The Produce Industry is very complex and covers A to Z literally Asparagus through Zucchini. We will discuss all types of markets foreign and domestic including Supply, Demand, Logistics, Technology, Food Safety, Sustainability, Industry Categories, Market Reports and Industry news, and more!!!
The Produce Industry Podcast with Patrick Kelly is a must-listen for anyone interested in the world of produce. Hosted by Patrick Kelly, this podcast provides an informative and entertaining look into the produce industry, covering topics ranging from trends and innovations to interviews with industry professionals. With its unique blend of education and entertainment, this podcast offers a refreshing change of pace.
One of the best aspects of The Produce Industry Podcast is its ability to provide specific and detailed information about various topics in the industry. Listeners can expect to learn about everything from different types of produce to the process it takes for fruits and vegetables to make their way from the field to their plate. The guests on the show are knowledgeable and passionate about their work, making for engaging conversations that keep listeners hooked.
Another great aspect of this podcast is its ability to keep listeners updated on what's happening in an ever-changing industry. With weekly insights into industry events and trends, listeners can stay informed about new developments and advancements in the world of produce. This makes it a valuable resource for those already working in the industry, as well as individuals who simply have an interest in learning more.
While there aren't many negative aspects to mention, some listeners may find that certain episodes don't cater directly to their interests or needs. However, with such a wide range of topics covered on this podcast, there is bound to be something for everyone at some point.
In conclusion, The Produce Industry Podcast with Patrick Kelly is a highly informative and enjoyable podcast that provides valuable insights into the world of produce. From its specific and detailed discussions to its entertaining and engaging conversations, this podcast has something for everyone interested in learning more about the industry. Whether you're already involved in produce or simply want to expand your knowledge, this podcast is definitely worth a listen.
This week on Fresh from the Field Fridays, California melons are in from El Centro, and May marks the beginning of California cantaloupe season.Dan the Produce Man dives deep into the fascinating history of the cantaloupe - from ancient times, to the papal villa where the melon is believed to have received its name, to the American railroad system that helped spread cantaloupes across the United States. Did cantaloupes really kill a pope? And how did they actually help save lives during World War II? Dan breaks it all down.Also on the table this week - a few early apricots, sweet Coachella Valley corn, and an update on the California cherry crop.It's all right here on Fresh from the Field Fridays from The Produce Industry Network, powered by AgLife Media.Check out AgLifeMedia.com today.
Join host Juanita Gaglio from Athens, Greece, as she explores Brazil's rising role in the global mango market with expert guest Eryvan Pires, CEO of FruitMarket. Discover how Brazil's year-round mango supply supports key markets in Europe and the US, the intricate logistics behind keeping mangoes fresh across continents, and the future growth opportunities in mango consumption and marketing. A must-listen for anyone interested in the international fresh produce industry and tropical fruit trends.#brasilmangoes #FruitMarket #Eryvanpires #mangoeports #freshproduce
Who was Bob Shapiro, the guitar-playing Vietnam protester turned Monsanto CEO who genuinely believed genetically modified seeds could save the planet — and how did the same man who preached environmental salvation simultaneously bury a billion dollars of toxic human suffering in a corporate spinoff so that Wall Street would never have to look at it? Why did the most consequential revolution in the history of American farming arrive not with a manifesto but with a technology-use agreement that made it illegal for farmers to do what farmers had done for ten thousand years? And how does the story of Roundup Ready seeds open a window onto the hidden architecture of modern food; from a Vice President offering himself as Monsanto's Washington liaison in a company greenhouse, to the superweeds growing three inches a day that nobody in the marketing department wanted to mention?Join John and Patrick for the fifth episode of their Monsanto series — the GMO revolution, the monarch butterfly, the seed-saving ban, and the extraordinary gap between Bob Shapiro's vision and the contracts his lawyers were writing — in an age when the most powerful thing a company could own was a gene, and the most dangerous thing it could lose was trust...----------In Sponsorship with Cornell University: Dyson Cornell SC Johnson College of Business-----------Join the History of Fresh Produce Club for ad-free listening, bonus episodes, book discounts and access to an exclusive chatroom community.Support us!Share this episode with your friendsGive a 5-star ratingWrite a review-----------Subscribe to our biweekly newsletter here for extra stories related to recent episodes, book recommendations, a sneak peek of upcoming episodes and more.-----------Instagram, TikTok, Threads:@historyoffreshproduceEmail: historyoffreshproduce@gmail.com
Join Patrick Kelly and special co-host Ross Nelson as they dive into the fascinating world of vintage produce crate labels. Exploring iconic designs from the 1900s to the 1950s, they share stories of holiday themes, sports branding, and artistic creativity that shaped the produce industry. Tune in for a nostalgic trip with unique vintage finds, fan calls, and a community celebration of produce history and art.#vintage #history #agriculture
It was May of 1976 when 15-year-old Dan the Produce Man walked into a produce market in his hometown of Alameda, California. That's where it all began.This week on Fresh from the Field Fridays, Patrick Kelly joins Dan to look back on some of the moments, memories, and fun from Dan's 50 years in the fresh produce industry.From retail to wholesale, foodservice distribution, home delivery, and owning his own produce company, Dan's journey through five decades in produce has been one incredible ride.Join us as we celebrate 50 years in the produce business. It's all right here on Fresh from the Field Fridays from The Produce Industry Network, powered by AgLife Media.Check out aglifemedia.com today.
