The high quality of Polish products stems from a combination of modern production technologies, rigorous safety standards, and access to proven raw materials. Often, the long-standing tradition of Polish companies – which is valued both at home and abroad – along with unique flavors and time-tested recipes, sets domestic producers apart. These producers consistently invest in technological development, process automation, and quality control, which translates into consistent quality and high product performance. After all, it is consistent quality that determines a product’s value, as well as consumer trust and brand loyalty.
Pure ingredients, a long-standing tradition, natural raw materials
Attention to ingredients – increasing transparency in recipes, limiting unnecessary additives, and sourcing raw materials from trusted suppliers – also plays a significant role. Polish companies are increasingly combining tradition with innovation, thereby creating a product lineup that aligns with contemporary trends while maintaining high standards of quality and safety. Equally important is the ability to combine long-standing tradition, respect for natural ingredients, and modern technologies. Polish companies prioritize reliable recipes, process transparency, and control at every stage of production – “from farm to table” – which builds trust among global consumers.
On the international stage, operational flexibility and tailoring the product range to local markets are also key. Polish production facilities are among the most modern in Europe; they are automated, meet strict EU standards, and allow for reasonable production costs. Thanks to this, we are a major player in the production of poultry, fruit, dairy products, and confectionery.
Today, it’s not just price that matters, but above all, the highest quality and food safety – customers demand full product traceability, rigorous testing, and international certifications. Customers are increasingly asking about carbon footprints, environmental protection, animal welfare, and responsible supply chains, and they expect a flexible product range tailored to local preferences, including various weights, packaging options, and recipes. Timely delivery, consistent quality, and the ability to fulfill large orders are key.
Polish consumers are becoming more assertive and conscious of their choices
The purchasing choices of Polish consumers are the direct driving force behind the transformation of the domestic food market. What is the Polish consumer like? According to the latest report by the PRCN agency, “Poles and Megatrends in the Food Market,”1 the Polish market is undergoing massive changes following a period of strong inflationary pressure. Shopping baskets today are shaped by a decisive rebellion against processed foods, as as many as 71% of us rigorously analyze product ingredients. At the same time, 31% of consumers are eager to bring Artificial Intelligence into their kitchens, and 14% consciously choose not to return bottles, viewing the deposit as the cost of their own convenience. Price continues to play a significant role, but as a society, Poles are increasingly less willing to compromise. Poles are increasingly turning away from so-called ultra-processed foods (UPFs). These are products that have undergone multiple stages of industrial processing and contain ingredients such as emulsifiers, artificial colors, flavor enhancers, and hydrogenated fats. Such foods have a long shelf life but lack nutritional value. As many as 71% of respondents say they always or often check whether a product is highly processed. Women pay the most attention to this – nearly half of them always analyze labels, compared to 38% of men. The report also shows that scrutiny of ingredients increases with educational attainment, as consumers with higher education are most likely to avoid products with a long list of chemical additives.
Generation Z (ages 24 and under) stands out in this context, as it is divided into two distinct groups. On the one hand, this group has the highest proportion of people who strictly avoid artificial ingredients (30.5%); on the other hand, it also has the highest percentage of consumers who simply prioritize convenience and rarely read labels (23.2%). Overall, however, the market is clearly dominated by a desire for simplicity. A short, fully understandable list of ingredients – referred to as a “clean label” – is currently the most important selection criterion for 43% of respondents.
Artificial Intelligence as a New Kitchen Assistant
Since we care about good food and managing our budget wisely, we’re increasingly turning to modern conveniences. Artificial Intelligence is beginning to serve as our personal assistant in the kitchen. According to a report by the PRCN agency, 31% of us would most likely ask an algorithm for dinner ideas using the ingredients we currently have in the fridge. This reflects a need for smart saving and reducing food waste in the spirit of zero waste. Furthermore, 28% of respondents trust AI enough to entrust it with verifying ingredient lists for their impact on their own health. Moreover, while college-educated consumers view algorithms as a support in daily life, those with only a primary school education demonstrate a completely different – even medical-kind of trust in them. In this group, as many as one in three people (34.2%) would be willing to entrust artificial intelligence with planning their diet in specific situations such as illness or pregnancy. This figure is nearly three times higher than among respondents with a college education (12.3%).
