Clever Carnivore announced the hiring of Russell Thomas as VP of Product Development, to accelerate development of its debut consumer product, Clever Bratwurst. Clever Carnivore says the hire moves the company into the prototype development stage, meaning its cost-competitive sausages, burgers and chicken nuggets, “will soon become a reality”.
After its $2.1M raise last year, CEO Virginia Ringos said, “We’re hoping to eventually get — and we think it’s quite realistic — from a $1 burger, basically,” adding, “We think we’ll have product prototypes ready. . By the end of 2023.”
The startup, Chicago’s first cultured meat company, uses cell biology, recombinant protein technology and advanced bioreactor design to create a consumer product that competes with animal meat in taste, price and convenience.
Thomas holds a master’s degree in poultry science and worked for poultry giant Tyson Foods for 33 years, as manager and then director of R&D. In the new role, he will lead the creation of an accessible product line, starting with sausages.
“I am excited about joining Clever Carnivore,” said Thomas. “I entered the food industry more than three decades ago because I believe there is no greater way to serve humanity than to work to provide people with accessible, sustainable food. The technology developed by Clever Carnivore aligns with that mission.”
“Russell’s experience as Tyson’s director of research and development is a tremendous asset to Clever Carnivore as we aim to unveil our prototype product later this year,” said Virginia Ringos, Ph.D.