Animal Protein Beyond the Headlines: Sustainability, Welfare & the Future of Meat

Animal protein is at the center of today’s biggest food conversations—but how much of the public narrative tells the full story?In this episode of Rooted and Restless, Marianne Smith Edge sits down with Eric Mittenthal, Chief Strategy Officer at the Meat Institute and President of the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, to explore sustainability, animal welfare, meat prices, nutrition, and the future of protein.What We Cover:• Sustainability and greenhouse gas discussions around animal protein• The Protein Pact initiative and industry transparency• Why beef prices remain high• Meat’s role in nutrient-dense diets• The future of alternative proteinsThey also discuss the role Temple Grandin has played in advancing animal welfare practices and why transparency matters more than ever in food conversations. And yes… hot dogs,from myths, trends and favorites is mentioned…just in time for summer!Resources:The Protein PactTemple Grandin Documentary- An Open Door