Poles perceive locally produced food primarily as safer and fresher, as stated by nearly half of those surveyed. However, the study2 highlights a clear generational shift. The argument of “traditional Polish flavor” and old recipes still resonates with people over 50-51% of them are guided by it. In contrast, for the youngest Generation Z (up to age 24), these same messages are no longer key, convincing only 33% of them. Young consumers approach shopping much more rationally, focusing on value for money and quality, regardless of any sentiment tied to the country of origin.
Flavors That Evoke Memories3
Fresh baked goods most strongly evoke the flavors of childhood, while we would most likely choose traditional cold cuts when showcasing Polish cuisine to foreign guests. A survey by commissioned by the Kaufland chain3 shows that although our surroundings are changing – our family home, lifestyle, and store shelves – when asked about the flavors that are typical for them, Poles point to similar products, regardless of their generation. In the survey, when asked about the products that most remind them of the flavors of their childhood, as many as 62.5 percent of respondents cited fresh bread. Interestingly, the importance of this product clearly increases with the respondents’ age: among those aged 18–24, 49.5% of respondents gave this answer, while in the group of people over 65, the figure was as high as 72.3%. For older generations, the smell and taste of freshly baked bread from a local bakery were undoubtedly an integral part of everyday life. Younger Poles, on the other hand, have a wide selection of products today. In the respondents’ memories, the next most frequently mentioned items were, in order: butter (41%), cottage cheese (37.3%), and traditional cold cuts (31.6%). This paints a picture of simple, everyday products that have been present on Polish tables for generations and that, even after all these years, still remain in our memories. Interestingly, specific flavors have left varying impressions on the memories of different age groups.
This is particularly evident in the case of cottage cheese. This product was most frequently cited by people aged 35-44 (41.5 percent), 45-54 (41.3 percent), and 25-34 (40.4 percent). Cottage cheese can therefore be considered one of the products particularly deeply rooted in the memories of today’s thirty – to fifty-somethings.
On the other hand, the product associated with home to an equal degree across generations turned out to be butter – as many as 41.01 percent of respondents named it. Regardless of age, we associate it with home cooking and everyday meals. The top items on our list of associations show that what we find most delicious doesn’t always have to be sophisticated delicacies. Often, they are actually the simplest products: a slice of fresh bread with butter, cottage cheese, or a sandwich with traditional cold cuts for breakfast.
This is no coincidence. Tastes and smells can be powerful triggers of memories. For this reason, the “taste of childhood” is much more than a specific product. It’s Sunday breakfast, sandwiches made by our parents, or meals shared with the family.
What do we serve to foreign guests?4
For Poles, however, traditional cuisine is not just a matter of personal memories, but also something we’d proudly showcase to others. When asked what they would serve a foreign guest to showcase distinctive Polish flavors, Poles most often cited traditional cured meats (63% of respondents). Fresh bread (51.7%) and pickled vegetables (41.4%) followed.
Bread and cold cuts thus reappear in two different contexts: as part of personal memories and as products we’re proud of. However, differences between specific groups of respondents are also evident here. Traditional cold cuts would be chosen by 51.4% of people aged 18-24 and as many as 81.2% of respondents over 65.
And what do we look for when buying fresh food? First and foremost, it’s freshness (76.5%), taste (54.2%), and price (52.8%). The country of origin was cited by 22% of respondents, and whether the product comes from a local producer – 21.7%.
As the survey shows, although successive generations can enjoy an increasingly diverse selection in stores and explore cuisines from around the world, we still love our traditional Polish flavors and take pride in them.
And what does the modern European consumer expect?
- Food in a Global Context
Over the years, the modern European consumer has shifted their priorities regarding food products. Beyond the basic need to satisfy hunger, food in a global context is meant to signify something more – protecting the planet, supporting mental and physical health, and offering unique sensory experiences. The key trends dominating the market are, above all, dietary personalization, supply chain transparency, and a shift toward “clean label” products and functional foods. Western consumers are seeking foods with a reduced carbon footprint, packaged in biodegradable materials, and rich in natural nutrients. Polish producers offer a product range that not only keeps pace with global trends but actually helps shape them. Additional strengths of our domestic products include a rich tradition and authenticity – regional products, preserves, Polish cheeses, baked goods, and traditional cured meats are associated with a clean environment and time-tested recipes.
