2016-2017 Events

On October 18th, the Food and Agribusiness Institute (FAI)  hosted the first, of a three part series, Food Innovation: The Future of Alternative Proteins event. With nearly thirty students, staff, and community members attending the event, the night began with speaker Milena Esherick, from the Good Food Institute, describing the current status of the food industry, highlighting the unethical treatment of animals, and the negative effects it is having on the world. The Good Food Institute, a company focused on relieving poverty, promoting ethical treatment of animals, preventing environmental degradation, and supporting overall human health, provides companies with the necessary education and funding to create cleaner, plant based foods a reality. Moderated by Erika French-Arnold, Assistant Director of FAI and Erica Riel-Carden from Royce Law Firm, panelists answered questions regarding the future of protein and how their companies are providing consumers with plant based products that not only taste good, but are affordable. Panelists for the event included Caroline Love from Hampton Creek, Perumal Gandhi from Perfect Day, John Breen from Miyoko’s Kitchen, and Alexander Lorestani from Gelzen Inc. After a 30-minute discussion and a 15-minute round of Q&A, attendees were provided the opportunity to network with the panelists and hear about the internship opportunities available to students. FAI looks forward to hosting part-two of the Future of Proteins event on Thursday, January 12, 2017.