Our History

The Center for Food Integrity was formed in 2007 to help the food system build consumer trust.

That same year, the iPhone was introduced and Facebook became widely available. Much has changed in the world since then, with exciting innovations that span the food system. Those working in the food system have also made strides to become more transparent about how food is produced, packaged, transported and more.

The Center for Food Integrity is governed by an elected Board of Directors who represent the diversity of our membership and are guided by CFI’s mission, vision and core values. From the beginning, Charlie Arnot has served as CEO of The Center for Food Integrity. Charlie is respected throughout the food system for his insights in understanding the challenges facing the food system and how to communicate with consumers. Terry Fleck served as the first executive director of the organization until his retirement in 2022. Mickie French took the reins as executive director that same year.

The members and project partners of The Center for Food Integrity represent every segment of the food chain: farmers, agribusinesses, biotech and research, universities, food processors, retailers and restaurants. Each of these members and partners brings a distinct voice to the Center and all are committed to creating a more transparent food system.

CFI was the first to introduce a research-based consumer trust model and continues to be a leading voice for today’s food system. Our research has found that trust cannot be earned by strictly sharing science with consumers. Trust grows when we demonstrate that we share consumer values about the things they care about most, like safe food, quality nutrition, outstanding animal care and environmental stewardship. CFI continuously conducts research to delve into consumers attitudes and motivations regarding their food choices.

CFI has influenced how the food system communicates about food and agriculture. As consumers ask more questions than ever before about their food, including how it was grown and processed, we know that connecting with consumers on what matters to them is essential. Through CFI’s proprietary Engage Training, we have equipped and empowered food system stakeholders – from students to CEOs – with the tools to effectively communicate shared values in day-to-day conversations as well through social media and news media.

In order to meet changing needs within the food system, CFI has led the creation of coalitions to bring the food system together to address important issues. These collaborations include the Coalition for Responsible Gene Editing in Agriculture, the Coalition for Sustainable Egg Supply, New Conversation about Food, Optimizing Sustainability and others.

Further, since 2010, CFI has leveraged ongoing research to identify the food and agriculture topics most important to consumers – from the curious to the complex – consulting with any of 200 university experts, who share their scientific insights on Best Food Facts, a consumer website.

The Center for Food Integrity continues to evolve and expand as the food system changes. Our commitment to build trust is based on the values we share and our commitment to help today’s food system do what’s right for people, animals and the planet.