Vinegar is having a moment: Cooks use it to balance rich Thanksgiving dishes
Vinegar is having a moment. Whole Foods Market's Trends Council named it one of its top food trends for 2026, citing vinegar's modern renaissance, as shoppers seek out high-quality, small-batch varieties. It's part of a trend to include sour flavors on American menus, where chefs use acidity to cut richness and wake up familiar dishes.
TL;DR
- Vinegar is recognized as a top food trend for 2026 by Whole Foods Market.
- Shoppers are showing increased interest in high-quality, small-batch vinegars.
- Sour flavors, including vinegar, are becoming more prevalent on American menus.
- Chefs use acidity from vinegar to cut through richness and brighten dishes.