n this episode of the Global Fresh Series Podcast, we are joined by Athena Vorillas for an engaging discussion on Greece's vibrant food culture, agricultural heritage, and evolving fresh produce sector. From the deep-rooted importance of olives, citrus, and traditional Mediterranean ingredients to modern consumer trends and the role of fresh food in Greek society, Athena offers valuable insight into how Greece's culinary identity continues to influence both local markets and global perceptions. Discover the intersection of tradition, nutrition, and agriculture in one of the world's most historically rich food cultures.#greekfreshproduce #innovation #naxosfresh #freshproduce
What was Roundup, the herbicide born from a soap crisis in a radioactive Idaho slag heap, that became the most widely used weed-killer in human history — and how did the shy, introverted chemist who discovered it almost by accident set in motion a transformation of global agriculture more radical than anything since the plough? Why did a company drowning in Agent Orange lawsuits and Superfund sites stake its entire future on a single molecule — and how did that gamble lead, step by step, to the most audacious business strategy in the history of farming: owning not just the chemical, but the biology of the crop itself?Join John and Patrick for the fourth episode of their Monsanto series — the phosphate mines of Idaho, the patent cliff, the genetically modified seed, and the ultimate expression of John Queeny's founding insight — in an age when the most powerful thing a company could own was no longer a factory, but a strand of DNA...----------In Sponsorship with J&K Fresh.The customs broker who is your fruit and veggies' personal bodyguard. Learn more here!-----------Join the History of Fresh Produce Club for ad-free listening, bonus episodes, book discounts and access to an exclusive chatroom community.Support us!Share this episode with your friendsGive a 5-star ratingWrite a review-----------Subscribe to our biweekly newsletter here for extra stories related to recent episodes, book recommendations, a sneak peek of upcoming episodes and more.-----------Instagram, TikTok, Threads:@historyoffreshproduceEmail: historyoffreshproduce@gmail.com
Join hosts Patrick Kelly and Co-Host Ross Nelson as they take you inside the 2026 Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPM) show in Toronto. Hear exclusive interviews with industry leaders, explore fresh innovations in produce packaging and supply chain technology, and discover the unique Canadian produce market vibe. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to CPM, this episode offers valuable insights and lively conversations about the future of fresh produce and global trade.
This week on Fresh from the Field Fridays, Dan the Produce Man has a whole lineup on the table - starting with rain-damaged Apache apricots and as peaches and nectarines begin filling the stands we're saying goodbye to one of the season's favorite citrus items - sweet, easy-peeling Ojai Pixie tangerines.Dan shares a quick purple artichoke tip, talks about items for his Juice Cleanse, Maradol papayas, white asparagus, how to pick out the freshest greens, and even how to sweeten up your juice naturally without adding fruit. Plus - Sweetest Batch strawberries, gold kiwi from New Zealand, and a whole bunch more.It's all right here on Fresh from the Field Fridays from the Produce Industry Network and AgLife Media.
