Fresh Takes On Tech

International Fresh Produce Association
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Welcome to Fresh Takes on Tech, a podcast from the International Fresh Produce Association. At IFPA, Our trade association represents companies from every segment of the global fresh produce and floral supply chain. We advocate, connect and guide to enhance members’ prosperity. This is a show for people interested in the intersection between technology and the produce and floral industries. Each episode we explore the problems, solutions, people and ideas that are shaping the industry.

  1. 5 DAYS AGO

    Revolutionizing Resilience: How Tech is Transforming Ag with Danny Bernstein

    In this engaging episode of "Fresh Takes on Tech," host Vonnie Estes welcomes Danny Bernstein, the CEO of Reservoir, to explore the intersection of deep technology and agriculture. The conversation highlights Reservoir's mission to accelerate the integration of robotics and digital tools in the farming industry by making it easier for technologists to access agricultural fields for testing their innovations. Bernstein shares his journey from Silicon Valley to agriculture and emphasizes the value of technological resilience in improving food production practices. Bernstein reflects on the existing challenges faced by agtech startups, such as long timelines in field testing, and how Reservoir is revolutionizing this space. With plans to launch three deep tech incubators in California, Reservoir aims to provide early-stage startups with critical resources, including field access and precision labs. Bernstein also discusses Reservoir's venture capital initiative, "Reservoir VC," which provides pre-seed funding to support startups from ideation to market readiness, bringing attention to the significance of services and innovations like humanoid robots in the agtech landscape. Key TakeawaysKey Takeaways:Reservoir is addressing the gap between Silicon Valley's tech innovation and the practical needs of the agriculture sector by establishing deep tech incubators for accessible field testing.The introduction of Reservoir VC is set to provide crucial early-stage funding, helping agtech startups speed up their development process and innovate sustainably.Danny Bernstein highlights the importance of resilience in agriculture, drawing parallels between agtech and global diplomacy in sharing resources and building partnerships.Matthew Hoffman's transition to Reservoir as General Partner embodies a strategic move towards fostering more extensive startup collaborations and innovation support in the agtech industry.The episode foresees the role of humanoid robots and robotics as a service in transforming agriculture, emphasizing the need for adaptive business models to keep pace with technological advancements. Guest ResourcesReservoir: https://reservoir.co/International Fresh Produce Association: https://www.freshproduce.com/ Embark on a journey with Reservoir as they reshape the agtech landscape! Listen to the full episode of "Fresh Takes on Tech" for more insights and stay tuned for future episodes. Show LinksInternational Fresh Produce Association - https://www.freshproduce.com/ Fresh Takes on Tech - https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/takes-on-tech-podcast/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFreshProduceAssociation/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/IntFreshProduce/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/international-fresh-produce-association/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/intlfreshproduceassn/

    23 min

  2. 23/12/2025

    Secretary Karen Ross: Scaling AgTech Across the Supply Chain

    In this episode of "Fresh Takes on Tech," host Vonnie Estes engages in a deep conversation with Karen Ross at the Global Produce and Floral Show in Anaheim. As the Secretary of the California Department of Food and Agriculture, Karen offers valuable insights into the intersection of technology, climate, and food production in California. Together, they explore how technology is reshaping agriculture and the potential benefits and challenges of adopting these advancements. Throughout the discussion, Secretary Ross addresses the pressing concerns of modern agriculture, such as the impact of changing climate patterns, rising production costs, and the ongoing quest to attract a new generation of skilled workers to the sector. They also touch on the importance of innovation and technology in areas like precision agriculture, regenerative practices, and the emergence of biological solutions. The conversation highlights the essential role of partnerships and collaboration in paving the way for a sustainable agricultural future in California. Key TakeawaysThe Role of Technology in Agriculture: Technology, particularly in precision agriculture, offers solutions for overcoming environmental challenges and improving efficiency.Importance of Collaboration: Building partnerships across the supply chain is crucial to fostering innovation and addressing industry challenges.Focus on Sustainability: There's a strong push towards sustainable practices, including regenerative agriculture and the use of biologicals.Future Thinking and Adaptability: The agricultural sector must continuously adapt and embrace technology, such as AI, to remain competitive and sustainable.Opportunities in AgTech: The sector presents vast opportunities for young professionals, offering exciting careers in technology, innovation, and sustainability. Guest ResourcesCalifornia Department of Food and AgricultureUniversity of California, Agriculture and Natural ResourcesInternational Fresh Produce Association To discover more about how technology is shaping the future of agriculture, tune into the full episode. Stay connected with "Fresh Takes on Tech" for more illuminating discussions and insights into the rapidly evolving world of food and agriculture. Show LinksInternational Fresh Produce Association - https://www.freshproduce.com/ Fresh Takes on Tech - https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/takes-on-tech-podcast/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFreshProduceAssociation/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/IntFreshProduce/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/international-fresh-produce-association/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/intlfreshproduceassn/

