Key Takeaways
- Mary Kathryn Scala, Co-founder of Freight to Plate, leads a modular farming initiative focused on reshaping local food production through vertical container farms.
- The company integrates hydroponic systems in repurposed freight containers to address supply chain inefficiencies and urban food insecurity.
- Freight to Plate is collaborating with real estate partners to install modular farms near or within commercial properties and food deserts.
- Scala emphasizes educational outreach and hands-on training to increase awareness of local food systems and sustainable practices.
- Freight to Plate is currently scaling operations while adapting its business model to prioritize both community access and financial viability.
Mary Kathryn Scala Path: From Culinary Interest to Food Access Innovation
Mary Kathryn Scala’s path to co-founding Freight to Plate (Profile) began with a strong interest in cooking and health, later evolving into a mission-driven approach to food accessibility. With a background in food service and a personal passion for fresh ingredients, Scala identified a critical gap between food availability and nutrition in underserved communities. “I wanted to create a solution where people could have access to healthy produce and understand where it comes from,” Scala explained during the interview.
Modular Farms Meet Urban Challenges
Freight to Plate repurposes standard shipping containers into high-tech indoor farms, using hydroponic systems to grow leafy greens and herbs year-round. These container farms are designed to be placed near consumers, such as in parking lots or adjacent to food retailers. “Our goal is to shorten the food supply chain and empower communities with a reliable, local food source,” said Scala.
By targeting urban areas and collaborating with commercial real estate partners, Freight to Plate is able to activate unused spaces for food production while maintaining operational efficiency. The modular model also allows scalability based on neighborhood needs and purchasing power.
Community Engagement Through Education
A cornerstone of Freight to Plate’s approach is its education and training programs. Scala highlighted the importance of involving students, community members, and institutions in understanding how food is grown. “Education is a big piece of what we do. We want people to see farming as a viable, modern profession and a source of empowerment,” she noted.
Mary Kathryn Scala on Looking Ahead: Scaling with Purpose
As Freight to Plate expands, Scala remains focused on balancing profitability with impact. The company is exploring partnerships with government programs and health initiatives to increase the reach of its modular farm systems. With several installations already operational and more in development, Freight to Plate is positioning itself as both a farming solution and a public health intervention.
“We’re not just growing lettuce,” Mary Kathryn Scala concluded. “We’re trying to grow a stronger, more self-reliant food system—one container at a time.”
Listen or Watch The Entire Episode With Mary Kathryn Scala Below
