Happy Monday Pies,

In the ever-evolving landscape of the food industry, it’s crucial to stay informed and ahead of emerging trends. I am dedicated to bringing you the most impactful insights, cultural nuances, and under-told food and foodtech stories. Today, let's dive into the latest developments shaping our industry, including a popular Portuguese staple and a significant political shift that could transform how we view food and health.

With Election Day just over 70 days away, a pivotal opportunity has emerged: the potential for the first-ever 'Food as Medicine' bill. More and more consumers want a President who understands that cancer is rising at an alarming rate. And one that recognizes the critical links between our food system and rising health issues such as colorectal cancer, ADHD, diabetes, and earlier deaths among Millennials and Gen Z. At the DNC last week, I interviewed and sat with a range of experts, from delegates to thought leaders, and I’m eager to keep you updated on how future food policy might reshape our approach to nutrition, economics, and quality of life.

Happy Women's Equality Day. Do you know the story of Dr. Mary Engle Pennington? She was a pioneering bacteriologist and refrigeration engineer in the early 20th century, who revolutionized food safety and storage. She developed the first scientifically rigorous standards for the safe transportation and storage of perishable foods, particularly in the design of refrigerated rairoad cars.

In ths edition, our team is also honoring the contributions of a generational corporate woman in big tech and a snack giant, the late Youtube CEO Susan Wojcicki and Famous Amos, who have profoundly shaped the food industry. We've also highlighted cutting-edge AI tips that easily help how we can manage our food teams and projects.

And before you go, don’t miss our insights on how to be a better leader, tapping into the power of the Pygmalion Effect.

Stay well,

Riana

The Election Comparison

Here is a simple graphic on Kamala HQ vs Trump HQ on Food Policy. After the biggest candidate for food systems change, Robert F Kennedy, suspended his campaign and jumped on Trump's circuit, I believe there will be quite the ratcheting up of discussions on food price, food health in the coming weeks from both sides. The next administration will truly capture the voices of many when we say our food NEEDS to be our medicine.

In case you missed it: Honoring Giants

Remembering two unlikely agents that uniquely changed the face of food:

We want to highlight the passing of two remarkable trailblazers who have left an indelible and delicious mark on 'food-to-go'.

Susan Wojcicki: A pioneer in the tech world, Wojcicki was instrumental in the founding of Google, which began in her garage in 1998. As the CEO of YouTube, she fundamentally changed the landscape of content discovery, making food exploration and culinary adventures accessible to millions around the globe. Under her leadership, YouTube became a platform where food wandered around the world at our fingertips, enabling users to discover global cuisines and cooking techniques with just a click. Additionally, her work with Google Maps revolutionized how we navigate and explore food destinations worldwide. Susan's impact on technology and the way we connect with food and culture is profound. She will be deeply missed.

Wally Amos: The visionary behind Famous Amos cookies, Wally Amos turned a simple cookie recipe into a beloved brand. In 1991, Famous Amos was acquired by Ferrero for $1.1 billion, adding to their portfolio of global confectionery brands like Nutella and Ferrero Rocher. Wally Amos’ legacy of quality and innovation lives on. Rest in peace, Wally.

Mars Acquired Kellogg’s Snack Division

Mars recently acquired Kellogg Company’s snack division for $36 billion in cash, further expanding its dominance in the snack aisle. With this acquisition, Mars now controls even more household snack brands, raising concerns about market concentration. Should the FTC investigate Mars' advertising practices, especially those targeting children? This development is a critical point in the ongoing conversation about corporate responsibility in the food industry.

EPA Emergency Bans Pesticide Chem Over Risks to Fetuses

The EPA has invoked its emergency authority for the first time in about 40 years to ban the sale of the pesticide DCPA (Dacthal) due to its harmful effects on thyroids and unborn babies, including brain development issues and low birth weight. The decision was made after the EPA determined that the pesticide poses significant risks even with protective measures in place. The manufacturer’s proposed safety protocols were deemed insufficient, leading to the urgent halt in sales to prevent further exposure.

Tokyo Lab Generates World’s First 'AI Scientist'

A groundbreaking development from a Tokyo lab has introduced the world’s first 'AI Scientist,' a revolutionary step in artificial intelligence. This AI-powered researcher is designed to autonomously conduct experiments, analyze data, and generate new hypotheses. As AI continues to shape the future of research and innovation, this development underscores the transformative potential of AI across industries, including food tech.

The AI-Driven Future

The integration of AI into startups is reshaping ecosystems, from transforming vacant lands into workforce training hubs to transitioning unemployed youth into skilled apprentices. AI-powered platforms like Talented are at the heart of these changes, playing a crucial role in community transformation by providing essential training and support.

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