In this week's Global Fresh Series, we explore why 2026 may prove to be a defining turning point for the global fresh produce industry. From escalating geopolitical tensions and shifting trade policies to extreme weather events, supply chain disruptions, and climate-driven production challenges, the sector is navigating unprecedented uncertainty. Join us as we examine how growers, exporters, retailers, and industry leaders are adapting to a rapidly changing landscape, through mergers and acquistions, and what these forces mean for the future of global fresh food production, pricing, and food security.#freshproducemergers #valueadded #freshproduceinflection #innovation
What was Agent Orange, the herbicide that fell like mist on the jungles of Vietnam — and how did a chemical born in a West Virginia factory end up destroying the food systems, forests, and bodies of an entire nation? Why did the company that knew its own product contained one of the most toxic substances ever identified keep that knowledge from governments, soldiers, and the Vietnamese farmers watching their rice paddies wither and die? And how does the story of twelve million gallons of dioxin-laced herbicide open a window onto one of the great recurring dramas of modern capitalism; from the misfiled letters of Nitro to the class action courtrooms of the 1980s, and the generations of Vietnamese children born into a war that never quite ended?Join John and Patrick for the third episode of their Monsanto series — Rachel Carson, Operation Ranch Hand, the veterans nobody believed, and the distance between what a company says it is doing and what it is actually doing — in an age when the most dangerous chemical in the world was still being sprayed on American rice fields fifteen years after it had been banned from the jungles of Vietnam...----------In Sponsorship with Cornell University: Dyson Cornell SC Johnson College of Business-----------Join the History of Fresh Produce Club for ad-free listening, bonus episodes, book discounts and access to an exclusive chatroom community.Support us!Share this episode with your friendsGive a 5-star ratingWrite a review-----------Subscribe to our biweekly newsletter here for extra stories related to recent episodes, book recommendations, a sneak peek of upcoming episodes and more.-----------Instagram, TikTok, Threads:@historyoffreshproduceEmail: historyoffreshproduce@gmail.com
Join host Patrick Kelly and special guest Tara Murray from Yo, Quiero! Brands as they craft the ultimate May the 4th Star Wars themed dip bar that seamlessly rolls into Cinco de Mayo celebrations. Discover festive dip ideas featuring guacamole, queso, salsas, and bean dips, plus tips on pairing fresh produce for the perfect fiesta spread. Whether planning a family gathering or a fun snack weekend, get ready for tasty, convenient party inspiration that'll keep your celebrations flavorful and stress-free!Who's ready? Because we are bringing the DIP DESTINATION TO YOU!!FIND A STORE TODAY!!https://yoquierobrands.com/locations
This week on Fresh From the Field Fridays, Dan the Produce Man is joined by Marc Wall and Neil Smith of Sandy Shore Farms in Ontario, Canada.And right now, one of the big crops coming out of Ontario is asparagus. Marc and Neil talk about the Canadian asparagus season, how they work alongside growers in Michigan and New Jersey, and how imports from Mexico are affecting the market.They also share why customers in their area are so receptive to local crops, the differences between asparagus varieties, and how those varieties all trace back to one mother plant.We also get into fresh processing with peppers and onions, food bank donations, reducing plastic, regenerative farming, cover crops, and what it takes to grow quality produce on a community-oriented family farm.It's all right here on Fresh From the Field Fridays from The Produce Industry Network, powered by AgLife Media.Check out aglifemedia.com today.
This week on the Global Fresh Series we conclude our exclusive coverage of the 43rd edition of Macfrut 2026, reflecting on three dynamic days that showcased the very best of the global fresh produce industry. From groundbreaking innovations and international partnerships to emerging technologies, sustainability initiatives, and key market opportunities, Macfrut once again proved why it remains one of the industry's premier global events. We break down the major highlights, influential conversations, and strategic takeaways from the show floor while also looking ahead to the future evolution of Macfrut and its expanding role in shaping the worldwide produce sector.#macfrut2026 #innovation #avocados #mangoes #produceindustrynetwork
Who was Edgar Queeny, the cold-eyed social Darwinist who inherited a chemical company from his father and turned it into one of the most powerful industrial forces in American history? Why did the man who helped trigger the atomic bomb, kept the Arsenal of Democracy running, and photographed brown bears in Alaska with Walt Disney also preside over a factory in West Virginia where workers were quietly being poisoned — and then denied compensation? And how does the story of a chemical explosion in Coal Country, a misfiled letter about dioxin, and thirteen men who couldn't afford to say no open a window onto the darkest chapter in the history of American agriculture; from the Manhattan Project to the jungles of Vietnam?Join John and Patrick for the second episode of their Monsanto series — the PCBs, the explosion at Nitro, the workers whose wives caught chloracne from their husbands' clothes, and the herbicide that was about to go to war — in an age when the company that made the bomb also made the weedkiller on your lawn...----------In Sponsorship with J&K Fresh.The customs broker who is your fruit and veggies' personal bodyguard. Learn more here!-----------Join the History of Fresh Produce Club for ad-free listening, bonus episodes, book discounts and access to an exclusive chatroom community.Support us!Share this episode with your friendsGive a 5-star ratingWrite a review-----------Subscribe to our biweekly newsletter here for extra stories related to recent episodes, book recommendations, a sneak peek of upcoming episodes and more.-----------Instagram, TikTok, Threads:@historyoffreshproduceEmail: historyoffreshproduce@gmail.com
Join Patrick Kelly as he sits down with Lorenz Hercher of the Mosca Group to explore Reisopack's cutting-edge packaging solutions shaping the produce supply chain and the partnership behind the two companies. Discover how automation, smart technologies, and tailored systems are helping growers and packers reduce damage, save time, and boost profitability in end-of-line packaging. Tune in for industry insights and a sneak peek at their showcase coming to CPM Toronto!https://www.reisopack.com/en/home-en/
This week on Fresh From The Field Fridays…Dan is joined by Chris Zanobini from the California Pear Advisory Board.We're digging into what's really going on with imported pears flooding the market right when California fruit - especially Bartletts - is coming on. What that means for our growers, what you're seeing at retail, and why it matters more than most people realize.We also get into how the produce industry - and you as a consumer - can actually be part of the solution.Fresh From The Field Fridays is brought to you by The Produce Industry Network and AgLife Media.Check out aglifemedia.com today.
