With thought leaders from across the food system, the Consumer Trust Insights Council gives members of The Center for Food Integrity perspectives on the issues impacting today’s food system.
The council meets monthly to explore emerging consumer trends and share insights based on current research, analysis and experience. In 2025, three new experts have joined the lineup that includes researchers, executives and social scientists. The new members are Dr. Ernest Baskin, St. Joseph’s University; Sherry Frey, NielsenIQ; and Diana Leza Sheehan, PDG Insights.
“We’re delighted to welcome these well-qualified individuals to the council. They each bring a depth of knowledge in their fields that will further enhance the insights that our members can use,” said Charlie Arnot, CEO of CFI.
Learn more about the council and meet the experts.
Welcome to these new panelists:
Ernest Baskin
Dr. Ernest Baskin is an associate professor of Food, Pharma and Healthcare and the chair of the Food, Pharma and Healthcare Department at Saint Joseph’s University. He is an expert in consumer behavior and marketing research, with his research focused on consumer judgment and decision making with a particular interest in consumption decisions.
Sherry Frey
Sherry Frey is Vice President, Total Wellness at NielsenIQ. With a background in market research, innovation and consulting, she works with clients across the fresh, CPG and wellness industries, providing forward-thinking insights, combined with practical strategies. In addition to leading NielsenIQ’s Total Wellness team and industry engagement, she is a featured speaker at many industry events.
Diana Leza Sheehan
Diana Leza Sheehan is the founder of MBE-certified PDG Insights. She is a seasoned market research, sales, and business strategy executive with over 20 years of experience spanning corporate, consulting, and management roles. Her expertise includes consumer and shopper segmentation, assortment and pricing optimization, market structure, and need-state analysis.
The council’s discussions dive deep into consumer attitudes, behaviors, motivators and influencers with their insight being distilled and shared with CFI members each month.
Learn more about becoming a member to have access to the Council’s insights.