Season 1 Episode 1 – Sustainability Trends

Welcome to the “Made to Sustain” podcast! I'm Kelly D'Amico, your host and a food industry expert with a background in food science and global food technology. In this inaugural episode, I dive into the top sustainability trends for 2024, including regenerative agriculture, upcycling, biodegradable packaging, traceability, and ethical sourcing. I'll explain how these trends aim to combat climate change, reduce food waste, and promote ethical labor practices. I also emphasize the importance of mindful consumption and supporting local ingredients to create a more sustainable food system.

Prefer to read? You can also view the full transcript here.

Episode Show Notes

Host Introduction:
– Kelly D'Amico introduces herself as the host of the Made to Sustain podcast.
– Kelly shares her background in the food industry, including her education in food science and global food technology and innovation.
– She discusses her passion for sustainable sourcing and product development, which led her to start the Made to Sustain blog and now this podcast.

Episode Overview:
– Kelly outlines the focus of the podcast: making sustainable food choices that benefit both individuals and the planet.
– She highlights the complexity of sustainability and the importance of understanding key trends for 2024 that will positively impact the environment.

Key Sustainability Trends for 2024

Here are some highlights from what we discussed in this episode. If you want, you can read the full post here.

1. Regenerative Agriculture:
– Explanation of regenerative agriculture as a farming philosophy that mimics nature and prioritizes soil health.
– Discussion on how regenerative practices support biodiversity, soil restoration, and increase nutrient density in foods.
– Mention of the Regenerative Organic Certified (ROC) seal and its importance in identifying regenerative practices.

2. Upcycling and Circularity:
– Addressing the issue of food waste and its environmental impact.
– Introduction to upcycling as a method to create new products from food waste.
– Teaser for future episodes featuring brands like Renewal Mill that practice upcycling.

3. Biodegradable and Plastic-Free Packaging:
– The environmental impact of plastic packaging and the low recycling rates.
– Exploration of biodegradable and plastic-free packaging alternatives.
– Future discussions on sustainable packaging and its role in a circular economy.

4. Traceability and Transparency:
– The importance of knowing where food comes from and how it is produced.
– The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the food supply chain and consumer awareness.
– The role of traceability in building trust and supporting ethical production.

5. Local Ingredients:
– Benefits of sourcing food locally, including reduced carbon emissions and support for local farmers.
– The cultural and community pride associated with local produce.
– Future focus on sustainable, seasonal food and its importance.

6. Human Rights and Forced Labor:
– The ethical implications of forced labor and unfair working conditions in the food supply chain.
– The role of certifications like Fair Trade in promoting ethical labor practices.
– Upcoming episodes will delve deeper into social sustainability and ethical sourcing.

7. Deforestation Concerns:
– The impact of deforestation on biodiversity and climate health.
– The role of crops like soybeans and palm oil in deforestation.
– Suggestions for addressing deforestation, such as opting for plant-based meals and supporting deforestation-free initiatives.

8. Mindful Consumption:
– Encouraging intentional eating habits and appreciating the food we consume.
– The connection between mindful consumption and sustainability.
– Future discussions on functional foods and maintaining a healthy relationship with food.

Conclusion:
– Kelly wraps up the first episode by emphasizing the importance of understanding and addressing these sustainability trends.
– She invites listeners to subscribe to the podcast and follow along for in-depth discussions on each trend.
– Kelly encourages audience engagement through ratings and visiting the Made to Sustain website for more information.

Stay Connected:

🎧 Listen to Episode 1 Now to Learn the Trends!

📲 Subscribe to the Made to Sustain Podcast and never miss an episode!

🌐 Visit my website, madetosustain.com for more resources and blog posts on sustainable food choices.

Join us on this exciting journey towards a more sustainable future. Together, we can make a difference, one meal at a time. 🌿

Happy listening!