Another key factor is the high standard of quality – rigorous EU production standards combined with a focus on flavor ensure that Polish food enjoys tremendous consumer trust. We must not forget the aspect of modernization and innovation – Polish processing plants are among the most modern in Europe, which allows them to respond quickly to global trends.
Trends: Convenience, Health, Functionality
A revolution in the food market has been underway for many years. Consumers are prioritizing health, convenience, and sustainability. The most important trends dominating this year are undoubtedly: superfoods, high-fiber products, plant-based alternatives, innovative packaging, and functional foods that support mental and physical health.
At the same time, there is a growing consumer interest in convenience offerings, which is driving the development of products with higher added value – such as ready-to-eat meals, high-protein products, and functional foods.
Changing consumer awareness regarding health and dietary quality is creating opportunities for the development of new product categories. This applies primarily to products with simple ingredient lists (clean label), functional foods, high-protein products, and solutions that address specific nutritional needs. Combined with the convenience trend, this offers growth potential in higher-value-added segments.
It is the informed consumer who has the most significant influence on the future of the food market; it is the consumer who, in fact, creates and sets the direction of trends. Not the other way around. Of course, purchasing decisions are driven by many factors – often complex in nature – with psychological, social, or economic roots. They are also influenced by cultural trends, income levels, and product availability. The process of making purchasing decisions often proceeds in stages: from recognizing a need, through seeking information, to selecting a product and evaluating satisfaction after the purchase. The factors that have the greatest influence on contemporary trends are, above all – and this has remained unchanged for years – health benefits. The pleasure derived from eating, environmental impact, and affordability also matter.
The potential of foreign markets – fully tapped
Polish food is now found on the tables of consumers around the world. Promoting Polish food is not only about excellent products – which are, of course, the foundation of foreign consumers’ trust – but also about building trade relationships and seeking new customers. And it all really begins with the Polish farmer. Poland has excellent geographical and natural conditions for producing healthy, organic food. The domestic agricultural sector is increasingly focusing on natural farming methods, which, combined with the unique characteristics of our environment, gives Polish farmers a significant advantage in the healthy food market. The most important export categories remain meat and meat products – with poultry, beef, and traditional cured meats dominating – as well as grain and bakery products, dairy products, confectionery, and sweets. Fruits and vegetables are also becoming increasingly important in the export mix. For years, Poland has been a leader in apple production, with apples exported to both European Union countries and distant markets in Asia and Africa. Sales of berries – especially blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries – are growing rapidly, winning over consumers in Western Europe and North America. Fresh and processed vegetables also maintain a strong position, including mushrooms, of which Poland is the EU’s largest exporter5.
Our country is the EU leader in the production of poultry, apples, and mushrooms. It also ranks among the top producers in the dairy, confectionery, pork and beef, and berry (blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries) segments, with these products rapidly gaining ground in Western markets.
Poland’s agri-food offering has traditionally been diverse. Meat and meat products, grains and grain products, tobacco and tobacco products, sugar and confectionery, dairy products, and fish products play a significant role in the export structure. Fruits and vegetables also constitute an important group. At the same time, products with a higher degree of processing are gaining in importance.
Several factors contributed to the increase in export value in the first half of 2026. Of particular importance was Poland’s continued strong position in international supply chains and faster growth in sales to non-EU markets.
Export performance was also bolstered by higher transaction prices for food in international trade and a more favorable EUR/PLN exchange rate for exporters.
Promotional activities carried out by the National Center for Agricultural Support (KOWR) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development also serve to strengthen the presence of Polish food abroad. Their goals include supporting entrepreneurs in reaching new customers and building the recognition of Polish food in global markets.
– Meat: Poultry, Beef, Pork
Polish meat is highly regarded, among other things, for its high quality and flavor, which stem from traditional methods of raising and processing livestock. Producers are expanding and continuously investing in technological innovations that increase efficiency while maintaining high standards and, consequently, consistent product quality.
