FoodTech Junkies

In this episode of FoodTech Junkies, host Sharon Cittone talks with Zhong Xu, CEO and co-founder of Deliverect, about the role of AI in transforming restaurant operations. From reducing errors and downtime to boosting personalization and tackling fraud with tools like Resolve and Kiosk, Deliverect powers over 65,000 restaurants globally—including major names such as Burger King and KFC.Zhong shares his journey in restaurant tech, the company's latest innovations, and what's next for the industry—from voice recognition to robotics. The episode wraps with insights for entrepreneurs and a rapid-fire lightning round.About Zhong Xu: As the CEO and co-founder of Deliverect, Zhong is building a global ecosystem of on and off-premise solutions that empowers restaurants and retailers to sell anywhere and deliver everywhere. Deliverect's comprehensive platform integrates technologies spanning kiosks, delivery management, uptime monitoring, real-time analytics, and more. Zhong, who obtained a M.Sc. degree in software engineering in 2009, created the first IPad POS in EMEA in 2012, together with co-founder Jan Hollez. This SaaS company evolved into the company that today is called Lightspeed, which is available in more than 100 countries around the world. Zhong was Global Director of Lightspeed Hospitality until 2018, when he founded Deliverect, thereby continuing to revolutionize the hospitality industry. About Deliverect:Deliverect is a global ecosystem of on and off-premise solutions for digital sales. Its API-first software helps enterprises of all sizes to sell anywhere and deliver everywhere across 52+ global markets. Currently, Deliverect powers 50,000+ establishments, including renowned chains like Burger King, Little Caesars, and Pret A Manger. To find out more information, visit deliverect.com.Timestamps:00:32 – Meet Zhong Xu03:47 – The Rise of Deliverect06:05 – AI's impact on restaurant ops14:18 – Personalization & dynamic menus19:47 – Product deep dive: Kiosk & Resolve23:13 – Fighting fraud with vision AI26:40 – Misconceptions about AI30:03 – What's next: voice tech & robotics33:04 – Lightning round39:17 – Advice for young entrepreneurs

This week on the FoodTech Junkies podcast, we're joined by Nona Yehia — architect, changemaker, and CEO of Vertical Harvest. From Jackson Hole to Westbrook, Maine, Nona shares how her team is reimagining vertical farming not just as a way to grow food, but as a regenerative business model—one where inclusion, local impact, and profitability go hand in hand.We dive into what makes their newest farm the company's most ambitious yet, how public-private partnerships and tech collaborations are key to scaling, and why designing for community isn't a side mission—it's part of the bottom line. From workforce development to grassroots engagement, this episode explores how Vertical Harvest is turning food systems into engines for equity, resilience, and long-term value.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:41 Meet Nona Yehia: Architect Turned Vertical Farming Pioneer02:10 Nona's Personal Journey and Inspiration05:56 Challenges and Innovations in Vertical Farming09:33 Scaling and Replicating Vertical Harvest11:49 The Maine Project: A New Chapter19:39 Technology and People: A Balanced Approach25:01 Financial Challenges and Innovations33:41 Community Impact and Future Vision43:09 Lightning Round and Closing ThoughtsAbout Nona YehiaCo-Founder & CEO, Vertical Harvest FarmsNona Yehia is an architect-turned-entrepreneur who co-founded Vertical Harvest Farms, the first vertical hydroponic greenhouse in North America. Driven by a passion for design, food, and social equity—and inspired by her brother who has developmental disabilities—Nona helped pioneer a business model that pairs sustainable urban farming with inclusive employment.Under her leadership, Vertical Harvest has become a national example of climate-resilient infrastructure and regenerative enterprise, now expanding with a new flagship farm in Westbrook, Maine. Recognized by CNN's Champions for Change, Fast Company, and the Tony Hsieh Award, Nona continues to shape the conversation around community-led food systems and equitable innovation.About Vertical HarvestVertical Harvest is an urban farming company turning cities into fertile grounds for growth, using tech-enabled agriculture to reinvent the future of food.  They are hell-bent on bringing communities the freshest, healthiest and most flavorful produce – grown hydroponically, all year round.  It's why they root their farms within cities, create customized employment for people with disabilities and are farm to fork around the clock. City by city and block by block, they are growing up – working with and within communities to sow the seeds of abundant possibility.  They're not just harvesting the freshest food possible – as a social enterprise they're here to make good taste great. 

In this episode of the Food Tech Junkies Podcast, host Sharon Cittone speaks with Julia Collins—founder of PlanetFWD and the visionary behind Moonshot Snacks and Zume Pizza—about how we can decarbonize the food industry through data, innovation, and transparency.Julia shares her journey from food entrepreneur to climate-tech trailblazer, revealing how small brands can drive big change. The conversation explores regenerative agriculture, greenwashing vs. green hushing, data and data-driven storytelling, and the power of community-led food systems. Learn how PlanetFWD is helping companies measure and reduce their environmental impact—and why the future of food must be rooted in truth, not trends.

What if honey could be made without bees—and still taste just like the real thing? In this episode of FoodTech Junkies Sharon Cittone speaks with Darko Mandich, CEO and co-founder of MeliBio, about disrupting a $10B industry with science, sustainability, and storytelling.This isn't just a conversation about alternative ingredients—it's about rethinking how we produce food in a way that works better for the planet, for pollinators, and for people. From navigating skeptics to building partnerships that scale impact, Darko shares what it takes to launch a biotech startup that's breaking conventions and opening minds. Whether you're into food tech, sustainability, or just love a good founder story—this one's for you.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to Food Systems Complexity00:13 Meet the Host and Guest00:31 Reinventing Honey Without Bees01:08 Darko's Journey and Company Vision02:12 The Science Behind Bee-Free Honey06:56 Challenges and Market Perception07:58 Engaging with Skeptics and Traditionalists17:32 The Reality of Fake Honey23:38 Personal Journeys and Food System Dependencies30:59 Building a Food Tech Company on a Budget37:21 Partnerships and Market Expansion41:52 Future Vision and Final ThoughtsAbout Darko MandichDarko started his career in the European food industry in 2012 and worked on managing and growing honey companies in more than 5 countries. By pursuing his dream to reinvent the honey industry and make it sustainable, Darko immigrated from Serbia to the United States in 2019 to launch MeliBio.Darko is now an impact entrepreneur on a mission to sustainably feed 10B+ people with delicious and nutritious foods while saving Planet's keystone species - wild and native bees.Darko is passionate about the future of food and ways to advance science to make the food system sustainable, scalable and animal-free.

In this episode of FoodTech Junkies, host Sharon Cittone sits down with Miriam Ueberall, a seasoned leader with 24 years of experience in the food industry, for a compelling conversation on the systemic changes needed to future-proof our food systems. Miriam shares her insights on the challenges of innovation, the importance of DEI, and the urgent need for consumer-centric sustainability.Together, they explore how corporates and startups can forge stronger collaborations, why digitalization is a game-changer, and how leadership and company culture play pivotal roles in driving transformation. From balancing taste and nutrition with sustainability to preparing the next generation of food leaders, this episode is packed with inspiration, real talk, and forward-looking ideas.______________________________________________________About Miriam: Miriam is a seasoned Food Tech Expert and Senior R&D Leader with over 24 years of experience in advancing the food industry through innovation and technology. She has worked in leadership roles across various multinational FMCG companies, ranging from Unilever to Kraft Heinz to Flora Food group. A visionary at heart, Miriam combines a deep understandingof food science, technology, and consumer and market trends to craft forward-thinking strategies that address today's most complex globalchallenges. With a strong belief that human-centric leadership is key to drive sustainable growth, Miriam brings a track record of delivering market growth via innovation and renovation, pipeline building, organizational transformation, and driving portfolio efficiencies. A staunch advocate for honest and trusted multi-party partnerships, Miriam is convinced that true breakthroughs in food tech can only occur when diverse stakeholders and players across the value chain collaborate transparently, bringing their unique expertise and perspectives to the table, and commit to aligned objectives.As a passionate champion of female empowerment and allyship, Miriam actively works to create inclusive, supportive environments where women can thrive and unleash theirbest self.Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to the Podcast00:32 – Meet Miriam Ueberall: A Powerhouse in Food Innovation01:06 – Miriam's Journey in the Food Industry03:07 – Challenges and Systemic Transformation in the Food Industry07:24 – The Role of Leadership and Partnerships18:10 – Innovation in R&D and Addressing Consumer Needs24:46 – Consumer Education and Building Trust28:47 – Defining Sustainability in the Food Industry29:59 – Practical Steps for Integrating Sustainability34:06 – The Role of Government and Policy in Driving Change36:39 – Leadership and Company Culture in the Food Business41:55 – Grooming the Next Generation of Food Leaders44:54 – The Future of Female Leadership and Inclusivity49:29 – Future Trends and Technologies in Food52:08 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the FoodTech Junkies Podcast, Sharon Cittone sits down with Marc Coloma, CEO and co-founder of Heura, to explore the intersection of activism, innovation, and food system transformation. From his early roots in social justice to building one of Europe's fastest-growing plant-based food companies, Marc shares the driving forces behind Heura's mission to fix what he calls “the most broken industry in the world.” They unpack the inefficiencies of traditional animal agriculture, the power of tech-enabled alternatives, and the urgent need for policy reform. Marc also addresses the consumer myths still surrounding plant-based foods and how Heura is working to shift both perception and policy.Whether you're a foodtech founder, policymaker, or just curious about the future of protein, this episode offers insight, clarity, and inspiration.Timestamps[00:27] Marc shares his journey from grassroots activism to entrepreneurship, and how that path led to founding a mission-driven food tech company.[04:02] They unpack the true cost of our current food system and how Heura is working to address those inefficiencies.[07:58] Marc speaks candidly about the challenges facing the plant-based industry, from consumer misconceptions to navigating media narratives.[15:33] He offers a look into the innovations driving Heura's product development and where he sees the category heading next.[26:52] The conversation turns to the policy landscape and why structural change is just as critical as product innovation.[33:04] They also explore how technology—from fermentation to AI—is accelerating the protein transition.[45:33] In a quick-fire lightning round, Marc shares his hot takes on the most promising trends in food tech.[48:55] The episode wraps with final thoughts and how listeners can stay connected.From challenging Big Meat to advocating for a fairer food system, Marc Coloma brings bold thinking and sharp insights to the mic.About Marc ColomaCEO, Co-founder and food activist at Heura Foods Marc Coloma is food activist and CEO at Heura. Born in Barcelona in 1991, Marc has been involved in social activism since he was just 16 years old. In 2015 he decided to take part in an entrepreneurship program to create solutions to the problems in the current food system. His aim was, and is still to bring attractive solutions, and thus make livestock obsolete. In 2017, after extensive research, Heura was created and launched into the Spanish Market, with the mission to contribute to the construction of a net positive and healthier food system.To date, Heura has positioned itself as the fastest-growing plant-based meat company in Europe and the market leader in Spain, with a 26% market share. Heura also leads in consumer acquisition, not only being the brand with the highest penetration but also with the highest repeat rate (50%).In the last seven years Heura has not only stood out for the development of vegetable meat products but also for being a technological leader, with 25% of its workforce (out of a total of 100) dedicated to R&D. This has led to the creation of the Good Rebel Tech technology platform in order to develop technologies aimed at solving current technological limitations and increasing the nutritional value, naturalness, taste and sustainability of all the company's products.The work in this field has culminated in the development of the first patent in April 2023, which has obtained a positive opinion report from the European Patent Office.Marc Coloma's contribution to transforming the food model has been recognized by several organizations. In 2018, he received the CVC Young Innovator Award. In 2019, Forbes recognised him as the best entrepreneur of the year, and the magazine Emprendedores and AIJEC named him the best entrepreneur of the year. In 2021, Marc and Bernat were named to Forbes' “100 other fortunes” for their positive impact on the world.

