Tater Talk

Episode 26: LW CRIBS Innovation Tour

Head over to our YouTube channel [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLhrZOb6MXn3r-tHoMvrn_2qgiGRUj6pkG] to join Rachael and Hailey for a behind-the-scenes tour of Lamb Weston’s Innovation Center, affectionately dubbed “the crib.” Guided by Candi Looney and Josh Stancil, this episode dives into the creative and technical heart of potato innovation. From colorful design elements and hidden imagery to groundbreaking technologies like steam peeling, infrared sorting, and the iconic Twister fry. Get a taste of the future as the team explores product testing kitchens, analytical labs, and the dream wall that fuels the next big thing in fries. It’s a fun, fry-filled adventure you won’t want to miss!

Episode 25: Strategic Growth Innovation

Tony Henson, Lamb Weston's Lead Principal Development Scientist, joins Tater Talk to share his 25-year journey in food innovation. From fryer-free fries to fridge-friendly solutions, Tony dives into the science behind making potato products work in unconventional restaurant settings. Learn how Lamb Weston is expanding its reach into places without fryers or freezers and what it takes to develop high-quality, oven-ready fries.

Episode 24: Product Innovation

Join Rachael and Hailey as they chat with Jake Fischer, Principal Development Scientist at Lamb Weston. With over a decade of experience in food science, Jake shares his journey driving innovation in product development. Discover the challenges of scaling new ideas, the role of science in everyday foods, and what it takes to lead in a fast-paced industry in this show and tell style podcast interview. This episode may be better for viewing.

Episode 23: Packaging Innovation

This week, we welcome Michael Grandinetti, Senior Manager of Packaging Engineering at Lamb Weston. With a background in Biological Engineering and an MBA in Management, Michael brings nearly a decade of experience leading sustainable, customer-focused packaging solutions. A Future Leaders Award recipient, Michael shares insights on innovation, leadership, and the evolving role of packaging in the food industry. Tune in for a sharp, inspiring look at the future of food tech and the power of great packaging.

Episode 22: Sensory Science

In this episode, we explore the cutting edge of food innovation with Benjamin Barrow — a multilingual food scientist whose journey spans microbiology, sensory science, and global product development. Currently an Associate Sensory Scientist at Lamb Weston, Ben blends technical expertise with marketing savvy, having led R&D initiatives and built a thriving social media presence. Join us as we unpack the science behind what we eat, the future of food, and how curiosity and communication fuel innovation.