Raina Karia

I grew up in a family of foodies, gardeners, and home cooks. The more I became invested in cooking and eating great-tasting food, the more I learned how achieving that begins with quality ingredients produced sustainably. More specifically, I learned how the US food system is very far from that goal. Prior to HBS, I worked in PepsiCo’s beverage strategy team where I spent much of my time studying consumer trends in sustainability and beverage packaging and understanding the education gaps that exist today among US consumers. 

My vision for a sustainable future: I hope to create more transparency so consumers can better understand where their food comes from, the manner in which it was produced, and how the production process influences the end flavor and nutritional value of our food. I’d like to move our food system towards a world where regenerative farms and producers are the norm instead of the exception and consumers have access to convenient food options that are better for them and the planet. 

Favorite Green Tip: Many cities have electronic/live compost bin maps so you can find your nearest compost drop site! NYC’s app is called NYC Compost. Boston has a similar map here: https://www.boston.gov/departments/public-works/project-oscar