373: A new dawn for plant-based alternatives?

As Veganuary 2023 gets into full swing, we are taking a look at the future of plant-based food. The plant-based sector is one of the most innovative in the food industry, with new ideas, new concepts, and new technologies emerging all the time. That makes it a fascinating area to be involved in, and a fascinating area to watch as it develops at seemingly lightning speed. In this episode of the Food Matters Live podcast, made in partnership with Givaudan, we look at some of the latest innovations taking the sector to the next level. For those in the industry, the incredible growth in plant-based alternatives is not new, but it continues to astonish. There is a huge range of innovative solutions, meeting challenges like taste, colour and texture, as well as supporting the health, environmental and ethical goals of consumers. One of the leaders in this field is Givaudan, which has solutions that address the challenges associated with creating delicious and nutritious plant-based food experiences.  Listen to the full episode to learn about the company's new solution that imitates animal fat cells, why meat-free pork is gaining so much attention, and find out where alternative protein could be heading in the future. Dr Flavio Garofalo, Global Platform Director, Culinary & Plant Attitude, Givaudan Dr Flavio Garofalo is a chemical engineer who joined Givaudan in 1990. For his first 20 years at the company he worked in technical areas, then in 2010 he transitioned to a commercial role; throughout this time he has worked in many different regions (and lived in seven countries) and is now settled in the Netherlands.  Flavio is currently responsible for developing and executing the Global Savoury strategy which includes plant protein as a significant component. Currently a flexitarian, he is an aspiring vegetarian. Igor Parshin, Global Marketing Manager Plant Attitude, Givaudan  Igor has more than 12 years of marketing experience across several industries and regions.  Igor joined Givaudan in 2020 and has held several roles in marketing and Innovation. He is based in the Netherlands and took on his current role in 2022. Camila Carrascal, Marketing Manager for Plant Attitude in Europe, Givaudan  Camile holds a Bachelor's in Business Administration from Esade Business School in Barcelona and a Master's in Marketing Management from the Rotterdam School of Management.  Camila joined Givaudan in 2021 and since then has been involved in the development of European innovation initiatives, with a focus on plant-based alternatives. She is passionate about nature and food innovation.