James Zallie

President, Chief Executive Officer & Director, Ingredion

Search every verified James Zallie interview, podcast appearance, and on-the-record quote — each transcript cross-checked by AI and human review to confirm speaker identity. James Zallie, president and CEO of Ingredion, has described the company’s strategy as aiming to be the “go-to provider for texture and healthful solutions that make healthy taste better.” In a December 2024 podcast, he stated that Ingredion has shifted from being seen as a starch and sweetener company to a specialty solutions provider, citing its expansion into high-intensity natural sweeteners like stevia and protein fortification ingredients. Zallie noted that the company’s “idea labs” co-create products with customers, and he gave the example of producing a sugar-free, low-fat, plant-based ice cream as a capability the company lacked five to seven years ago. He also said the alternative meat category has faced challenges from rising food costs and labeling issues, and that Ingredion is working with customers to improve product labels using plant-based proteins and starches. Zallie has emphasized digital transformation and artificial intelligence as priorities. In a September 2024 interview, he said Ingredion is “all in” on digital engagement and is piloting AI-driven predictive formulation and tech service assistants. He stated that the company set a goal of creating over $100 million in value from digital transformation and has established more than 200 digital use cases. Zallie has also discussed the company’s sustainability commitments, including sourcing 100% of six priority crops sustainably by 2025, and its “All-Life Plan” with 2030 goals for reducing carbon footprint and water usage. Under his leadership, Ingredion has been named one of Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies and one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere Institute.