On 30 April 2026, the Kerry Health & Nutrition Institute (KHNI) hosted an expert scientific webinar on Megatrends Shaping Tomorrow’s Food.  The panel featured the KHNI Scientific Advisory Council: Professor Imed Gallouzi, Dr Lisa Ryan and Professor Martin Bloem.

A central theme was longevity—defined not simply as living longer, but as enabling people to remain cognitively sharp, physically active and independent throughout extended lifespans.

The panel highlighted key nutrients that contribute to healthy aging, and that approaches to longevity differ significantly across socio‑economic groups, influencing both affordability and access to nutritious foods.  Therefore, equitable longevity solutions must consider these disparities.

With the rapid rise of GLP‑1 medications, the panel discussed both their benefits and emerging concerns.  The panel outlined nutrients and food formats that may be particularly supportive for GLP‑1 users.  This led to a broader conversation about food processing.

While often viewed negatively, processed foods remain a practical necessity and an essential source of nutrition for many populations.

The panel also examined how AI and emerging technologies—such as wearables and smart health systems—are reshaping personalised nutrition.  These tools may help individuals monitor stress, understand their nutritional needs and tailor dietary choices to their lifestyles.

However, the speakers stressed that the value of these tools depends entirely on the quality, accuracy and representativeness of the data that underpins them.  As technology accelerates, ensuring robust, high‑quality data will be critical for delivering meaningful health outcomes.

To close the webinar, just before the Q&A session, each member of the Scientific Advisory Council shared a final take‑home message for the audience.

Professor Martin Bloem emphasised the importance of simplicity—whether in health or nutrition, consumers need straightforward practical solutions to help them stay healthy.

Dr Lisa Ryan highlighted that optimal health relies on both good nutrition and regular physical activity.

Professor Imed Gallouzi underscored the potential of technology, noting that emerging tools can support better eating habits, healthier routines and improved overall lifestyle.

 

The KHNI Health and Nutrition Megatrends, now in its eighth edition, highlights the scientific, technological, and consumer-driven changes redefining global food systems.

 

 

Innovation customised for individuals health needs took centre stage in what was Vitafoods Europe’s inaugural event in Barcelona, from May 20-22, 2025.

The show presented the latest developments in the nutraceuticals industry with compelling speaker sessions and insights for attendees to enjoy.

The KHNI has identified three key trends which were most prevalent throughout the three day event.

 

 

Weight Management and Satiety

This trend had a major presence at Vitafoods Europe 2025, with tailored solutions ranging from collagen peptides targeting post meal glucose spikes to proteins, pro- and postbiotics to support those who may be engaging with GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs.

Other solutions called out nutrient density, as a measure to manage deficiencies individuals may incur, while on this weight management journey.

Listen here to Dr. Zane Andrews from Monash University who featured in KHNI’s webinar from April 2025 on how this trend may evolve:

 

 

Women’s Health

Developments in offerings tailored to Women, during particular life stages was a clear call out from the trade show.

From clinically backed, root and leaf ashwagandha to support menopause to botanical extracts for fertility, the Women’s Health space is evolving at pace and scale in the industry.

Read more about the hormone lifecycle from subject matter experts Mollie Mulligan and Monica Olivares, here.

 

Microbiome

Industry solutions regarding the human microbiome is also a key takeaway from Barcelona.

Pre-, pro- and postbiotics were present in abundance, with an increased focus on innovation on the health benefits of biotics broader than the gut, to areas such as Skin and Cognitive health.

Hear from Dr. Colin Hill from University College Cork below on how and why postbiotics are growing in popularity:

“Despite being an ingredient group that is just beginning to grow, postbiotics have been shown to have health benefits commonly associated with other biotics such as probiotics.  The immune modulating capabilities of postbiotics highlight the emerging areas of the gut-immune axis and how postbiotics can play a role in benefiting health beyond the gut.  Postbiotics allow for more ease of manufacturing and versatility for new food, beverage, and supplements making them an exciting area for product development.”

– Colin Hill, PhD, Professor of Microbial Food Safety, Principal Investigator, University College Cork, APC Microbiome Ireland.

Overall, Vitafoods Europe proved an insightful show, highlighting the wide range of opportunities the industry has to support consumers health through nutrition with clinically backed, personalised solutions taking the spotlight.

Other strong themes which featured at the show included collagen, botanicals and omega’s many of which, supported Healthy Ageing & Longevity for consumers.

 

 

 

 

The Kerry Health & Nutrition Institute (KHNI) in celebration of a decade of innovation and scientific discovery, hosted a webinar on Friday, January 24th, 2025, broadcasted from Singapore.

This special event showcased key health and nutrition trends shaping consumer preferences in the South East Asia region, and explored the Future of Sustainable Nutrition with discussions led by renowned experts within the region.

The discussion focused on how the food industry can address challenges like rising food costs, changing demographics, and evolving consumer preferences.  This discussion included the following key topics:

    • Accessible Nutrition: The speakers emphasised the UN’s sustainability goal of ending hunger and addressed the rising cost of food, particularly staples like cocoa.  They discussed the need for diverse and affordable options, with a focus on reducing food waste and supporting local, sustainable agriculture.
    • Aging Population: With a focus on the growing aging population in Asia, the panel discussed the nutritional needs of older adults and how to combat age-related health issues through diet.  They highlighted the importance of nutrient-dense foods and convenient, healthy options.
    • Women’s Health: The experts explored the unique nutritional needs of women throughout their life stages, from pregnancy and lactation to menopause.  They stressed the importance of tailored nutrition strategies to support women’s health and well-being.
    • Sodium Reduction: The panel discussed the global health concern of high sodium intake and its link to non-communicable diseases.  They explored innovative approaches to reducing sodium in food products while maintaining taste and consumer satisfaction, particularly focusing on how to balance those efforts with the strong flavours and taste preferences common in Southeast Asia.

The panel also provided valuable insights on other important trends, including the role of the food industry in promoting sustainable practices, the importance of taste and convenience in food choices, and the potential of innovation and technology in addressing nutritional challenges.

Watch the full webinar above to learn more about the future of sustainable nutrition and be part of this celebration 10 years in the making!