#Sustainability #None #Chicago #Food Systems #Kellanova

Building Resilient Food Systems

In recent years, there has been a significant shift in how we perceive the interconnectedness of food, climate, and resilience. Dr. David Lestage, Vice President and Chief Research and Development Officer at Kellanova, highlights that fragmented discourses surrounding risk, sustainability, and innovation are now converging into an urgent collective narrative. Rather than being treated as ancillary topics, concepts such as science, technology, and research are now fundamental in reimagining the future of food.

This transformation is also spurred by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), which is no longer the realm of science fiction but rather an active catalyst for change. Innovations such as digital twins—real-time simulations that predict vulnerabilities, and smart sensors—are monitoring ecosystems instantaneously, creating a robust framework for climate resilience. AI is allowing humanity to transition from merely understanding climate risks to actively engineering their mitigations, facilitating unprecedented progress in adaptability.

However, the journey towards building resilient food systems cannot rely solely on technological innovations. The essence of resilience lies in forming connections across various stakeholders—from industries to geographical landscapes. This calls for collaborative efforts that transcend individual companies' capabilities. The future rests on coalitions that are not merely advantageous but essential.

One often-overlooked component in this ecosystem is the conscious consumer. The act of innovation extends beyond mere invention; it embodies adoption. Each purchase made by consumers sends signals to the market, encouraging sustainable practices and holding companies to their commitments. Therefore, one of the greatest challenges, as well as opportunities, is to craft food options that not only uphold sustainable values but also appeal to consumers aesthetically, conveniently, and economically.

At Kellanova, collaboration stands as a core pillar of their vision, driving their initiatives under the Better Days Promise. The Origins Program, for instance, illustrates the alignment of NGOs, governments, academic institutions, and suppliers to source key ingredients sustainably and equitably. Such initiatives demonstrate that resilience materializes when value is shared across all stakeholders rather than being concentrated at the top.

Nonetheless, obstacles persist. Many regulations still echo principles established in the 1930s, hindering the use of healthier or more eco-friendly ingredients. The lengthy approval processes for novel foods can deter necessary investments and stifle innovation, while outdated standards contribute to confusion rather than clarity. Progress necessitates a reform of regulations to align with modern realities.

Additionally, the financial landscape poses a challenge as well. Building resilience involves developing co-investment models where both risks and rewards are shared during transitions. For instance, last year, a collaboration between Kellanova, agribusiness Bartlett, and Ahold Delhaize USA focused on regenerative wheat farming, aiding local farmers in adopting climate-smart techniques while minimizing Scope 3 emissions.

Moreover, partnerships with companies like ADM have fostered investment in regenerative cotton, empowering farmers in the southern U.S. to adopt practices that preserve biodiversity and employ cover crops. These collaborative ventures not only mitigate greenhouse gas emissions but also illustrate the potential of teamwork in tackling future risks.

Ultimately, creating resilient food systems goes beyond science or commerce; it encompasses a comprehensive approach built on trust, urgency, and joint responsibility. It demands that global ambitions translate into grassroots actions, equipping smallholder farmers with the necessary tools and knowledge, and standardizing metrics for measurable and scalable progress. The goal is to develop a food system robust enough to withstand volatility while providing nourishment for billions.

The future of food will not hinge solely on isolated inventions, companies, or regulations. Rather, it will depend on how effectively we can integrate science, innovation, and technology into a cohesive system designed for resilience. This confluence is no longer a distant goal; it is actively unfolding before us.

About Kellanova

Kellanova (NYSE K) stands out as a leader in the global snacking industry, alongside international cereal and noodle markets, and frozen foods in North America. With a heritage spanning over a century, the company focuses on brands including Pringles®, Cheez-It®, and many others. Kellanova's vision is to establish itself as the premier snacks-led powerhouse, committed to fostering sustainable and equitable food access while addressing issues of hunger and wellness through their engaged community. Their objective is to enable better days for four billion individuals by 2030 (based on 2015 metrics). For further insights into their commitments and methodologies, visit Kellanova’s website.