Food Innovation from the Inside Out: A Conversation with Miriam Ueberall

In this episode of FoodTech Junkies, host Sharon Cittone sits down with Miriam Ueberall, a seasoned leader with 24 years of experience in the food industry, for a compelling conversation on the systemic changes needed to future-proof our food systems. Miriam shares her insights on the challenges of innovation, the importance of DEI, and the urgent need for consumer-centric sustainability.Together, they explore how corporates and startups can forge stronger collaborations, why digitalization is a game-changer, and how leadership and company culture play pivotal roles in driving transformation. From balancing taste and nutrition with sustainability to preparing the next generation of food leaders, this episode is packed with inspiration, real talk, and forward-looking ideas.______________________________________________________About Miriam: Miriam is a seasoned Food Tech Expert and Senior R&D Leader with over 24 years of experience in advancing the food industry through innovation and technology. She has worked in leadership roles across various multinational FMCG companies, ranging from Unilever to Kraft Heinz to Flora Food group. A visionary at heart, Miriam combines a deep understandingof food science, technology, and consumer and market trends to craft forward-thinking strategies that address today’s most complex globalchallenges. With a strong belief that human-centric leadership is key to drive sustainable growth, Miriam brings a track record of delivering market growth via innovation and renovation, pipeline building, organizational transformation, and driving portfolio efficiencies. A staunch advocate for honest and trusted multi-party partnerships, Miriam is convinced that true breakthroughs in food tech can only occur when diverse stakeholders and players across the value chain collaborate transparently, bringing their unique expertise and perspectives to the table, and commit to aligned objectives.As a passionate champion of female empowerment and allyship, Miriam actively works to create inclusive, supportive environments where women can thrive and unleash theirbest self.Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to the Podcast00:32 – Meet Miriam Ueberall: A Powerhouse in Food Innovation01:06 – Miriam’s Journey in the Food Industry03:07 – Challenges and Systemic Transformation in the Food Industry07:24 – The Role of Leadership and Partnerships18:10 – Innovation in R&D and Addressing Consumer Needs24:46 – Consumer Education and Building Trust28:47 – Defining Sustainability in the Food Industry29:59 – Practical Steps for Integrating Sustainability34:06 – The Role of Government and Policy in Driving Change36:39 – Leadership and Company Culture in the Food Business41:55 – Grooming the Next Generation of Food Leaders44:54 – The Future of Female Leadership and Inclusivity49:29 – Future Trends and Technologies in Food52:08 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sharoncittone.substack.com