Three themes tackled at Food Taipei Forum 2026: Beyond Progress to Evolution

To sustain healthy living and extend longevity in an increasingly populous world, the food industry must integrate three major strategies: integrate precision nutrition, embrace sustainable development, and consider new disruptive business models. These strategies will accelerate the food industry’s evolution toward a resilient and innovative future as companies respond to the changing times.

Such is the central message of Beyond Progress to Evolution, a forum held by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) together with the Food Industry Research and Development Institute (FIRDI) on June 25, 2026 at the Food Taipei Mega Shows. The forum consisted of eight sessions that focused on the said strategies.

In the opening remarks, Mr. Jason Dong, Executive Director of TAITRA and Dr. Chi-Cheng Liao, Director-General of FIRDI gave an overview of the forum.

They said that modern technology now emphasizes scientifically measured and precisely formulated nutritional designs that best meet consumer needs.

In the past, functional foods though beneficial, were often unpalatable. That is why flavor must also be considered to increase public willingness to adopt functional foods—the combination of flavor and technology is key.

Another example, alternative proteins are now being developed with more emphasis on supporting health through diet – for instance, to enhance gut health.

Looking ahead, precision nutrition will become more thoughtful and approachable, integrating seamlessly into everyday life. Allowing technology to carry warmth is one path for the food industry’s comprehensive evolution toward higher added value.

The second key in the food industry is sustainability. Beyond individual health, we must also pay attention to the health of the planet—especially in the face of today’s severe climate extremes, according to Dr. Chi-Cheng Liao.

Industries are now using AI technology to stabilize agricultural supply chains, while restaurateurs leverage data analysis for precise management, greatly reducing waste, he said.

FIRDI has co‑hosted a green certification awards ceremony with the UK’s BSI and continue to encourage its partners to implement ESG practices.

By 2026, sustainability has ceased to be just a slogan, but a X that takes real work, and is fully implemented through AI and data. Green technologies not only reduce carbon emissions but do so with greater precision. Outdated practices are being phased out and replaced with approaches that are more resilient and competitive in green commerce, he said.

Dr. Chi-Cheng Liao also emphasized that developing greener, more resilient, and more competitive business models is essential. Once innovative technologies and sustainability are in place, a major factor in aligning with international standards is disruptive business models.

During this forum, the presentations supported the importance of these strategies included: Deconstructing Global Precision Nutrition Shifts by Li-Ting Chen, Senior Research Scientist at FIRDI; Alternative Protein Innovation Through Precision Design and Applications by Andres Pascual Vidal, Director of Innovation, AINIA; Unlocking the Key of Flavor and Gut Health presented by Dr. Yen-Lin Chen, Senior Research Scientist and Deputy Director, FIRDI; The Last Mile of Medical-Senior Care Integration by Mr. Brian Chen , AVP, R&D Department, Chimei Frozen Food Co., Ltd.

Also presenting at this forum were: Hong-Xi Li, Director, Department of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Ministry of Agriculture who spoke on Enhancing Agricultural Resilience to Ensure Food Supply; Bill C.Y. Teng, CEO, Chef Teng Restaurant Group, who did a presentation on Data-driven Breakthroughs in the Catering Industry; Isabella Chen, Founder and CEO of Lab Man Manon, who shared her expertise in Breaking the Molder to Master High-Margin Markets and Michelin Supply Chians, and Satum Chung, CSO of HWC Coffee, who shared about his company through the presentation From Taiwan’s Finest to Global Subscriptions – The HWC Coffee International Journey.

Organized by TAITRA, this year’s Food Taipei Mega Shows took place at the TWTC Hall 1 and the TaiNEX 1 and TaiNEX 2 from June 24-27. This event is Taiwan’s most comprehensive platform for F&B industry collaboration across technology, trade and sustainability.