    27 min

  3. 16/12/2025

    Accelerating Innovation: Lessons from the Packaging Innovation Program

    In this enlightening episode of "Fresh Takes on Tech," host Vonnie Estes delves into discussions with innovative leaders in the packaging and produce industry, exploring new technologies and solutions that are shaping the future of agricultural packaging. Starting with Ryan Towry of Kwik Lok, the conversation reveals the intricate journey of developing a home compostable closure aimed at improving sustainability and traceability in packaging. Towry emphasizes the need for reliable, cost-effective solutions in a supply chain eagerly confronting impending regulatory shifts like FSMA 204. As the episode continues, Dr. Taraka Ramji introduces Peelon's breakthrough compostable packaging solutions that effectively address major food waste and sustainability challenges. His insights reveal the complexities of introducing new packaging solutions that align with existing supply chain processes. Finally, Steve Greenfield of NNZ discusses the Q-Bic packaging innovation, an eco-friendly solution that aims to reduce shipping costs and enhance retail displays. Greenfield stresses the importance of strategic collaborations and long-term adoption strategies in bringing revolutionary packaging concepts to market. Key TakeawaysInnovative Packaging Solutions: Discover how companies like Kwik Lok, Peelon, and NNZ are pioneering new packaging technologies to tackle sustainability and efficiency in the supply chain.Sustainability and Traceability: Understand the role of home compostable solutions and enhanced traceability as pivotal components in future-proofing packaging against regulatory changes.Challenges in Adoption: Learn about the practical and logistical hurdles faced by large-scale producers when integrating new packaging technologies.Economic and Environmental Benefits: Explore how innovative packaging not only drives environmental benefits but can also lead to significant cost savings in distribution and retail.Collaborative Strategies: Insight into how strategic partnerships and accelerator programs can expedite the development and commercialization of novel packaging solutions. Guest ResourcesInnovative Packaging Program Info/Application: https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/fresh-field-catalyst/Kwik Lok Company: Explore more about Kwik Lok and their innovations on their website.Peelon: Learn about Peelon and their sustainable packaging solutions at their official website.NNZ: For more information about NNZ and their innovative packaging solutions, visit their website. Encourage your curiosity and delve deeper into these innovative technologies by listening to the full episode. Stay tuned for more insights into how technology is transforming food and agriculture. Show LinksInternational Fresh Produce Association - https://www.freshproduce.com/ Fresh Takes on Tech - https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/takes-on-tech-podcast/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFreshProduceAssociation/ Twitter - a...

    31 min

  4. 09/12/2025

    From Freshness to Packaging: Dual Innovations Shaping Produce’s Future

    Explore how innovation in food preservation and sustainable packaging is transforming the produce industry. Vonnie Estes engages with Joaquin Fisch of NAT4Bio on developing biological solutions for post-harvest preservation using natural polymers. Discover their strategies for extending fresh food shelf-life and adapting to different crops. Later, Jerold Zwas from PakItGreen shares insights into creating sustainable, compostable packaging that integrates seamlessly with existing systems, aiming to reduce reliance on single-use plastics. Learn how these technologies are paving the way for a more sustainable food future. Key TakeawaysNAT4Bio focuses on biological solutions using natural polymers to enhance freshness preservation and reduce chemical use in post-harvest processes.PakItGreen is spearheading the movement to eliminate single-use plastics with eco-friendly, fiber-based packaging that is easily integrated into current systems.Participation in accelerator programs facilitated valuable insights and partnerships, which were crucial for both companies in refining their products.Regulations against single-use plastics are driving innovation in sustainable packaging, with companies like PakItGreen at the forefront.Engagement with produce industry giants is a gradual process, often taking years to transition from pilot programs to full-scale implementation. Guest ResourcesInnovative Packaging Program Info/Application: https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/fresh-field-catalyst/NAT4Bio WebsitePakItGreen Website Show LinksInternational Fresh Produce Association - https://www.freshproduce.com/ Fresh Takes on Tech - https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/takes-on-tech-podcast/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFreshProduceAssociation/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/IntFreshProduce/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/international-fresh-produce-association/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/intlfreshproduceassn/