Poland has a rich tradition in the production of poultry, beef, and pork. Since 2014, we have been the largest producer of poultry meat in the EU. Polish meat is distinguished by its high quality and excellent culinary qualities. To ensure the highest product quality, a significant portion of meat production in Poland is carried out under national food quality systems such as the Pork Quality System (PQS), Quality Assurance for Food Products (QAFP), and the Quality Meat Program (QMP). Poland also has a long tradition of producing cured meats – sausages (including the world-renowned kabanos), hams, pork loins, bacon, and pâtés.
– Milk and dairy products6
Polish cheeses, UHT milk, butter, and milk powders are in high demand both within the European Union and beyond. Consumers appreciate their taste, quality, and favorable price-to-value ratio. Dairy exports are thus becoming one of the most important pillars of the Polish food economy. The Polish dairy industry employs world-class technologies. Poland’s tradition of dairy production is an asset that cannot be overestimated. For generations, local methods of producing cheese, butter, and fermented dairy products – based on natural ingredients and expertise passed down from farmer to farmer – have developed in many regions of the country. This rich tradition, combining craftsmanship with modernity, is today one of the pillars of consumer trust.
– Fruits and Vegetables
Apples are a Polish export hit. Polish fruit and vegetable production forms the foundation of the domestic processing industry. Among the most important products manufactured by this industry are apple juice concentrate and high-quality fruit and vegetable juices. Poland is also ranked among the leading EU producers of frozen fruits and vegetables. Our country is characterized above all by favorable climatic and soil conditions, as well as a tradition of growing a wide variety of fruit species, which allows us to meet the needs of both the domestic and foreign markets. Exports of Polish fruit consist mainly of apples, strawberries, cherries, raspberries, black currants, and blueberries. Each of these fruits finds buyers in various foreign markets, both within the European Union and around the world. It is also worth mentioning processed fruits and vegetables, such as juices, jams, and frozen foods, which are popular in part because of their clean labels free of “unnecessary” additives or enhancers.
– Grain-processing products
In addition to traditional products, the baking industry offers, among other things, long-shelf-life bread, toast or crispbread, hamburger and hot-dog buns, as well as specially packaged semi-finished products for home baking and deep-frozen bread intended for the foodservice sector. Polish pasta also finds buyers all over the world.
– Honey
Poland is the fifth-largest producer of honey in the European Union. Honey from Poland is among nature’s most precious gifts. It is characterized by a wide variety of types and exceptional sensory and health properties. Thanks to its unique qualities, it is becoming increasingly popular in foreign markets.
– Chocolate and Confectionery
Poland is one of the leaders in the production of chocolate products in Europe. Domestically produced sweets delight consumers with a wide range of products and flavors. Poland exports confectionery products to over 130 countries worldwide. Classic recipes and innovation are not mutually exclusive. This is evidenced by Polish sweets that are both delicious and made with simple ingredients. Our domestic sweets have a loyal following around the world. Consumers appreciate them for their taste, tradition, sustainability, and the wide selection available in each category. Both classic products and the ability to follow trends – and respond to them with a diverse range of flavors – are highly valued7.
Tradition, Innovation, and Safety
Foreign consumers are increasingly choosing Polish brands because they associate them with authenticity and distinctive flavor. This combination of tradition, innovation, and a responsible approach allows Polish products to successfully compete in the most demanding markets. Over the past two decades, the Polish agri-food sector has undergone a transformation, becoming one of the main pillars of the domestic economy and a powerhouse on the international stage. Domestic food products are no longer associated solely with price competitiveness. Today, Polish food is synonymous in Europe and around the world with the highest quality, unique flavor, and uncompromising production safety. Above all, however, Polish food stands out on the plate. The combination of modern technologies with traditional recipes gives Polish products exceptional sensory qualities.
Monika Górka
Editor
1 source: This report is based on a survey conducted in April 2026 using the computer-assisted web interview (CAWI) method on the SW Panel online panel. The survey was conducted on a representative group of adult Poles (N=1,031) by the research agency SW Research on behalf of the consulting agency PRCN.
2 source: This report is based on a survey conducted in April 2026 using the computer-assisted web interview (CAWI) method on the SW Panel online panel. The survey was conducted on a representative group of adult
Poles (N=1,031) by the research agency SW Research on behalf of the consulting agency PRCN.
3 source: Kaufland Press Office, survey commissioned by the Kaufland chain, July 2026.
4 source: Kaufland Press Office, survey commissioned by the Kaufland chain, July 2026.
