'Farmer Versus Foodie' Explained: Keynote for Animal Agriculture Alliance 2023 Stakeholder's Summit Announced

Discussing what he calls the “farmer versus foodie conundrum,” Ray Starling, author and attorney, is set to headline the Animal Agriculture Alliance’s 2023 Stakeholders Summit in Arlington, Va. 

As outsider influence in food and agriculture production grows, the animal agriculture community often fights claims that the food system is “broken,” says the release.

Starling suggests the farmer versus foodie conundrum has the potential to impact food security for generations to come. The “insiders” who understand the food system will face the “outsiders” who champion the notion that the food system is in disarray, the release adds. His keynote will also examine:

•    How “foodies” are impacting public policy through their purchasing influence and through growing legislative prowess

•    How advocates are leveraging the legal system to effectuate their desired outcomes, with farming interests typically on the other side

•    How optimistic, socially conscious investors are, even if misguided, driving tremendous change in food and farming

•    How American farmers and ranchers are not just susceptible to the American “foodie” but to “foodies” around the world

•    How today’s cultural trends offer an environment in which many ill-advised ideas about farming and agribusiness can flourish

“The future of the food system continues to be an area of growing discussion – with policymakers, investors, food brands and consumers alike joining the dialog,” says Abby Kornegay, manager, issues and engagement at the Animal Agriculture Alliance in the release. “There are continued calls for food system transformation and reform from those not directly involved in the production of our food, and the differing views and visions for the future of farming and food production will likely take us to two very different places. Starling’s keynote session will provide insight into this disconnect between farmers and ‘foodies’ and how the food and farming communities can bridge the gap.”

Starling serves as general council of the North Carolina chamber and president of the North Carolina Chamber Legal Institute, setting strategy for litigation. Prior to this role, Starling served as chief of staff to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue and principal agriculture advisor to the President of the United States. Additionally, Starling notes his upbringing on a century farm in southeastern North Carolina influenced his career path more than anything.

The Animal Agriculture Alliance 2023 Stakeholders Summit is set for May 4 through 5, themed “Partners in Progress.” Registration for the event is now open.