Who's on Stage at Future FoodTech SF? Join host Sharon Cittone as she sits down with Bill Aimutus, a leading food innovation pioneer shaping the future of food. With a career in companies like Land O'Lakes, Kerry Ingredients, and Cargill, to now NC State's Food Innovation Lab and the Bezos Center for Sustainable Protein, Bill shares insights into alternative proteins, food security, labor challenges, and policy alignment. In this episode, we explore the pressing challenges and opportunities in the food system, from biomanufacturing and workforce development to the role of policy in driving food innovation. Bill highlights the importance of collaboration between traditional agriculture and emerging food technologies to create sustainable, cost-effective, and consumer-friendly food solutions. Don't miss this in-depth discussion on the future of food, technological advancements in production, and the strategies needed to scale sustainable alternatives.

In this episode of the FoodTech Junkies Podcast, host Sharon Cittone sits down with Liana Thompson, co-founder Aquaai, a pioneering robotics startup tackling ocean and waterway health. Liana shares her journey from journalism to climate tech entrepreneurship, highlighting how Aquaai is developing cutting-edge robotic solutions to combat water scarcity and promote marine conservation. Discover how Aquaai harnesses biomimicry to create efficient, affordable underwater drones, and the broader implications of their work on biodiversity and climate resilience. Liana also sheds light on the challenges of scaling a climate-tech startup, navigating funding landscapes, and fostering education and community engagement in ocean preservation.Episode Timestamps:00:00 Introduction: Waterways and Carbon Sinks00:11 Food Tech Junkies intro00:52 Guest Introduction: Liana Thompson of Aquaai02:11 Liana's Journey from Journalism to Robotics05:56 The Mission and Vision of Aquaai14:56 Challenges in Water Scarcity and Climate Impact18:27 Aquaai's Global Expansion and Market Entry25:34 Funding and Commercialization Challenges37:57 The Role of Education and Community Engagement41:26 Closing Thoughts and Future Projects

How can we make food healthier, more sustainable, and packed with essential nutrients—all without relying on traditional agriculture? In this episode, we sit down with Frank Jaksch, founder of Ayana Bio, to explore the cutting-edge world of plant cell culture technology and how it's revolutionizing the way we think about nutrition. From his early days in chemistry and drug discovery to launching Ayana Bio, Frank shares his insights on the growing concerns around ultra-processed foods, the declining nutrient density in fresh produce, and how his company is developing bioactive compounds that can fortify everyday products—without sacrificing taste, cost, or sustainability. We also discuss the broader food security and climate challenges, the need for industry-wide collaboration, and how Ayana Bio is working with brands to create smarter, nutrient-dense alternatives to conventional food products. Plus, get an exclusive look into the upcoming Future Food Tech event, where innovative startups and ingredient pioneers will come together to shape the next chapter of food innovation. Episode Breakdown:

Join us for a fascinating conversation with Marie Asano, partner at the European Circular Bioeconomy Fund (ECBF). Marie shares her unique journey from scientist to venture capitalist, exploring how she now champions sustainable innovations at the intersection of agri, food tech, and the bioeconomy. In this episode, we'll uncover the challenges and opportunities within the bioeconomy, the vital role of venture capital in driving change, and the power of collaboration across industries. Plus, hear about promising startups, emerging trends, and strategies for building a sustainable future. Don't miss this insightful deep dive into the world of sustainable innovation! About Marie Asano: Dr. Marie Asano is a Partner at the European Circular Bioeconomy Fund, where she leads investments in the nutrition and food tech verticals, with a focus on sustainable chemistry, the bioeconomy, and circularity. She also serves as a Board Observer at Nuritas. Before joining ECBF, Marie was a Senior Investment Manager at High-Tech Gründerfonds (HTGF), a German-based seed fund, where she spearheaded early-stage investments in sectors such as chemistry, climate tech, biotech, animal health, and life sciences. In addition, she played a key role in expanding the fund's deal flow and network in the chemical sector. During her tenure, she also served as a Board Observer at Aphea.Bio. Marie holds a PhD in nanochemistry, biophysics, and polymer science from the universities of Liège and Bordeaux. Following her doctoral studies, she earned an MBA from the Collège des Ingénieurs. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background - Meet Marie Asano and learn how her journey from scientist to venture capitalist shaped her passion for sustainability. 00:21 Journey into Venture Capital - What inspired Marie to make the leap into venture capital and focus on the bioeconomy? 02:03 Impact and Sustainability in Bioeconomy- Exploring how the bioeconomy is reshaping industries and driving sustainable impact. 06:29 Challenges in Bio-based Packaging- Why is creating sustainable packaging so tricky? Marie shares her insights. 10:50 Cross-sector Collaboration for Bioeconomy- How partnerships between sectors are key to advancing the circular bioeconomy. 16:12 Comparing Bioeconomy Approaches: Europe vs. US- What sets Europe apart from the US in tackling bioeconomy challenges? 20:37 Future of Bioeconomy and Emerging Trends- A sneak peek at groundbreaking trends and innovations shaping the future. 23:29 Investment Strategies and Challenges for Startups- Marie's advice for startups: what it takes to secure funding and succeed in the bioeconomy. 30:32 Portfolio Highlights and Success Stories -Behind the scenes with ECBF: success stories and lessons learned from their portfolio. 37:40 Final Thoughts and Reflections- Marie's parting wisdom on creating a more sustainable and innovative future.

In this episode, we sit down with Dan Altschuler Malek, Managing Partner at Unovis Asset Management, to discuss the urgency for protein diversification, the future of sustainable food systems, and the transformative potential of innovation in the food sector. Drawing from his diverse experience—ranging from corporate banking to launching a CPG brand—Dan offers a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities shaping the food industry. Together, we tackle pressing global issues like climate change, agriculture, and the critical need for diversified protein sources. Dan sheds light on the pivotal role of alternative proteins and how cutting-edge technology is revolutionizing food production. He highlights the importance of a holistic approach to food sustainability, exploring the intricate dynamics of the food value chain, the rapid growth of the alternative protein market, and the power of marketing in driving consumer adoption. We also dive into the role of government in fostering innovation, emphasizing the necessity for public investment to accelerate social and environmental well-being. This conversation is packed with insights for entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and anyone curious about the evolving food landscape and how innovation can create a more sustainable future. Tune in to discover how collaborative efforts and bold ideas can drive meaningful change in our global food systems. About Dan Altschuler Dan Altschuler is a Managing Partner at Unovis Asset Management, a global investment firm backing pioneering technologies reshaping the food industry and addressing critical global issues. He is a strategic collaborator with a deep commitment to improving how the world eats, leveraging his entrepreneurial, operational, and investment expertise. Dan co-founded Unovis to support founders contributing to a healthier and more sustainable world where he leads the firm's early stage investments in North America and Israel. Unovis has invested in more than 50 startups around the world, including transformational startups like Alpine Bio, Oshi, Anina's, ImaginDairy, Heura, Meati, and Abbot's. Prior to his role at Unovis, Dan's career was shaped by a range of food-related ventures. He worked alongside major food corporations, founded a CPG company, managed logistics operations, and directed a creative agency, all within the foodservice and CPG sectors. Dan holds an MBA from Babson College and a BS in Business Administration from the Universidad Iberoamericana in Mexico City. Dan serves on the boards of NovaMeat, Black Sheep Foods, and GreenOnyx, guiding these companies toward achieving their strategic goals. Timestamps: 00:00 Teaser 01:03 Meet Dan Altschuler Malek 01:25 Dan's Journey in the Food Industry 07:02 Challenges in the Food System 12:11 The Future of Alternative Proteins 21:51 Technological Innovations in Food 40:52 The Role of Policy and Investments 42:50 Conclusion and Call to Action

How can the food industry tackle climate change, drive innovation, and create a sustainable future? In this episode, we're joined by Siân Yates, Editorial Director at FoodBev Media, to explore the key challenges and groundbreaking trends shaping the food system. From cultured meat and AI technology to waste valorization and regenerative agriculture, we discuss the innovations driving change and the power of cross-sector collaboration. Siân also shares her insights on media's role in clear communication and highlights how the industry can balance sustainability with consumer needs. Don't miss this in-depth conversation on the future of food, technology, and sustainability. About Siân: Siân Yates is the editorial director at FoodBev, a media platform dedicated to delivering news and insights from across the food and beverage landscape. Siân heads up the editorial department at FoodBev, overseeing a team of dynamic new reporters and editors, as well as four magazines and four news websites. She holds a bachelor's in English literature and a master's in journalism. With a passion for writing and multimedia content creation, Siân has worked in a variety of roles, spanning STEM publishing to digital marketing, and PR, covering topics as diverse as luxury travel, transport, music and the arts, sustainability, healthcare and even garden sheds. But her true passion lies in the food and beverage inudstry. At the forefront of F&B trends, from sustainability and innovative ingredients to evolving consumer behaviours, Sian's work reflects her keen understanding of the industry's dynamic nature. She is committed to exploring the future of food, highlighting key developments and bringing fresh perspectives to the ever-changing market. Whether writing features, hosting podcasts or leading panel discussions, Sian remains dedicated to advancing the conversation on the most important topics shaping the future of food and drink. For a teaser, check out this article! Timestamps: 00:00 The Importance of Cross-Sector Collaboration 01:53 Introduction to Sian Yates and FoodBev Media 04:46 Pressing Challenges in the Food System 07:33 Innovation and Collaboration in the Food Industry 11:08 Emerging Trends in Sustainability and Technology 18:14 Consumer Behavior and Sustainability 23:15 Innovations in Food Packaging 28:21 The Role of Agriculture in Sustainability 28:49 Corporate vs. Smallholder Visions in Regenerative Agriculture 30:10 The Six Guiding Principles of Regenerative Agriculture 33:57 Impact of Mergers and Acquisitions on Innovation 37:40 Spotlight on Innovative Startups 40:19 The Role of AI and Robotics in the Food Industry 43:55 Challenges in Media Communication 49:45 The Journey of a Cocoa Bean 52:07 A Vision for a Sustainable Future 55:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode, Sharon sits down with Daan Luining, a pioneering mind in the field of cultivated meat and co-founder of Meatable. Together, they explore Dan's fascinating journey from a researcher in cell molecular biology and tissue engineering to leading a company at the forefront of sustainable food innovation. The conversation uncovers the challenges of merging cell biology with food science, debunking industry misconceptions, and navigating complex regulatory landscapes. Daan shares insights into Meatable's mission, their groundbreaking approach to producing cultivated pork fat, and the collaborative role traditional meat producers play in reshaping the industry. With a focus on transparency, innovation, and inclusivity, this episode dives deep into the future of food and the societal shifts needed to create a more sustainable and equitable world. About Daan Daan Luining is the co-founder and Chief Innovation Officer of Meatable, a Dutch biotechnology company pioneering the production of cultivated meat. With a background in cell molecular biology and tissue engineering, Daan was part of the team that developed the world's first lab-grown hamburger in 2013. He later served as Research Director at New Harvest, a non-profit organization funding academic research in cellular agriculture. In 2018, Daan co-founded Meatable to create real meat without harming animals, utilizing innovative stem cell technologies to produce sustainable and delicious meat products About Meatable Meatable is a Dutch biotechnology company founded in 2018 by Krijn de Nood, Daan Luining, and Mark Kotter. The company specializes in producing cultivated meat using proprietary stem cell technology, aiming to create real meat without the need for animal slaughter. Meatable's innovative approach utilizes pluripotent stem cells, which can differentiate into various cell types, enabling the efficient production of muscle and fat cells for meat products. This method eliminates the use of fetal bovine serum, making the process more ethical and sustainable. In April 2024, Meatable became the first company in the European Union to receive regulatory approval from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) for a public tasting of cultivated meat, specifically their sausage product. This milestone event garnered significant media attention and marked a crucial step toward bringing cultivated meat to the European market. Meatable continues to advance its mission of providing sustainable and ethical meat alternatives, focusing on scalability and market readiness to meet the growing global demand for meat products. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction: Food Security and Challenges 00:27 Meet Food Tech Junkies 00:43 Introducing Daan Luining and Meatable 01:29 Daan's Journey into Cultivated Meat 03:11 Challenges Facing Cultivated Meat 04:51 Overcoming Misconceptions Through Education 06:59 The Future of Sustainable Food Production 13:58 Navigating Regulatory Landscapes 25:32 Meatable's Market Strategy and Innovations 37:03 The Road Ahead for Cultivated Meat 44:34 Reflections and Final Thoughts 53:44 Closing Remarks and Call to Subscribe

