Dairy Alternatives: Innovation and market insights

Bertel Haugen has 17 years of experience working for challenger brands in the healthy and sustainable food space and is currently Head of Innovation & Sustainability at Rude Health, where he leads a team to deliver top quality innovation to UK supermarkets. Bertel grew up on an organic farm on the edge of the Brecon Beacons and although farming was not his chosen path, this gave him a deep understanding of responsible, regenerative food production. He led the Rude Health team to BCorp certification in 2021, and recertification with 120.7 points in 2024.

Matthijs is the founder of Verdante, he works as an EU policy advisor with front-running NGOs, progressive food companies, and coalitions to shape EU agri-food policies that make healthy, sustainable diets the norm. His work focuses on advancing plant-based and alternative protein foods and drinks to build a socially just and livable food system that works for all.

As a dairy lover and planet lover, Jakob wondered how he, and others, could continue to enjoy high quality dairy products while minimising impact on the environment. Which led to him founding PlanetDairy in 2022, to make dairy products that people love, with less use of land and water, lower carbon emissions, and priced fairly. Previously, Jakob was Managing Director of Danish Crown, Denmark and before that Senior Vice President, in charge of Arla Foods’ cheese business globally. A curious and driven entrepreneur, Jakob attracts and develops talent, assemble high performing teams, engages those around him, and makes things happen. A naturally outdoors person, Jakob spends his leisure time running, mountain-biking and on his boat which he sails in the central Denmark lake district. He loves travelling and exploring new cultures.

Roni is a seasoned Business Development executive with a strong background in biotech and foodtech. Trained as a Food Engineer, she has been closely following the evolution of the foodtech industry and its impact on global markets. With a passion for bridging science, technology, and people, Roni has held key roles at EY, Enzymotec, and several innovative startups.

Teodora Lyubomirova is editor of DairyReporter, specializing in dairy innovation, sustainable production, consumer trends and regulatory shifts. She reports on global agri‑food developments, from precision‑fermented dairy and functional ingredients to market disruptions and technology‑driven manufacturing, delivering data‑led insights for food industry stakeholders.