Keep in mind, this event—our first ever revitalize Sessions—was the first IRL event mindbodygreen has hosted since pre-COVID times. Not only did it feel great to bond over a shared passion for plant-based foods, the in-person company was invaluable. So after some networking, a Buddhist meditation by teacher Meg Monahan, and a reading by writer Christopher Rivas, we collected for a panel featuring our very own co-CEO Jason Wachob, CEO of MALK Organics Jason Bronstad, CMO of Miyoko’s Organics Rusti Porter, and nutritional practitioner Serena Poon. With pineapple-ginger mocktails in hand, we dove into the fascinating and game-changing world of plant-based eating. As a brand, MALK is already redefining the way we think about alternative milks. Their products promise simple, high-quality, certified organic ingredients—and never any of the bad stuff, like gums, fillers, oils, or anything artificial. But Jason Bronstad proved that the brand is also interested in solving large-scale issues in today’s plant-based industry. According to him, consumers’ accessibility to healthy, plant-based foods is one of the greatest obstacles. “What are consumers looking for? They’re craving the right choices. But because of where they shop, their options are limited," Jason said. “Although we don’t have availability in every grocery store nationwide, we’re aiming to expand distribution to provide more healthy choices.” For plant-based brands like MALK and consumers alike—accessibility is key. But despite these obstacles, MALK continues to make inspiring choices: “Mother Nature has given us these resources—but collectively, we just don’t know how to use them. So as we continue to evolve—in our processes and innovation—we will do so mindfully.” Further, Jason described the importance of finding partnerships that are more sustainable: “We’re watching the way our partners are utilizing water 25-30% less than other farmers. When we’re looking for partners to choose, we’re looking for the way they sustainably treat crops and land.” Another key takeaway from the panel that all parties agreed upon was the importance of transparency in the foods we eat… especially in a post-COVID world. “After COVID,” Jason explained, “consumers are now asking the question of what exactly am I consuming?” And when we look on the back of a MALK bottle to see just three ingredients—like the filtered water, organic gluten-free oats, and Himalayan pink salt in their Oat MALK—we understand that transparency simply comes with this brand. Devon’s first book, Earth Women, is coming soon. To learn more, join the mailing list, and receive updates, head to www.devonbarrowwriting.com.