In this episode of the Food Tech Junkies podcast, host Sharon Cittone engages with Jack Bobo—renowned expert, author, and futurist—to discuss the future of food systems. From the rising influence of GLP-1 drugs on diets and nutrition to the environmental and agricultural shifts driven by innovation, this conversation dives into the critical intersections of science, policy, and sustainability. Explore the evolving dynamics between livestock and alternative proteins, the role of behavioral science in consumer choices, and the urgent need for climate action in food production. Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion on tackling obesity, advancing sustainable agriculture, and leveraging technology to create a healthier, more equitable food future. About Jack Bobo Jack Bobo is a renowned expert in sustainable food systems, recently appointed as the inaugural Executive Director of the UCLA Rothman Family Institute for Food Studies.  With a background in international law, environmental policy, and behavioral science, he has held pivotal roles, including Director of the University of Nottingham's Food Systems Institute, Director of Global Food and Water Policy at The Nature Conservancy, CEO of Futurity, a food foresight company and as a Senior Advisor for Food Policy at the U.S. State Department. Jack is also the author of Why Smart People Make Bad Food Choices and has been recognized by Scientific American as one of the 100 most influential people in biotechnology.  Timestamps 00:00 Preview 00:49 Meet Jack Bobo: Food Systems Expert and Author 03:22 How GLP-1 Drugs are Changing Food and Health 09:08 Agricultural and Environmental Implications of Innovation 19:34 The Role of Livestock and Alternative Proteins in Food Systems 26:40 Policy, Regulation, and Food System Innovation 36:36 Behavioral Science and Consumer Psychology in Food Choices 44:55 Addressing Climate Change and Achieving Net Zero Targets 52:42 Future Food Technologies: Opportunities and Challenges 54:31 Final Thoughts: Jack Bobo's Vision for Food Systems

In this new episode of The Green Spoon, we journey into the heart of Japan's sustainable food practices with Chef Keiko Kuwakino. Known for her expertise in vegetable-based cuisine and unwavering commitment to sustainability, Chef Kuwakino takes us through her incredible journey, her passion for foraging, and her mindful approach to creating dishes that honor nature's bounty. Learn how she transforms locally sourced, organic ingredients into unforgettable culinary masterpieces while maintaining a harmonious relationship with the environment. Join us for an inspiring conversation about eco-conscious dining, the challenges and opportunities in Japanese cuisine, and the future of sustainable gastronomy. About Chef Keiko Kuwakino Keiko started her career as a therapist, gaining experience in Australia and India and learning about Ayurveda and Ayurvedic cuisine. She previously worked as a chef at a vegan restaurant in Tokyo and moved to Minami-uonuma to work at Satoyama Jujo, where her specialty is locally sourced ingredients, mountain vegetables, and body-healing spices. Appointed to head chef at Satoyama Jujo in 2018, she won a Michelin star in 2020 and was awarded 15.5 points by Gault Millau in 2021. She was nominated as one of Japan's 100 best chefs and restaurants by Hitosara in 2022 and We're Smart's the "world's best female vegetable chef" in 2023. Episode Breakdown 00:00 Welcome to The Green Spoon 00:35 Meet Chef Keiko Kuwakino 01:55 Keiko's Journey to Becoming a Chef 04:19 Sustainability and Foraging in Niigata 06:09 The Essence of Satoyama Cuisine 07:03 Incorporating Nature into Culinary Art 14:13 Challenges and Innovations in Japanese Cuisine 19:07 Advice for Aspiring Chefs 20:18 Future Visions and Final Thoughts 31:58 Subscribe for More Food Tech Insights

Explore the future of our food system in this inspiring episode of Food Tech Junkies! Host Sharon Cittone sits down with Swedish innovator and investor Daniel Skaven Ruben to discuss his impactful journey in food and agriculture and his role in driving sustainable and nutritious practices worldwide. This conversation covers a broad spectrum of critical topics, including local food system improvements, policy collaboration, and cutting-edge technologies like CRISPR and food system digitalization. Throughout this episode, Daniel and Sharon discuss the pressing need to support farmers, the transformative potential of True Cost Accounting, and the global pursuit to eliminate hunger and improve nutrition. Tune in to understand how technology, policy, and collaboration shape an equitable and resilient food system. Don't miss this chance to uncover new perspectives and join us toward a sustainable food future. For more thought-provoking discussions, like and follow! Daniel Skavén Ruben helps advance the future of food in a number of ways. He's a 10x advisor to - and 30x angel investor in - global FoodTech and AgTech startups. He's a venture partner/operating advisor to VCs Mudcake (Sweden), Nordic FoodTech VC (Finland) and Blume Equity (UK). He mentors at accelerators Big Idea Ventures, Katapult, and Norrsken Accelerator. He's the Founding Editor of the newsletter FoodTech Weekly, and the Founding Partner of Solvable Syndicate, which invests in early-stage impact FoodTech and AgTech startups globally. He also co-founded the foodtech podcast The Appetizer. Daniel was a consultant to The Rockefeller Foundation Food Initiative during 2017-2021, supporting the Foundation's work to advance a more nourishing and sustainable food system. Daniel has also worked as an expert for the World Bank in Washington D.C. (2015-2016) on issues around technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Prior to that, he served in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark in various roles in Stockholm and New York for more than half a decade, helping Danish tech companies to internationalize. Daniel holds a BSc in International Business (Copenhagen Business School), an LLM in Public International Law (Stockholm University), and an MSc in Foreign Service (Georgetown University). Timestamp Highlights: 00:00 – Intro to True Cost Accounting 01:18 – Daniel's Journey into Food & Agriculture 02:16 – The Rockefeller Foundation and Food Tech Innovations 03:20 – Advising Startups & Angel Investing 05:11 – Stockeld Dreamery: From Concept to Reality 06:59 – Returning to Sweden and Dual Citizenship 08:13 – Challenges and Opportunities in Food Systems 11:10 – The Complexity of Food Systems & Local Solutions 25:43 – The Role of Farmers & True Cost Accounting 28:39 – Consumer Expectations & Regulatory Standards 29:25 – Behavioral Changes and Local Shopping 30:49 – Nutritional Quality and Food Transportation 32:32 – Technological Innovations in Food 34:36 – Food System Challenges 36:34 – The Future of Food and Technology 38:50 – Sustainable Agriculture Innovations 44:28 – Alternative Proteins & Food Waste Solutions 48:56 – Consumer Behavior & True Cost Accounting 53:01 – Final Thoughts and Call to Action

In this episode, we sit down with Dana Gunders, President of ReFED and a renowned expert in food sustainability. Dana shares her path into the food waste sector, emphasizing the critical environmental and economic impacts of food waste. Under her leadership, ReFED has achieved remarkable milestones, such as a 25% reduction in surplus food among West Coast grocers, and has spearheaded innovative strategies. These include AI-enhanced demand planning, advanced markdown apps, and dynamic employee-driven initiatives. We explore how these efforts intersect with broader climate change policies and discuss both the potential economic benefits and the challenges ahead. Dana emphasizes the vital roles of public awareness and private sector engagement in reaching the ambitious goal of cutting food waste by 50% by 2030. Join us for a compelling conversation about transforming food waste challenges into opportunities for greater sustainability. About Dana Gunders Deemed "the woman who helped start the waste-free movement" by Consumer Reports, Dana Gunders is a national expert who has dedicated her career to helping industry, policymakers, and consumers activate solutions to reduce food waste. Her landmark 2012 report "Wasted: How America is Losing Up to 40% of Its Food from Farm to Fork to Landfill" sparked a national dialogue about the consequences of food waste, and since then, she has continued to bring the issue to a wider audience through testimony before Congress, her Waste-Free Kitchen Handbook, and appearances in media such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, Times Magazine, Fox News, Teen Vogue, PBS Newshour, and hundreds of other outlets. Before joining ReFED in 2019, she served as a founding Board member for the organization. When not worrying about it professionally, Dana spends far too much time convincing her two young kids to eat broccoli stalks and reinventing their uneaten lunches as family dinner. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:25 Meet Dana Gunders: Food Sustainability Expert 01:36 Dana's Journey into Food Waste Management 03:34 The Birth of ReFed 05:02 ReFed's Mission and Achievements 10:49 Innovations in Food Waste Reduction 14:45 Consumer Awareness and Behavioral Change 18:40 Food Waste and Climate Change 23:01 Economic Implications of Food Waste 26:21 Food Security and Food Waste 27:57 The U.S. Food Waste Pact 33:19 Challenges and Solutions in Reducing Food Waste 38:13 Personal and Professional Insights on Food Waste 43:47 Innovations and Future Directions 46:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Welcome to the second season of The Green Spoon Podcast, brought to you by FoodTech Junkies. Today, we have the privilege of chatting with the acclaimed Peruvian Chef Anita Belaúnde, the culinary force behind the beloved Limanà. Anita's journey to opening her restaurant is nothing short of remarkable, reflecting her profound dedication to health, nutrition, and sustainable practices that honor our planet and its resources. Throughout our conversation, Anita shares her holistic approach to cuisine, which not only nourishes the body but also nurtures the soul. Her commitment to giving back to society shines through her initiatives that go beyond the kitchen, fostering a community centered around mindfulness and generosity. Join us as we explore Anita's inspiring path and the heartfelt stories behind Limanà, making her a true pioneer in the South American gastronomy scene and a generous spirit who continues to inspire and lead by example. About Anita Anita Belaúnde is a celebrated Peruvian chef at her restaurant, Limanà, known for its focus on sustainability and health-conscious cuisine. Additionally, her restaurant has earned the esteemed “Five Radishes” rating from We're Smart World, marking it as one of the top vegetable-focused restaurants globally. This accolade is given to establishments that demonstrate a high level of creativity and excellence in plant-based cooking, and it reflects Anita's commitment to using sustainable and locally sourced ingredients.

