Beyond Meat
Advisory Panelist
Describe your food/beverage choices if any are plant-based.
As noted in the previous response, I eat a predominantly plant-based diet and have been pescatarian for ~8 years now (eating no meat), so I’ve become quite familiar with plant-based swaps. I will satisfy my protein requirements with a mix of tofu/tempeh, beans/legumes, meat substitutes,(and occasional egg/fish). Common meat substitutes I purchase and opt for when eating out include veggie: burgers (both beef/chicken style patties), ‘chicken nuggets’, and battered ‘fish’. I try to ensure I alternate the sources I choose.
As I also do not eat dairy (at all). I opt for non-dairy milks, avoid purchasing any product including dairy, and will occasionally “treat” myself to vegan cheeses (but these are rarely a true sub). I feel that dairy alternatives can be far more challenging to purchase and enjoy vs. meat substitutes.
When shopping or dining out, I absolutely prioritize stores and/or restaurants which offer a variety of meat-free options.
What is one thing media brands can do to better appeal to Gen Z on TikTok?
When media brands capitalize on "Gen Z" humour and TikTok trends, there emerges a feeling of relatability with the youth audience which can encourage organic engagement. For example, I think of the app Duolingo. Duolingo has gained a huge TikTok following over a very short period for its adoption of unconventional and comedic content that caters to the sense of humour of GenZ, despite the fact that it defies what we might think of as typical 'branding' outreach. This captures the audience attention of many diverse groups and builds an enthusiastic following. Similarly, many media companies were involved with the creator @emilyzugay who "rebranded" logos in a comedic way. Again, there was enthusiasm among audiences thanks to its comedic nature, and brands could receive visibility by being involved in an ongoing trend that did not come off as aggressive marketing. Rather, brands were able to capture trending attention by playing into the trend of another creator who spoke directly to Gen Z audiences - even though this might initially seem counterproductive to the brand identity at first.
No Particular Order
Research Partner
What role does journaling play in your life?
Journalling is a practice that has fluctuated throughout my life, but is presently something I have come to value and utilize most as a tool in my journey of personal healing and growth. I have found myself looking to my journal as a means of practicing gratitude and finding grounding at the end of each day, and a place that allows me to physically organize my thoughts. Journalling allows me to reflect and document, but also to plan for the present and the future. I view my journal as a tangible extension of my mental space that I am constantly able to return to when needed. I view journalling as an important element in my personal wellness routine and general organizational tool.
Beyond this, and as I have been navigating a significant portion of my university experience within COVID, I also look to my journal as a physical highlight reel. I love to use it to document important moments, both via writing and ‘collaging’ together small sentimental memorabilia (such as photos, tickets, dinner receipts, etc.). In this sense, my journal also takes on the role of a mini scrapbook.
I am excited to continue to grow my journalling practice and explore new styles of creating.