Plant Based World Council Introductions: Alison Rabschnuk
Alison Rabschnuk’s professional journey is a compelling narrative of passion meeting purpose. Currently the Director of Business Development at Freight Farms, Rabschnuk has traversed multiple sectors, combining her expertise in business development and marketing with a deep commitment to sustainable food systems.
Rabschnuk’s career has been diverse, spanning roles in various industries before pivoting towards a focus on plant-based protein and sustainable agriculture. “My whole journey started back in 1991 when I stopped eating meat, but it took me 25 years to integrate that passion into my career,” Rabschnuk recounts. The turning point came with her involvement in the Humane Society’s “Yes on 3” campaign in Massachusetts. This experience ignited a deeper exploration into animal welfare and the food system, leading Rabschnuk to make a bold decision: “The campaign led me to go down many rabbit holes and ultimately to shut down my successful business I had run for 18 years and join a non-profit, The Good Food Institute.”
At The Good Food Institute, Rabschnuk played a pivotal role in advising companies about the consumer demand and business potential in the alternative protein sector. This experience was foundational in shaping her understanding of the industry and its potential for transformation.
From there she took her next leap deeper into the traditional food ecosystem accepting the role of Director of Global Plant Protein Innovation for ingredient-giant Kerry. This offered another perspective on making an impact, ultimately leading to the discovery that she preferred the company culture of a smaller, more mission-driven organization, ushering her into the next adventure at Freight Farms.
Rabschnuk’s current role epitomizes her commitment to revolutionizing the way food is produced. Freight Farms specializes in converting shipping containers into hydroponic farms. “We make growing food healthy, sustainable, and accessible for a more secure food system,” Rabschnuk explains.
“At the end of the day, what drives me is wanting my kids to be proud of what I do, and I feel I am doing that now,” she shares.
Alison Rabschnuk’s journey from a successful entrepreneur to a leader in sustainable food systems with Freight Farms is more than a career trajectory; it’s a testament to the power of aligning one’s work with personal convictions and the potential to drive significant change.