Welcome to a whole new season of the FoodTech Junkies Podcast. In this episode, we sit down with Anthony Bennett, CEO of Reboot the Future, to explore the crucial role of education in the fight against the climate crisis. Anthony shares his insights on how values-based education can inspire a new generation of leaders to take action, navigate climate disinformation, and foster hope in the face of eco-anxiety. With youth activism on the rise and the education system evolving, this conversation offers powerful ideas for how we can reimagine learning to create a more sustainable future for all. About Anthony Bennett Anthony Bennett is Chief Executive Officer of Reboot the Future, a not-for-profit co-founded by Kim Polman on its own version of the Golden Rule- “To Treat Others, and the Planet, as you would treat yourself”. His career has included senior director level roles at a number of cultural and environmental organizations, including WWF and the English National Opera. He is most interested in the convergence of education, sustainability and philanthropy. www.rebootthefuture.org

Welcome to another compelling episode of the Food Tech Junkies Podcast! Today, we have the privilege of hosting Dr. Sourav Roy, the co-founder and CEO of the Centre for Big Synergy (CBS). Dr. Roy is a renowned sustainability advocate and thought leader, whose visionary work is at the forefront of creating a more responsible and sustainable future. In this episode, we'll explore the critical nexus between food systems, climate, and health, delving into how interconnected these elements are and their profound impact on our planet and well-being. We'll discuss the essential roles that policy and education play in shaping sustainable food systems and mitigating climate change. Dr. Sourav Roy will share his insights on the innovative solutions and collaborative efforts needed to address these challenges, highlighting the importance of global synergy and proactive measures. Join us for an enlightening conversation on what is required to create a more resilient and healthy future for all. Tune in and prepare to be inspired! About Dr. Sourav Roy & CBS Sourav is the co-founder and CEO of Centre for Big Synergy (CBS), a CSO of the United Nations Department of Social and Economic Affairs. He is a sustainability advocate and thought leader well-revered for his a very wide range of expertise and experiences. His expert opinions and insights are gleaned from a range of stakeholders he directly engages with; the UK Department for Education to unemployed women in remote villages of Asia to multi-billion pound corporations in Europe and the USA; disadvantaged slum children in India to marginalised filmmakers whose change-making films he features on London's iconic Piccadilly Lights!  Since 2018, CBS has impacted the lives of over 250M people in over 120 counties across the world. Sourav has led several SDGs projects in collaboration with leaders in sustainability, media, business, policy and education from across the world.   He has worn many hats over the last 2 decades; from being an award-winning neuroscientist discovering potential therapeutics for Alzheimer's disease at King's College London, to starting the world's biggest sustainability film festival together with OSCAR, BAFTA and EMMY award-winners; from recommending changes to UK's sustainability and climate education Policy impacting 16 M Children, to organising microplastic pollution awareness camps for children worldwide; from providing strategic advice to multinational corporations; from being a broadcaster, keynote speaker and author to being the father of the world's youngest sustainability advocate, Moksha Roy BCyA!

In this FoodTech Junkies episode, we are thrilled to welcome Nicole Atchison, the visionary CEO of Puris. Puris is at the forefront of the plant-based movement, transforming the U.S. food system through innovative and sustainable agricultural practices. Join us as Nicole shares her insights on the future of agriculture, the rise of plant-based foods, and the essential connections between our food choices, the environment, and human health. Learn how Puris is driving change to create a more resilient and sustainable food system, benefiting farmers, consumers, and the climate alike. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that will change how you think about food and sustainability. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from one of the leading voices in the plant-based revolution. About Nicole Atchison Nicole Atchison is responsible for leading innovation across the PURIS portfolio of companies including ingredient technologies, processing technologies, seed genetic strategy, and channel strategy. PURIS cultivates a spectrum of pure, plant-based foods and ingredients from U.S.-based organic and non-GMO sources. Nicole joined PURIS in 2017 to support growth and innovation across business units. Previously, Nicole held roles as Project Manager and Engineer and was responsible for leading the cross-functional team through FDA approval and US commercialization of Stellarex 035, a Class III medical device, for Spectranetics/Covidien. Stellarex launched in 2017, followed by an acquisition of Spectranetics by Phillips. Nicole holds a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Minnesota and a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Iowa State University. About Puris PURIS™ is a family-owned company founded in 1985 in Oskaloosa, Iowa. Built with intention over 30 years, PURIS' plant-based food system benefits every link in the chain of production: flavorful and nutritious choices for people, profitable opportunities for growers, flexible ingredients for food makers, and practices that nourish soil, the environment, and life on earth.

In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome Jeff Tkach, the dynamic CEO of the Rodale Institute. Known for its pioneering work in organic and regenerative agriculture, the Rodale Institute has been a leader in the field for over 70 years. Jeff Tkach brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for sustainable farming practices that not only protect our environment but also enhance human health. Join us as we delve into a compelling conversation with Jeff about the future of agriculture. We explore the transformative power of regenerative farming, the science behind organic practices, and how these methods can combat climate change. Jeff shares the Rodale Institute's latest research findings and initiatives, shedding light on the critical role of soil health in building a resilient food system. We also discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the organic movement today, including advocacy, trends, and consumer education. Jeff's vision for a sustainable future is both inspiring and actionable, offering practical insights for farmers, policymakers, and anyone interested in the future of our food. Tune in to learn how the Rodale Institute is leading the charge towards a more sustainable and healthy world, and how you can be part of this exciting journey. Whether you're a seasoned farmer, an aspiring gardener, or simply a conscious consumer, this episode is packed with valuable information and inspiration. About Jeff Tkach Jeff Tkach, Rodale Institute's Chief Executive Officer, is on a mission to reconnect humans with the earth.Tkach is responsible for leading the organization's growth, impact, and strategic planning, and is committed to advancing the Institute's world-renowned research and education on regenerative organic agriculture. In this role as CEO, Tkach leads a global workforce dedicated to advancing innovations in regenerative organic agriculture. His management portfolio includes strategic planning, overseeing the Institute's twelve campus operations in the U.S. and Europe, directing research investments, and supervising the organization's education programs.Before assuming the Institute's most senior leadership position, Tkach served as Rodale Institute's Chief Impact Officer. He also served on the Institute's Board of Directors in 2016, where he was instrumental in fostering relationships between the organization and business leaders in the organic food industry. About The Rodale Institute The Rodale Institute, founded in 1947, is a pioneering leader in the field of organic and regenerative agriculture. Located in Kutztown, Pennsylvania, the Institute is dedicated to researching and promoting sustainable farming practices that improve soil health, increase biodiversity, and combat climate change. Through rigorous scientific research, education, and advocacy, the Rodale Institute aims to transform the way the world farms, ensuring healthier food systems and a more resilient environment. Their work not only supports farmers but also educates consumers about the profound impact of organic practices on our health and planet.

In this episode, we're thrilled to host Gladys Morales, Global Innovation Director at the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and spotlight the crucial role of innovation in transforming agriculture and empowering communities globally. We'll explore pioneering agricultural programs that enhance productivity and improve livelihoods across developing regions. Gladys will share insights into IFAD's multifaceted approach to sustainable development, focusing on how innovative practices and technologies are being integrated into agricultural projects to maximize their impact. We'll delve into how these initiatives do more than just increase yields—they create robust economic opportunities, ensure food security, and foster resilience against climate change. Tune in to learn about some of IFAD's flagship programs, which have been instrumental in transforming the agricultural landscape by providing access, equity, and fostering resilience. Discover the ongoing challenges in scaling these solutions and the future vision for a world where sustainable agriculture is a cornerstone of economic stability and environmental health. Whether you're an industry professional, a development enthusiast, or simply curious about how global cooperation and innovation can lead to impactful change, this episode promises rich discussions and enlightening perspectives. Join us to gain a deeper understanding of how strategic investments in agriculture can lead to transformative outcomes for communities around the world. About Gladys Morales Gladys H. Morales is Global Head of Innovation at IFAD. She leads the design and implementation of innovation initiatives and partnerships that positively impact poor rural people. She is also the Regional Ambassador in Italy of the Global Blockchain Business Council. Prior to joining IFAD, Morales led digital transformation in Multilateral Development Banks and United Nations agencies' projects in Latin America, Asia and Europe. She worked for the International Poverty Reduction Centre in China where she led the design of digital platforms and established the Global Poverty Reduction and Inclusive Growth Portal. She was also part of the management team for a digital advertising startup in Indonesia and founded her own startup in Italy. Morales holds an Executive Program degree in Digital Business Leadership from Columbia Business School, an M.Sc. in Development Economics and International Cooperation from the University of Rome, Tor Vergata, and a B.Sc. in Foreign Service and International Economics from Georgetown University. About IFAD IFAD is an international financial institution and specialized United Nations agency based in Rome, the UN's food and agriculture hub. Since 1978, the Fund has provided US$23.2 billion in grants and low-interest loans to projects that have reached an estimated 518 million people. At the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) we invest in rural people, empowering them to increase their food security, improve the nutrition of their families and increase their incomes. We help them build resilience, expand their businesses and take charge of their own development.

In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome award-winning Chef George Blogg, a pioneer in sustainable dining and an advocate for zero waste. Chef Blogg has carved out a reputation for his innovative approach to gastronomy, blending exquisite flavors with eco-conscious practices. With years of experience at the forefront of the culinary world, he brings a wealth of knowledge on how to craft remarkable dishes while minimizing environmental impact. Tune in as we delve into his journey into becoming a leader in sustainable cuisine. We explore how he sources local, seasonal ingredients to reduce carbon footprint, implements zero-waste strategies in the kitchen, and inspires a new generation of chefs to embrace eco-friendly cooking practices. Whether you're a foodie, a sustainability enthusiast, or simply curious about how to reduce waste in the kitchen, this conversation with Chef George Blogg will leave you informed, inspired, and hungry for more. About George Blogg Chef George Blogg, acclaimed for his sustainable dining expertise, was introduced to quality food early in life through his family's dedication to good produce. Initially aiming to become a geologist, George's culinary passion was ignited while working at a local Italian restaurant, leading him to choose cooking over geology. His impressive career has included stints with Michelin-starred chefs Philip Howard and David Everitt-Matthias, and experiences at renowned establishments such as Le Manoir, The Ledbury, and Noma. As the executive chef at Gravetye Manor, an Elizabethan mansion recognized as AA Hotel of the Year England 2013-14, he crafts dishes inspired by the manor's extensive gardens, emphasizing locally sourced and foraged ingredients. George's culinary philosophy combines classical techniques with modern innovation, focusing on seasonal echoes and sustainable practices. His cuisine, known for its modernist style and innovative pairings, has garnered several accolades, solidifying his reputation as a leader in the field of sustainable gastronomy.

