The Future of Protein Production Chicago 2027

The Future of Protein Production Chicago 2026, held February 24–25 at McCormick Place, accelerates alternative protein commercialization through a two-day industry conference and technology exposition co-located with the Cultured Meat Symposium for the first time. The event gathers 400+ food-technology entrepreneurs, food processors and manufacturers, equipment makers and suppliers, ingredient suppliers, venture investors, and corporate R&D leaders discussing production scaling solutions across fermentation infrastructure, bioreactor systems, cell-culture platforms, precision fermentation, and plant-based formulation technologies. With 100+ expert speakers and 25+ technology exhibitors, the agenda covers manufacturing process automation, regulatory compliance pathways, unit economics and capital efficiency, supply-chain partnership models, and commercial viability assessments. Chicago—home to the USA's largest food-manufacturing base generating USD 9.4 billion annually and employing 65,000+ workers—provides an ideal venue for advancing global protein security, climate mitigation through sustainable food innovation, and exploring commercial market opportunities.