Can you really start homesteading in the middle of a city? Absolutely. In this episode, Andres Arango—biomedical engineer turned homesteading innovator—shares how anyone, anywhere can begin building a sustainable, self-sufficient lifestyle.

From balcony gardens to full-scale food forests, Andres breaks down the core principles of homesteading, busts common myths, and offers practical tips for beginners. Learn how to optimize your space, conserve resources, and connect with a growing community of eco-conscious growers.

🌱 Topics Covered:

• Urban vs. Rural Homesteading
• Starting small with composting, herbs, and rainwater collection
• Designing efficient, resilient food systems
• Joining the Grow a Food Forest community for free
• Overcoming common beginner challenges

Whether you're a city dweller, sustainability enthusiast, or curious beginner, this episode will inspire you to take the first step toward self-sufficiency—no matter where you live.

🔗 Follow Andres:
 Instagram: @growfoodhomestead

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Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

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What does regenerative agriculture really mean—and why does it matter? In this episode of Fresh Take, host JC Rodriguez sits down with Dr. Kendra Klein, Deputy Director for Science at Friends of the Earth, to unpack the science, stories, and social impact behind one of the most talked-about movements in food and farming.

We explore:

• The true definition of regenerative agriculture
• How it differs from organic and sustainable practices
• The hidden cost of pesticides on soil health
• Real-world techniques and success stories from farmers
• The role of policy, advocacy, and consumer action in shaping the future of food

Whether you're a farmer, foodie, or climate-conscious citizen, this episode offers a grounded and inspiring look at how soil can be a solution to some of our biggest environmental challenges.

Support the show

Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

Become a sponsor today! Your sponsorship is crucial for us to continue providing essential programs, including this podcast. Visit our sponsor page now to learn more and join our community of supporters. Together, we can make a significant impact!

In this episode, nursery manager and vegetable farmer Robert Lommerse shares his journey from citrus horticulture to running a family-owned nursery and sustainable farm in Sanford, Florida. Discover how flowers and nurseries play a vital role in supporting pollinators, reducing environmental impact, and strengthening local food systems.

Whether you're a beginner gardener or a food system advocate, you'll gain practical tips for growing in small spaces, learn how nurseries foster community resilience, and explore sustainable practices that make gardening accessible and impactful.

Topics include:

• The role of flowers in biodiversity and food production
• Tips for beginner gardeners
• How nurseries reduce environmental impact
• Building community through gardening
• Sustainable practices for everyday growers

Farmer Rob's Veggies

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Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

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In this inspiring episode of Fresh Take, we dig into the soil—literally and figuratively—with Gen Z farmer and sustainability advocate Dawson Amico, founder of Hospitable Harvests. From growing native milkweed to support monarch butterflies to managing over 15 front yard microfarms in Orlando, Dawson shares his journey of turning passion into purpose.

Discover how the pandemic sparked his composting journey, why biochar became a game-changer in his soil health strategy, and how he's helping others grow greener through hands-on education and garden coaching. Whether you're a beginner composter, urban gardener, or just compost-curious, this episode is packed with practical tips, Florida-specific advice, and heartfelt stories of regeneration and resilience.

What You’ll Learn:

• How to start composting (even in a small space!)
• The role of biochar in soil health and carbon sequestration
• Tips for composting in Florida’s warm, humid climate
• How composting supports habitat restoration and biodiversity
• Dawson’s vision for empowering Gen Z to grow sustainably

Connect with Dawson:
Instagram: @hospitableharvests
Facebook: Hospitable Harvests
LinkedIn: Dawson Amico
Website: www.hospitableharvests.com

Tune in and get inspired to turn your food scraps into fertile soil and your front yard into a flourishing farm. Let’s grow a more sustainable future—one compost pile at a time.

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Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

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What exactly is the Farm Bill—and why should you care? In this episode of Fresh Take, we demystify one of the most influential pieces of legislation shaping our food system. Host Lana Chehabeddine sits down with Billy Hackett, a passionate policy specialist from the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition, to break down the Farm Bill’s history, structure, and far-reaching impact on farming, food access, environmental health, and rural communities.

Billy shares insights on how the bill affects everything from food prices to conservation programs, and why equitable reform is essential for farmers and communities. Learn about common misconceptions, current challenges, and how grassroots advocacy can drive meaningful change.

Whether you're a grower, policymaker, or simply someone who eats, this episode will empower you with the knowledge and tools to engage with the Farm Bill and support a more sustainable, just food system.

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Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

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Daniel Miranda is Director of Sales at Legacy Greens, a microgreen farm located in Tallahassee, Florida. In this episode, Daniel joins us for a conversation about his experience completing two On Farm Readiness Reviews (OFRRs). 