Join us for an insightful episode, featuring Christina Senn Jakobsen, CEO of Swiss Food and Nutrition Valley. In this episode, we delve into the crucial roles of ecosystems and collaborative efforts in transforming our global food system. Christina discusses the innovative approaches and partnerships that are pivotal for promoting sustainability and improving food production and consumption. This conversation is a must-listen for industry professionals, policymakers, and anyone interested in the future of food. Learn about the groundbreaking work being done at Swiss Food and Nutrition Valley and how collective action is key to creating a healthier, more sustainable world. Don't miss this engaging and enlightening discussion on the cutting edge of food innovation. About Christina A passionate believer in the positive power of collaboration and innovation, Christina's work centers on solving some of the most pressing global issues related to food. With a background in food science and nutrition, Christina believes food system transformation is a team sport. In her current role as Managing Director at Swiss Food & Nutrition Valley, she brings the Swiss food ecosystem together to co-create innovations that shape more future-focused food systems and aims to put Switzerland firmly on the map as a food innovation nation. Christina holds a Master's in Food Science & Technology from the University of Copenhagen and a Master's in European Food Studies from Wageningen University. She spent the first twelve years of her career at Mondelez in roles spanning R&D, innovation management, marketing and strategy before she moved on to work with entrepreneurs and startup collaborations. Danish by birth, Christina studied and worked in fourteen different countries before making Switzerland home in 2007, when her love of the mountains made it impossible for her to leave. About SFNV A network of Swiss food innovators – from universities, large enterprises, innovation accelerators and investors to government bodies, SMEs and startups - committed to reshaping food systems to drive better human and planetary health.

Welcome to the FoodTech Junkies Limited Series "The Green Spoon," where we explore the fascinating intersection of culinary innovation and sustainability. In today's episode, we take you inside the heart of Brussels to Humus and Hortense, a place that's not just a restaurant but a beacon of plant-based dining and eco-conscious living. I had the distinct pleasure of sitting down with Nicolas Decloedt and Caroline Baerten, the masterminds behind this award-winning establishment. Nicolas, renowned for his expertise in plant-based cuisine, and Caroline, a mindfulness practitioner with a deep connection to the food we eat, have together created a dining experience that's not only gastronomically delightful but also a testament to their commitment to the planet. Humus and Hortense isn't just known for its exquisite menus; it's a pioneer in sustainable dining. Our conversation delved into their innovative approaches - from sourcing ingredients to managing waste and everything in between. What's more, Nicolas and Caroline have taken a significant step in transparency and accountability by preparing a Sustainability Policy. This document outlines their eco-responsible practices and places well-being at the core of their operation. Join us as we uncover the stories, challenges, and triumphs of running one of the most forward-thinking restaurants in the world. Whether you're a food enthusiast, an environmental advocate, or simply someone looking for inspiration to make a positive change, this episode is for you. Let's dive into a world where every dish tells a story of sustainability, innovation, and compassion. Awards and accoladesMastercooks of Belgium  Michelin Star 2023Michelin Green Star 2021 Gault & Millau ‘Sustainability Award' 2022Gault & Millau ‘Best Vegetable Chef' 2019 We're Smart Guide 10 Best Vegetarian Restaurants in the WorldWe're Smart Guide Best Vegan Restaurant in the World 2019 Number 1 in 360° Eat Guide 2023 50 Best Restaurants – 50 Best Discovery

In the rapidly evolving world of food technology, few names resonate as profoundly with innovation and sustainable development as Professor Mark Tester. As a luminary in plant science at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Professor Tester has dedicated his career to addressing some of the most pressing challenges in agriculture. Serving as the Associate Director of the Center for Desert Agriculture, his work is pivotal in transforming arid landscapes into fertile grounds for food production. Professor Tester's journey in plant science is marked by significant achievements and contributions. Before his tenure at KAUST, which began in February 2013, he was celebrated as an ARC Federation Fellow and professor of plant physiology at the University of Adelaide. It was there he spearheaded The Plant Accelerator initiative, a cornerstone in plant phenomics research. His academic prowess was nurtured at the University of Cambridge, where he not only served as a Senior Lecturer but also earned his PhD in 1988, laying the groundwork for a career that would become synonymous with groundbreaking research in plant science. In 2019, Professor Tester took on the role of Head of the Food Sector at NEOM, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to advancing food security and sustainability on a global scale. However, it is perhaps his role as co-Founder and Chief Scientist of Iyris formerly known as Red Sea Farms that best encapsulates his vision for a sustainable agricultural future. At Iyris, Professor Tester is at the forefront of developing innovative saltwater-based agricultural systems. This revolutionary approach not only promises to significantly reduce freshwater use in agriculture but also offers a resilient solution to food production in some of the world's most water-scarce regions. Through his pioneering work, Professor Tester is not just redefining the boundaries of agricultural science; he is actively contributing to the global effort to ensure food security in the face of climate change and limited natural resources. His dedication to developing sustainable food production systems reflects a deep commitment to the planet and its inhabitants, making him a beacon of hope and innovation in the quest for a more sustainable and food-secure world. As we sit down with Professor Tester on the FoodTech Junkies podcast, we delve into the mind of a scientist who is not only shaping the future of agriculture but also inspiring a new generation to think differently about how we grow our food. About Mark Tester Iyris - formerly known as Red Sea

Welcome to FoodTech Junkies, the show where we explore the cutting edges of innovation, leadership, and the dynamics of our ever-evolving global food system. In today's episode, we are thrilled to have Dana McCauley, the Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Food Innovation Network (CFIN), as our guest. Dana stands at the forefront of food innovation in Canada, bringing with her a wealth of experience from launching numerous food products and programs, to being a celebrated food writer and trends commentator. Under Dana's leadership, CFIN is catalyzing the Canadian food sector's growth and sustainability by fostering an ecosystem of innovation. We'll dive deep into CFIN's mission, the intricate workings of Canada's food system, and why cultivating a robust ecosystem is crucial for the future of food in Canada and beyond. Dana's journey is nothing short of inspiring. From her early days as the founding Executive Director for Food Starter, which garnered an Ontario Premier's Award for Agri-Food Innovation Excellence, to her role in transforming agri-food innovations at the University of Guelph, she has continuously propelled the industry forward. In 2017, Dana's trailblazing efforts were recognized when she was named one of Canada's Most Powerful Women in the Trailblazers and Trendsetters category by WXN. So, whether you're an entrepreneur, an innovator, or simply passionate about the future of food, join us as we uncover the insights and strategies behind fostering innovation and growth in Canada's food system with Dana McCauley. Let's get started. About CFIN The Canadian Food Innovation Network (CFIN) is a national, member-based organization established in 2021, designed to stimulate transformative and transferable innovation across the Canadian food sector. Its operations are guided by three key strategic pillars: smart product and process development, food ecosystem sustainability, and agile and safe supply chains. CFIN aims to connect the Canadian food ecosystem with collaborative opportunities, fresh insights, ideas, and technologies to elevate businesses and increase their innovation capacity. The organization provides support to innovators through staff and funding programs, helping build valuable innovations that improve the food sector's ability to create economic impact​​. CFIN boasts a growing membership base of over 4000 members globally, encompassing manufacturers, processors, operators, distributors, retailers, foodservice, tech companies, service providers, and funders. These members are part of a robust, active, and collaborative food business community in Canada, aiming to connect, collaborate, and position Canada as a global leader in food innovation. Membership offers access to funding opportunities, Regional Innovation Directors, YODL (a platform for accessing daily original content, connecting with suppliers, making new connections, accessing foodtech resources, and finding curated funding opportunities), and a community of foodtech partners to grow businesses​​. For more detailed information, you can visit the Canadian Food Innovation Network's official website at https://www.cfin-rcia.ca/home.

In today's episode, we're honored to host Noramay Cadena, Co-founder and General Partner of Supply Change Capital, a pioneering fund dedicated to reshaping our food system by intertwining climate solutions with cultural awareness. Transitioning from an impressive career as a Boeing aerospace engineer to a visionary investor, Noramay has a unique perspective on innovation and impact. With her prior experience launching an early-stage fund that backed over 20 companies in the manufacturing and supply chain sectors, she's no stranger to driving change. Today, she's here to share insights on how Supply Change Capital is leading the charge in creating a sustainable, equitable, and culturally inclusive food ecosystem. Join us for a compelling conversation on the nexus of technology, culture, and sustainability. Let's get started! About Noramay Cadena Noramay Cadena is a Managing Partner at Supply Change Capital, an early-stage venture firm investing at the intersection of food, culture, and technology. Previously, Noramay was a Managing Partner at MiLA Capital, an early-stage venture capital firm in Los Angeles investing in tech you can touch. Prior to venture capital, Noramay spent over a decade at Boeing leading large teams working on new complex aviation/aerospace programs. As an engineer and business leader, she specializes in manufacturing, scaling, and supply chain, and couples that technical expertise with coaching on strategy, operations, and culture. In the community, Noramay is a lead investor in Portfolia's Rising America fund investing in Latinx, Black and LGBTQ founders, an advisory board member of the Homeboy Industries Ventures and Jobs Fund, an appointed board member of the Housing Authority Commission of Los Angeles, and a founding board member of LatinxVC, an organization increasing the Latino ecosystem of funders and founders. In 2020, she was named one of 50 renowned women in robotics and one of the top 100 influential Latinas in the United States. Noramay is a Kauffman Fellow and holds an MBA, a Master's in Engineering Systems, and a Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering – all from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

In today's episode, we're excited to have a very special guest, Ali Wing, the CEO of Oobli. Ali is not just a trailblazer in the food and health tech industries but also a consumer-centric, digitally-savvy leader with a knack for brand building and data-driven growth. At Oobli, she's on a mission that could revolutionize how we think about sweetness. Imagine reducing your sugar intake by 70-90% without sacrificing taste or indulging in guilt. That's exactly what Oobli aims to achieve with its groundbreaking approach to sugar alternatives, using tiny amounts of protein derived from fruit. This isn't just a new sweetener; it's a completely new take on using protein for sweetness. Stay tuned as we explore how Ali and her team at Oobli are paving the way for a healthier, guilt-free future. Get ready for an insightful conversation about the intersection of consumer brands, technology, and healthy living. Let's dive in! About Ali Wing & Oobli Ali Wing, CEO of Oobli is on a mission to get sweet right with a reimagined approach: using proteins as a sugar replacement. Oobli has been perfecting a new sugar alternative using tiny amounts of protein found in fruit. It's a completely new take on using protein. Sweet proteins will help people around the world reduce their sugar consumption without the guilt or negative health implications, and they taste like sugar! With sweet proteins, we can reduce the sugar content of most foods and drinks by 70-90%. Almost a decade ago, Dr. Jason Ryder, Oobli's co-founder and professor at the University of California, Berkeley, discovered the world-changing potential of sweet proteins from fruits and berries grown near the equator. These plants produce special proteins that are up to 5,000x sweeter than sugar. Dr. Ryder uses a fermentation process to replicate and produce these sweet proteins as a means to reduce the impact on our planet and give people a healthy form of sweetness. Sweet proteins don't trigger any rise in blood sugar or insulin, and never affect the gut. This is a completely new way to think about protein. Humans are biologically programmed to seek sweet foods, but our overabundance of sugar in the food system leads to overindulgence and metabolic diseases like type-2 diabetes. The world needs better scalable products to replace sugar, maintain the same sugar-like taste, and be healthy without compromise or doubts. Sweet proteins are also a sustainable sugar solution. The world boasts more than 65 million acres of sugarcane. Because Oobli uses precision fermentation to create nature-identical sweet proteins, their production process has an incredibly low environmental footprint and is a long-term climate-friendly sugar alternative to cane sugar production. Every 1% reduction of sugar production made possible by their sweet protein tech equals 650,000 acres of land saved. Fermentation enables us to replicate nature's candy but without the environmental impact. Oobli is also the first company to commercialize products made with sweet proteins. This year, we launched Oobli Sweet Iced Teas, the world's first and only drink on the market to make low-sugar drinks without alternative/ artificial sweeteners like aspartame, sucralose and stevia, or sugar alcohols like erythritol.

