As we approach 2026, we see the animal nutrition industry increasingly focusing on sustainability, biotechnology and raw material diversity. Current indicators point out that by 2026, feed formulation will be considered not only in terms of nutritional value but also within a broader framework, including carbon footprint, supply continuity, and adaptation to changing climate conditions.
Alternative protein sources, more effective utilisation of by-products, and the commercial-scale use of microbial proteins are among the areas being closely monitored by the industry. At the same time, R&D efforts in prebiotics, postbiotics, and microbial additives are gaining greater importance to support animal performance in markets where antibiotic use is being reduced. Heat stress and variable weather conditions, which have become significant issues due to climate change, are bringing mineral balancing and heat-tolerant additives to the forefront.
Looking at a global scale, rapid production capacity increases in Asia, large-scale investment projects in the Middle East, and Latin America’s flexible export position could shape the regional direction of feed demand in 2026. Geopolitical uncertainties and periodic oilseed supply risks also make ration formulation flexibility more valuable.
In short, 2026 appears to be a year in which new raw materials and technologies will be trialled more extensively, but also one in which the sector will seek ‘more efficient, more resilient and lower impact’ solutions. It is likely that companies able to strike a balance between innovation and practical farming needs will emerge more prominently during this process.
As the Feed & Additive team, we will closely follow each of these topics throughout the year and continue to report on them.
We look forward to seeing you again in the 2026 issues…
