Shows
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 34: The Orchard and Beyond! How Almonds are Fueling Global Innovation with Harbinder MannIn this episode, we crack open the tasty and functional world of almonds with Harbinder Maan, Associate Director of Trade Marketing & Stewardship with the Almond Board of California.With over 7,600 growers behind it, the Almond Board is a powerhouse of innovation, research, and stewardship. We explore:How the Almond Board is advancing sustainability across the value chainThe latest nutrition and health research fueling almond innovation- think microbiome, skin health, performance nutrition, and moreHow the Almond Board collaborates with brands, CPG developers, and R&D teams to drive new product launchesWhy almonds are a po...2025-06-2924 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 33: Designing Delicious: Jill Houk, Corporate R&D Chef, Culinary CultureIn this episode of Munching on Molecules, we chat with Jill Houk, Corporate R&D Chef at Culinary Culture. A pivotal moment came early in her journey, when her mother asked: “If you could do anything you wanted, what would you do?” That question sparked a career transformation. We dive into her path, from launching a health-conscious catering company to becoming a cookbook author, podcaster, TV personality, and product development powerhouse. Her work has helped shape food products across the U.S., and she continues to raise the bar for culinary excellence in both manufacturing and food service....2025-06-2234 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 32: From Food Formulator Extraordinaire to Founder, Abigail Modell, OVU BarAfter a decade of helping build products for other brands, food scientist and product developer, Abigail Modell is stepping into the founder spotlight and she’s doing it with purpose.In this episode, Abigail shares the behind-scenes in launching OVU Bars, a new line of snack bars designed to support women on hormonal balance and their fertility journey through targeted nutrition. We dig into the science and ingredients behind her formulation, the personal motivation that sparked the brand, and what it’s like to shift from product development to launching her own CPG brand and product line.Oh...2025-06-1628 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 31: Food or Natural Health Product? Dr. JP Powers on Regulatory Strategy and Reinventing Career PathsIn this episode of Munching on Molecules, we sit down with Dr. Jon-Paul (JP) Powers, Partner and Scientific Advisor at Gowling WLG.One quote that’s guided his career? A gem from mentor Dr. Bob Hancock: “The jobs we want don’t exist, you have to find a way to create them.” That’s exactly what JP did, purely by luck, carving a path that didn’t exist on paper, but makes perfect sense in hindsight.Fresh from the CHFA Regulatory Forum in Ottawa, JP offers his view on the different...2025-06-0931 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 30: Ian Heieie, Peas, Pizza, and the Pulse of InnovationWhat do kimchi, wood-fired pizza, and pea protein have in common? Ian Heieie, of course.In this episode, we chat with Ian Heieie, who brings big culinary energy and scientific savvy to the plant protein space. He takes us through his fine-dining roots at The Bachelor Farmer and Young Joni (yes, that James Beard Award-winning one) to studying plant proteins at University of Minnesota's Plant Protein Innovation Center then to pushing the boundaries of peas and soybeans at PURIS.Ian’s stirred up a career that’s e...2025-06-0144 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 29: Island Made Recap: Scaling With ImpactChristine and Lara take you behind the scenes of their recent road trip to Vancouver Island, where they co-presented to BC Food & Beverage Peer Group on all things product development and innovation.From the warm welcome in Nanaimo to the spirited conversations with local processors, the island energy was real and refreshingly candid. We tackled how small and large teams can scale smart, blend culinary creativity with food science, and keep their cool while navigating the product launches. Bonus? We toured the leafy, lively operations at Eat More Sprouts, where innovation and sustainability grow side-by-side. This...2025-05-2616 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 28. Hey, it’s that guy with the podcast voice… Adam Yee!Food scientist. Serial entrepreneur. Podcaster. From 4am granola bar factory adventures, to co-founding Better Meat Co and Sobo Foods, Adam’s journey into food has been anything but bland.We get the inside scoop on his early exploratory cooking days (yes, toast in omelettes), his pathway into food science, and starting in 2016, My Food Job Rocks!, the original food industry-centric podcast.Adam has interviewed hundreds of food professionals across R&D, innovation, supply chain, and entrepreneurship, giving voice to the often-overlooked pathways in the food and beverage world. 