5 source: Analysis and Strategy Office of the National Center for Agricultural Support (KOWR), August 2026; trade.gov.pl
6 source: https://www.polandtastesgood.pl/pl/o-projekcie/produkty/
Pure ingredients, a long-standing tradition, natural raw materials
Attention to ingredients – increasing transparency in recipes, limiting unnecessary additives, and sourcing raw materials from trusted suppliers – also plays a significant role. Polish companies are increasingly combining tradition with innovation, thereby creating a product lineup that aligns with contemporary trends while maintaining high standards of quality and safety. Equally important is the ability to combine long-standing tradition, respect for natural ingredients, and modern technologies. Polish companies prioritize reliable recipes, process transparency, and control at every stage of production – “from farm to table” – which builds trust among global consumers.
On the international stage, operational flexibility and tailoring the product range to local markets are also key. Polish production facilities are among the most modern in Europe; they are automated, meet strict EU standards, and allow for reasonable production costs. Thanks to this, we are a major player in the production of poultry, fruit, dairy products, and confectionery.
Today, it’s not just price that matters, but above all, the highest quality and food safety – customers demand full product traceability, rigorous testing, and international certifications. Customers are increasingly asking about carbon footprints, environmental protection, animal welfare, and responsible supply chains, and they expect a flexible product range tailored to local preferences, including various weights, packaging options, and recipes. Timely delivery, consistent quality, and the ability to fulfill large orders are key.
Polish consumers are becoming more assertive and conscious of their choices
The purchasing choices of Polish consumers are the direct driving force behind the transformation of the domestic food market. What is the Polish consumer like? According to the latest report by the PRCN agency, “Poles and Megatrends in the Food Market,”1 the Polish market is undergoing massive changes following a period of strong inflationary pressure. Shopping baskets today are shaped by a decisive rebellion against processed foods, as as many as 71% of us rigorously analyze product ingredients. At the same time, 31% of consumers are eager to bring Artificial Intelligence into their kitchens, and 14% consciously choose not to return bottles, viewing the deposit as the cost of their own convenience. Price continues to play a significant role, but as a society, Poles are increasingly less willing to compromise. Poles are increasingly turning away from so-called ultra-processed foods (UPFs). These are products that have undergone multiple stages of industrial processing and contain ingredients such as emulsifiers, artificial colors, flavor enhancers, and hydrogenated fats. Such foods have a long shelf life but lack nutritional value. As many as 71% of respondents say they always or often check whether a product is highly processed. Women pay the most attention to this – nearly half of them always analyze labels, compared to 38% of men. The report also shows that scrutiny of ingredients increases with educational attainment, as consumers with higher education are most likely to avoid products with a long list of chemical additives.
Generation Z (ages 24 and under) stands out in this context, as it is divided into two distinct groups. On the one hand, this group has the highest proportion of people who strictly avoid artificial ingredients (30.5%); on the other hand, it also has the highest percentage of consumers who simply prioritize convenience and rarely read labels (23.2%). Overall, however, the market is clearly dominated by a desire for simplicity. A short, fully understandable list of ingredients – referred to as a “clean label” – is currently the most important selection criterion for 43% of respondents.
Artificial Intelligence as a New Kitchen Assistant
Since we care about good food and managing our budget wisely, we’re increasingly turning to modern conveniences. Artificial Intelligence is beginning to serve as our personal assistant in the kitchen. According to a report by the PRCN agency, 31% of us would most likely ask an algorithm for dinner ideas using the ingredients we currently have in the fridge. This reflects a need for smart saving and reducing food waste in the spirit of zero waste. Furthermore, 28% of respondents trust AI enough to entrust it with verifying ingredient lists for their impact on their own health. Moreover, while college-educated consumers view algorithms as a support in daily life, those with only a primary school education demonstrate a completely different – even medical-kind of trust in them. In this group, as many as one in three people (34.2%) would be willing to entrust artificial intelligence with planning their diet in specific situations such as illness or pregnancy. This figure is nearly three times higher than among respondents with a college education (12.3%).
