Farming News - Industry leaders to explore soya alternatives at national conference

Industry leaders to explore soya alternatives at national conference

The From Soya to Sustainability conference returns to Peterborough on Wednesday 28th January 2026, bringing together leaders from across the agri-food sector to accelerate the shift towards a more sustainable, secure, and resilient UK food system.

Building on the momentum of last year’s event, the 2026 conference will spotlight the environmental, economic, and nutritional benefits of integrating pulses - especially faba beans - into livestock feed. Hosted by partners in the NCS project at the KingsGate Conference Centre, Peterborough, the event will explore how reducing reliance on imported soya can cut carbon emissions, enhance soil health, and contribute to national net zero goals.

“We know that imported soya presents a sustainability challenge, but we also know the solution is already in our fields,” said Roger Vickers, CEO of PGRO and NCS project lead. “This conference is about sharing practical, science-backed strategies to increase production of UK-grown pulses to feed our livestock, which will create lasting impact across the supply chain.”

Industry leading speakers will tackle topics including:
* How faba beans and other UK-grown pulses can reduce the quantity of imported soya needed for livestock feed, while also bringing environmental benefits.
* The role of sustainable feed in reducing Scope 3 emissions, which account for up to 70% of food sector carbon footprints*.
* New data from on-farm trials and collaborative projects driving change in the UK and beyond.
* The power of cross-sector collaboration in building more transparent and sustainable supply chains.

John McArthur of McArthur BDC, one of the NCS partner organisations added: “Every tonne of UK-grown pulses we use in place of imported soya is a step towards a more resilient, lower-carbon future.

“It is vital we bring everyone from across the supply chain together with policymakers and environmentalists to work towards this shared aim.”

The conference will be of particular value to food industry and retail professionals, farmers, animal feed manufacturers and nutritionists, policymakers, environmental NGOs and other agri-food professionals.

Tickets to the event are on sale now at www.tinyurl.com/FSTS26 For speaking, exhibiting or collaboration opportunities please contact info@bofin.org.uk