2025-05-1942 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 27: A Special Conversation with Phil and Kenny from This Commerce LifeOur worlds are colliding! In this special crossover episode, Lara and Christine sit down with the dynamic duo behind This Commerce Life, Phil Chang and Kenny Vannucci, for a candid, hilarious, and insightful conversation that spans everything from their very first podcast, Canadian CPG, and the evolving world of content creation.We get the inside scoop on: How This Commerce Life started (spoiler: Phil and Kenny's coffee date) Tips for staying authentic, showing up consistently, and keeping podcasting fun Kenny’s newfound obsession with video creation, and why Phil is both amused and mildly concerned Their favourite BC br...2025-05-1250 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 26: Behind the Label, A Front-Row Look into the Upcoming CHFA Regulatory Forum with CHFA’s Government Relations & Regulatory Affairs TeamIn this special edition of Munching on Molecules, we’re joined by three inspiring members of the CHFA Government Relations & Regulatory Affairs team: Sonia Parmar, VP of Regulatory Affairs & Government Relations Jules Gorham, Director of Regulatory Affairs & Policy Ashley Cornell, Director of Regulatory Affairs & PolicyTogether, they give us a sneak peek into the CHFA Regulatory Forum happening in Ottawa, May 27–28, 2025. An immersive, standalone event bringing CHFA members and industry face-to-face with policymakers, regulators, and key decision-makers.We talk about:Why this Forum is a can’t...2025-05-0534 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 25: Brewing Legacy & Community with Cristina Dias of Mogiana CoffeeCristina Dias, founder of Mogiana Coffee, is continuing a journey that began in 1890 when her great-grandfather first started farming coffee in Brazil's Mogiana valley region. Today, her company imports and roasts her family farms' specialty grade Coffee arabica variety beans (specifically Yellow Bourbon and Red Bourbon) in British Columbia, building a transparent, purpose-led business that supports both her family farm and the families who help cultivate it.In this episode of Munching on Molecules, we explore: What it means to operate a vertically connected, sustainable coffee companyHonouring heritage while creating opportunities for future generationsSupporting farmworker families...2025-04-2833 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 24: Bone Broth, But Make It a Lifestyle: Beckie Prime’s CPG JourneyBone broth... but make it your favourite cozy drink that'sdelicious and convenient. Beckie Prime, a registered holistic nutritionist and CEO ofBeck’s Broth, joins us to share how she’s bringing the café experience home, one decadent, protein-infused sip at a time. Think coffee, hot chocolate, and matcha reimagined with bone broth and 15g of protein per serving. Beckie has always been passionate about the intersection ofgood health and good taste. When she discovered the powerful benefits of bone broth, supporting gut health, boosting protein intake, and nourishing the body,she knew she had to share it...2025-04-2128 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 23. Q1 Snack Bites with Lara & ChristineIn this special “quarterly snack”, Christine and Lara take a moment from incredible guest interviews to catch up and reflect on the exciting activities across Q1 - from industry workshops, to presentations, to tasting panels, trade shows, and everything in between. Tune in for a whirlwind recap of where they’ve been, what they’ve learned, and what’s coming next. A few of the MANY highlights: - Mentoring and teaching moments, including the Seafood Business Accelerator and Farm Food Drink Foodpreneur cohort- A “Pulse Party” to celebrate World Pulses Day (think: fava bagels, chi...2025-04-1925 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 22. Chef David Speight on Leading a Campus Food RevolutionIf you think campus dining is just about feeding the masses, think again. Chef David Speight, Executive Chef and Culinary Director at the University of British Columbia (UBC), is proof that institutional kitchens can be powerful agents of change. With culinary training from Vancouver Community College and the Culinary Institute of America in New York, David blends fine dining precision with a deep sense of purpose. In this episode, we explore UBC Food Services and the evolving philosophy behind today’s campus dining programs. We chat about: How...2025-04-1435 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 21. CHFA NOW Vancouver : What to Expect with your hosts: Lara Tiro & Christine FarkasPlanning to attend CHFA NOW Vancouver from April 25–27, 2025? CHFA NOW is Canada’s largest natural, organic, and wellness trade show, bringing together retailers, brokers, manufacturers, and innovators from across the industry. Whether you're exhibiting, scouting products and trends, this show is a must for anyone building or growing a better-for-you brand. In this episode, Lara and Christine break down how to get the most out of your time at CHFA NOW Vancouver — from pre-show planning and relationship-building strategies to tips on navigating the conference workshops, the show floor and spotting emerging trends in Canadian...2025-04-1118 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 20: Heart of the Industry: Leading with Community and Vision, Alisa Hutton, COO BC Food and BeverageAlisa Hutton is the dynamic COO of BC Food and Beverage (BCFB), whose leadership