This week on the Global Fresh Series, we take you to the opening day of Macfrut 2026 in Rimini, Italy—where the global fresh produce industry gathers with energy, innovation, and purpose. From the moment the doors open, the show floor comes alive with international voices, forward-thinking technology, and powerful storytelling from growers and brands around the world.In this episode, we explore the key themes shaping this year's event, including sustainability, post-harvest innovation, and the growing importance of authentic connections across the supply chain. With a strong international presence and unmistakable Italian hospitality, Macfrut once again proves to be more than a trade show—it's a global meeting point for the future of fresh.Join us as we capture the sights, sounds, and insights from day one in Rimini, and set the stage for an exciting week ahead.
Who was John Francis Queeny, the broke Irish-American salesman who founded one of the most powerful and controversial companies in the history of modern agriculture - without knowing the first thing about chemistry? Why did a secret deal with Coca-Cola, a presidential letter, and a warehouse full of matches save his fledgling empire from collapse? And how does the unlikely story of a fake sweetener made from coal tar in St. Louis open a window onto the birth of the American chemical industry; from patent medicines and caffeine trials to the fossil chemistry that would one day reshape what the entire world eats?Join John and Patrick as they begin their six-part series on Monsanto - the company that started with saccharin and ended up controlling the farm - in an age when there were no labels, no regulations, and absolutely no shortage of things that could kill you...----------In Sponsorship with Cornell University: Dyson Cornell SC Johnson College of Business-----------Join the History of Fresh Produce Club for ad-free listening, bonus episodes, book discounts and access to an exclusive chatroom community.Support us!Share this episode with your friendsGive a 5-star ratingWrite a review-----------Subscribe to our biweekly newsletter here for extra stories related to recent episodes, book recommendations, a sneak peek of upcoming episodes and more.-----------Instagram, TikTok, Threads:@historyoffreshproduceEmail: historyoffreshproduce@gmail.com
Join Patrick Kelly as he recaps the vibrant Viva Fresh 2026 showcase in San Antonio, highlighting the debut of Juicy the Mango and the impactful Water for All initiative. Hear insights from his keynote at the Pro Act conference on bridging generational gaps in leadership, plus behind-the-scenes moments from booths and industry leaders. Tune in for fresh industry stories and a sneak peek at upcoming events and promotions!
This week on Fresh From the Field Fridays with Dan the Produce ManWe've got Bei Bei Kabocha squash, baby fava beans, Seascape strawberries, first of the season California Tioga cherries, plus fresh California apricots, peaches, and purple asparagusIt's all right here - your produce market on the podosphereFresh From the Field Fridays, from the Produce Industry Network, powered by Ag Life MediaCheck out aglifemedia.com today
his week on the Global Fresh Series, we dive into how one everyday staple—tomatoes—has become a powerful symbol of today's shifting food economy. While broader grocery inflation begins to cool, tomato prices are surging, revealing a perfect storm of converging forces behind the scenes.From tariffs on imported supply to rising diesel fuel costs and increasing fertilizer expenses, the pressure is building across the entire supply chain. Add in seasonal demand and global trade dynamics, and tomatoes are now at the forefront of a new, more uneven wave of food inflation.In this episode, we break down what's driving the spike, why it matters for growers, retailers, and consumers alike, and what it signals for the future of fresh produce pricing worldwide.#freshtomatoes #freshproduce #fertilizer #groceryinflation
Who is Bill Gates, the college dropout from Seattle who built the operating system of global capitalism - and then turned his restless, problem-solving mind to the oldest human activity of all: growing food? Why did his six-billion-dollar mission to end hunger in Africa leave more people hungry than before? And how does the story of one man's extraordinary ambition over the world's food supply echo the great estates of Imperial Rome, the English enclosures, and the ruthless monopolies of the Gilded Age?Join John and Patrick as they tell the unsettling story of the world's most powerful philanthropist and his campaign to rewrite the operating system of African agriculture — in an age when the line between benevolence and control has never been harder to draw...----------In Sponsorship with J&K Fresh.The customs broker who is your fruit and veggies' personal bodyguard. Learn more here!-----------Join the History of Fresh Produce Club for ad-free listening, bonus episodes, book discounts and access to an exclusive chatroom community.Support us!Share this episode with your friendsGive a 5-star ratingWrite a review-----------Subscribe to our biweekly newsletter here for extra stories related to recent episodes, book recommendations, a sneak peek of upcoming episodes and more.-----------Instagram, TikTok, Threads:@historyoffreshproduceEmail: historyoffreshproduce@gmail.com
Over the last few years Patrick has been educated on plastics, compostable packaging and innovations in the supply chain. Join host Patrick Kelly as he explores the growing movement of sustainability in the produce industry, focusing on breakthrough compostable packaging innovations from leaders like Sunrays and Jac. Vandenberg. Discover how industry pioneers are transforming packaging to reduce plastic waste, support global causes, and meet consumer demand for eco-friendly options. Tune in to learn how the future of produce packaging is becoming both sustainable and scalable.This segment is POWERED by JAC VANDENBERG, INC. to educate and strive to a more sustainable future in our industry. https://sunraysfruits.com and https://jacvandenberg.com
This week on Fresh from the Field Fridays, Dan the Produce Man brings you four outstanding spring items that are sure to get your attention.First, we head into the tropical fruit world with the exotic and delicious longan.Then it's off to Watsonville, California for beautiful red Little Gem lettuce and fresh new crop sugar snap peas.We also explain the difference between stringless and traditional sugar snap peas.And while we're talking peas, we dive into pea greens, tendrils, and shoots, and how to use those tender greens in the kitchen.Finally, we wrap it up with the granddaddy of them all, Haden mangoes.It's all right here on Fresh from the Field Fridays, from the Produce Industry Network, powered by AgLife Media.Check out aglifemedia.com today.