    25 min

  5. 02/12/2025

    From Seaweed to Shelf Life: Innovators Transforming the Produce Aisle

    Explore innovative strides in sustainable packaging and post-harvest solutions with Alyssa Pace from Sway and Anthony Zografos of Akorn Technology. Discover Sway’s groundbreaking use of seaweed for compostable packaging, tackling plastic waste in fresh produce. Learn about Akorn’s all-natural, chemical-free coatings enhancing produce shelf life while reducing waste, aligning with evolving consumer and retailer demands. Hosted by Vonnie Estes, this episode delves into the challenges and breakthroughs in transforming the produce industry’s approach to sustainability, driven by technology and creative material science. Key TakeawaysSway aims to revolutionize packaging by developing compostable solutions using sustainable seaweed materials.Clarity remains a significant hurdle in the adoption of new packaging materials, but brands focusing on sustainability can build consumer trust.Akorn Technology’s natural coatings offer an effective, chemical-free solution for extending the lifespan and quality of fresh produce.Recent industry changes, like Walmart’s policy against certain chemicals, highlight a growing shift toward natural alternatives.Both companies are part of the Fresh Field Catalyst Accelerator, which has provided essential industry connections and support for market penetration. Guest ResourcesInnovative Packaging Program Info/Application: https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/fresh-field-catalyst/Akorn Technology: https://akorn.tech/Sway: https://swaythefuture.com/ Show LinksInternational Fresh Produce Association - https://www.freshproduce.com/ Fresh Takes on Tech - https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/takes-on-tech-podcast/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFreshProduceAssociation/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/IntFreshProduce/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/international-fresh-produce-association/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/intlfreshproduceassn/

    23 min

  6. 25/11/2025

    From Pack Expo, Market Outlook: Sustainable Packaging Trends in the Produce Industry

    Explore the evolving landscape of sustainable packaging in the fresh produce industry with insights from Wyatt Maysey of Taylor Fresh Foods and Nate Klingler of IFCO. Delve into the pressures and innovations shaping packaging decisions, from regulatory impacts and material selection to technology’s role in optimizing sustainability. Discover how industry leaders are navigating extended producer responsibility (EPR) regulations and adapting strategies for a circular economy. This episode also highlights challenges for smaller companies and the importance of lifecycle assessments in driving thoughtful packaging solutions.  Key TakeawaysRetailer Pressure & Regulation: While retailers initially drove sustainability changes in packaging due to public goals, regulations like EPR are now the main forces shaping decisions. Material Innovations: Innovations in packaging material such as fiber-based polymers present opportunities and challenges, particularly in maintaining product freshness and safety. Lifecycle Analysis: The use of lifecycle assessments (LCA) is highlighted as crucial in measuring the true environmental impact of packaging materials, beyond initial sourcing and production phases. Reusable Packaging Systems: IFCO’s efforts illustrate the significant operational and sustainability benefits of reusable packaging within the produce supply chain. 2023 & Beyond Vision: Both guests emphasize the importance of moving beyond a throwaway culture towards a circular economy while advocating for more robust brand-consumer relationships in produce.  Guest ResourcesInnovative Packaging Program Info/Application: https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/fresh-field-catalyst/Taylor Farms website: www.taylorfarms.comIFCO Website: https://www.ifco.com/ Show LinksInternational Fresh Produce Association - https://www.freshproduce.com/ Fresh Takes on Tech - https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/takes-on-tech-podcast/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFreshProduceAssociation/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/IntFreshProduce/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/international-fresh-produce-association/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/intlfreshproduceassn/