is as nourishing as the industry she champions. Her journey begins in the aisles of a family-run grocery store in East Vancouver, where she learned early that food isn’t just about commerce—it’s about connection. Raised among the rhythms of the neighborhood market and the wisdom of her grandparents, Alisa carries those roots into every decision she makes today.With insight, optimism, and a contagious can-do energy, Alisa offers a fresh take on leadership, industry growth, and what it really means...2025-04-0738 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 19: Food, Family, and the Fire of Reinvention- with Jenny Siormanolakis, President of Grandpa J’s SeasoningJenny Siormanolakis, President of Grandpa J’s Seasoning, shares her story rich with grace, sheer grit, and generations of flavour. From the hum of a family restaurant kitchen to the bright lights of retail shelves, Jenny’s path winds through the heart of the food world. She speaks with the warmth of a family dinner and the clarity of a seasoned entrepreneur, sharing how she, alongside her sister, Nora, transformed a Food Service staple into a beloved brand during the pandemic's most uncertain days.Jenny shares: The Art of Reinvention – How pressure became the fire that...2025-03-3130 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 18: Where Ocean Meets Opportunity – A Journey of Purpose with Debra HellbachIn this episode, we discuss the world of seafood innovation with Debra Hellbach, industry veteran and passionate advocate for small-scale producers. With over 40 years of experience in the food and seafood sector, Debra has dedicated her career to helping people make and market good food—with an emphasis on resilience, sustainability, and community impact.As the force behind the Seafood Business Accelerator (SBA), Debra leads a dynamic team of business coaches and industry mentors that provides tailored support to small seafood harvesters and processors. Her mission: equip these entrepreneurs with the tools, strategy, and confidence to thrive in a com...2025-03-2836 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 17: Peeling Back the Science - The Hidden Power of Citrus for Health & Innovation with Dr. Andrew TaitCould the future of health be hidden in citrus peels? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Andrew Tait, biochemist, entrepreneur, and founder of Tait Laboratories Inc., to explore how he and his team are transforming overlooked citrus peels into cutting-edge health and food innovation solutions. Andrew’s journey began with a focus on multiple sclerosis (MS) research, where he first explored the potential of citrus compounds. His discoveries uncovered the remarkable benefits of polyphenols and bioflavonoids, leading him to develop a patented clean extraction technology that turns citrus waste...2025-03-1442 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 16: Moisture Mastery, Music and Mantras with Dr. Zachary CartwrightWhat do water activity, music, and mantras have in common? More than you’d think! In this episode, we dive into the science of moisture measurement with Dr. Zachary Cartwright, Lead Food Scientist & Isotherm Application Consultant at AQUALAB by Addium.Moisture is the unsung hero of food safety & shelf life. Dr. Cartwright explains how controlling water activity keeps food from becoming a microbial playground, ensuring stability, consistency, and safety. He also shares how AQUALAB's cutting-edge tools are helping food manufacturers master moisture management like never before.But science isn’t th...2025-03-1023 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 15: Food First, Planet Forward, and Agile Evolution with Maia FarmsHow is Maia Farms redefining the future of protein? In our latest episode, we sit down with Gavin Schneider, co-founder & CEO, and Karen McCathy, Director of Food Innovation, to explore the cutting edge of sustainable food innovation.What makes Maia Farms different?Based in BC, Maia Farms was founded by a farmer, an engineer, and a neuroscientist—a powerhouse of expertise tackling the challenge of sustainable protein production. Their approach? Mushroom biomass fermentation. By upcycling agricultural side-streams, they create high-protein, climate-conscious ingredients that are not only nutritious but also versatile and great-tasting.2025-03-0738 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 14: Powerhouse Pulse to Food Innovations with Hailey Jefferies, Co-Founder, Prairie FavaIn this episode, we dive into the world of fava beans with Hailey Jefferies, Co-founder of Prairie Fava—a company revolutionizing fava and fava-based ingredients from farm to formulation. Hailey shares her journey in building a vertically integrated business that partners with farmers, processes fava beans in Manitoba, and supplies innovative ingredients to food makers across North America and beyond.We dive into: Hailey’s journey as an entrepreneur The challenges and opportunities of scaling an ingredient business The importance of industry collaborationWhether you're a food innovator, entr...2025-02-1720 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 13: Celebrating World Pulses Day (February 10th) with Julianne Curran, Pulse