Building Your Alt Protein Career: Shaping the Future of Food as a Plant Protein Scientist

Jordan Allen, MS

SENIOR CHEMIST, INGREDION

Jordan Allen is a Senior Chemist at Ingredion in the Protein Fortification group of the Analytical Characterization and Texture Science team, where she develops plant-based protein solutions by studying the structure-function-application relationship of plant proteins and applying these insights to create innovative ingredient solutions. She also serves as an Inclusion Lead for Ingredion’s Network of Early Talent business resource group, championing diversity and professional development through mentorship and peer learning.

Jordan earned her M.S. in Food Science & Technology from Virginia Tech in 2023 and her B.S. in Food Science with a concentration in Culinary Arts and a minor in Food and Agribusiness Marketing and Management from the University of Delaware. During her graduate studies, she focused on developing a sustainable process to extract protein from brewer’s spent grain and co-founded the Virginia Tech Alt Protein Project, a global initiative advancing awareness, education, and research in alternative proteins. Jordan is active in the IFT Protein Division, serves on the NYIFT Executive Committee, and is passionate about plant-based protein innovation, sustainability, and developing strong leaders for the future of food.

With expertise in protein science and applied food research, as well as a commitment to inclusive leadership, Jordan drives innovation in plant-based solutions and helps shape a more sustainable future for food.