Alyse Thompson-Richards

Dharma Prime and Halak Mehta are inspiring examples of women thriving in STEM careers, particularly in engineering and food science. As they share their experiences and insights, they highlight the importance of diversity and support in these traditionally male-dominated fields.

The organizations, which have long published parallel industry reports, have joined forces offer food manufacturers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) an overview of market performance and a glimpse at what to expect going forward.

In our annual Women in Engineering feature, we highlight inspiring stories of women like Halak Mehta and Dharma Prime. Despite progress, the pay gap persists, underscoring the need for ongoing efforts toward equality.

EIC Alyse Thompson-Richards summarizes recent food and beverage industry updates, including Mars' investments, Campbell's chip plant closure, and expansions by Chobani, Bel Group and Rise Baking Company.

From opening to a fast-casual restaurant in D.C. to quintupling its CPG production capacity when its new Maryland facility becomes fully operational, Little Sesame is on a journey of creativity, inspiration and growth.

EIC Alyse Thompson-Richards highlights recent food and beverage industry expansions, including Smithfield Foods’ South Dakota facility, Nestlé Purina’s Brazilian pet food plant, J.M. Smucker’s pet food expansion, DrinkPAK’s Texas beverage facility, Dainty Foods’ Ohio plant, and Tovala’s Illinois processing facility.

Food waste poses a significant challenge across the food industry. New research reveals that while many companies recognize the issue, only a fraction set tangible reduction targets. To align actions with global best practices, measuring and reporting food waste is crucial.

Blending advanced automation with purposeful design, this year’s Plant of the Year reflects how food manufacturers are engineering smarter, more efficient operations to meet evolving industry demands.

Rising energy costs and global pressures are pushing food manufacturers to prioritize efficiency. ABB research shows energy makes up about a quarter of operating costs, driving investments—but real gains require a holistic, system-wide approach.

Black & Veatch’s Kim Lovan and Carrie Woehler discuss how food and beverage manufacturers are implementing automation, considerations for vetting solution providers, and how automation projects have evolved.