Naturally, the food and beverage industry has always been an integral part of human history and culture. It has evolved tremendously over time, with new cuisines and flavors emerging from different regions and cultures. Throughout history, black innovators have made significant contributions to the industry, creating unique and innovative food and beverage options that reflect their cultural heritage and personal experiences.
Today, there are many black innovators and entrepreneurs in the food and beverage industry who are pushing boundaries and making their mark with creative startups and products. These modern innovators are carrying on the legacy of black pioneers who paved the way for future generations to follow in their footsteps.
Jaden Smith
One such modern innovator is Jaden Smith, the founder of JUST Water, a still and sparkling water brand that sources its water from a deep spring beneath Montana’s Big Snowy Mountains. Smith was inspired by his love of surfing and his concern for the environment. He wanted to create a sustainable and delicious alternative to plastic water bottles. By sourcing their water from a mountain spring, JUST Water supports the local community and minimizes its impact on the environment.
Shenarri Freeman
Another black innovator in the food industry is Shenarri Freeman, the chef behind Cadence, a soulfully focused vegan restaurant in New York’s East Village. Freeman is the first black chef in Overthrow‘s portfolio of all-vegan restaurants, with a vision to make plant-based dining sexy and entertaining while educating her guests.
The menu is organic and sourced from black-owned producers, supporting vendors who rarely get foot into the door of high-profile establishments. Freeman hopes to introduce healthier alternatives to the community, making it easier for people to adopt a healthier lifestyle.
Jamaal Ewing and Terry Rostic
Michigan’s first-ever black-owned craft brewery, Black Calder Brewing Company, is another fine example of black innovation in the modern food and beverage industry. The founders, Jamaal Ewing and Terry Rostic, have utilized their MBAs to strategize a path forward and outline a genius marketing plan.
The brewery’s logo features the crown of Mbaba Mwana Waresa, the South African goddess of beer, making it the first brewery to use a black woman in its logo. Black Calder’s latest release, Bishop IPA, is a nod to Tupac Shakur’s character in the cult-classic hip-hop flick ‘Juice.’ They’ve released six brews, including three collaborations, and are funding a scholarship for Grand Rapids Community College’s craft brewing program to attract more African-American students to the industry.
Following in the Pioneer’s Footsteps
These modern innovators are following in the footsteps of black pioneers who made significant contributions to the food and beverage industry throughout history.
Lloyd Hall was a pioneer in food chemistry, creating many of the chemicals used to preserve food without losing its flavor. George Washington Carver came up with over 300 uses for peanuts, expanding the commercialization of peanuts and saving the agricultural economy of the South. Zephyr Wright was Lyndon B. Johnson’s personal chef and influenced his signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Wally Amos is the founder of Famous Amos chocolate chip cookies, which became a hit in stores across the United States.
These – and many other – black innovators overcame significant obstacles and discrimination to make their mark on the industry, paving the way for future generations of black chefs, restaurateurs, and entrepreneurs. Their achievements have had a lasting impact on the industry and continue to inspire and influence today’s innovators.
Championing Diverse, Rich, Cultural Cuisine Experiences
By celebrating the achievements of black innovators in food and beverage, we can elevate their voices and ensure that their legacy lives on. We can also create a more diverse and inclusive food industry that reflects the rich cultural heritage and diverse experiences of all people.
In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the importance of diversity and inclusivity in the food and beverage industry. Many progressive companies and organizations are taking steps to make it more equitable and inclusive, such as investing in minority-owned businesses, promoting diversity in leadership positions, and supporting programs that provide education and training for underrepresented communities.
Foundations for Change
A notable organization that is working to promote diversity and inclusivity in the food industry is the James Beard Foundation. This foundation has launched several initiatives aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion in the industry, including the Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership program and the Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership accelerator program. These programs provide education and training for women and other underrepresented groups in the industry, helping to make it more diverse and inclusive.
Final Thoughts
By celebrating black innovators in the food and beverage industry and supporting organizations that promote diversity and inclusivity, we can help to create a more equitable and sustainable industry. We can also ensure that the contributions of black innovators are recognized and celebrated, helping to inspire future generations of black chefs, restaurateurs, and entrepreneurs.
Published by HOLR Magazine.