Poles perceive locally produced food primarily as safer and fresher, as stated by nearly half of those surveyed. However, the study2 highlights a clear generational shift. The argument of “traditional Polish flavor” and old recipes still resonates with people over 50-51% of them are guided by it. In contrast, for the youngest Generation Z (up to age 24), these same messages are no longer key, convincing only 33% of them. Young consumers approach shopping much more rationally, focusing on value for money and quality, regardless of any sentiment tied to the country of origin.
Flavors That Evoke Memories3
Fresh baked goods most strongly evoke the flavors of childhood, while we would most likely choose traditional cold cuts when showcasing Polish cuisine to foreign guests. A survey by commissioned by the Kaufland chain3 shows that although our surroundings are changing – our family home, lifestyle, and store shelves – when asked about the flavors that are typical for them, Poles point to similar products, regardless of their generation. In the survey, when asked about the products that most remind them of the flavors of their childhood, as many as 62.5 percent of respondents cited fresh bread. Interestingly, the importance of this product clearly increases with the respondents’ age: among those aged 18–24, 49.5% of respondents gave this answer, while in the group of people over 65, the figure was as high as 72.3%. For older generations, the smell and taste of freshly baked bread from a local bakery were undoubtedly an integral part of everyday life. Younger Poles, on the other hand, have a wide selection of products today. In the respondents’ memories, the next most frequently mentioned items were, in order: butter (41%), cottage cheese (37.3%), and traditional cold cuts (31.6%). This paints a picture of simple, everyday products that have been present on Polish tables for generations and that, even after all these years, still remain in our memories. Interestingly, specific flavors have left varying impressions on the memories of different age groups.
This is particularly evident in the case of cottage cheese. This product was most frequently cited by people aged 35-44 (41.5 percent), 45-54 (41.3 percent), and 25-34 (40.4 percent). Cottage cheese can therefore be considered one of the products particularly deeply rooted in the memories of today’s thirty – to fifty-somethings.
On the other hand, the product associated with home to an equal degree across generations turned out to be butter – as many as 41.01 percent of respondents named it. Regardless of age, we associate it with home cooking and everyday meals. The top items on our list of associations show that what we find most delicious doesn’t always have to be sophisticated delicacies. Often, they are actually the simplest products: a slice of fresh bread with butter, cottage cheese, or a sandwich with traditional cold cuts for breakfast.
This is no coincidence. Tastes and smells can be powerful triggers of memories. For this reason, the “taste of childhood” is much more than a specific product. It’s Sunday breakfast, sandwiches made by our parents, or meals shared with the family.
What do we serve to foreign guests?4
For Poles, however, traditional cuisine is not just a matter of personal memories, but also something we’d proudly showcase to others. When asked what they would serve a foreign guest to showcase distinctive Polish flavors, Poles most often cited traditional cured meats (63% of respondents). Fresh bread (51.7%) and pickled vegetables (41.4%) followed.
Bread and cold cuts thus reappear in two different contexts: as part of personal memories and as products we’re proud of. However, differences between specific groups of respondents are also evident here. Traditional cold cuts would be chosen by 51.4% of people aged 18-24 and as many as 81.2% of respondents over 65.
And what do we look for when buying fresh food? First and foremost, it’s freshness (76.5%), taste (54.2%), and price (52.8%). The country of origin was cited by 22% of respondents, and whether the product comes from a local producer – 21.7%.
As the survey shows, although successive generations can enjoy an increasingly diverse selection in stores and explore cuisines from around the world, we still love our traditional Polish flavors and take pride in them.
And what does the modern European consumer expect?
- Food in a Global Context
Over the years, the modern European consumer has shifted their priorities regarding food products. Beyond the basic need to satisfy hunger, food in a global context is meant to signify something more – protecting the planet, supporting mental and physical health, and offering unique sensory experiences. The key trends dominating the market are, above all, dietary personalization, supply chain transparency, and a shift toward “clean label” products and functional foods. Western consumers are seeking foods with a reduced carbon footprint, packaged in biodegradable materials, and rich in natural nutrients. Polish producers offer a product range that not only keeps pace with global trends but actually helps shape them. Additional strengths of our domestic products include a rich tradition and authenticity – regional products, preserves, Polish cheeses, baked goods, and traditional cured meats are associated with a clean environment and time-tested recipes.
Another key factor is the high standard of quality – rigorous EU production standards combined with a focus on flavor ensure that Polish food enjoys tremendous consumer trust. We must not forget the aspect of modernization and innovation – Polish processing plants are among the most modern in Europe, which allows them to respond quickly to global trends.
