#ciamoc

I have always wanted to attend the Menus of Change conference. This week, it did not disappoint.

This movement’s philosophy is all about shifting our food system to a “plant forward” perspective that celebrates plants and plant-based proteins on our plates. This is in response to the fact that our food system has become overly dependent on meat proteins, causing public health and environmental issues. With our food system as one of the largest contributors to many global issues, it is also, therefore, our best solution.

We will always need meat - it plays an important role in agriculture and our food system (it plays a better role when managed responsibly, another topic). No one is advocating that humanity turns into a group of vegetarians. The reality of that is very small and research has proved it to not necessarily be that effective. It’s more about learning to enjoy the fruits, vegetables, beans, legumes, and other plant-based ingredients for the deliciousness that they are, alongside smaller portions of responsibly produced meat proteins. The world’s chefs now have a responsibility to show consumers that plants are desirable. On top of that, they are also better for your health and for the planet (though this is not the most effective point as a consumer lead).

Most importantly, it has to be tasty.

Some of my favorite moments from the conference included:

Chef John Fraser’s commitment to plant forward plates in fine dining restaurants (like Dovetail in Manhattan)

The announcement that Sonic will become the first QSR to market test a blended burger (I tried it - very exciting!)

Sampling Next Door Eatery’s veggie bowl from their menu - a perfect blend of flavor, veg and lots and lots of texture. Also, Kimball Musk’s cowboy hat.

Members of the media (The Atlantic, Martha Stewart Living, and the Atlanta Journal - Constitution) discussing the media’s role in the story that’s been written so far and how the story of the future can shift consumer behavior towards more responsible eating.

I know my team has already taken some of this new knowledge and inspiration to integrate at our college & university operation. Together, I truly believe the leadership from this group can make a profound positive impact.