MEET MIKEL ABEBERRY: REVOLUTIONIZING FOIE GRAS, ONE PLANT-BASED BITE AT A TIME

Mikel Abeberry is a driven entrepreneur and innovator in the plant-based food industry. As the CEO of Aberyne, he has dedicated his career to crafting sustainable and ethical gourmet products. His flagship creation, Foie Green, has already made waves as a plant-based alternative to traditional foie gras, earning praise for its ability to replicate the luxurious texture and taste of this iconic delicacy without animal cruelty. Born on January 8, 1990, in the Basque Country, Mikelā€™s upbringing in a region known for its rich culinary heritage shaped his passion for food and culture. He leveraged this background to create Aberyne, a company that bridges traditional gastronomy with modern, sustainable values. Food enthusiast at heart, Mikel has used his business acumen to develop innovative products and pursue growth opportunities in global markets. His efforts have contributed to the rising popularity of vegan luxury foods and are helping redefine the future of the culinary world. Outside of his professional endeavors, Mikel is passionate about exploring new cuisines and hidden culinary gems. His vision for the future includes expanding Aberyneā€™s impact globally while maintaining a personal connection to his Basque roots and a lifestyle that celebrates balance, creativity, and sustainability.

What was your first job and what is your actual job?

First job: Opening oyster at 15 year old at Biarritz local market in summer.

Actual job: Now, CEO of Aberyne.

Do you believe entrepreneurs are born with innate qualities or made through experiences and learning?

šŸ‘¶šŸ»Ā Born

šŸ‹ļøā€ā™€ļøĀ Made

In the classic debate, which came first for you: the egg or the chicken?

šŸ³ Egg

šŸ” Chicken

In the realm of technology, which do you think will have the greatest impact on the food system in the next 10 years?Ā 

In the next 10 years, I believe the greatest impact on the food system will come from advances in food technology and biotechnology. Specifically, precision fermentation and plant-based protein engineering will revolutionize how we produce sustainable alternatives to animal-based products. These technologies not only address ethical concerns but also tackle critical issues like resource efficiency and climate change. Additionally, I see the integration of AI and data analytics transforming supply chain management, reducing food waste, and improving traceability for greater transparency and efficiency. These innovations will empower consumers to make informed choices and drive the shift toward a more ethical and sustainable global food system. As someone deeply involved in the plant-based food industry, Iā€™m excited to be part of this transformation, combining innovation and sustainability to create products that redefine whatā€™s possible in food production.

Which skill do you believe will be more useful in the future of work?

I believe adaptability and a growth mindset will be the most critical skills for the future of work. As technology continues to evolve rapidly, the ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn will set individuals apart. Coupled with this, skills like emotional intelligence, creativity, and problem-solving will remain invaluable, as they cannot be easily replicated by AI or automation. For me personally, I also see the importance of digital marketing expertise and strategic thinking. As industries and consumer behaviors become more data-driven and digital-first, understanding how to leverage these tools effectively will be a key differentiator, especially in fields like sustainable food innovation. Ultimately, combining technical proficiency with human-centric skills like empathy and collaboration will create leaders who can thrive in an ever-changing work environment.

Describe the most surprising culinary experience youā€™ve ever had

The most surprising culinary experience Iā€™ve ever had was discovering a small, unassuming restaurant in a backstreet of Tokyo. I was initially drawn in by its modest appearance, but what unfolded was unforgettable. The chef served a dish of ramen unlike anything I had ever tastedā€”delicate, yet deeply complex, with layers of flavor that seemed to evolve with every bite. The broth, made from kombu and dried fish, had a smoky umami depth, while the handmade noodles were perfectly chewy. What surprised me most was the meticulous care the chef took in preparing each ingredient, despite the humble setting. That experience reminded me how the simplest-looking dishes can hold the most unexpected surprises when crafted with passion and skill. It reinforced my belief in the power of authenticity and attention to detail in foodā€”values I strive to reflect in my work today.

Name a professional you think we should interview

I believe you should interview Albert AdriĆ . Heā€™s not only one of the most innovative chefs in the world but also a visionary who has redefined modern gastronomy. From his groundbreaking work at elBulli alongside his brother Ferran to the unique culinary concepts heā€™s created in Barcelona, Albert has consistently pushed the boundaries of whatā€™s possible in food.