Person of the Year

Jaime Athos

As lawmakers and animal agriculture lobbyists have worked over the past few years to pass legislation restricting the labeling and marketing of plant-based foods, two brand leaders -- Miyoko’s founder and CEO Miyoko Schinner and Tofurky president Jaime Athos -- have been at the front of the charge to challenge these laws and give plant-based brands equal opportunities in the grocery store.

Athos has been at the head of several plant-based meat labeling lawsuits. Last month, Athos and Tofurky joined forces with the Plant Based Foods Association, replacing Upton’s Naturals in a second attempt to take on The Oklahoma Meat Consumer Protection Act.  Athos is also a plaintiff in similar lawsuits in Missouri, Arkansas and Louisiana. While these laws claim plant-based meat product labels may be confusing for consumers who might mistake them for traditional meat, Athos has been forthright in his belief that plant-based brands are not deceiving consumers, believing these shoppers are “well-informed and thoughtful.” 

“Tofurky is here to challenge this disingenuous legislation not just on behalf of our industry, but ultimately to protect our consumers’ right to make choices that are healthier for their bodies and more congruent with their values,” Athos said last month.


Back
View the Full Content Calendar
Back
View the Community Call Calendar