Episode 15: The Power of Food Culture with Dr. Eva Monterrosa Artwork

Changing Plates

Hi! We’re Allison Pigatto and Bianca Mercouffer, two nutrition experts and food enthusiasts on a mission to transform the conversation around food. Tired of the negativity and fear-mongering, we created Changing Plates -- a forward-thinking podcast spotlighting fresh perspectives and impactful work.

Each episode features leaders, innovators and disruptors shaping the future of food. Together, we discuss challenges facing our global food system and transformative solutions paving the way forward.

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Changing Plates

Episode 15: The Power of Food Culture with Dr. Eva Monterrosa

September 10, 2025 • Allison Pigatto & Bianca Mercouffer • Season 2 • Episode 7

In this episode of Changing Plates, we’re joined by Dr. Eva Monterrosa, co-founder of the Food Culture Alliance, for a conversation on why culture is such a powerful force in shaping what we eat.

Eva shares the story behind launching the Alliance in 2023 and explains how food culture can shift demand toward healthier, more sustainable foods. We discuss the NIBS framework (Narratives, Identity, Beliefs, and Culinary Systems) and explore the food cultural topics being explored at the Food Culture Alliance.

We also look at the role of storytelling in defining what feels “normal” or “desirable” to eat — and how understanding culture can help create healthier food futures.

Episode links

Website:foodculturealliance.org/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eva-monterrosa/

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