Upcoming Food Safety Standards: What You Need to Prepare For
How Food Manufacturing Will Shape Up in 2026
The UK food and drink manufacturing industry shows no signs of slowing down in 2026. Last year, we saw numerous leadership changes, industry consolidation and some great investments and innovation. And this year, we suspect the pace of change will be accelerating. With rapid advances in technology, evolving consumer expectations, ongoing supply chain pressures and tighter margins, manufacturers are being challenged to do far more than simply stand still. Success now depends on being agile, forward-thinking and ready to adapt quickly.
At True North Talent, we’re in constant conversation with industry leaders, hiring managers and professionals across the sector. That gives us a real, on-the-ground view of how the landscape is shifting - and what businesses need to stay competitive in the years ahead.
Upcoming Food Safety Standards: What You Need to Prepare For
If there’s one constant in food and drink manufacturing, it’s change. Food safety standards never stand still and as we look ahead, manufacturers are facing another wave of evolving regulations, customer expectations and audit requirements. Staying compliant isn’t just about ticking boxes anymore, it’s about being prepared, proactive and resilient.
So, what should businesses be getting ready for?
Higher expectations around food safety culture
Food safety culture continues to move centre stage. It’s no longer enough to have policies and procedures written down; auditors and customers want to see how food safety is lived and breathed on site. That means clear leadership, accountability at every level and teams who genuinely understand why standards matter - not just what the rules are.
Training, engagement and visible leadership are becoming just as important as technical compliance.
Increased focus on traceability and transparency
Traceability requirements are tightening, driven by both regulation and consumer demand. Businesses are being asked to demonstrate faster, more accurate tracking of ingredients and products throughout the supply chain. In the event of a recall (and we saw a number of those in 2025 and we have already seen in January 2026 Nestle issuing a global recall of some baby food formula products), being able to respond quickly and confidently is critical.
This is pushing manufacturers to review systems, data accuracy and supplier controls to ensure they’re robust enough to meet future expectations.
More scrutiny on allergens and labelling
Allergen management remains one of the highest-risk areas in food manufacturing, and standards continue to evolve. Expect greater scrutiny around labelling accuracy, cross-contamination controls and change management. Even small errors can have serious consequences, both for consumer safety and brand reputation.
Manufacturers need strong processes, but also teams who are detail-focused and confident in challenging potential risks.
Digital systems and audit readiness
As standards become more detailed, digital quality management systems are playing a bigger role. Real-time data, trend analysis and electronic records make it easier to demonstrate compliance and stay audit-ready year-round, rather than scrambling when an audit date appears.
However, systems alone aren’t the answer. Businesses need people who understand how to use them effectively and turn information into action.
What this means for your team
With standards continuing to evolve, having the right technical and quality talent in place is more important than ever. Businesses need leaders and specialists who can interpret changing requirements, embed them into day-to-day operations and guide teams through change with confidence.
How True North Talent can help
At True North Talent, we work closely with food and drink manufacturers to help them prepare for what’s next by finding experienced technical, quality and compliance professionals who don’t just understand the rules, but know how to apply them in operating manufacturing environments.
👉Because when it comes to food safety, preparation isn’t optional - it’s essential.
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Amy Griffith
Managing Director
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