Welcome to the inaugural 2024 episode of the Green Spoon Podcast! In this exciting journey, we transport you to Copenhagen to uncover the story of award-winning Chef Brett Lavender of the Ark Collection - a trailblazer in sustainable gastronomy. This episode is dedicated to exploring Chef Lavender's remarkable philosophy, where he skillfully blends culinary art with a deep commitment to environmental stewardship. His method transcends the traditional farm-to-table approach, creating a path from soil to fork that infuses each ingredient with a narrative of sustainability. We venture deep into the Ark Collection's ethos, emphasizing the significance of organic sourcing and a profound respect for nature's rhythms. Chef Lavender's intimate bond with the earth imparts extraordinary depth to his cuisine, transforming each meal into a unique experience. A standout aspect of Chef Lavender's practice is his holistic vision around meals. His forward-thinking strategies in waste management and recycling revolutionize our perspective on leftovers, turning waste into wealth and completing a cycle of sustainability. Join us as we go behind the scenes at the Ark Collection, where every choice, from ingredient selection to eco-efficient kitchen practices, is a deliberate step towards environmental mindfulness. Tune into the Green Spoon Podcast to celebrate Chef Lavender's inspiring journey, a culinary innovator passionately forging a more sustainable future, one exquisite dish at a time. Enjoy the episode! About Brett Lavender and the Ark Collection Chef Brett Lavender, the Executive Chef of the Ark Collection Restaurants in Copenhagen, has made a significant impact in the world of plant-based cuisine. Originally from England, Lavender has a career spanning nearly two decades in the culinary industry. His journey took him around the globe, where he gained invaluable experience working in luxurious establishments across Australia, New Zealand, and Japan, including a year in one of Tokyo's revered two Michelin-star restaurants. This global exposure enriched his culinary style, which blends diverse cultural influences with a deep respect for discipline, perfection, and culinary art. At the Ark Collection Restaurants, Chef Lavender leads a team dedicated to redefining plant-based cuisine. Their innovative approach challenges the stereotypes associated with vegan food, focusing on creating dishes that are exciting and high quality, while also being environmentally sustainable. Each dish at the Ark, a Michelin Green Star recipient, is a testament to this dedication, showcasing culinary innovation and a profound respect for the environment. Chef Lavender's philosophy centers on showcasing the potential of vegan food without being preachy about veganism. He believes in making a difference through sustainable practices and educating guests about the impact of their food choices on the environment. He emphasizes the versatility and excitement in plant-based cooking, aiming to create dishes that appeal to vegans and non-vegans alike. The Ark Collection Restaurants, including the flagship Ark, Bistro Lupa, and Beyla, form a vital part of Copenhagen's gastronomic landscape. These establishments not only provide exceptional dining experiences but also represent a movement towards sustainable and innovative plant-based gastronomy. Each restaurant in the collection has its unique character and approach but shares the common goal of showcasing high-quality, plant-based cuisine that is good for both people and the planet. For more detailed information about Chef Brett Lavender and the Ark Collection Restaurants Visit This Website

In this episode, we're excited to welcome Robert Jones, a leading figure in the future of food and agriculture. As the VP of Global Public Affairs for Mosa Meat, Robert is at the forefront of the complementary protein revolution, advocating for sustainable and innovative food solutions. Robert's journey in the realm of policy and advocacy spans over two decades, with notable positions such as Director at the Environmental Defense Fund and an appointee by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce. His expertise is further enriched by his academic background, holding degrees from the University of Texas and The George Washington University, and culinary insights from The Culinary Institute of America. In our conversation, we delve into the nuances of policy, farming, and climate, exploring how collaboration and open dialogue can lead to meaningful change in the food and agriculture sector. Robert also sheds light on his role in launching Cellular Agriculture Europe, a trade association advocating for cell-cultured animal products, marking a significant step in regulatory advancements. This episode is not just about discussing challenges; it's about exploring holistic solutions for a sustainable future. So, tune in for an enlightening discussion with Robert Jones on sustainability, the future of food, and the need for a balanced approach in tackling global food issues.

Today, we are hosting a leader in the realm of sustainability and ecological innovation, Douglas Gayeton. Co-creator of The Lexicon, Douglas has pioneered a unique approach to engaging communities in the conversation about our food system's future and our collective environmental impact. His work is not only thought-provoking but also action-inspiring, leveraging the power of storytelling to illuminate the complexities of sustainable practices. We're here to talk about the latest feather in his cap, the much-anticipated "Can You Change the Future?" platform. This platform is Douglas's bold answer to the pressing question of our time: How can we, as individuals and communities, play a pivotal role in steering our planet toward a greener, more sustainable future? It's about turning ideas into actions, and actions into widespread ecological benefits. As we introduce this innovative platform, we invite you to join us in a conversation that promises to be as enlightening as it is transformative. Get ready to be part of the change with Douglas Gayeton. About Douglas Gayeton Douglas Gayeton, is co-founder of The Lexicon, a U.S.-based NGO that uses evidence-based storytelling, strategy, and mobilization to build movements tackling our food systems' greatest challenges.To support this vision, the Lexicon leads a number of highly-targeted initiatives, including Green Brown Blue, an invitation-only activator with funding support from Food at Google. The initiative mobilizes entire sectors of the food space—including food companies, scientists, farmers, entrepreneurs, ranchers, activists, and academics, aligns them on shared values and principles, then helps them build tools to support more transparent, regenerative food systems. Focus areas include agrobiodiversity, regenerative agriculture, seafood, food loss and waste, ecological benefit markets, and alternate proteins.Of the last seven initiatives produced by Green Brown Blue, two have become non-profits, three have become programs of existing NGOs, and the final two have become programs at the UN's FAO.Gayeton is also an award-winning filmmaker, photographer, and writer. He has created work at the boundaries of traditional and converging media since the early 90's. He directed MOLOTOV ALVA for HBO, the KNOW YOUR FOOD series for PBS, and GROWING ORGANIC for USDA. He has also authored two books, SLOW: Life in a Tuscan Town, and LOCAL: The New Face of Food & Farming in America. The Lexicon & Can You Change the Future Platform

In this episode, we talk to someone who has turned his childhood passions into a groundbreaking career. Hailing from rural Ecuador, Martin Zorilla has always been captivated by the world of insects and the importance of environmental conservation. Today, he serves as the Chief Technology Officer of Nutrition Technologies, a rapidly scaling company that is revolutionizing the way we think about agriculture, climate, and environmental sustainability—all through the lens of insects. In this episode, we're going to delve deep into a range of compelling topics. We'll explore the intricate balance of land use between human food production and animal feed, scrutinize the inefficiencies in our current resource utilization, and discuss how Martin and his team are leveraging insects to create sustainable solutions for some of the world's most pressing challenges. So, sit back, relax, and prepare to be enlightened as we journey into the world of insects, innovation, and impact for a better food system. About Martin Zorilla Martin is the CTO at Nutrition Technologies where he oversees R&D, technology, and intellectual property. Martin is a lifelong insect enthusiast, starting from his childhood in Ecuador where his family were caretakers of a biodiverse cloud forest reserve. Martin went on to study agricultural science and entomology at Cornell University in the United States. After graduation, he founded a social enterprise program at Cornell which linked teams of students with community-run enterprises in rural Ecuador.  Martin joined Nutrition Technologies in 2016 when he moved to Vietnam. Martin was the 4th team member to join the fledgling enterprise when it was based out of an agricultural university in Ho Chi Minh City. Martin has since helped the company move operations to Malaysia and scale to become a regional leader in the emerging insects-as-feed industry. In addition to his role at Nutrition Technologies, Martin is one of the organizers of a major insect conference Insects to Feed the World which will be held in Singapore in June of 2024. Martin is now based in Singapore where, in his free time, he enjoys gardening, hiking with his family in the city's spectacular natural parks.  About Nutrition Technologies: Nutrition Technologies is a Malaysia-based biotechnology company that specializes in the production of sustainable animal feed ingredients and biofertilizers. The company uses a unique combination of biotechnology and Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) to recycle nutrients from agricultural and factory-grade food waste. Their production system includes a fermentation step that allows for the use of sustainable waste material while improving rearing and nutrition outcomes. This innovative approach not only produces high-value protein ingredients that enhance animal health and performance, but also generates beneficial environmental impacts, such as reducing the demand for overfishing, upcycling organic waste, and returning organic carbon to the soil. Nutrition Technologies is committed to supporting global population growth by disrupting the global food supply chain through the production of insect products as agricultural raw materials.

In this riveting episode of FoodTech Junkies, we sit down with Anja Leissner, a pioneer in the foodtech industry with a diverse background in biotechnology, microbiology, and nutrition. Anja is the founder of Stockeld Dreamery, a company that's redefining plant-based cheese, and Anjas Adventures, a consultancy that empowers foodtech founders and impact investors. Our conversation takes a deep dive into the urgent need for restoring our food systems. We explore how alternative proteins, when combined with regenerative agriculture, can add unprecedented value to both the industry and the planet. Anja sheds light on the concept of food justice and the imperative of making healthy nutrition accessible to all. We also discuss the far-reaching impact of our current food systems on both human and planetary health. Anja shares invaluable insights from her own journey, detailing how she took her company from a mere idea to securing multi-million-dollar investments. Join us for an episode that promises to be as enlightening as it is impactful, covering everything from sustainable food systems to entrepreneurial journeys. About Anja Leissner Anja Leissner calls herself a big nerd who turned entrepreneur. A background of 10+ years in the food industry working with innovative projects at big corporations, as well as universities and startups, has summed up to a diverse experience that she loves to use in the most impactful way possible! Her strong technical background (in biotechnology, microbiology, nutrition, immunotechnology etc) and a patent on functionalising plant proteins, combined with leadership and strategic skills, paved the way to founding Stockeld Dreamery in 2019, followed by her newest company Anjas Adventures in 2022. Stockeld Dreamery is developing and producing plant based cheese based on her invention and Anjas Adventures offers her unique services to foodtech founders and impact investors around the world. She also has a serious sweet spot for sharing her learnings to new entrepreneurs and is an active mentor in several incubators and accelerators within the impact space.  Anja over-consumes tea and kombucha, loves fermented foods and is passionate about how our lifestyle choices not only impact our health and wellbeing, but also have the power to change the planetary health and future. She is addicted to sailing and her mission in life is to contribute to all of us thriving on this beautiful planet of ours.  Linkedin and Instagram

For over a decade, Andrew Shakman has been a leading figure in the battle to reduce food waste in the food service sector. As the founder and CEO of [His Company Name], he has dedicated himself to creating innovative solutions that bring about a positive impact on our planet and businesses alike. Throughout this episode, we'll delve into the fascinating world of food waste prevention, exploring the incredible measures Andrew and his team have taken to tackle this pressing global issue. We'll gain insights into the current state of food waste on a global scale and the far-reaching consequences it has on our climate and environment. From restaurants to large-scale food suppliers, the food service industry is no stranger to the challenges posed by food waste. Andrew will share with us how his company has been working tirelessly to implement sustainable practices that not only save resources but also improve businesses' bottom lines. But Andrew's journey doesn't stop there! We'll get an exclusive look into the invaluable lessons he's learned during his mission to curb food waste and how these experiences have shaped his innovative strategies for a greener future. Moreover, we'll uncover the inspiring ways Andrew is driving change beyond the everyday work of his company. Through education and outreach initiatives, he's empowering individuals and businesses to take a stand against food waste and make a positive impact in their communities. So, join us as we embark on an enlightening conversation with Andrew Shakman, learning from his wealth of expertise and discovering the transformative power of his dedication to a more sustainable world. About Andrew Shakman LeanPath President and CEO Andrew Shakman co-founded the company to help the foodservice industry address food waste. In 2012, Shakman was named one of FoodService Director Magazine's “Most Influential” in the foodservice industry. Previously, Shakman was president and CEO of Nine Dots, a technology firm that serves food clients including Nestle, Quaker Oats, Dole Food Company and Molson Canada. He speaks frequently on food waste management. Shakman is co-inventor of US Patent #7,415,375, “Systems & Methods for Food Waste Monitoring.” He served on the technical advisory committee for the development of Green Seal's GS-46 Standard for Green Foodservice & Restaurant Operations. He is a member of the Industry Advisory Board of the Association of Healthcare Foodservice. Shakman has a bachelor of arts from Stanford University and a master's in fine arts from the University of Southern California. About Leanpath Leanpath is the global leader and pioneer in food waste measurement and prevention, transforming kitchen culture to one where food waste, its cost, and its environmental impact are understood and prevented. Since 2014 alone, in 38 countries with over 2,500 deployments, Leanpath, together with foodservice teams around the world, have prevented over 50 million pounds /// 23 million kilos of food waste–an average 50% reduction per site. Our clients typically see 5-15X ROI and cut food purchases by 2-8 percent.

