From tradition to precision: Atlas of "Food and Medicine Homology" in 2026

The ancient concept of "food and medicine homology" is on the cusp of a transformative shift from empirical tradition to a modern, precision-driven scientific discipline in 2026. A comprehensive perspective article, authored by over 40 experts across China, delineates this trajectory, presenting an integrated roadmap that intertwines standardization, pioneering research, personalized health management, and industrial innovation. The paper contends that the future credibility and global influence of food and medicine homology hinge on the establishment of a robust evidence-based system, coupled with the strategic utilization of technologies such as artificial intelligence, multi-omics, and synthetic biology.

The article, structured as a comprehensive blueprint, delineates six interconnected focus areas for 2026. It commences by emphasizing the necessity of rigorous standards, safety protocols, and high-quality clinical evidence as foundational elements. Subsequently, it explores the "foundation" of mechanistic research, advocating for a paradigm shift from isolated compound studies to understanding complex host-microbiome-metabolite interactions and novel biological phenomena such as phase separation. The "application" domain underscores advancements in personalized nutrition and dynamic health management strategies for chronic diseases and life-cycle support. The "translation" component emphasizes transforming scientific discoveries into high-value products while revolutionizing the entire industry value chain through innovative raw material utilization and sustainable practices. Driving "innovation" are emergent technologies including AI-powered R&D, intelligent delivery mechanisms, and synthetic biology applications. Lastly, the "interdisciplinary" dimension advocates for integrative approaches combining neuroscience, social sciences, and information technology.

“The field is at a critical juncture,” said authors. “Our perspective provides a unified vision. It is no longer sufficient to know that something works based on tradition; we must demonstrate how it works, for whom, and at what dose. The integration of modern science, from multi-omics for patient stratification to AI for formula design, is what will transform ‘food and medicine homology’ from a holistic concept into a reproducible, safe, and effective pillar of future precision health and preventive medicine.”

The roadmap underscores the ultimate objective of establishing a transparent, sustainable, and intelligent ecosystem. This encompasses the development of traceable supply chains, environmentally-friendly manufacturing processes, and digital platforms that guarantee quality and foster consumer confidence. The authors foresee the evolution of food and medicine homology from individual products to comprehensive "product + service + scenario" solutions, which incorporate wellness tourism and personalized, data-driven health management systems.

This perspective, titled "Food and Medicine Homology Focus in 2026" is set to be published online on January 1, 2026, in the journal Food & Medicine Homology.

Highlights

1. Driving a paradigm shift in the food and medicine homology field from traditional experience-based practices to a scientific, systematic, and precise methodology.

2. Advocating for a paradigm shift in mechanistic research, moving away from simple linear models towards an integrated comprehension of intricate biological networks and systems biology.

3. Developing a novel proactive health management system with dynamic individual data, incorporating real-time optimization and adaptive adjustment features.

4. Facilitating the intelligent and eco-friendly upgrade of the entire industrial chain from raw material innovation to ecological construction, by integrating advanced technologies.

5. Elevating the provision of health products by integrating lifestyle, cultural experiences, and synergistic ecosystem into comprehensive health solutions.