Fresh Takes On Tech International Fresh Produce Association

What is the future of crop protection? Join us as we sit down with Ben Cicora, Senior VP of Sales and Marketing at Vestaron, to explore the game-changing innovations in agriculture. Discover how Vestaron is leading the charge with peptide-based technologies, addressing pest issues and resistance problems while prioritizing safety and sustainability in the face of climate change. In this conversation, we explore the transformative potential of peptide-based crop protection, from understanding its differences from traditional insecticides to navigating pricing strategies and engaging with growers to meet their evolving needs.
Listen in to hear about the trials, testing procedures, and challenges of acceptance, and learn how Vestaron's products contribute to biodiversity and climate resilience in agriculture. Join us as we uncover the future of sustainable crop protection and its profound impact on the agricultural landscape.
Key TakeawaysHow peptide technologies differ from traditional synthetic insecticides.Why peptides are safer for the environment.The trials and testing procedures to test for effectiveness.How the pricing is worked out for these newer technologies.The biggest challenge of acceptance.How Vestaron engages with the growers to understand their needs.Who their main competitors are.How their products help with biodiversity and climate change.
Guest ResourcesBen Cicora: LinkedIn
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/

How crucial is it for businesses to integrate sustainability practices into their operations? Today, we're joined by Nikki Cossio, Kyle Cosgrove, and Gabe Worthington from Measure to Improve to explore the significance of their partnership with IFPA on the climate-smart commodities grant. As pioneers in building successful sustainability programs, they shed light on why sustainability has become imperative, especially in the fresh produce industry. With new regulations emerging and buyers increasingly demanding sustainability metrics, staying ahead in sustainability is no longer a choice but a necessity for remaining competitive.
In this episode, we discuss the origins of climate-smart agriculture and the essential practices that businesses need to adopt. From understanding how the risks are removed to measuring inputs and yields, Nikki, Kyle, and Gabe provide insights to enhance your organization's sustainability efforts. Whether you're just beginning or already have a sustainability team, you'll learn how to navigate the evolving landscape of sustainability and equip yourself with the tools needed to thrive in an increasingly eco-conscious market.
Key TakeawaysWhat Measure to Improve does.How Measure to Improve is involved with the IFPA grant.Where the term climate-smart agriculture came from.The key climate-smart production practices that should be encouraged.How these incentives will encourage farmers to change their practices.How the risks are removed from the growers.The importance of measuring the inputs, outputs, and yields.
Guest ResourcesGabe Worthington: LinkedInNikki Cossio: LinkedInKyle Cosgrove: LinkedIn
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/

In our milestone 100th episode, we're diving deep into the realm of climate-smart agriculture, a pivotal topic shaping the future of farming. Joining us are Max Teplitski, Chief Science Officer at the International Fresh Produce Association, and Drew Zabrocki, Managing Partner at TOTEM LTD. Together, we explore IFPA's ambitious climate-smart program, diving into its current status, anticipated outcomes, and the transformative benefits it offers.
From the essential role of soil health in crop cultivation to the challenges of data integration, we uncover how IFPA is bridging the gap between existing grower systems and innovative agricultural practices. As consumer consciousness drives demand for sustainable food production, we dissect the vital nexus between agriculture, climate, and consumer preferences. Reflecting on the evolving landscape of climate-smart agriculture, we emphasize the importance of education, flexibility, and patience in fostering widespread adoption.
Key TakeawaysAn overview of the Climate Smart Program at IFPA.The projected outcomes of this program.The benefits of this program.How they are bringing this system to farmers at scale.The importance of education and meeting people where they are.What the reaction of growers has been.How we can get signage up.
Guest ResourcesMax Teplitski: LinkedInDrew Zabrocki: LinkedIn
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/

Unlock the secrets of innovation and success in the produce industry with today's power-packed lineup! Join us as we dive into the world of cutting-edge technology and data solutions with Greg Gatzke and Thuan Ngo from ZAG Technical Services, Inc. Discover how their accelerated business growth strategies are reshaping the technological landscape and propelling the industry into the future.
Next up, we're joined by Amy Tranzillo and Ethan Meyers from AgroFresh, a trailblazing company providing integrated technologies for growers, packers, and retailers. Explore the innovative solutions that are driving success across the entire supply chain. Wrapping up this episode is Chris Jones, Principal at RSM. As a top advisor to middle-market leaders globally, RSM plays a crucial role in shaping the future of business. Listen in to learn how RSM navigates the complex landscape of providing valuable guidance, managing data responsibly, and ensuring the utmost importance of data security.
Key TakeawaysWhy data needs to be managed.How data can be used responsibly.How ZAG is making technology more accessible.The importance of security in data usage.How does someone gather data?How FreshCloud works.The value in having quality inspection of produce.The benefit of taking small steps towards change.
Guest ResourcesGreg Gatzke: LinkedInThuan Ngo: LinkedInAmy Tranzillo: LinkedInEthan Meyers: LinkedInChris Jones: LinkedInGlobal Produce & Floral Show
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/

We're diving into the cutting-edge world of AgTech with a double feature in today's episode with two industry pioneers who are shaping the future. First up is Walt Duflock, VP of Innovation at Western Growers, a true trailblazer in the AgTech startup scene. Following Walt, we're honored to hear from Melissa Ackerman, CEO of Planet Harvest, on a mission to revolutionize the produce supply chain and make a positive impact on the environment, health, and society.
Listen in as we unravel the innovative landscape Walt is helping to craft and learn about the profound impact of technology on agriculture. From there, you will be inspired as Melissa shares the vision and passion behind her mission-driven company, highlighting the incredible value fresh fruits and vegetables offer to our healthcare structure.
Key TakeawaysHow technology is going to impact the agriculture industry.The importance of being innovative and ahead of the game.The benefit of collecting data and using it.Why simplicity and forward thinking are the keys to AgTech innovation.How technology fits into the new labor force in agriculture.The importance of being flexible and optimistic in what we can do. Why fresh produce should have a place in our healthcare structure.
Guest ResourcesWalt Duflock: LinkedInMelissa Ackerman: LinkedInGlobal Produce & Floral Show
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/

Take a look into the ever-evolving fresh produce industry in this episode featuring Andrew Kennedy, Co-Founder of New Era Partners, and Jeff Butler, General Manager of Silo Capital. Andrew shares his unique journey transitioning from the FDA to the private sector, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities of traceability in the food industry. From there, we delve into the world of Silo Capital with Jeff Butler, exploring the innovative platform's role in empowering buyers, growers, and shippers. 
Listen in to gain a deeper understanding of Silo's operations, its potential shift toward funding or software, and Jeff's journey from Amazon to the produce sector. You'll learn about the intricacies of sales in Silo and the profound significance Jeff places on face-to-face interactions. This episode spotlights companies revolutionizing the fresh produce landscape, providing you with a wealth of knowledge about the latest innovations and solutions in the industry.
Key TakeawaysAndrew’s unique perspective on working with data.How the industry has shifted in its use of data.How people are reacting to having data that is shared.The benefits Andrew can see in the future from using this data.The challenges of working with traceability.Whether Jeff sees Silo becoming more of a funding or a software company moving forward.How sales work in Silo.How Jeff transitioned from Amazon to produce.Why Jeff believes face-to-face interactions are so important.
Guest ResourcesAndrew Kennedy: LinkedInJeff Butler: LinkedInGlobal Produce & Floral Show
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/