Today, we have a very special guest joining us, Nicola Tagliaferro an extraordinary individual, deeply committed to driving positive change in the world. As the head of Sustainability for EnelX and responsible for Worldwide Strategies, Circular Economy Portfolio acceleration, and Environmental Solution Development, Nicola's expertise lies at the intersection of energy, circularity and sustainability. Throughout his remarkable career, Nicola has dedicated himself to identifying and implementing groundbreaking solutions that foster environmental conservation and create a more sustainable future for all of us. With his extensive knowledge and passion for sustainability, Nicola has become a leading voice in the field, inspiring individuals, and organizations alike to take meaningful action. In today's episode, we dive deep into the profound impact that energy and agriculture have on our planet. Nicola sheds light on the interconnectedness of these two critical sectors and explores how their practices influence our environment, ecosystems, and climate. But it doesn't stop there. Nicola shares with us his wealth of knowledge and experience in developing innovative solutions that can steer us towards a more sustainable path. From cutting-edge technologies to circular economy strategies, his insights will leave you inspired and hopeful for a greener future. About Nicola Tagliaferro Nicola Tagliafierro Head of Sustainability for Enel X. In this role, he is responsible for Sustainability Worldwide Strategies, Circular Economy Portfolio Acceleration and Environmental Solution Development. He is the first Italian to be accepted, thanks to his strong commitment to Sustainability and Circular Economy innovative research, at the prestigious Aspen Institute USA within the First Movers Program. In 2000 he graduated in Economics and Business Management in Naples (Italy) with a master's degree in Energy in 2003. He started his experience in London where he lived for 4 years working in corporate finance for American company Utility Corp United and energy forecasting for Mott McDonald Group. In 2004 he joined Eni Group where he oversaw different roles devoted to launching the power business (EniPower) to the Strategy and Panning for the entire Gas & Power global division. He joined Enel Group at the end of 2010 working in the Global Trading unit where he was in charge of Energy Trading with a focus on long-term renewable contracts. He is also the founder of an innovative start-up (Ecosost.it), winner of several acknowledgments (Wind Green Award, Timwithyouwedo and Lazio Innova best start-up) which aims to create a green product and services marketplace with a focus on sustainable communities and gamification mechanisms. Nicola is also the Author of the book Circular Economy Manager. About EnelX Enel X is the largest provider of demand response⁠⁠ worldwide and products and services aimed at energy transformation at home, city, and industrial levels. By applying solutions resulting from the digital transformation to the energy sector, Enel X is dedicated to the fields of electric public transport, smart homes, and smart cities, intelligent public lighting, integration of renewables, and energy efficiency for businesses and public administrations. Its offer includes services and products for the Business-to-Business, Business-to-Consumer, and Business-to-Government segments.

Join us in this episode as we dive into the world of Agtech and Foodtech with Narjis, the dynamic leader of the EIT Food RisingFoodStars program in Europe. As an advocate for transformative change in the agrifood industry, Narjis is on a mission to create an inclusive future of food. With a wealth of experience in food and innovation, Narjis understands the power of meaningful connections and collaboration. In her role, she brings together a network of over 50 aspiring scale-ups in the Agtech and Foodtech spaces across Europe, fostering opportunities for startups, investors, corporates, universities, research centers, and public institutions to work together towards a common goal. Narjis holds an engineering degree and an MBA with a major in innovation and entrepreneurship, and she has worked in various marketing and innovation roles in leading agrifood FMCGs. Her expertise and passion for systemic impact drive her to reshape the future of our food system. In this episode, Narjis shares insights into the challenges and opportunities within the Agtech and Foodtech sectors, the importance of collaboration in scaling impact, and the role of innovation in driving meaningful change. Prepare to be inspired as we explore the incredible potential for innovation and growth in the European agrifood industry. Tune in to this episode to gain valuable knowledge and learn about the visionary work of Narjis as she leads the charge in creating a more sustainable, inclusive, and forward-thinking future of food. About Narjis Chakir Narjis is leading the EIT Food RisingFoodStars programme, a network of 50+ aspiring scale-ups across Europe's Agtech and Foodtech spaces. As an advocate for transformative change in the agrifood industry, she is driven by a mission to create an inclusive future of food. With a background in food and innovation and a passion for systemic impact, she believes in the importance of meaningful connections, creating opportunities for scale-ups and facilitating the collaboration between the whole ecosystem, including startups, investors, corporates, universities, research centers and public institutions as a core driver to scale impact and reshape the future of our food system. Narjis holds an engineering degree and an MBA with major in innovation and entrepreneurship and has been working in various marketing and innovation roles in leading agrifood FMCGs.

In today's episode, we speak to the brilliant mind behind Helaina, an innovative ingredients platform that aims to revolutionize the very core of our food industry, starting with an unexpected yet crucial focus: breast milk. Laura's unwavering commitment to transforming the way we approach ingredients has not only caught our attention but also garnered widespread acclaim. She envisions a world where the quality and safety of ingredients are at the forefront of every product, addressing also the pressing issue of malnutrition, particularly in children, in developing countries. In this insightful conversation, we delve into Laura's journey as an entrepreneur, her motivations, and the challenges she has faced while spearheading this ambitious initiative. We explore the profound impact Helaina can have on the lives of those most in need, and how Laura's vision extends beyond breast milk to revolutionize the very fabric of protein-based, healthy ingredients. About Laura Katz, Founder & CEO Laura Katz, a food scientist, is the Founder and CEO of Helaina, a New York City-based biotech company pushing the boundaries of what food can do for health. With its immune-nourishing glycoproteins, Helaina is the first company to bring the immunity properties of breast milk proteins to food for all stages of life -- bridging the gap between food and health.  Disrupting the stagnant infant formula category, and meeting booming consumer demand for food with immunity power, Helaina has raised more than $25 million from leading investors. Helaina's new category of infant formula will support parents who, in the U.S., often have insufficient parental leave policies.  Laura became NYU's youngest-ever adjunct professor in Food Science & Technology in 2017 and was featured in Forbes' 30 under 30 list in 2022. She has presented at Collision, Food Hack, Fortune Most Powerful Women NextGen, Future Food Tech, Harvard Business School and Web Summit. Prior to Helaina, Laura developed food products for NUGGS, Plated, and Dylan's Candy Bar. Laura has reached viral success as a food scientist, generating $60M+ views via an 11-episode stint as the expert food scientist for Epicurious' 4-Levels video series. She earned a Master's in Food Studies from NYU and a Bachelor of Sciences in Food Science and Technology from Western University. In her free time, she can be found hanging out with her husband, son Leo, and their Italian Water Dog, Fontina Prosciutto, and writing recipes in hopes of one day publishing a cookbook. About Helaina Founded in 2019, Helaina is a biotech company pushing the boundaries of what food can do for health. With its immune-nourishing glycoproteins, Helaina is the first company to bring the immunity properties of breast milk proteins to food for all stages of life – bridging the gap between food and health.  A new category of infant formula will empower and equip parents with the freedom of choice, better access, and crucial immunity support for feeding their babies. As a high-value ingredient in functional foods, from nutritional bars to supplements, Helaina's glycoproteins will provide immune benefits for all ages. Based in New York City, Helaina has raised more than $25 million from leading investors. 

In today's episode, we learn more about Sam Dennigan's ambition to shake up the frozen food industry and make healthier options accessible to all. Through his company Strong Roots, he has created a global food brand that promotes a healthy lifestyle and gives back to the community by partnering with food banks. We also discussed how this past year this B-Corp achieved net zero, launched a report, and created a truly impact-driven company that looks equally at people, and the planet and makes a positive impact on so many lives. Sam Dennigan's insights and experiences will make the Foodtech Junkies podcast interview an informative and motivating listen for anyone looking to make a positive impact in the food industry. About Sam Dennigan Samuel Dennigan is CEO and founder of Strong Roots and is focused on fixing food from production to product. He was raised on his family farm and learned the ins and outs of the agri sector. In just 5 years, Sam went from veg patch to a global hundred million dollar business, with sustainability always at the forefront. About Strong Roots Strong Roots is a leading global plant-based frozen food brand on a mission to fix the freezer aisle. The company was founded in 2015 with the vision that food can be better. A certified B Corp, Strong Roots is a leader in providing a range of delicious plant-based options, that are sustainably farmed, shipped and sold, better for people and the planet. Working directly with farmers and agronomists, Strong Roots ensures a sustainable supply chain and uses only whole plant vegan ingredients– real, simple, clean. Strong Roots is enjoyed by consumers globally in over 10,000 stores including  Tesco, Whole Foods, Kroger, Walmart, and Target. Sam also recently closed one of the biggest deals seen in plant-based with a mission to expand the company's global footprint.

Meet Phnam Bagley, a space architect and industrial designer who is changing how we view space travel, food tech, and environmental sustainability on Earth. But, Phnam's achievements don't end there - she is also an accomplished creative director, adjunct professor of industrial design, co-host, educator, and board advisor. In this episode, we'll learn about her latest project, the Space Culinary Lab, which gives astronauts access to various foods, ensuring they can enjoy nutritious, flavorful meals on their deep space journeys. We'll also dive into the possibilities space innovation can provide to our current food system and her views on our current challenges and solutions. About Phnam Bagley Phnam designs the future of everything, on and off planet Earth. She is a French industrial designer, futurist and aerospace architect creating cutting-edge hardware and experiences in Wearables, Healthcare and Wellness, Education, Robotics, Transportation, and Aerospace. She specializes in turning groundbreaking technologies into attainable, intuitive, and beautiful products and experiences that help humans become the best versions of themselves.Her work is exclusively focused on projects that support the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals, and create a positive impact on humanity, the environment and innovation.Phnam works with a variety of companies, from startups to Fortune 500 and government agencies, covering 4 continents. Clients include NASA, Intel, Facebook, Atari, Philips, Alpine, Mistletoe, Halo Neuroscience, and more.She speaks internationally on the subject of “Designing the Future of Everything”, covering stories of sustainability, design, space exploration, education and human flourishing. With her partner Mardis Bagley, she co-hosts an educational video series called Future Future, sharing tools and insights about design and the future of everything.‍ About NonfictionNonfiction is an award-winning creative studio specializing in industrial design, branding, user experience design, space architecture, engineering and strategy.We turn science fiction into reality for a better future.We engage consumers through the design of unique and sophisticated products with rich backstories. Our clients range from Fortune 500 companies to funded startups all over the world. We leverage our relationships with manufacturing partners to execute your ideas on time and on budget.

