Weekly News Edit // 12th January 2026
In case you missed it last week, here were some of the biggest news stories and most interesting developments to start the year.
1. Signals from the Oxford Farming Conference
Our team attended OFC 2026, where resilience, farm economics and supply risk dominated discussion. Sustainability and commercial viability are now shaping the same decisions. We'll share a full write up, next week.
Read more: LinkedIn
2. Protein, GLP-1s and changing demand
Appetite-suppressing drugs and health priorities are reshaping how much people eat and what they buy. Our view is that Marks and Spencer is setting the pace with products built for longer-term health, not just smaller portions. Greggs says portions and sales are already shifting, while BMJ evidence shows everyday food choices still matter most.
3. US dietary guidelines push protein harder
New US guidance leans heavily into higher protein, largely from animal sources, pulling the country away from planetary health advice used elsewhere. For global brands, this widens the gap between health messaging, climate commitments and product strategy.
Read more: US Dietary Guidelines
4. UK HFSS ad restrictions arrive in 2026
From January 2026, “less healthy” food cannot be advertised before 9pm on TV or online at any time, including paid social and influencer content. For many brands, this removes a major growth channel unless reformulation or portfolio shifts happen fast.
Read more: The Grocer's HFSS guide
5.Meat and dairy face whistleblower pressure
A paper published late last year highlights insider concerns about welfare, environmental claims and supply chain practices in the meat and dairy sector. Our Founder, Kate Cawley comments on the findings in this article.
Read more: Just Food
6.Sustainability roles shift to value
More companies are reframing sustainability leadership around commercial impact. Environmental and social strategy is now judged by what it delivers on cost, growth and resilience, not just what it reports.
Read more: LinkedIn
7.Climate volatility hits crop planning
Farmers warn that unpredictable weather is making long-term crop planning increasingly difficult. For buyers, this means greater supply risk, higher insurance costs and less certainty in forward contracts.
Read more: BBC
8.UK proposes end to cages for laying hens
The government plans to phase out cages for egg-laying hens. Welfare expectations are rising, putting pressure on sourcing standards across retail and foodservice.
Read more: GOV.UK