Natural Food Brands Aim to Rebuild Broken Food System

From regenerative farming to herbal ingredients, the next food trends are tackling systemic issues.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 9:07am

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The annual Natural Products Expo West trade show in Anaheim, California showcased the latest trends in the natural food industry, including a growing focus on regenerative agriculture, sustainable packaging, and herbal ingredients. While novelty and wellness claims still abound, a more meaningful shift is happening as brands work to redesign the food system itself to be more resilient and address issues like climate change and public health.

Why it matters

The global food system is responsible for a significant portion of greenhouse gas emissions and is a leading driver of poor health worldwide. The natural food industry has an opportunity to lead the way in transforming the food system to be more sustainable and beneficial for both people and the planet.

The details

At this year's Expo West, more brands highlighted regenerative agriculture practices that improve soil health, biodiversity, and climate resilience. Packaging innovations focused on reducing waste and using more recycled materials. There was also a shift away from indulgent, short-term products toward foods and supplements aimed at long-term health and longevity. Additionally, the increased commercialization of herbal and culturally-rooted ingredients raised questions about maintaining supply chain integrity and equitably benefiting the communities that have used these ingredients for generations.

  • The annual Natural Products Expo West trade show took place in March 2026 in Anaheim, California.

The players

Natural Products Expo West

An annual trade show that gathers over 60,000 people in the natural products industry, including buyers, founders, investors, and retailers.

Dr. Bronner's

An established natural personal care brand that is helping bring regenerative agriculture practices into the mainstream.

Patagonia Provisions

A brand that is promoting regenerative agriculture as a key part of its product quality and supply chain strategy.

Pacha

A younger natural food brand that is highlighting regenerative agriculture.

Lil Bucks

A natural food brand that is also focused on regenerative agriculture.

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What they’re saying

“If food brands want to matter in the next decade, they cannot just market health. They have to build for resilience.”

— Lisa Curtis, Author

The takeaway

The natural food industry is evolving beyond just marketing health claims and is taking on the challenge of redesigning the food system itself to be more sustainable, equitable, and resilient in the face of climate change and other systemic issues. This shift could have far-reaching impacts on how food is grown, packaged, and consumed in the years to come.