Long before podcasts and digital media, Orion Samuelson mastered the art of connecting farm and consumer through the airwaves. As the iconic voice of WGN Radio, he translated complex agricultural issues into stories people could understand—and trust.This week on the Global Fresh Series, we examine how his approach to communication holds powerful lessons for today's content creators, brands, and fresh produce leaders.As the gap between growers and consumers continues to widen, is podcasting today's version of what Orion built decades ago?#foodpodcast #freshproduce #digitalmedia #foodmyths #produceindustrynetwork
What is huitlacoche, the fungus that Indigenous farmers in Mexico gave thanks for at harvest - and that American agronomists spent a century trying to burn, quarantine, and breed out of existence? Why did two civilizations look at the same diseased corn cob and see, one, a seasonal gift, and the other, an agricultural catastrophe? And how does this strange, blackened organism open a window onto the great collision between Indigenous knowledge and colonial science; from the burning of Aztec codices to the tasting menus of New York?Join John and Patrick as they tell the extraordinary story of corn smut - the Mexican truffle, the genetics laboratory darling, the fungus that fed empires and terrified farmers - in an age when the line between disease and delicacy has never been more hotly contested...----------In Sponsorship with Cornell University: Dyson Cornell SC Johnson College of Business-----------Join the History of Fresh Produce Club for ad-free listening, bonus episodes, book discounts and access to an exclusive chatroom community.Support us!Share this episode with your friendsGive a 5-star ratingWrite a review-----------Subscribe to our biweekly newsletter here for extra stories related to recent episodes, book recommendations, a sneak peek of upcoming episodes and more.-----------Instagram, TikTok, Threads:@historyoffreshproduceEmail: historyoffreshproduce@gmail.com
Join host Patrick Kelly and longtime guest Michael Chavez from Golden Star Citrus as they delve into the escalating costs impacting growers, packers, and shippers across North America. This episode breaks down fuel, packaging, and operational pressures, exploring innovative strategies and industry collaboration needed to thrive amid tightening margins. Tune in for a grounded conversation on adapting to the new normal in fresh produce supply.#risingcost #supplychain #agriculture #freshproduce #northamerica
This week on Fresh From the Field Fridays with Dan the Produce Man, we're talking spring. Four items that are really shining right now.Savoy or Bloomsdale spinach, fresh harvested English peas, young spring radishes, and new crop California blueberries.Then we take a trip to the farmers market and catch up with Eric Arias of Castellano Farms out of Dinuba, California. He gives us an update on the upcoming stone fruit season, with fruit expected to hit the market mid-May.It's a crop update, and we'll tell you what, the fruit is on the horizon, and it's looking good.Fresh From the Field Fridays is brought to you by the Produce Industry Network and powered by AgLife Media. Head over to aglifemedia.com and check it out.
Regenerative agriculture is no longer a niche concept—it's becoming a defining force in the future of global fresh produce. In this episode of the Global Fresh Series, we explore how farmers, retailers, and multinational food companies are working together to restore soil health, improve resilience, and reshape supply chains from the ground up.From large-scale initiatives across Europe to retailer-backed programs supporting farmers with data, training, and long-term investment, this episode dives into the real-world impact of regenerative practices. We examine how these efforts are addressing climate challenges, strengthening food security, and creating new opportunities across the value chain.Regenerative agriculture is reshaping the future of fresh produce. This episode explores how farmers, retailers, and global brands are working together to restore soil health, improve resilience, and build a more sustainable—and scalable—food system.
