FARM Food Futures Forum: From Rural Health to Food Security Day 2

The health of rural communities is closely connected to the food systems we all depend on. On October 13 and 14, 2026, the convening explored how agriculture, markets, and public health can work together to strengthen communities and build a healthier food future. Session 3: Markets, Demand, and the Health Consequences of Food Systems What reaches consumers is shaped by far more than what farmers produce. Consumer demand, business strategy, retail, processing, and supply chains all influence the foods that are available, affordable, and ultimately consumed. This session will explore how market forces shape nutrition and health—and where businesses see opportunities for change. Speaker: Roland Fumasi, PhD - Head, North American RaboResearch Food & Agribusiness Group, Rabobank Moderator: Patrick Aguilar, MD, MBA - Professor of Practice of Organizational Behavior and Managing Director of Health; WashU Olin School of Business Panelists: Jeff Barry - Head of Innovation, Dot Foods, Inc. Tom Burkemper, PhD -Vice President, Merchandising, Save A Lot Amr Farahat, PhD - Teaching Professor in Supply Chain, Operations, and Technology, WashU Olin Business School Session 4: Rewiring Incentives: Strengthening Health as a Driver of Food Systems What would need to change if health were treated as a primary objective of the food system rather than simply an outcome? This session will explore how procurement, policy, investment, and market incentives could better align agricultural production and food markets with healthier diets, stronger communities, and improved population health. Moderator: David Spielman, PhD - Lauren and Lee Fixel Distinguished Professor, WashU Bursky School of Public Health Panelists: Daniel Beckmann - CEO and Founder, Foodshed.io Alex DiNovo - President and COO, DNO Produce Meredith Knopp - President and CEO, St. Louis Area Foodbank Lara Seng -Director of Sustainability and CSR, Campus at Sodexo