Introductoryremarks The central theme of this report is the future of FoodTech in 2026, anchored ineight high-impact trends our global FoodTech Experts network expects to shapethe industry in the coming year. These trends reflect where technologicalbreakthroughs, shifting consumer needs, and new commercial opportunitiesintersect-from the rise of AI-enabled product development to the acceleration This report is designed forexecutives, R&D and innovation leaders, investors, andstrategic decision-makersacross the food, beverage, biotech, and agrifood tech sectors. It provides a clear, structured view of what is likely to matter most in 2026-what will scale fast, what will require longer-term investment, and wherecompanies should focus to unlock meaningful commercial impact. While the The trends presented here are informed by Bright Green Partners’ expert network -more than 2,500 specialists across FoodTech-combined with interviews, market observations, and our own consulting experience advising corporates,start-ups, and investors. Together, these inputs create a forward-looking This report will deep dive into 8 key trends 1AI in product development 2Fiber-boosting products Upcycled ingredients Companies active across the key 2026 trends AI-driven product development1 AI ADOPTION IS RAPIDLY ACCELERATING ACROSS FOOD PRODUCTION▪AI in food processing is projected to grow from ~$15B in 2025 to ~$140B by 2034(CAGR 28%) CASE SPOTLIGHT |NESTLÉ'S VITAL PURSUIT ▪Once driven by startups, adoption is now led by major corporations, with71% of CPG executivesusing AI, up from42% last year▪Formulation cycles compress from months to days, with AI engines generating and optimizingrecipes and ingredient systems upfront (e.g.,Journey Foods’ Formulation Engine) ▪Rapid rise of GLP-1 weight-lossmedication users-projected30M+ in theU.S. by 2030Context ▪Ingredient performance becomes predictable before entering the lab, withAI screening proteinsfor gelling, emulsifying (Shiru’s ProteinDiscovery.ai engine) or sustainability performance (How AI application ▪Nestlé leveraged itsAI concept generatorto identify the emerging GLP-1 trend andcreate targeted product concepts▪CombinedAI trend detectionwithrapid INCREASED DEMAND FORPERSONALIZATION COMPETITIVE SPEED-TO-MARKET COST OPTIMIZED RECIPES Outcome ▪Shortened signal-to-launch timeline,allowing Nestlé to enter the GLP-1convenience food market ahead of KEY DRIVERSAI compresses developmenttimelines, moving fromconcept to prototype in weeks.Generative tools can explore Consumer insights link directlyto formulation, allowing hyper-personalized products based AI predictsingredient swapswhile maintaining sensoryperformance, a major driverfor AI usage for corporates e.g.,Proxy Foods AI RecipeFormulation Software for AI-driven product development1 Looking for specific AI advisory, insights and tools for your company? Hireour AI foodtech experts viawww.foodtechexperts.com From R&D acceleration to AI tools and regulation-our experts can help.Get in touchand we’ll introduce you to the ideal advisor for your project. Fiber-boosting products2 CASE SPOTLIGHT | NUTRILEADS FIBER IS BECOMING THE NEW PROTEIN HYPE ▪With Western protein fortification nearing saturation,focus is shifting to fiber-a chronicdeficiency in Western diets (~96% UK; ~90% U.S. fail to meet daily intake)-EUFIC1urging ▪NutriLeads developedBenicaros®, aproprietary Rhamnogalacturonan-I(RG-I) precision prebiotic fiber derived fromupcycled carrot pomace▪Supported by multiple clinical trialsContext manufacturers to help close Europe’s fiber gap ▪Growth driven by functional benefits (prebiotic, metabolic, mood support), which can commanda premium-though unlocking full premiumization willrequire stronger clinical evidence ▪Upcycled fibers such as apple pectin and citrus fiberare gaining attention as clean-label toolsthat could boost fiber while improving texture, creaminess, and stability in healthier formulations▪Fiber-maxxingis emerging as a mainstream wellness trend as gut health surges–althoughWHAT DO WE SEE Application ▪Enables strong functional claims atlowinclusion levels, helping brands avoidgrittiness and tolerance issues▪Fits clean-label and sustainability GUT HEALTHMAINSTREAMING CLEAN LABELFORTIFICATION ~12% of the US population hastaken a GLP-1. This is drivinginterest in satiety-supportingfoods, especiallyFiber delivers thesimplest pathto gut wellness, now a top-three global health claim andfirmly established in theFiber offers a way to enhancenutritional value withoutunfamiliar additives. It fitsclean-labelexpectations,KEY DRIVERS Outcome ▪Commercial-ready, clinically validated,low-dose prebiotic fiber withhighlyconsistent performanceand strong help restore appetite signalsand metabolic flexibility. Looking for specific fiber insights and recommendations for yourcompany? Hire our foodtech experts viawww.foodtechexperts.com Alternative cocoa3 CASE SPOTLIGHT |PLANET A FOODS COCOA CR