CanadaCelebrating World Pulses Day – February 10th! Pulses (dry peas, beans, lentils, chickpeas) might be small, but they’re making a big impact - on our health, our planet, and the future of food. These humble ingredients are packed with protein, fibre, and endless possibilities, fueling some of the most exciting innovations in food product development.To celebrate, we’re sitting down with Julianne Curran, PhD, VP of Market Innovation at Pulse Canada, to hear about her journey into the pulse industry and how these powerhouse ingredients are shaping the future of food.We’re also d...2025-02-0927 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 12: How to Make the Most of Expo West 2025: Tips for First-Time AttendeesPlanning to attend Natural Products Expo West 2025? This is a massive trade show for the natural, organic, and healthy products industry, attracting over 65,000 attendees and 3,300+ exhibitors in Anaheim, California. From plant-based foods and functional beverages to sustainable packaging and wellness innovations, this show is unique and memorable on so many levels.In this episode, Lara and Christine share expert tips on how first-time attendees can prepare, network effectively, and navigate Expo West 2025 (March 4–7) for the best experience. Whether you're launching a product, meeting retailers, or discovering the latest industry tre...2025-02-0328 minMunching on MoleculesEpisode 11: A Sip and Swish of Inspiration: Exploring Orofino Vineyards with Virginia Weber, Co-Owner of Orofino Winery.In this special "on the road" episode, we couldn’t resist making an impromptu stop at one of our favourite spots—Orofino Winery in Cawston, British Columbia—on route to the interior. And, it just so happened to be the last day of the season for the tasting room!
We had the pleasure of connecting with Virginia Weber, who owns Orofino with her husband, John, to learn about their incredible journey into winemaking, and how the Similkameen Valley’s unique terroir shapes their award-winning wines. From the winery’s eco-friendly strawbale design to the story behind t...2024-12-1022 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 10. Revolutionizing Food Safety: Biopreservation and Listeria Control for Safer and Sustainable Food Systems with Laurent Dallaire, President of Innodal.In this episode, we sit down with Laurent Dallaire, President of Innodal, to uncover how biopreservation is changing the landscape of food safety and sustainability.
Laurent explains how their discovery of natural antimicrobials produced by microflora can effectively extend shelf life while ensuring safety, particularly in combating foodborne pathogens like Listeria monocytogenes.
Laurent also shares the role of probiotic-derived antimicrobial agents—as a cutting-edge alternative to chemical preservatives, offering efficient and clean-label solutions to prevent contamination.
Discover how Innodal is leading the charge in utilizing these natural technologies to enhance food safety and pro...2024-12-0245 minMunching on MoleculesEpisode 9: Grill Master & Sauce Secrets: Inside House of Q with BBQ Brian MiskoOn this episode of Munching on Molecules, we fire up an exciting conversation with BBQ legend and pitmaster Brian Misko, who, along with his wife Corinne, has built House of Q into a BBQ sensation. Based in British Columbia, House of Q has become a celebrated name in the North American BBQ scene, racking up top awards from Las Vegas to Lynchburg, including a first-place win for ribs at the World Food Championships, among many other tasty accolades! Brian shares his journey from a tech career to the BBQ pit, building House of Q into a powerhouse brand known...2024-11-1935 minMunching on MoleculesEpisode 8. Bright Pants, Bold Plans: Changing the Way Companies Innovate with Tech & Sensory Design, Gregory Willis Founder of SenspireIn this episode we have the pleasure of sitting down with Gregory Willis, the Founder and President of Senspire, the company behind Flavor Studio—a groundbreaking operating system that’s reimagining how food and ingredient companies innovate. For Gregory, building Flavor Studio wasn’t just about creating powerful software; it was about empowering teams, sparking creativity, and fostering innovation in an industry he’s passionate about. His leadership style? Unconventional, collaborative, and deeply curious, with a focus on creating tools that bring people together to solve big challenges. Gregory’s approach is a reminder that the best ideas often come from da...2024-11-1127 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 7. Reviving and Rebuilding BC Hazelnuts, Sue Grubac, Executive Director of BCHGASue Grubac is the BCHGA's first Executive Director. She is also a hazelnut farmer with a 10-acre orchard in Nanaimo on Vancouver Island. She is excited to represent the island growers and to be a part of the rebuild and redevelopment of the hazelnut industry in BC. The BC Hazelnut Growers Association (BCHGA) exists to promote the improvement and expansion of BC’s hazelnut industry, and to support BC hazelnut growers. As well, the association works with industry partners to conduct research into a variety of trials, and promotes awareness of the crop through education and advertising.
