This International Women’s Day (IWD) on March 8, 2025, we celebrate women’s achievements while acknowledging the ongoing journey toward equality and recognition. As we reflect on the origins of IWD—rooted in the struggles of women textile workers fighting for better working conditions—it’s fitting to explore how the clean label bread movement aligns with the spirit of progress and transparency that IWD represents.
Clean Label Bread and the Pursuit of Transparency
Clean label bread, characterised by simple, wholesome ingredients, mirrors the values of authenticity, clarity, and integrity that women have long championed in various spheres. Just as the early advocates of IWD called for “Bread, Peace, and Freedom,” today’s clean label movement demands clarity, simplicity, and honesty in our food.
Driven by consumer demand for healthier, more natural, and affordable products, the clean label trend parallels the push for greater representation and fairness in society. Both movements emphasise the importance of understanding what goes into our products and societal structures—whether it’s food labels or workplace policies.
As we celebrate IWD 2025 with the theme #AccelerateAction, we can draw inspiration from the clean label approach to create positive change. By simplifying our ingredients—both in bread and in our approach to equality and inclusivity—we can work toward a future that is more transparent, wholesome, and equitable, while still ensuring affordability, yield, and profitability.
A Career in the Food Industry: Then and Now – Cheryl Lockett
As an experienced Food Technologist, I have spent decades at the forefront of driving this trend, utilising my expertise in food engineering, training, and patented innovation. When I began my career nearly 45 years ago, women were a minority—not just in university courses, but in technical research, senior management, and food processing roles, particularly in baking and bread production.
Forging a career in this field required dedication, resilience, and commitment. I was fortunate to be inspired by forward-thinking schoolmasters who encouraged high achievement for both sexes, charismatic media personalities who shaped the food industry’s future, and—perhaps most importantly—my own mother, who always reminded me: “We’ve always got to eat.”
Her memories of post-war austerity and food rationing reinforced her belief that the food industry would always need talented scientists and engineers, offering stable and fulfilling careers. With bread known as the “staff of life,” its role in sustaining the nation has never been more critical.
Women Driving Innovation in Clean Label Bread
As consumer, retailer, and health professional demands evolve—and with government policies shifting toward sustainable food production—the contribution of women in the food industry is more vital than ever. Achieving parity in technical and leadership roles ensures that we continue to deliver clean label products that meet modern expectations.
My passion for innovation led me to join the forward-thinking team at Branwell, where I played a key role in developing the patented Cryogenic Spray Crystallised E-number-free EmuLux Bread Ingredients. Our work was recognised with the Simplified Clean Label Ingredient Award, issued by the Institute of Food Science & Technology (IFST) in conjunction with IFE Manufacturing.
Mentoring the Next Generation of Women in Food Science
After years of experience, one of the most rewarding aspects of my career is mentoring and advising the next generation of technically qualified women in business. Through various networks and associations, I am proud to support young professionals as they drive the future of clean label innovation.
As AI and digital technology continue to reshape the food industry, developing IT literacy alongside scientific and technical expertise will be essential. The next generation of women in food science and business must remain at the forefront—leading with knowledge, skill, and a commitment to progress.
A Recipe for Change
Just as clean label bread promotes simplicity and transparency, so too should our approach to equality, inclusivity, and innovation. By continuing to support women in technical, research, and leadership roles, we can build a future that is not only sustainable and forward-thinking but also deeply rooted in fairness and opportunity.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, let’s continue to champion both the movement for gender equality and the drive for cleaner, better food for all.