The Winter Fancy Food Show, beginning this Sunday in Las Vegas and running through Tuesday, will feature educational content from Specialty Food Association partner, The Mediterranean Diet Roundtable, a think-tank designed to inform, inspire, and promote the appreciation of ingredients and cuisines distinctive to the Mediterranean region.
“We are excited to collaborate with MDR to highlight the principles of the Mediterranean Diet and the many specialty foods on exhibit at the Winter Show that fit in with its health benefits,” said Denise Purcell, SFA’s VP of resource development.
Winter Fancy Food Show attendees will have the opportunity to take part in educational programs and tastings through the lens of the Mediterranean Diet, and experience its scientific insights, cultural significance, and taste for themselves.
“We will delve into an experiential event while understanding the distinction between price and value, and the transformative appeal that the Mediterranean eating pattern can confer in the marketplace, adding a significant and strategic competitive edge,” said Daniela Puglielli, founder of the MDR.
Educational sessions curated by MDR include:
Monday, January 22
1:30 – 2 p.m.
Unlocking the Power of Mediterranean Super Foods
Take a culinary nutrition journey exploring the vitality of Mediterranean superfoods. From the crisp crunch of apples to the invigorating shots of EVOO, discover how these culinary treasures promote awareness and well-being. From fermented olives to Greek yogurt, vibrant greens, aromatic herbs, and raw honey, this session unveils the secrets of a healthful Mediterranean diet.
Speaker: Paula Montagna, MS, RD, CDN, CNSC, director of clinical nutrition, Stony Brook Southampton Hospital
2 – 2:30 p.m.
Fueling a Healthier America: The Role of Olive Oil in U.S. Food
Learn about the influential impact of the Mediterranean diet on U.S. food policy. Delve into the idea that olive oil is the driving force behind this transformative diet and explore how smart government policies, including the U.S. Dietary Guidelines, can contribute to a healthier nation and planet.
Speaker: Joseph R. Profaci, executive director North American Olive Oil Association
2:30-3:30 p.m.
Breaking Ground: Navigating Alternative Business Channels
Prepare to be challenged to rethink the reach of your product. Is it ready for the diverse opportunities within foodservice, ecommerce, and even the airline industry? Uncover the criteria these channels seek and learn the strategies to position your product for consideration.
Speaker: Arn Grashoff , vice president of marketing and merchandising, Innovative Food Holdings Inc.
3 – 3:30 p.m.
2024 Trends: A Culinary Exploration
Take a captivating journey into the future, unraveling the trends set to dominate the food industry in 2024. This session goes beyond surface-level trends, demonstrating how they can be powerful tools to address deeper consumer needs. From health and value to overall culinary experiences, discover how these trends are more than just fleeting fads—they're solutions.
Speaker: Mike Kostyo, Trendologist
Tuesday, January 23
10:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Unlocking Flavor Alchemy: Culinary Science 101 - A Sensory Experience by MDR
Decode Labels, Taste the Difference, and Elevate Your Palate. Hosted by Mary Angela Miller, MS, RDN, LD, and Chef Jason Johnson. A dynamic conversation between unlikely partners: a wise Registered Dietitian and an experienced Chef, to create flavorful yet nutrition-dense Mediterranean recipes.
12-12:30 p.m.
Culinary Excellence Meets Academic Palates: A Yale University Perspective
James Benson, director of culinary excellence at Yale University, unveils the transformative applications of Mediterranean Diet principles in the dynamic world of foodservice. Gain insights into how these principles can not only shape but elevate the dining experience in colleges and universities. Delve into the facts and figures drawn from the rich mosaic of Yale University's culinary experiences, showcasing how embracing the Mediterranean Diet can provide a distinct competitive advantage.
Speaker: James Benson, director of culinary excellence, Yale University
12:30 – 1 p.m.
Savoring the Golden Years: Culinary Innovation in Senior Living
Take a flavorful exploration of integrating Mediterranean Diet principles into the unique environment of Senior Living. Uncover the art of selling and purchasing in this specialized sector, driven by the infusion of bold flavors and nutrient-dense ingredients. Discover why the rapidly growing Senior Living segment represents an extraordinary opportunity to not only provide nourishing meals but also craft compelling narratives through culinary storytelling.
Speaker: Matthew Tremblay, director of procurement and culinary operations, Northbridge Senior Living
Related: Specialty Food Buyers Mission at Winter Fancy Food Show; Don't Miss Out on the Winter Fancy Food Show.