In this brief but powerful opening, emcee Sarah Bohnenkamp will kick off the Protein PACT Solutions Summit by focusing on what unites us: a commitment to people—those who raise, process, consume, and are nourished by animal protein.

You’ll get a quick look at the Protein PACT’s five pillars—Animal Welfare, Environment, Food Safety, Nutrition, and People & Communities—and how they shape the conversations and solutions ahead.

Come ready to connect, contribute, and explore how our collective efforts can turn principles into progress—and progress into impact.
 

In today’s food debates, outrage spreads faster than understanding. And few sectors feel it more than livestock. From the future of meat to gene editing to ultra-processed foods, nearly every innovation is a potential flashpoint. But the challenge isn’t just the science—it’s the story.

In this provocative and fast-paced keynote, Jack Bobo—food futurist and former U.S. food policy negotiator—explores how the future of protein will be shaped not only by what we produce, but by how we talk about it.

Drawing on behavioral science and two decades at the intersection of agriculture, innovation, and public perception, he reveals why facts alone don’t change minds, why polarization is predictable, and why narrative—not noise—is the most powerful tool for progress.

In the age of outrage, it’s not the loudest voice that wins—it’s the one that brings people together. And, if we get the story right, agriculture won’t just feed the world—it might just save it.

 Animal-source foods like meat and dairy play a vital role in nutrition and sustainable food systems—and they're also central to global environmental discussions. This session explores how the Protein PACT is bringing the animal protein sector together to build trust, foster transparency, and engage diverse audiences. 

In a panel moderated by Eric Mittenthal (Meat Institute), leaders from pork, beef, academia, and innovation will share their sustainability work and experiences at global forums like COP and Climate Week. Attendees will then join small-group discussions using a “New, Knew, Know, Now” framework to reflect and apply insights. 

Discover how collaboration and communication are shaping the future of responsible animal protein. 

What motivates meaningful collaboration? In this closing session of Day 1, diverse voices from across the Protein PACT will share what drives their engagement—what fuels their contributions, overcomes challenges, and creates lasting value. Hear firsthand from leaders like Samantha Werth (USRSB) and Lauren Martin (Canadian Meat Council) as they reflect on the impact of partnership and the momentum being built across the sector. 

Facilitated by emcee Sarah Bohnenkamp, this interactive session blends quick-hit panel insights with audience-driven reflections on the day’s most powerful moments. Attendees will walk away with renewed energy, a deeper understanding of what participation in the Protein PACT truly means, and fresh ideas for advancing collaboration in their own organizations. 

Join us to celebrate progress, share takeaways, and shape what's next—together.