend layers distinct varieties, such as the classic cup-and-char, the new Hot Calabrian Chili pepperoni, and traditional slices, to create a masterpiece for protein enthusiasts,” said Travis McMillan, who is also a Hormel Foods Foodservice brand manager.
Global Flavor Influence
Premium and globally inspired ingredients are also gaining traction, such as burrata, prosciutto, balsamic reduction, and notably, Indian-inspired toppings which have grown 98% over a four-year growth period, according to Hormel insights and trends data. Global influences are grabbing a solid foothold on the pizza scene with new flavor profiles.
“The most recent pizza topping trends are inspired by global fusion, such as the blending of Spanish or Turkish influence,” said McMillan. “From Mexican-inspired chorizo to Indian-style butter chicken, these “passport pies” allow consumers to experience adventurous flavors from around the world on a familiar crust.”
Specialty Crusts
Crust innovations including sourdough, low-carb options, added protein, and alternative bases like bagels and puff pastry are becoming their own sales drivers. These artisanal bases interest health-conscious diners and those seeking a premium, low-gluten experience.
“Pizza crust is such a precise science and an art. Every tweak in texture and flavor is deliberately crafted to elevate the eating experience, making the crust a signature element that can truly command a premium. It’s exciting to see how pizza makers are exploring and pushing those boundaries,” McMillan said.