In this episode, we explored our current food system, the role of technology, policy, and future trends with Sonalie Figueiras. This conversation reminds us that our relationship with food is not just about sustenance but it also encompasses a much wider societal framework. With rapid advancements in technology and increasing awareness around sustainability issues, we are witnessing a massive food system transformation all over the world. It's clear that a bright new era for food tech has dawned. As well as exploring these cutting-edge solutions, however, we also took a more holistic approach to understand what needs to be done on a macro level to ensure sustainability and equity within our current model. Sonalie's journey is a true inspiration for those who strive to make a difference in the world by serving a higher purpose, don't miss this! About Sonalie Figueiras Founder & CEO at Green Queen, Ekowarehouse & Source Green2021 Women of Power, 2019 GEN T Honoree, V Label Global Hero, 2 x TEDx Speaker: Serial social entrepreneur & trends forecaster Sonalie Figueiras is a sustainability expert, food futurist and eco-powerhouse who has been inspiring global audiences for over a decade with practical steps on how to fight climate change. Known as the Green Queen of Asia, she is the founder and Editor in Chief of the award-winning Green Queen - the region's first impact media platform that educates millions of readers on the connection between health, sustainability and the environment and showcases future solutions. She is also the co-founder and CEO of organic sourcing platform Ekowarehouse and climate tech SaaS Source Green, which helps consumer brands quit plastic packaging thanks to proprietary plastic reduction software In addition, Sonalie is a global keynote speaker and an advisor to multiple mission-driven startups and NGOs, and a venture partner to several VC funds.   About Green Queen Founded by serial social entrepreneur and eco activist Sonalie Figueiras in 2011 and based in Hong Kong with a global outlook and an international audience, Green Queen is an award-winning impact media platform advocating for social & environmental change, the leading sustainability news outlet in the Asian region and a global reference for the alternative protein industry, one of the most important consumer products and investment opportunities of our time.

Food waste is a global challenge that is not going away any time soon, but there are solutions out there that can help us reduce its impact on our communities and the environment. This is where Tessa's work with Olio comes in. By providing locals with an accessible way to share food goods that would otherwise go to waste, Olio is making a tangible impact on the world one share at a time. It's inspiring to see the positive numbers speak for themselves, but the real impact is felt by those empowered to make a difference. Together, we can create a more sustainable future and reduce our impact on the planet for future generations. About Tessa Clarke & OLIO Tessa's childhood was spent on her parents' farm in the UK. As a result of this rural upbringing she developed a keen appreciation for the value of hard work, the power of nature, and the preciousness of food. Having no idea what she wanted to do when she grew up, she studied Social & Political Sciences at Cambridge University, before taking on a variety of leadership positions in digital businesses. Tessa then had a life changing experience when moving country which led her to co-found Olio, an app that connects people with their local community so that surplus food and other household items can be given away, rather than thrown away; and everyday things can be lent and borrowed, instead of bought brand new. Olio exists to combat the throwaway culture at scale, and has grown its community to over 7 million people so far. It also has over 80,000 trained volunteers who collect unsold food from local businesses, and redistribute it to the local community via the Olio app. In parallel to growing Olio into a global movement, Tessa and her family have been on a personal journey to live more sustainably. As a result of this Tessa firmly believes that sustainable living is about being healthier, wealthier and happier, not sacrifice. She is also passionate about the sharing economy as a solution for a sustainable world, and about ‘profit with purpose' as the next business paradigm.

In a world where traditional production methods dominate the value chain for cocoa, coffee, and tea, alternative start-ups like WNWN are working hard to change the game. Through traditional fermentation techniques and a focus on regenerative farming, they are leading the charge toward a more sustainable future. It was an absolute pleasure to chat with them on the Foodtech Junkies podcast and hear about their inspiring vision for disrupting the industry. As FoodTech Junkies, we love nothing more than hearing about innovative companies pushing the boundaries and challenging the status quo. WNWN is one to keep an eye on! About The Founders Ahrum Pak is the CEO of WNWN (win-win) and a former investment banker and management consultant who worked in the U.S., Europe and Asia to bring IPOs to life. She's also a fermentation enthusiast raised in a home where the refrigerator was stocked with traditionally home-fermented Korean foods. After earning her MBA, her growing ambition to address food waste and sustainability, and a fortuitous Instagram message, led her to her cofounder Dr. Johnny Drain. Ahrum has been named one of 12 women building sustainable food systems by Green Business magazine and one of 20 Food Heroes by international food standards organization V-Label. Dr. Johnny Drain, the CTO of WNWN (win-win), is a leading global expert on fermentation who grew up a stone's throw from the world-famous Cadbury chocolate factory in Birmingham. Johnny has brought scientific insights to some of the world's finest restaurants and bars. His R&D work on behalf of top brands includes setting up in-house fermentation labs, creating novel ingredients, and working with the world's first zero-waste restaurant. He earned a PhD in Materials Science from the University of Oxford. About WNWN WNWN (win-win) Food Labs was the first in the growing alt-chocolate space to bring cocoa-free chocolate to market. The London startup developed a proprietary fermentation process that transforms sustainable, widely available ingredients like cereals and legumes into premium dark chocolate that looks, smells, tastes, melts, snaps, and bakes like the real thing. In 2022, WNWN was awarded "Best Finished Product" at the World Confectionery Conference in Brussels and this year was named one of the 50 Most Impactful Companies to work for by Impact Fifty.  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/wnwn-food-labs 

In this episode of FoodTech Junkies, we chat with Jeff Binczyk Chief Marketing Officer of precision health startup Inside Tracker. With 25yrs experience in large corporations like Kellogs and an insatiable need for learning, Jeff is currently researching his dissertation on "how to successfully fail in your small food company Product launch". We'll hear his thoughts on this topic and more about the startup he joined last year. About Jeff Binczyk Binczyk has been an industry-recognized global marketing executive for over 25 years and has held CMO or equivalent roles at Kellogg's, American Greetings, and Flavorseal. As a Doctoral candidate in Business Administration with a passion for nutrition and health, he arrives at InsideTracker with a proven track record for successfully developing and implementing growth strategies and evolving marketing teams. In his new role, Binczyk will lead through integrated creative and financial skills, drive department innovation within desired KPIs, and enhance InsideTracker's test-learn-optimize approach to profitable growth. About Inside Tracker Founded in 2009 and created by experts in the fields of aging, genetics, and biometric data, InsideTracker provides a personal health analysis and data-driven wellness guide designed to help you live healthier and longer. By analyzing your body's biomarkers, InsideTracker objectively assesses the current state of your well-being. Then, our A.I.-powered platform uses findings from thousands of scientific peer-reviewed publications and over ten billion biomarker data points to generate a custom set of actionable recommendations and insights. Integrated within an intuitive mobile app, InsideTracker reveals your personalized path to improving your health and longevity from the inside out. Read InsideTracker's peer-reviewed papers in Scientific Reports and Current Developments in Nutrition.

With over 15 years of experience in the food industry and a deep familiarity with the local and global agrifood industry, today Noga Sela Shalev is the CEO of Fesh Start FoodTech Incubator, an early-stage melting pot of technologies collaborating towards some of the most significant challenges of the food value chain. In this episode, we'll discuss her journey, and discover her views on food tech, her wishes, and her 2023 predictions. About Noga Noga has 15 years of experience in product management, marketing, and business development in the food and foodtech industry, closely acquainted with the local and global foodtech scene, supporting early-stage start-ups from vision to scale. She is experienced in the business evaluation of innovative technologies with a high emphasis on applicable innovation. She has initiated and led industry and startups joint development as well as implementation processes according to the industry's needs and requirements. Beyond her extensive marketing background, as formerly the chief of staff and head of the innovation unit in Tnuva, Israel's biggest food company, she initiated and led corporate-level strategic projects in various fields, from operational excellence to corporate strategy, and established the Tnuva group corporate innovation unit and work processes. Noga holds an MBA degree from Tel Aviv University. About Fresh Start Fresh-Start FoodTech Incubator is part of the IIA incubators program and the evolving AgriFoodtech cluster in the north of Israel. Incubator's partners form a unique balanced syndicate of strong industrial players and track record financial partners: Tnuva is Israel's leading dairy and food company, Tempo is a leading beverage company, OurCrowd is one of the largest crowdfunding vehicles in the world, and Finistere Ventures is a specialized agrifood tech VC fund. Supported by the partners' added values, Fresh Start is seeking to grow Impact FoodTech Companies from Vision to Scale. Fresh-start offers Strong Industry Orientation, Access to a Full Funding Cycle (from bridging period to round A and further), Leveraged by its Partner's Global Network, Integration in the Northern FoodTech Cluster Initiative, and Inception Specialization of both Food technologies and cross-vertical technologies, tailor-made for strategic partners' needs.

Today we travel to the Uk to chat with Plant Based News co-founder Klaus Mitchell. We'll dive into everything alternative proteins and ask some tough questions about the future of our food system. Klaus will try to make sense of some of the biggest challenges we face today from policy to communication and education to innovation. About Klaus Mitchell Klaus Mitchell has always had a passion for health and nutrition, initially coming top of his year for Human Biosciences BSc from the University of Exeter, and then doing a masters in The Genetics of Human Disease MSc on a full scholarship at University College London. Upon graduating in 2015, Klaus launched Plant Based News to raise awareness around the health and environmental benefits of a plant-based diet, which now boasts over 2.8 million followers on social media. In 2021, Plant Based News raised over £1 million via the investment platform SeedRS to scale up and expand its reach. Klaus has been an author of an article published in the journal of Public Health Nutrition, which explored the effect of diet on various health markers; was script editor on the groundbreaking Netflix documentary Seaspiracy; and directs an annual documentary series on Plant Based News, showcasing the developments in the sustainability and alternative protein sector. About Plant Based News Plant Based News is a mission-led impact media platform focused on elevating the plant-based diet and its benefit to human health, the planet, and animals.

Today we talk to Alon Chen, co-founder, and CEO of Tastewise, the data platform the food & beverage industry uses to innovate faster, market better, and grow sales. Alon started young. He was a Developer at 12yo, a business owner at 15yo, Google's CMO in Israel and Greece, a Founder of Google Partners, and social activist for LGBTQ issues to date, and a global leader for the World Economic Forum. In this episode, we will dive into tastewise's platform and learn how this is just the beginning of how to democratize data toward a food system right for consumers.

Today we talk to Deniz Ficicoglu, a food blogger turned entrepreneur. Today she is co-founder and CEO of Bettaf!sh, a fast-rising, plant-based-tuna startup with a regenerative twist. We'll talk about how she's building a whole new industry while saving our oceans by turning seaweed mainstream. This German-based startup has rapidly grown in 5 countries in a year and is part of an expanding fish-free category that grabbed over $100 m in funding last year. In this episode, we will learn how they went from an idea to market and also how through their impact-driven approach, are helping coastal communities and building a whole new supply chain for the industry.