    38 min

  7. 18/11/2025

    Packaging Transformation: The Consumer's Role in Future Design Choices

    Join host Vonnie Estes as she delves into the evolving landscape of sustainability in fresh produce packaging with Wyatt Maysey, Director of Sustainability at Taylor Farms. This episode explores the influence of regulatory changes, technological advancements, and consumer demands on packaging solutions. Discover the challenges of transitioning to sustainable materials, the importance of data-driven approaches, and the potential shifts in consumer perceptions by 2030. Estes and Maysey discuss innovative tools like Specright and the impact of regulations at the state level, offering listeners a comprehensive look at the future of sustainable packaging. Key TakeawaysRegulatory pressures are currently the biggest drivers of sustainability changes in packaging, superseding consumer and retailer influences.Establishing a data-driven foundation on packaging usage and material specifications is crucial for adapting to evolving regulations.Technological advancements in raw material extraction and manufacturing processes are pivotal to achieving lower environmental impacts in packaging.Transitioning to new packaging materials requires careful consideration of the entire supply chain, from production efficiency to consumer perceptions.The future of produce packaging may involve prioritizing brand trust over transparency, as innovation might shift towards less visible product packaging. Guest ResourcesInnovative Packaging Program Info/Application: https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/fresh-field-catalyst/Taylor Farms website: www.taylorfarms.comSpecRight: A spec management system to organize packaging data. This episode offers a deep dive into the complexities of sustainable packaging innovations in the fresh produce industry. Tune in to explore these insights with Wyatt Maysey, and stay connected for more enlightening episodes of “Fresh Takes on Tech” that empower you to navigate the intersection between agriculture, technology, and sustainability. Show LinksInternational Fresh Produce Association - https://www.freshproduce.com/ Fresh Takes on Tech - https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/takes-on-tech-podcast/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFreshProduceAssociation/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/IntFreshProduce/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/international-fresh-produce-association/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/intlfreshproduceassn/

    17 min

  8. 11/11/2025

    Beyond Transparency: Cory Connors on the Future of Produce Packaging

    In this engaging episode of Fresh Takes on Tech, host Vonnie Estes welcomes the insightful Cory Connors. As the host of the “Sustainable Packaging Podcast” and a leading figure in sustainable packaging solutions, Cory shares his extensive experience and knowledge on the current trends, challenges, and innovations within the packaging industry. This episode stands out as a deep dive into how packaging, legislation, and sustainability intersect, particularly in the fresh produce sector. Cory and Vonnie discuss the complexities of introducing sustainable packaging in the produce industry, emphasizing the essential balance between functionality and eco-friendliness. Cory explains, “There’s nothing sustainable about rotten food,” highlighting the need for packaging to preserve product quality above all. They explore how industry changes, like the move away from single-use plastics and styrofoam, are impacting suppliers and retailers. The conversation reveals the gradual shift from confusion to adaptation, as more companies embrace eco-friendly materials while navigating new regulations across multiple states. Key TakeawaysSustainable packaging must first and foremost be effective in preserving the quality of produce to ensure true sustainability.Regulations, such as those in Oregon, are pushing the packaging industry towards sustainability but require businesses to stay informed and adjust accordingly to remain compliant.The shift to sustainable packaging involves collaboration across the supply chain, from manufacturers to retailers.Industry events play a crucial role in fostering connections and developing solutions in sustainable packaging.Consumer behavior and preferences, such as the desire to visually inspect produce, will continue to influence packaging design choices. Guest ResourcesInnovative Packaging Program Info/Application: https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/fresh-field-catalyst/Cory Connors on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-connorsSustainable Packaging Podcast with Cory Connors on Spotify and AppleAtlantic Packaging: https://www.atlanticpkg.com For listeners eager to dive deeper into sustainable packaging strategies and industry insights, tune into this episode for a comprehensive look into current innovations and future directions in produce packaging. Stay connected with Fresh Takes on Tech for more enlightening discussions on technology’s role in transforming the food and agriculture sectors. Show LinksInternational Fresh Produce Association - https://www.freshproduce.com/ Fresh Takes on Tech - https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/takes-on-tech-podcast/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFreshProduceAssociation/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/IntFreshProduce/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/international-fresh-produce-association/ Instagram - a href="https://www.instagram.com/intlfreshproduceassn/" rel="noopener...

    13 min
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About

Welcome to Fresh Takes on Tech, a podcast from the International Fresh Produce Association. At IFPA, Our trade association represents companies from every segment of the global fresh produce and floral supply chain. We advocate, connect and guide to enhance members’ prosperity. This is a show for people interested in the intersection between technology and the produce and floral industries. Each episode we explore the problems, solutions, people and ideas that are shaping the industry.

Information

  • Creator
    International Fresh Produce Association
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2025
  • Episodes
    120
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    International Fresh Produce Association © 2025
  • Show Website
    Fresh Takes On Tech