To promote and emphasize the fundamental role of processing and innovation in building a more successful future, with healthier food and a more sustainable country, the Guatemalan Industrial Association (CIG) and its Food and Beverage Union (GREMAB) ) celebrated on this day on the fourth day. issue of the Food and Beverage Forum.
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Under the motto “Processing and Innovation with Purpose”, the event is dedicated to the dissemination of advanced knowledge and innovative practices, bringing together sector leaders, experts in food science and technology, academia and industry representatives, with the aim of encouraging and facilitate. adopt solutions that promote economic development, improved quality of life and environmental sustainability in Guatemala.
“The industrialization of the food and beverage sector has been critical to the development of many nations, and Guatemala is no exception,” said Pedro Cofiño, GREMAB president.
«Our industry responds to the human need for food, contributing to the economy, generating employment and promoting social well-being and responsible environmental management. However, challenges such as food insecurity, food loss and inefficient waste management require support from food science and technology,” he said. In addition, he added that while these problems will not be solved by this sector alone, innovation and technological progress are essential to building a fairer and more resilient future.”
During the day, conferences and discussions will be held, highlighting topics such as: “The importance of processing in the sustainable production of nutritious foods”, ”Water: A Fundamental Pillar for Food Production and Nutrient Food Security”, and “Food Product Design with Artificial Intelligence”, among others.
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On this day the fourth edition of the Food and Drink Forum is taking place, organized by the Food and Drink Union (Gremab), which is connected to the Guatemalan Industry Association @industry
📷 Insight pic.twitter.com/tHTAi7nC6z— PERSPECTIVE (@PerspectivaGT) October 30, 2024
Some of the speakers include Magda Ivonne Pinzón, president of the Latin American and Caribbean Association for Food Science and Technology (ALACCTA); Berliot Bolaños, member of the Food Technology Association of Costa Rica (ASCOTA); and Alex Guerra Noriega, director of the Institute for Climate Change (ICC).
«Guatemala faces major challenges in terms of food security. By recognizing the value of processed foods we can make comprehensive decisions that address the double burden of malnutrition and strengthen food security in the country,” said Julio Orozco, executive director of GREMAB.
“We are confident in the strategic contribution of food science and technology to the progress of our country, and we are fortunate to have excellent local and international experts who will share their experience and promote collaborative work based on our reality,” he said.
During the opening ceremony, Oscar Emilio Castillo, director of the CIG board of directors, highlighted that “the food and beverage sector directly contributes more than US$ 5.7 billion annually to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which is equivalent to 47.7% of the manufacturing activity in Guatemala and an average weight of 7% of the total GDP. In addition, he stated, considering the interrelationship with agricultural activity, “the total contribution is more than US$ 20,000 million, equivalent to 16% of the GDP.”
“The economic footprint of the production sector, including inter-sectoral relationships and indirect effects, is even greater, reaching US$20.2 billion, which represents more than 23% of the national GDP,” said Castillo. “Taking this into account, it can be calculated that 23 out of every 100 dollars of the Guatemalan economy is linked, directly or indirectly, to the food and beverage sector.”
Interview between Time.news Editor and Pedro Cofiño
Editor: Welcome, Pedro! It’s great to have you here, especially following the exciting event, the fourth issue of the Food and Beverage Forum. Can you tell us about the primary goals of this year’s forum?
Pedro Cofiño: Thank you for having me! This year, under the motto ”Processing and Innovation with Purpose,” our primary goal was to highlight the crucial role of processing and innovation in the food and beverage sector for Guatemala’s economic and social development. We gathered leaders from various sectors to share advanced knowledge and innovative practices, ultimately aiming to enhance food security and environmental sustainability.
Editor: That sounds impressive! You mentioned the importance of processing in the sustainable production of nutritious foods. How does this relate to the current challenges Guatemala faces, such as food insecurity?
Pedro Cofiño: The industrialization of the food and beverage sector is vital in confronting those challenges. Processing allows us to create more nutritious foods, reduce food waste, and extend shelf life. However, it’s essential to recognize that these challenges—patterns of malnutrition and food loss—cannot be addressed by our sector alone. We need collaboration among food scientists, technologists, and policymakers to drive comprehensive solutions.
Editor: Indeed, collaboration is key. During the forum, various discussions took place on topics like water security and artificial intelligence in food product design. Could you elaborate on why these topics are so critical right now?
Pedro Cofiño: Absolutely! Water is a fundamental resource for food production, and its scarcity can directly impact food security and the entire supply chain. Thus, discussing sustainable water management practices is crucial. As for artificial intelligence, it holds immense potential in food product design, from optimizing nutritional content to streamlining production processes, allowing us to be more efficient and responsive to market needs.
Editor: It’s fascinating how technology can drive change. You also mentioned that this industry contributes to employment and social well-being. Can you give us more insight into how it does this?
Pedro Cofiño: The food and beverage sector is a significant employer in Guatemala, providing jobs and livelihoods for many families. By promoting responsible environmental management, we not only ensure sustainable production but also enhance community wellbeing. When we address food security and create jobs, we help uplift entire communities, fostering economic development and improved quality of life.
Editor: Speaking of uplifting communities, are there specific innovations or practices discussed at the forum that you find particularly promising for the future of food security in Guatemala?
Pedro Cofiño: We are seeing innovative practices such as the integration of multi-stakeholder approaches toward food systems and the utilization of technology in supply chain management. By adopting these innovations, we can enhance food traceability and reduce waste while ensuring that nutritious food reaches our population. It’s about harnessing creativity and technological advancements to build a better future.
Editor: Well said, Pedro. As we wrap up, what message do you hope resonates with the attendees and those following the forum?
Pedro Cofiño: I hope attendees leave with a renewed sense of purpose—to embrace innovation and collaboration in solving our pressing challenges. Food security is not just a goal; it’s a necessity for our nation’s future. Together, through processing and innovation with purpose, we can create a healthier, more sustainable Guatemala.
Editor: Thank you for your insights, Pedro. It’s clear that your dedication to improving Guatemala’s food and beverage sector will have lasting impacts.
Pedro Cofiño: Thank you! I appreciate the opportunity to share our vision and look forward to continued advancements in our field.