Bouncing Forward in an Uncertain World

In a world defined by constant disruption, the ability to absorb shocks and adapt has become essential for successful organizations. This concept of adaptive resilience emphasizes not just bouncing back from challenges but evolving through them. As McKinsey & Company notes, “Resilient organizations don’t just bounce back from misfortune or change—they ‘bounce forward.’”

In the global food system, this mindset is more critical than ever, requiring companies and institutions to anticipate market shifts, navigate economic uncertainty, and foster partnerships that build long-term stability.

Recent years have delivered no shortage of disruptions that test this resilience. The COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical conflicts have exposed severe vulnerabilities in global supply chains; severe droughts in California led to a 30% reduction in almond yields; and devastating floods in Pakistan submerged over 9 million acres of farmland, crippling local food security. Economic pressures such as soaring fertilizer prices have further strained the system.

Such events have forced the food industry to rethink sourcing strategies, adjust agricultural practices, and invest in innovation to mitigate future risks. Adaptive resilience is now a cornerstone of meaningful progress.

A striking example of the need to adapt is the rapid rise of GLP-1 receptor agonists such as semaglutide and tirzepatide. Initially developed for diabetes management, these medications have gained prominence for their appetite-suppressing effects and role in weight management. Adoption of these drugs has already triggered noticeable shifts in consumer behavior, including reduced food spending and altered purchasing patterns.

As Food Technology contributor Kayt Sukel reports on page 22, food companies have responded by quickly reassessing product offerings, portion sizes, and brand strategies. Conagra Brands recently introduced “On Track” badges on select Healthy Choice meals, highlighting high protein and fiber content to support individuals using GLP-1 drugs. Similarly, Nestlé launched its Vital Pursuit frozen food line, specifically designed for GLP-1 users, offering nutrient-dense meals rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.

These innovations reflect how legacy brands are thoughtfully reinventing their products to remain relevant and responsive.

We all share an urgent responsibility to highlight these and other examples demonstrating how science and higher learning drive meaningful change.

Christopher R. Daubert

President, IFT

Similarly, IFT is building on its traditions to address the interconnected challenges of today’s global food landscape more effectively. Our community is laser-focused on building productive connections that extend beyond the boundaries of traditional food science, to facilitate meaningful collaboration across scientific disciplines, from agriculture and engineering to public health and policy.

For example, IFT’s Global Food Traceability Center (GFTC) is playing a central role in developing the agenda at an upcoming APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) workshop in May, impacting 21 international government entities. In January, Indonesia—one of the world’s largest seafood exporters—became the first country to align its national seafood traceability system with the Global Dialogue on Seafood Traceability Standards—originally developed by GFTC. Additionally, GFTC is preparing a report on traceability in small-scale fisheries and aquaculture for the Food and Agriculture Organization, set for release later this year.

Another example of interdisciplinary collaboration is IFT’s ongoing work with Partners in Food Solutions, where IFT members contribute technical expertise in food safety, product development, and supply chain efficiency to support small and medium-sized food businesses in Africa. The impact is significant: Volunteers have collectively engaged with more than 2,000 businesses, benefiting 1.5 million smallholder farmers across 11 countries.

We all share an urgent responsibility to highlight these and other examples demonstrating how science and higher learning drive meaningful change. Recent Gallup data shows that only 36% of Americans express strong confidence in higher education. Similarly, a Pew Research Center survey indicates that just 26% of U.S. adults have a great deal of confidence in scientists to act in the public’s best interests.

This erosion of trust threatens the next generation of scientists and innovators needed to solve global food challenges. IFT’s Feeding Tomorrow Fund remains a powerful and important commitment to feeding that generational pipeline, having awarded more than 2,700 scholarships, totaling over $3 million, since 1985 to support higher education in the food sciences.

The challenges facing our food system are daunting, but not insurmountable. By prioritizing innovation and remaining adaptable, we can rise together to meet these challenges. Let’s embrace this moment. The future of food depends on it.ft