The Learning Garden Theater at Plant Based World Expo 2024 promises to be a vibrant hub of knowledge and inspiration for attendees. Taking place on September 11-12 at the Javits Center in New York City and open to all expo attendees, this stage will feature a diverse lineup of sessions designed to educate and inspire both retail and foodservice professionals. From practical demonstrations to deep dives into market trends, the Learning Garden Theater will provide valuable insights into the rapidly evolving plant-based industry. Here’s a preview of what’s in store:

September 11

Textural Challenges in Plant-Based Foods: Find the Answers Inside
11:15am – 11:45am

Explore the intricate world of plant-based food textures with Indumathi KP and Ida Carlsen Virklund from Novonesis. This session will address the critical challenges of taste and texture, helping attendees understand how to meet consumer expectations in plant-based products.

A Journey into B-Corp & Creating Plant-Based Positive Impact
12:00pm – 12:30pm

Joe Steckel of Meelunie America, Inc. will lead this session, focusing on the importance of supplier support and sustainable practices in creating a positive impact within the plant-based industry. Learn how B-Corp certification can drive authenticity and success.

Unleashing the Power of Plant-Based & Clean Label Innovation
12:45pm – 1:15pm

Divek Nair and Kristin Soave from Kalsec, Inc. will explore the latest consumer trends and practical solutions for accelerating innovation in the plant-based sector. This session is a must-attend for anyone looking to stay ahead in the clean label movement.

Sustainable Amazonian Proteins and Fibers
1:30pm – 2:00pm

Marina Reis of Concepta Ingredients will present exciting new protein launches and the Bio Abundance Program, highlighting the socio-environmental impact of sustainable ingredients from the Amazon.

Build Your Export Sales with USDA Funding
2:15pm – 2:45pm

Learn how to expand your plant-based business internationally with insights from Benjamin Cortese and Ron Tanner, who will share strategies for building export sales with USDA support.

Building Economic Success Through Honoring Food Culture
3:00pm – 3:30pm

This panel discussion, featuring experts from PBFA, Hodo, Inc., and KeHe Distributors, LLC, will explore the critical role of global cuisines in driving growth in the plant-based industry.

Improvement of Physical Properties in High Protein Plant-Based Cheese
4:00pm – 4:45pm

Monica Henry from Amano Enzyme USA will discuss innovative enzyme solutions to enhance the taste, texture, and nutritional content of plant-based cheeses.

VEGPRENEUR Awards Ceremony
5:00pm – 5:30pm

Celebrate innovation in the plant-based community with the unveiling of the VEGPRENEUR Awards winners. This ceremony will showcase the most game-changing products across multiple categories.

September 12

UK’s Approach to Unlocking Growth in the Plant-Based Category
11:30am – 12:30pm

Indy Kaur of Plant Futures will present new insights into consumer barriers in the UK and discuss strategies for unlocking growth in the plant-based sector.

Overcoming Challenges in Plant-Based Meat Marketing
12:45pm – 1:15pm

This session will cut through the noise surrounding plant-based meats and offer strategies for effectively marketing these products to regain market share.

State of the Plant-Based Protein Market
1:30pm – 2:00pm

Andraia Torsiello from Expana will provide a comprehensive update on the plant-based protein market, including supply and demand dynamics and the latest price movements.

Elevating Taste and Nutrition: Enzymatic Solutions for Plant-Based Success
2:15pm – 2:45pm

Nick Broches from Amano Enzyme USA will explore how enzymes can revolutionize plant-based dairy alternatives, improving both flavor and nutrition.

How to Make Sensory-Informed Purchasing Decisions for Plant-Based Meat
3:00pm – 3:30pm

Jenn DiFrancesco and Caroline Cotto from Sodexo Campus and Food System Innovations will share tools and techniques for making informed decisions when purchasing plant-based meat products.

The Learning Garden Theater offers a unique opportunity for attendees to gain valuable insights into the plant-based industry from leading experts and innovators across a diverse range of topics. Whether you’re a retailer, foodservice professional, or stakeholder in the plant-based food marketplace, these sessions are designed to provide the knowledge and inspiration you need to succeed in this rapidly growing space. Don’t miss your chance to learn from the best—register now for Plant Based World Expo 2024!