Emerging Trends in Food Technology: 2026 Outlook

“Two years ago, we were optimistic about the end of winter, but now it feels like we’re entering an ice age,” remarks Tony Martens, co-founder of Plantible, in this year’s AgFunderNews festive vox pop. The food industry needs to establish M&A and exit pathways to regain momentum, he emphasizes.

Vague proposals about remedying the broken food system won’t suffice in the current climate, claims Annick Verween of early-stage investor Biotope. Founders must be direct. “Startups often waste time discussing overarching issues. We want to know: what pain are you addressing for your customers, and who will pay for your solution?”

Key Areas to Watch in 2026

With that in mind, we’ve identified nine pivotal sectors to monitor in 2026—from proposed changes to the GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) process to insect agriculture, a segment that has shown mixed signals in 2025.

1 – Alt-Protein Recalibration

In the alternative protein industry, the answers to Verween’s critical questions remain obscured for many firms. Some have shut their doors, others are pivoting, and a few are merely surviving on existing funds with little growth potential. Beyond Meat, for example, has restructured its debt, pushing the maturity date to 2030.

We anticipate increased consolidation among companies unable to navigate forward independently. While some players struggle, a relentless demand for protein remains, presenting opportunities for startups in various sectors.

2 – Is It the End for Self-GRAS Affirmations?

Another issue is the potential elimination of the self-GRAS process, as proposed by RFK Jr. This change could lead to significant regulatory bottlenecks at the FDA, which is already stretched thin. Critics worry that addressing issues without overhauling existing mechanisms may be a more effective approach.

3 – Nutrition in the Age of Ozempic

The impact of GLP-1 drugs on the food industry is still unclear. Manufacturers are developing companion products and exploring natural alternatives, raising questions about their potential effects on the American diet and ultra-processed food consumption.

4 – Ultra-Processed Foods in the Spotlight

The FDA/USDA’s request for information on defining ultra-processed foods indicates the complexities regulators face. Companies like Amy’s Kitchen are already collaborating to create third-party verification standards for non-ultra-processed foods.

5 – MAHA, Self-GRAS, and Dietary Guidelines

RFK Jr’s MAHA initiative has drawn mixed reactions. While supporters appreciate the focus on ultra-processed foods, critics point out contradictions in commitments to improve hospital food while proposing budget cuts. The MAHA commission’s critique of American dietary practices sparked discussions, although follow-ups with concrete solutions fell short.

6 – Digitization and AI

The integration of AI across the food sector promises significant enhancements in efficiency. Companies are exploring AI’s potential in automating restaurants, improving inventory management, and refining supply chain processes.

7 – Rubisco: Ready for Prime Time?

RuBisCO is emerging as a potential favorite in plant proteins, previously hindered by challenges in economic viability. Companies extracting this abundant protein from sources like duckweed are making progress and proving its value.

8 – Crunch Time for Cultivated Meat

Cultivated meat offers the appeal of real meat without ethical or environmental drawbacks. However, the lack of a scalable production model and tightening funding pose significant challenges for companies in this sector.

9 – Insect Ag Reckoning

The insect agriculture space has witnessed both failures and new funding. While some established firms struggle, newcomers like nextProtein and Volare are still securing investments to expand production.

Conclusion

As the food technology landscape continues to evolve, staying attuned to these emerging trends will be crucial for industry stakeholders. The challenges are significant, but so too are the opportunities for innovation and growth in the food sector as we move into 2026.