What is plastic, and how did a shortage of billiard balls accidentally give birth to the material that would feed the modern world? Why did a Belgian chemist rummaging through coal tar waste end up transforming the way humanity eats? And how does the unlikely journey from Victorian ivory substitutes to the clamshell of strawberries on your kitchen counter open a window onto the great forces of industrial history; from total war to the supermarket revolution?Join John and Patrick as they tell the extraordinary story of plastic's conquest of fresh produce, and the civilization it quietly built around us, in an age that made abundance the new normal...----------In Sponsorship with J&K Fresh.The customs broker who is your fruit and veggies' personal bodyguard. Learn more here!-----------Join the History of Fresh Produce Club for ad-free listening, bonus episodes, book discounts and access to an exclusive chatroom community.Support us!Share this episode with your friendsGive a 5-star ratingWrite a review-----------Subscribe to our biweekly newsletter here for extra stories related to recent episodes, book recommendations, a sneak peek of upcoming episodes and more.-----------Instagram, TikTok, Threads:@historyoffreshproduceEmail: historyoffreshproduce@gmail.com
In this milestone episode celebrating six years of the Produce Industry Podcast, host Patrick Kelly welcomes Rob Austin, CEO of Empower Fresh, for an in-studio conversation about the transformative power of AI and hands-on training in the produce supply chain. Discover how Empower Fresh University is reshaping team training, driving consistency, and helping retailers reduce shrink with cutting-edge AI tools. Tune in to learn actionable insights on revolutionizing your produce department and why the human touch remains crucial in the era of smart technology.https://empowerfresh.com/for-retailers#empower-fresh-university
This week, we're talking Gravenstein apples, a Sonoma County classic that is fading fast.Up in the Yuba City area, peach orchards - gone!At the same time, a whole wave of new fruit and berry varieties is coming your way.And in the bigger picture, restaurants are closing left and right. What is really going on out there?Plus, seasonal specialties like fiddlehead ferns and baby artichokes.And a juicy strawberry romance story from Dan's younger days.It is all right here on Fresh from the Field Fridays with Dan the Produce Man, from the Produce Industry Network, powered by AgLife Media.Check out aglifemedia.com today.
his week on the Global Fresh Series, we dive into a major joint venture between two industry powerhouses that is set to redefine the fresh-cut fruit landscape in France. With a strategic location, integrated logistics, and a focus on convenience-driven consumption, this partnership highlights the rapid evolution of value-added produce across Europe. We explore what this means for suppliers, retailers, and the future of fresh fruit consumption in one of Europe's most promising growth markets.#freshcutfruit #Prepworld #Omer-Decugis&Cie #freshberries #produceindustrynetwork
How did the humble date palm become entangled in the great age of empire? Why did steamships, railways, and the opening of the Suez Canal transform an ancient oasis crop into a global commodity? And how did a handful of date palms - smuggled across deserts, nearly lost to a curious dog, and later replanted in California - come to shape the modern global date industry?Join John and Patrick for the second part of their story on the history of dates, as imperial expansion, desert espionage, and ambitious American plant hunters carry this ancient fruit from the oases of North Africa and the Middle East to the highways of Southern California, and even back from seeds two thousand years old.----------In Sponsorship with Cornell University: Dyson Cornell SC Johnson College of Business-----------Join the History of Fresh Produce Club for ad-free listening, bonus episodes, book discounts and access to an exclusive chatroom community.Support us!Share this episode with your friendsGive a 5-star ratingWrite a review-----------Subscribe to our biweekly newsletter here for extra stories related to recent episodes, book recommendations, a sneak peek of upcoming episodes and more.-----------Instagram, TikTok, Threads:@historyoffreshproduceEmail: historyoffreshproduce@gmail.com
In this episode, Patrick Kelly dives into the recent silence in USDA's National FOB Review reports, exploring what it means for fresh produce market transparency and how industry professionals can adapt. From private data solutions to strategies for maintaining supply chain awareness, tune in to learn how buyers, sellers, and procurement managers can navigate this reporting gap with confidence.Reference: https://esmis.nal.usda.gov/publication/national-fob-review
This week on Fresh from the Field Fridays, Dan the Produce Man dives into what this early spring heat wave here in California could be doing to the cherry crop, those blossoms still hanging on, and how it may impact early stone fruit still on the trees.Then we head over to the produce table where he has purple snow peas, Padrón peppers, Ojai Pixie tangerines, jumbo heirloom artichokes, and red seedless Muscat grapes. Real springtime gems, good for your soul, good for your health, and flat-out enjoyable.It's all right here on Fresh from the Field Fridays, brought to you by the Produce Industry Network and AgLife Media. Check out aglifemedia.com today.
How did a humble desert fruit help build some of the world's earliest civilizations? Why did ancient farmers in Mesopotamia become master matchmakers for palm trees? And how did the date palm come to symbolize life, victory, and divine blessing across the ancient world?
