Though voice AI systems improve drive-thru speed and accuracy, many diners still find the experience unsettling. A concept called the ‘uncanny valley’ could offer insight into why diners say they’d rather have a human take their order – even if AI is more likely to get it right.
BMO’s 2026 Global Farm to Market conference spotlighted rising fertilizer costs, protein-rich food demand, GLP-1 eating trends, and gene-edited crop innovation as food and agriculture companies navigate inflation, energy volatility, and shifting consumer expectations.
Consumers are pushing back as food prices climb and product quality slips, forcing brands to prove their value instead of relying on loyalty. Experts warn that transparency, experience and truly differentiated products matter more than ever in defending price.
GLP-1 drugs are reshaping consumer behavior as shoppers eat less, cook less, and seek convenient, small-portion meals marketed as GLP-1 friendly. Food companies are racing to protect revenue by pushing nutrient-dense, protein-forward products tailored to these shifting habits.
