Her Story
About Gretchen
Gretchen Gustafson is an accomplished sensory evaluation and research and development leader with extensive experience in the food science industry. With a Master of Food Science from the University of Minnesota, she has applied her expertise to advance product innovation, consumer insights, and quality assurance across leading organizations. Her work is grounded in rigorous scientific methodology and a passion for creating products that delight consumers.
Gretchen has held key roles at Post Consumer Brands and JonnyPops, contributing to product development, sensory analysis, and research initiatives that drive market success. Currently, she serves as a consultant with FoodOps LLC, providing strategic guidance on product development, sensory evaluation, and operational best practices. Her collaborative approach ensures that research and innovation align seamlessly with business goals and consumer needs.
Beyond her professional work, Gretchen is dedicated to giving back to the community. She has volunteered as a childcare assistant at Tubman and as a mentor with the Big Brother Big Sister Foundation, supporting children and families in meaningful ways. Her combination of technical expertise, leadership, and commitment to service positions her as a trusted leader in food science and product development.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Gretchen
01What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to always ask questions, stay curious, and remember that everyone has needs—both personally and professionally. I’ve learned that understanding others and building genuine connections is incredibly powerful, and that nurturing your network can open doors and create opportunities you might never expect.
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