Join host Patrick Kelly live from the vibrant Florida Citrus Tailgating event in Fort Pierce! In this episode, Quentin Roe co-hosts with Patrick on-site at the event. They chat with industry leaders and longtime friends about the latest in Florida citrus, community connections, and innovations shaking up the produce world. Grab a glass of fresh-squeezed juice and celebrate the spirit of Florida citrus with us!#farming #future #supplychain
This week on Fresh from the Field Fridays, Dan the Produce Man dives into St. Patrick's Day cabbage—a classic that's been showing up on produce stands and dinner tables for generations.Then we take a trip over to the San Francisco Ferry Plaza Farmers Market, where we talk with growers about Gem and Zutano avocados and what makes those varieties special.We also get into spring onions and the famous calcot onions—those sweet Spanish grilling onions grown using a special mounding technique that chefs love to roast over an open flame.It's all right here on Fresh from the Field Fridays from the Produce Industry Network, powered by AgLife Media.Check out AgLifeMedia.com today.
What does conflict in the Middle East have to do with the price of food on your table? More than you might think.In this episode of The Global Fresh Series, we explore how geopolitical tensions in the Persian Gulf—particularly disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz—are sending ripple effects through the global agriculture supply chain. While headlines often focus on rising oil prices, another critical commodity is at stake: fertilizer, the essential nutrient that supports nearly half of the world's food production.With countries in the region supplying a significant portion of the world's nitrogen fertilizers, any disruption in shipping lanes can tighten supply, drive up costs, and ultimately impact farmers, crop yields, and food prices around the globe. From the fields of the Northern Hemisphere preparing for spring planting to vulnerable regions facing rising food insecurity, the effects are far-reaching.Join us as we unpack the hidden connections between energy, fertilizer, global trade, and fresh produce, and examine how today's geopolitical challenges could influence tomorrow's harvests.#agriculture. #geopolitics #fertilizer. #freshproduce
What does a Roman emperor's craving for cucumbers have to do with feeding eight billion people? How did a 15th-century Korean cookbook quietly invent heated agriculture centuries before Europe's glass palaces? And how did Victorian spectacle, world wars, hydroponic ambition, and Dutch engineering transform the greenhouse from aristocratic indulgence into global infrastructure?Join John and Patrick as they trace the extraordinary history of climate control in the service of fresh produce - from Tiberius's selenite-covered cucumber beds, to the heated ondol systems of the Joseon Dynasty, the imperial glasshouses of Palace of Versailles and Royal Botanic Gardens, and the hydroponic battlefields of the Second World War.Because this is not just a story about architecture. It is a story about anxiety, empire, science, and survival. About humanity's refusal to let winter - or war, or geography - dictate what ends up on our plates.From Roman villas to vertical farms... this is the history of the greenhouse, and the quiet revolution that changed how the world grows its food.----------In Sponsorship with Cornell University: Dyson Cornell SC Johnson College of Business-----------Join the History of Fresh Produce Club for ad-free listening, bonus episodes, book discounts and access to an exclusive chatroom community.Support us!Share this episode with your friendsGive a 5-star ratingWrite a review-----------Subscribe to our biweekly newsletter here for extra stories related to recent episodes, book recommendations, a sneak peek of upcoming episodes and more.-----------Instagram, TikTok, Threads:@historyoffreshproduceEmail: historyoffreshproduce@gmail.com
Join host Patrick Kelly on-location at KDC in Vineland, New Jersey, for an exclusive deep dive into winter produce imports and family-run business excellence. Hear from industry leader William Kopke as he shares insights on building trust, operational innovation, and the future of fresh produce in a rapidly changing market. Discover what it takes to lead a global produce hub and why collaboration is key to thriving together in the supply chain.#freshproduce #agriculture #supplychainhttps://kopkefruit.com - Check out the latest and greatest from Kopke!
