Concern over food safety and health risks has risen sharply among food and drink companies, with 45% of respondents to a survey conducted by Willis now identifying it as a major threat, up from 29% in 2024.

The survey found growing concern over ultra-processed foods, litigation, supply chain disruption, cyber threats, geopolitical tensions and rising costs.

Confidence in managing risk has also fallen, with 62% of respondents saying they feel somewhat or completely in control of their organisations' risks, down from 75% in 2024 and 89% in 2023.

Despite the pressures, 52% of companies identified value-for-money products as their biggest commercial opportunity, as households continue to rein in spending. Meanwhile, 84% said managing environmental, social and governance risks would remain a priority over the next two years, and 83% reported having formal business continuity plans.

Simon Lusher, Willis' global food, beverage and agriculture leader, said: "Food and beverage companies around the world are navigating a risk landscape that is becoming more complex and less predictable by the year. Our latest survey shows that many leaders feel less in control of these risks, reflecting how quickly the environment is evolving. What stands out is how firms are responding – sharpening their focus on resilience and value as pressures build."

The findings are based on a survey of 450 senior risk management decision-makers at food and beverage companies worldwide conducted in February and March 2026.

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