Trends: Convenience, Health, Functionality
A revolution in the food market has been underway for many years. Consumers are prioritizing health, convenience, and sustainability. The most important trends dominating this year are undoubtedly: superfoods, high-fiber products, plant-based alternatives, innovative packaging, and functional foods that support mental and physical health.
At the same time, there is a growing consumer interest in convenience offerings, which is driving the development of products with higher added value – such as ready-to-eat meals, high-protein products, and functional foods.
Changing consumer awareness regarding health and dietary quality is creating opportunities for the development of new product categories. This applies primarily to products with simple ingredient lists (clean label), functional foods, high-protein products, and solutions that address specific nutritional needs. Combined with the convenience trend, this offers growth potential in higher-value-added segments.
It is the informed consumer who has the most significant influence on the future of the food market; it is the consumer who, in fact, creates and sets the direction of trends. Not the other way around. Of course, purchasing decisions are driven by many factors – often complex in nature – with psychological, social, or economic roots. They are also influenced by cultural trends, income levels, and product availability. The process of making purchasing decisions often proceeds in stages: from recognizing a need, through seeking information, to selecting a product and evaluating satisfaction after the purchase. The factors that have the greatest influence on contemporary trends are, above all – and this has remained unchanged for years – health benefits. The pleasure derived from eating, environmental impact, and affordability also matter.
The potential of foreign markets – fully tapped
Polish food is now found on the tables of consumers around the world. Promoting Polish food is not only about excellent products – which are, of course, the foundation of foreign consumers’ trust – but also about building trade relationships and seeking new customers. And it all really begins with the Polish farmer. Poland has excellent geographical and natural conditions for producing healthy, organic food. The domestic agricultural sector is increasingly focusing on natural farming methods, which, combined with the unique characteristics of our environment, gives Polish farmers a significant advantage in the healthy food market. The most important export categories remain meat and meat products – with poultry, beef, and traditional cured meats dominating – as well as grain and bakery products, dairy products, confectionery, and sweets. Fruits and vegetables are also becoming increasingly important in the export mix. For years, Poland has been a leader in apple production, with apples exported to both European Union countries and distant markets in Asia and Africa. Sales of berries – especially blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries – are growing rapidly, winning over consumers in Western Europe and North America. Fresh and processed vegetables also maintain a strong position, including mushrooms, of which Poland is the EU’s largest exporter5.
Our country is the EU leader in the production of poultry, apples, and mushrooms. It also ranks among the top producers in the dairy, confectionery, pork and beef, and berry (blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries) segments, with these products rapidly gaining ground in Western markets.
Poland’s agri-food offering has traditionally been diverse. Meat and meat products, grains and grain products, tobacco and tobacco products, sugar and confectionery, dairy products, and fish products play a significant role in the export structure. Fruits and vegetables also constitute an important group. At the same time, products with a higher degree of processing are gaining in importance.
Several factors contributed to the increase in export value in the first half of 2026. Of particular importance was Poland’s continued strong position in international supply chains and faster growth in sales to non-EU markets.
Export performance was also bolstered by higher transaction prices for food in international trade and a more favorable EUR/PLN exchange rate for exporters.
Promotional activities carried out by the National Center for Agricultural Support (KOWR) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development also serve to strengthen the presence of Polish food abroad. Their goals include supporting entrepreneurs in reaching new customers and building the recognition of Polish food in global markets.
– Meat: Poultry, Beef, Pork
Polish meat is highly regarded, among other things, for its high quality and flavor, which stem from traditional methods of raising and processing livestock. Producers are expanding and continuously investing in technological innovations that increase efficiency while maintaining high standards and, consequently, consistent product quality.
Poland has a rich tradition in the production of poultry, beef, and pork. Since 2014, we have been the largest producer of poultry meat in the EU. Polish meat is distinguished by its high quality and excellent culinary qualities. To ensure the highest product quality, a significant portion of meat production in Poland is carried out under national food quality systems such as the Pork Quality System (PQS), Quality Assurance for Food Products (QAFP), and the Quality Meat Program (QMP). Poland also has a long tradition of producing cured meats – sausages (including the world-renowned kabanos), hams, pork loins, bacon, and pâtés.
