Masters of Scale Rapid Response: Food security in a pandemic, w/Sara Menker of Gro Intelligence
May 5, 2020
Sara Menker, Founder and CEO of Gro Intelligence, shares her expertise on global food security, emphasizing the AI-driven insights that can predict future challenges. She discusses the exaggerated fears of food shortages in the U.S. during the pandemic and uncovers the complexities behind supermarket pricing. Menker highlights the urgent issues faced by vulnerable populations, particularly in regions like Ethiopia, and emphasizes the importance of adapting food supply chains amidst global crises. Her insights offer a fresh lens on navigating the food landscape during turbulent times.
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US Food Security
- The U.S. is unlikely to experience a food shortage due to its status as a net calorie exporter.
- Disruptions may alter product mixes on shelves, but overall food availability should remain stable.
Chicken vs. Beef Supply Chains
- Chicken prices remain stable because chicken companies own their supply chain vertically.
- Beef prices are rising because cattle change ownership multiple times, making the supply chain more complex.
Apple Price Volatility
- Produce prices are volatile: Fuji apples increased by 70%, while Golden Delicious dropped by 80%.
- This reflects changing transportation dynamics and packaging affecting wholesale and retail markets.