Track I: Delivering for Consumers
- Panel: What Role Do Chefs Play in the Uptake of Alternative Protein? - Edwin Bark & Or Gabay, Redefine Meat & Michael Kilkie, ENOUGH
Chefs play a pivotal role in steering trends and satisfying consumer palates. This panel explores the seamless integration of alternative proteins into restaurant menus and culinary experiences, addressing key considerations such as:
- Unpacking the key factors to include a product on the menu - is it price, taste and texture or nutrition?
- Assessing product categories with high potential for menu incorporation.
- Prioritizing versatility or convenience in product formulation, tailored to diverse dining settings.
- Adapting to the preferences of younger generations (Gen Z and Gen Alpha) in environments like school cafeterias.
- Promoting synergy between the food industry and chefs to develop products optimized for food service demands.
- Functional Ingredients for Health, Longevity & Beauty - Food Beyond Nutrients - Dr. Guido Albanese, Koralo
GLP-1 modulators disrupted and reshaped our food consumption. What if we were to have food and not medicine which targets metabolic health? At Koralo we offer food manufacturers functional ingredients based on two superfoods - microalgae and mycelium of edible mushrooms - combined with the power of fermentation. We will showcase how consumers benefit with nutrient-dense food providing them with tangible health, well-being and beauty benefits.
- Hype or Food System Transformation - an M&A Perspective - Michel Acda, Food Strategy Associates
The last few years have been a true roller coaster for investors active in the alternative protein space. From sky high valuations with stellar expectations to crashing businesses active in categories in decline across Europe. So - what’s next? A space to watch, or a space to avoid at all costs? What are the underlying consumer and retailer trends, and how may emerging technologies help shape - or not - finding sustainable solutions that will deliver strong investor value creation whilst building a future proof food system?
