Avocados as a Gateway to Better Health: HAB’s Leadership in Action

As Dr. Nikki Ford enters the final year of her three-year term with the Foundation for Fresh Produce (FFP) Board of Directors, her leadership continues to elevate the avocado industry’s presence in national nutrition and public health conversations.

Representing the Hass Avocado Board’s Avocado Nutrition Center, Dr. Ford ensures science-backed avocado research informs FFP’s strategic initiatives. Over the past year, she has mentored two FFP-affiliated nutrition professionals, helping build leadership pipelines across the produce industry.

FFP staff also sought her insights on FDA labeling laws, positioning the avocado industry as a thought leader in nutrition affairs.

In September, Dr. Ford presented at an FFP continuing education webinar Ensuring Kids Thrive, showcasing avocado research and how avocado can be used as a gateway to better lifelong health.

Through her engagement with FFP, Dr. Ford is strengthening partnerships, expanding the avocado industry’s influence, and advancing HAB’s mission to promote avocado consumption as part of a healthy diet.

“Dr. Ford’s extensive expertise in nutrition and the commodity landscape has been instrumental in guiding the Foundation to expand opportunities for industry engagement and consumption growth. Her passion and focus to inspire healthy eating backed by science significantly strengthen The Foundation’s credibility within the broader nutrition community. Additionally, her counsel and recommendations have been invaluable in broadening our perspectives and enhancing our strategies.”
– Lauren M Scott, President, The Foundation for Fresh Produce