January in review: Infant formula crisis, cultivated meat collapse, EU trade deals

In January 2026, a major recall of infant formula products unfolded across multiple countries due to contamination. The crisis, initially involving Nestlé, spread to other major companies like Lactalis and Danone, affecting a range of formula brands. The EU-Mercosur agreement sparked debate over its impact on European food supply chains, while the EU-India trade deal promised to slash tariffs on Indian exports, such as spices, tea, and processed foods. Food trends evolved with the rise of GLP-1 medications, leading to the launch of high-protein, low-carb menu options catering to users of these weight-loss drugs. Functional beverages were also growing, offering health benefits beyond hydration. We look back at the biggest stories from January. How the US takeover of Venezuela could reshape F&B supply chains The US military operation that resulted in the capture of the Venezuelan President sent shockwaves through global markets, primarily in the energy and oil sectors. However, the ...