Inspiration

The Future of Burger Patties 2026 | Angel Bay

Written by Becky Turnbull | Jan 8, 2026 8:55:37 PM

Trends, Innovations, and What to Expect

The humble burger patty is anything but boring. As tastes shift, lifestyles evolve, and innovation sizzles, the burger patty is keeping pace. But what does the future look like? Not some sci-fi food lab, just smarter choices, bolder flavours, and patties that work harder for how we eat today.

Let’s dig into the trends shaping the next chapter in burger land, and where Angel Bay fits right in.

Global flavours & custom builds

Burgers have gone global (source: Time for Burgers, 2025 Trends). From Korean BBQ to Mediterranean lamb with tzatziki, flavour is getting adventurous, and diners are loving it. Bold sauces, spice blends and inspired toppings are turning everyday burgers into flavour bombs.

Where Angel Bay fits: Our patties are the perfect base. Add kimchi to your Angus, mint chutney to your lamb, or harissa mayo to your beef. Build it your way, wherever your tastebuds want to go.

Burgers for breakfast

Breakfast is no longer just about toast or cereal. More Kiwis are starting the day with protein-forward meals to stay fuller longer and fuel their morning. The trend goes beyond traditional "breakfast burgers" to adding meat protein in versatile, creative ways.

Our Breakfast Patties make it easy. Think sausage muffins, yes but also crumbled into scrambled eggs, layered in a warm croissant, or paired with hash browns for a hearty morning plate. More cafes are offering breakfast builds that look like lunch: with meat, salad, egg and sauce, all wrapped in a bun, wrap or bowl.

Why it matters: Protein in the morning helps support energy and focus, and we are seeing an increase in those that are craving savoury starts to the day.

Where Angel Bay fits: Our Breakfast Patties tick the box for flavour, convenience and versatility. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or powering your day, it’s a better breakfast – made easy.

Protein first, without the fuss

With more people thinking about macros, strength, or simply staying fuller longer, protein has become a top priority. And with trends like GLP-1 medications influencing eating habits, there’s rising demand for lighter, protein-rich options.

Where Angel Bay fits: Our Lite Patties deliver on flavour and satisfaction, with a leaner profile that suits lighter meals. Perfect for anyone looking to fuel up without overdoing it.

Plant-based: evolving, not exploding

Plant-based patties are still part of the burger conversation, but it’s not the runaway growth story it once was. While interest in plant-powered eating remains strong, especially with flexitarians, many alternative meat brands are scaling back or shifting focus (source: Food & Drink Resources, 2025 Burger Trends).

What we’re seeing instead? A smarter, more selective plant-based market, where taste, texture and value matter more than hype. Expect to see more innovation in ingredients and improved flavour, but sitting alongside, not replacing, traditional patties.

Where Angel Bay fits: We’re all about giving Kiwis choice. We offer a Veggie Patty for customers who want a plant-forward option that’s satisfying and freezer-friendly, no compromise on flavour or ease.

Real sustainability, not hype

Consumers care about where their food comes from, and that means sourcing, animal welfare, and food miles matter more than ever. But people can spot greenwashing a mile away. They want the real deal.

Where Angel Bay fits: As part of ANZCO Foods, we work closely with Kiwi farmers and partners committed to sustainable farming practices. It’s about doing the right thing, not for attention, but because it matters. Quietly consistent.

Final bite: more choice, more flavour, same reliable patty

The future of burger patties isn’t about replacing the classics. It’s about broadening the menu, embracing flexibility, and delivering flavour and function that suit real life.

Angel Bay isn’t chasing trends. We’re already on the journey, making it easier for you to serve up burgers that are bold, satisfying, and a little bit brilliant.

You bring the appetite. We’ll bring the patties.

Sources