– Milk and dairy products6
Polish cheeses, UHT milk, butter, and milk powders are in high demand both within the European Union and beyond. Consumers appreciate their taste, quality, and favorable price-to-value ratio. Dairy exports are thus becoming one of the most important pillars of the Polish food economy. The Polish dairy industry employs world-class technologies. Poland’s tradition of dairy production is an asset that cannot be overestimated. For generations, local methods of producing cheese, butter, and fermented dairy products – based on natural ingredients and expertise passed down from farmer to farmer – have developed in many regions of the country. This rich tradition, combining craftsmanship with modernity, is today one of the pillars of consumer trust.
– Fruits and Vegetables
Apples are a Polish export hit. Polish fruit and vegetable production forms the foundation of the domestic processing industry. Among the most important products manufactured by this industry are apple juice concentrate and high-quality fruit and vegetable juices. Poland is also ranked among the leading EU producers of frozen fruits and vegetables. Our country is characterized above all by favorable climatic and soil conditions, as well as a tradition of growing a wide variety of fruit species, which allows us to meet the needs of both the domestic and foreign markets. Exports of Polish fruit consist mainly of apples, strawberries, cherries, raspberries, black currants, and blueberries. Each of these fruits finds buyers in various foreign markets, both within the European Union and around the world. It is also worth mentioning processed fruits and vegetables, such as juices, jams, and frozen foods, which are popular in part because of their clean labels free of “unnecessary” additives or enhancers.
– Grain-processing products
In addition to traditional products, the baking industry offers, among other things, long-shelf-life bread, toast or crispbread, hamburger and hot-dog buns, as well as specially packaged semi-finished products for home baking and deep-frozen bread intended for the foodservice sector. Polish pasta also finds buyers all over the world.
– Honey
Poland is the fifth-largest producer of honey in the European Union. Honey from Poland is among nature’s most precious gifts. It is characterized by a wide variety of types and exceptional sensory and health properties. Thanks to its unique qualities, it is becoming increasingly popular in foreign markets.
– Chocolate and Confectionery
Poland is one of the leaders in the production of chocolate products in Europe. Domestically produced sweets delight consumers with a wide range of products and flavors. Poland exports confectionery products to over 130 countries worldwide. Classic recipes and innovation are not mutually exclusive. This is evidenced by Polish sweets that are both delicious and made with simple ingredients. Our domestic sweets have a loyal following around the world. Consumers appreciate them for their taste, tradition, sustainability, and the wide selection available in each category. Both classic products and the ability to follow trends – and respond to them with a diverse range of flavors – are highly valued7.
Tradition, Innovation, and Safety
Foreign consumers are increasingly choosing Polish brands because they associate them with authenticity and distinctive flavor. This combination of tradition, innovation, and a responsible approach allows Polish products to successfully compete in the most demanding markets. Over the past two decades, the Polish agri-food sector has undergone a transformation, becoming one of the main pillars of the domestic economy and a powerhouse on the international stage. Domestic food products are no longer associated solely with price competitiveness. Today, Polish food is synonymous in Europe and around the world with the highest quality, unique flavor, and uncompromising production safety. Above all, however, Polish food stands out on the plate. The combination of modern technologies with traditional recipes gives Polish products exceptional sensory qualities.
Monika Górka
Editor
1 source: This report is based on a survey conducted in April 2026 using the computer-assisted web interview (CAWI) method on the SW Panel online panel. The survey was conducted on a representative group of adult Poles (N=1,031) by the research agency SW Research on behalf of the consulting agency PRCN.
2 source: This report is based on a survey conducted in April 2026 using the computer-assisted web interview (CAWI) method on the SW Panel online panel. The survey was conducted on a representative group of adult
Poles (N=1,031) by the research agency SW Research on behalf of the consulting agency PRCN.
3 source: Kaufland Press Office, survey commissioned by the Kaufland chain, July 2026.
4 source: Kaufland Press Office, survey commissioned by the Kaufland chain, July 2026.
5 source: Analysis and Strategy Office of the National Center for Agricultural Support (KOWR), August 2026; trade.gov.pl
6 source: https://www.polandtastesgood.pl/pl/o-projekcie/produkty/
