European leaders will meet in London for Sustainable Food 2026 to work on transitioning to systems that protect the environment, improve public health and strengthen supply chain resilience while maintaining profitability.
The 5th Sustainable Food Event, to be held at the Business Design Center on January 28-29, 2026, will focus on four key pillars: health and nutrition, food security, net zero, and regenerative agriculture.
The event is positioned as a solutions-driven platform across both animal-based and plant-based value chains, reflecting the reality that food transformation requires action across all categories, from meat and dairy to fruit, vegetables, grains and pulses.
Emma Pinchbeck, chief executive of the Committee on Climate Change, said: “If the UK is to meet its climate targets, we need rapid progress in reducing agricultural emissions and thinking about how we use land.”
“The good news is that the solutions are already on our doorstep, from supporting farmers to making it easier and more affordable for people to access nutritious and delicious food.”
Who will be attending Sustainable Foods 2026?
Over two days, Sustainable Foods 2026 will bring together more than 700 delegates, 100 speakers, and approximately 50 exhibitors and attendees from over 45 countries.
In addition, Dan Saladino, presenter on BBC Radio 4’s The Food Programme, will report from Sustainable Food 2026, with a dedicated episode broadcast from 11:00 GMT on Friday 6 February and rebroadcast on Saturday at 22:15 GMT.
High-level keynotes and executive panels will accompany technical sessions, as well as selected networking and 1-2-1 meetings. Speakers include senior representatives from government, agriculture, retail, food manufacturing, healthcare institutions, technology companies, and international organizations, all focused on translating high-level commitments into practical action.
Organizations with a passion for shaping the future of food are invited to join Sustainable Food in London and help build a healthier, more resilient and lower-impact food system for generations to come.
Health, nutrition and ultra-processed foods
With increasing scrutiny of ultra-processed foods, obesity and diet-related diseases on the rise, health is now a central strategic issue for food companies.
The Health and Nutrition pillar of Sustainable Food 2026 looks at the transition to healthier and more sustainable diets for future generations, while keeping food attractive, affordable and convenient.
Tesco CEO Ken Murphy said: “We recognize the important role supermarkets can play in ensuring a sustainable food system.”
“Our customers are telling us they want affordable, healthier and more earth-friendly food, and they expect us to lead the way.”
Food security and resilience
The food security pillar examines how extreme climate, conflict and geopolitical tensions are changing the risk landscape of the world’s food supply and making resilience a priority for boards.
Sustainable Food 2026 sessions will explore how both animal-based and plant-based supply chains can adapt as growing conditions change, with some regions becoming more exposed to physical and financial risks and creating new production opportunities in others.
Henry Dimbleby, co-founder of LEON’s Bramble Partners and author of the National Food Strategy, explained: “Health, nature and climate are no longer abstract ESG concerns, but harsh commercial realities.
“Appetite suppressants are booming, ultra-processed foods are under fire, and climate change is straining supply chains. Money is moving, and leaders who don’t act now will be left behind.”
net zero, data and regulation
Net zero remains central to the agenda, as climate change pressures, rising welfare expectations and labor costs all increase incentives to reduce emissions and waste across value chains.
Discussion will focus on moving from high-level commitments to detailed delivery plans that reduce emissions in agriculture, processing, transportation, packaging and retail.
regenerative agriculture
The regenerative agriculture pillar will focus on how livestock, tillage and mixed-system farmers can rethink soils, inputs and land use to build more resilient and profitable businesses that also support climate and nature goals.
Case studies will show how regenerative approaches, including changes in grazing, crop rotation, input use and diversification, are being implemented in both animal and plant supply chains, and how retailers, brands, food service operators, financiers and other supply chain partners can support these changes.
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