Ho...2024-11-0533 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 6. Evolving Eats: Innovating Global Food Systems for Good with Sid Mehta, Founder of Greenworks Inc.Join us on this episode as we dive into the inspiring journey of Sid Mehta, Founder and CEO of Greenworks Inc. From chef entrepreneur to leader in global food system transformation, Sid has over 20 years of experience driving sustainability, food security, and waste reduction. He builds coalitions across sectors, turning long-term goals into actionable solutions. Sid also serves on advisory boards for the Climate Bonds Initiative, Reusables.com, and Food Tank, while teaching at UBC, inspiring future leaders in sustainable food systems.
Tune in to hear Sid’s vision for a sustainable, low-carbon future in food!
...2024-10-1626 minMunching on MoleculesEpisode 5. Chef Charlotte Langley, Founder and President of Langley Foods Inc.Charlotte Langley, Founder and President of Langley Foods Inc., is a visionary and passionate leader with a wealth of expertise from launching Scout Canning and serving as a lead advisor to other CPG brands entering grocery and retail. Her dedication to innovation drives her mission to transform the food and beverage industry, blending flavor, ethical practices, and environmental and social stewardship for a lasting impact.
Links:
Langley Foods Inc.
Nice Cans2024-10-0132 minMunching on MoleculesEpisode 4. Maria Covarrubias, Founder & Culinary Director of Cien Chiles. Honest fixins made with a bold, flavorful blend of creativity and authenticity.Maria Covarrubias is the founder of Cien Chiles, a delicious and authentic Mexican hot sauce brand based out of San Diego, California, and one of the 2024 Pitch Slam Finalists at Expo West.
Maria is a beam of light, a CIA classically trained chef, an incredible culinarian with an unparalleled passion for food and people. Lara and Christine catch up with Maria about her journey from Guadalajara, her career adventures, from studying medicine to becoming a chef in the USA to launching her own food CPG business that is making impact.
Episode Links:...2024-09-1130 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 3 - Transforming Agricultural Side Streams into Next-Level Ingredients Powered by Polyphenols with Alexandra Broddy, Co-Founder of Crush Dynamics.Alexandra Broddy is the Co-founder of Crush Dynamics Inc., a British Columbia-based agritech company specializing in transforming agricultural side streams into high-performance food ingredients through a patented biomechanical fermentation process.
Listen in on how she scaled her Dad's big idea during his bike ride along the vineyards to a commercially viable ingredient company!
Website: https://crushdynamics.com
Link to Research Chefs Association (RCA) & Crush Dynamics Webinar: The Art & Science of Fermentation coming soon!
2024-08-1233 minMunching on MoleculesEpisode 2 - Lavina Gully, Regional Innovation Director for BC & Yukon, CFINLavina Gully works for the Canadian Food Innovation Network (otherwise known as CFIN). She is the Regional Innovation Director for BC and Yukon. Lavina is a food scientist and product developer with almost two decades of experience helping food and beverage companies innovate.
website: https://www.cfin-rcia.ca
Become a member of YODL network, home to multiple communities that spark new ideas, connections, and partnerships. It's free to join!2024-05-0640 min
Munching on MoleculesEpisode 1 - Cultivated Meat with Celeste Trujillo, Co-Founder & CTO of the Better ButchersWhat's the scoop with Cultivated Meat? Cultivated meat, lab-grown, cell-based or cultured meat is grown from animal cells in a carefully controlled environment, think of a lab or a bio-reactor.
Are we still in the realm of science fiction or are we ready to experience on our dinner plates any time soon? Stick around as we discover the details with Celeste Trujillo, Co-Founder and CTO at the Vancouver-based company, the Better Butchers.
Episode recorded on November 2023. We both met Celeste in September 2023 at Rostock, Germany, part of a Canadian Trade Mission called “Food Innovation & Alternative Pr...2024-03-2035 min