Dr Courtney Gaine, PhD, RD, is President and CEO of The Sugar Association, where she has spent a decade championing scientific research, consumer education and evidence-based policymaking. Her leadership has strengthened industry understanding of sugar’s role in food manufacturing, nutrition and confectionery.
Appointed in January 2016, Gaine brings extensive experience in nutritional sciences, biochemistry and nutrition policy. Previously Vice President of Scientific Affairs at The Sugar Association, she also held senior scientific positions at the International Life Sciences Institute North America.
Her work combines scientific expertise with industry representation, helping manufacturers, policymakers and consumers understand sugar’s functional properties and its place within balanced diets.
Advancing Scientific Understanding and Industry Representation
Under Gaine’s leadership, The Sugar Association has promoted science-led discussions surrounding sugar consumption, food formulation and nutrition policy. Representing American sugar beet and sugar cane growers, processors and refiners, the organisation is the scientific voice of the U.S. sugar industry, and works to make a difference by responsibly supporting scientific research, and sharing knowledge to enhance consumer understanding and confidence in the role that real sugar plays in a nutritious, balanced and enjoyable diet.
Her contribution is particularly relevant to confectionery manufacturers, where sugar provides sweetness alongside essential functional properties, including texture, structure and preservation.
In 2026, Gaine continued advocating for greater transparency in food labelling. The association renewed its campaign urging the US Food and Drug Administration to strengthen labelling requirements for non-sugar sweeteners, helping consumers make more informed purchasing decisions.
Strengthening Industry Collaboration and Education
Beyond The Sugar Association, Gaine has held influential leadership positions across the wider food industry. She served as President of the Home Baking Association Board of Directors from 2019 to 2022 and Chairman of the World Sugar Research Organization Board from 2021 to 2023.
These appointments demonstrate her longstanding commitment to scientific collaboration, industry education and knowledge-sharing across food manufacturing sectors.
Through her leadership, Gaine has helped connect scientific research with practical industry challenges, supporting informed conversations about ingredients, nutrition and consumer expectations.
Her continued dedication to scientific communication, industry representation and education has established her as an influential female leader whose contributions extend beyond sugar production into confectionery and bakery manufacturing.
Gaine’s career demonstrates how scientific expertise and collaborative leadership can contribute to the future development of the global confectionery industry.
