The Plant Based Foods Institute (PBFI) announced the appointment of Sanah Baig as its new Executive Director, effective June 9, 2025. Baig, who has extensive experience in agricultural and food policy, most recently served as Senior Policy Advisor for Agriculture and Nutrition at the White House. She also held the role of Deputy Under Secretary at the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), where she led the agency’s $4+ billion science enterprise, focusing on agricultural innovation at the intersection of climate resilience, nutrition security, and food systems equity.
“Leading PBFI at this pivotal moment is an unparalleled opportunity to architect a food system where plants take center stage”
In a statement, Baig expressed her excitement about joining PBFI, stating, “Leading PBFI at this pivotal moment is an unparalleled opportunity to architect a food system where plants take center stage. Through deep collaboration with partners across the entire value chain – from research to retail – we can fuel innovation that not only empowers farmers and strengthens agricultural communities but also sustainably delivers more delicious options to consumers.”
Baig’s career includes leadership roles in both public service and the nonprofit sector. Before returning to government service in 2021, she served as Chief of Staff at the Good Food Institute and Program Director at the National Association of Counties. She is also a founding board member of Food Policy Pathways and serves on the advisory board of Plant Futures.
Advancing plant-based food systems
Baig’s appointment signals PBFI’s commitment to advancing plant-based food systems and fostering collaboration among key stakeholders, including industry leaders, farmers, and researchers. She believes the plant-based sector can play a significant role in transforming global food systems, creating new economic opportunities for agricultural communities, and providing consumers with diverse, nutritious food options.
Rachel Dreskin, CEO of PBFI, noted, “Her deep expertise in and passion for advancing agricultural innovation and fostering collaboration, combined with her proven leadership in both public service and the nonprofit sector, makes her uniquely qualified to advance PBFI’s mission of accelerating the sustainable production and consumption of plant-based foods.”
A collaborative vision
Baig’s vision includes diversifying crop production, tapping into the growing market demand for plant-based products, and fostering economic growth in rural areas through new manufacturing and production opportunities. She views plant-based foods as a key solution to addressing a range of challenges, including improving farmer profitability, enhancing public health, mitigating climate change, and strengthening nutrition security.
PBFI’s board president, Garrett Broad, stated, “Sanah’s deep understanding of both policy and agriculture will be invaluable as we work to create a more sustainable and resilient food system. Her collaborative vision for bringing together diverse stakeholders – from farmers to researchers to policymakers – aligns perfectly with PBFI’s mission to drive meaningful change in our food system.”