In this episode of the Global Fresh Series, we take you inside the energy and excitement of the SEPC Southern Exposure 2026 in Orlando, Florida—one of the fresh produce industry's most anticipated gatherings of the year.From the vibrant trade show floor to meaningful conversations with growers, shippers, retailers, and innovators across the supply chain, this episode captures the spirit of collaboration that defines Southern Exposure. We discuss the standout moments from the expo, including innovative booth presentations, new product introductions, and the growing role of storytelling and digital media in connecting fresh produce with buyers and consumers.We also highlight the educational sessions that addressed key industry topics—from supply chain challenges and market trends to the importance of building stronger relationships across the industry. As always, the show was not just about business—it was about community, networking, and celebrating the passion that drives the fresh produce sector forward.#freshproduce. #SEPC2026. #agriculture
What was the United States government's first move, when it decided that what Americans ate was a matter of national concern? Why, from the depths of the Civil War to the height of the culture wars, has Washington repeatedly redrawn the nation's plate - sometimes to fight hunger, sometimes to win wars, sometimes to battle heart disease and obesity? And how did fruits and vegetables move from quiet supporting players to nutritional protagonists, caught between science, industry, and politics?Join John and Patrick as they trace the extraordinary history of U.S. dietary guidelines - from the founding of the United States Department of Agriculture in 1862, through wartime rationing and the “Basic Seven,” to the rise and fall of the Food Pyramid and the fierce debates of today. As public health, agricultural economics, and political ideology collide at the dinner table, one question lingers: when the government tells you what to eat, who (and what) is really being served?----------In Sponsorship with J&K Fresh.The customs broker who is your fruit and veggies' personal bodyguard. Learn more here!-----------Join the History of Fresh Produce Club for ad-free listening, bonus episodes, book discounts and access to an exclusive chatroom community.Support us!Share this episode with your friendsGive a 5-star ratingWrite a review-----------Subscribe to our biweekly newsletter here for extra stories related to recent episodes, book recommendations, a sneak peek of upcoming episodes and more.-----------Instagram, TikTok, Threads:@historyoffreshproduceEmail: historyoffreshproduce@gmail.com
Join host Patrick Kelly as he welcomes special co-host Jonathan Buettner of Buettner Processing Solutions, LLC. for a lively discussion from the Southern Exposure 2026 event in Orlando, Florida. This episode dives into the heart of the produce supply chain community, highlighting trade show insights, industry collaborations, and innovations shaping the future of fresh produce. Tune in to hear about networking, new technology, and the spirit of support that keeps this industry growing strong.
This week on Fresh from the Field Fridays, Dan has King Oyster mushrooms on the produce table. Learn how you can turn these incredible mushrooms into vegan pulled pork and delicious tacos.Also on the table is Dazzle variety sweet apples, Ataulfo mangoes, Kinnow mandarins, and three varieties of blood oranges to taste and compare.It's all right here on Fresh from the Field Fridays with Dan the Produce Man, brought to you by the Produce Industry Network, powered by AGLife Media.Check out aglifemedia.com today!
What kind of fruit was designed to be swallowed whole by giant sloths? How did a sacred Mesoamerican tree become the green badge of millennial brunch culture? And how did a humble postman's backyard seedling end up conquering global agriculture?Join John and Patrick as they trace the astonishing history of the avocado - from the forests of ancient Mexico and the courts of the Maya and Aztec, to the chandeliers of the Alexandria Hotel, the rise of Calavo, and the accidental genius of Rudolph Hass. Along the way: plant explorers, freezes that nearly wiped out an industry, marketing masterstrokes, cartel violence in Michoacán, and the birth of the Super Bowl guacamole ritual.This is not just the story of a fruit. It's a tale of extinction and survival, empire and branding, crime and cultivation - a relic of the Pleistocene that somehow became the taste of modernity.----------In Sponsorship with Cornell University: Dyson Cornell SC Johnson College of Business-----------Join the History of Fresh Produce Club for ad-free listening, bonus episodes, book discounts and access to an exclusive chatroom community.Support us!Share this episode with your friendsGive a 5-star ratingWrite a review-----------Subscribe to our biweekly newsletter here for extra stories related to recent episodes, book recommendations, a sneak peek of upcoming episodes and more.-----------Instagram, TikTok, Threads:@historyoffreshproduceEmail: historyoffreshproduce@gmail.com
Join Patrick Kelly, the voice of the Produce Industry, as he shares firsthand insights from his recent travels through California's Central Valley and previews the highly anticipated Southern Exposure trade show in Orlando. This episode dives into the latest innovations in pre and post-harvest solutions with Agra Fresh, tackles the challenges of unpredictable weather on crop quality, and highlights exciting industry events and sponsors. Don't miss this behind-the-scenes look at the evolving produce supply chain and key trends shaping the season.
Join Ross the Produce Boss as he fills in for Dan with special guest Patrick Kelly to dive into the role of fresh produce in fueling athletes at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics. Explore how Italian cuisine and seasonal fruits and veggies are powering peak performance, plus insider tips on what's fresh and local this season. Tune in for fresh industry insights, Olympic highlights, and a celebration of produce in sport!
In this vibrant February episode of The Global Fresh Series, we celebrate the spirit of the Chinese (Lunar) New Year — a season of prosperity, renewal, and symbolic foods — while honoring National Heart Month, spotlighting the powerful role fresh produce plays in cardiovascular wellness.From citrus fruits symbolizing good fortune to berries, leafy greens, tomatoes, avocados, root vegetables, and other nutrient-rich staples that support heart health, we explore how global food traditions and modern nutrition science beautifully intersect.Join us as we journey across cultures and commodities, uncovering how fresh produce fuels celebration, strengthens communities, and supports healthier lives worldwide. Whether it's a lucky orange shared at the New Year table or a heart-smart salad packed with vibrant greens, this episode reminds us that the path to prosperity begins with what's on our plate.#chinesenewyear #nationalheartmonth #freshfruit #freshvegetables
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