Hear about: 

- Why Legacy Greens decided to request each OFRR 

- Participating in the Produce Safety Alliance Training  

- The OFRR process and how it was beneficial for the farm  

Resources: 

Learn more about On Farm Readiness Reviews on the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) Website: https://www.fdacs.gov/Agriculture-Industry/Fruit-and-Vegetables/Food-Safety-Modernization-Act-Produce-Safety-Rule/On-Farm-Readiness-Review 

Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training Schedule in Florida: https://www.fdacs.gov/Agriculture-Industry/Fruit-and-Vegetables/Food-Safety-Modernization-Act-Produce-Safety-Rule/FSMA-Produce-Safety-Training 

Learn more about FOG’s upcoming food safety-related podcast, events and webinars on our website: https://foginfo.org/food-safety-for-producers/ 

 
For the latest news on FSMA, visit the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Website:
https://www.fda.gov/food/guidance-regulation-food-and-dietary-supplements/food-safety-modernization-act-fsma 

Learn more about Legacy Greens: http://www.legacygreens3.com/ 

Support the show

Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

Become a sponsor today! Your sponsorship is crucial for us to continue providing essential programs, including this podcast. Visit our sponsor page now to learn more and join our community of supporters. Together, we can make a significant impact!

Billy Mitchell, experto en inocuidad de alimentos, habla con nosotros sobre las auditorías de inocuidad alimentaria y las preguntas más frecuentes que tienen los agricultores. 

Damos la bienvenida a Billy Mitchell, Coordinador de Capacitación de FSMA para la Unión Nacional de Agricultores, para una conversación sobre las preguntas que comúnmente escucha de los agricultores sobre la seguridad alimentaria. 

Sintoniza para escuchar sobre: 

- Por qué la certificación de seguridad alimentaria se ha vuelto más común 

- ¿Esta certificación es voluntaria para productores orgánicos certificados y pequeñas fincas? 

- Cuánto tiempo lleva preparar una granja para una auditoría 

- El costo promedio de una auditoría de seguridad alimentaria 

Aprenda más en nuestro sitio web: https://foginfo.org/food-safety-for-producers-spanish/ 

Aprenda sobre el Sindicato Nacional de Agricultores (en inglés, National Farmers Union) en su página web: https://nfu.org  

Encuentre información sobre la inocuidad de alimentos en la pagina web de la Alianza de Inocuidad de Frutas y Verduras (en inglés, Produce Safety Alliance): https://producesafetyalliance.cornell.edu 

Obtenga más información sobre la inocuidad de alimentos en el sitio web de the U.S. Food and Drug Administration:https://www.fda.gov/food/guidance-regulation-food-and-dietary-supplements/food-safety-modernization-act-fsma 

Support the show

Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

Become a sponsor today! Your sponsorship is crucial for us to continue providing essential programs, including this podcast. Visit our sponsor page now to learn more and join our community of supporters. Together, we can make a significant impact!

Kirby Quam, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) Produce Safety Outreach Coordinator, speaks with us about the On Farm Readiness Review (OFRR) process for farmers. 

In this episode, hear about: 

- What is the On Farm Readiness Review 

- Who manages and participates in the On Farm Readiness Reviews in Florida 

- What farmers can expect prior, during and after an OFRR 

- Some common issues inspectors often see on farms 

- Where to sign up and find resources 

Resources: 

FDACS On Farm Readiness Review Website: https://www.fdacs.gov/Agriculture-Industry/Fruit-and-Vegetables/Food-Safety-Modernization-Act-Produce-Safety-Rule/On-Farm-Readiness-Review 

For the latest news on FSMA, visit the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Website:
https://www.fda.gov/food/guidance-regulation-food-and-dietary-supplements/food-safety-modernization-act-fsma 

Support the show

Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

Become a sponsor today! Your sponsorship is crucial for us to continue providing essential programs, including this podcast. Visit our sponsor page now to learn more and join our community of supporters. Together, we can make a significant impact!

In this episode, Dr. Keith Schneider, Professor and Extension Specialist in the Food Science and Human Nutrition Department at the University of Florida, introduces the Preventive Controls for Human Consumption Rule and its connection to Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HAACP).

Learn about: 

- The history of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HAACP)  

- What the Preventive Controls for Human Consumption Rule establishes 

- The Food Safety Preventive Control Alliance (FSPCA) 

- Preventive Controls Qualified Individual (PCQI) Training  

Resources: 

FSMA Final Rule for Preventive Controls for Human Food: https://www.fda.gov/food/food-safety-modernization-act-fsma/fsma-final-rule-preventive-controls-human-food  

Food Safety Preventive Control Alliance (FSPCA): www.ifsh.iit.edu/fspca 

For the latest news on FSMA, visit the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Website:
https://www.fda.gov/food/guidance-regulation-food-and-dietary-supplements/food-safety-modernization-act-fsma 

Support the show

Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

Become a sponsor today! Your sponsorship is crucial for us to continue providing essential programs, including this podcast. Visit our sponsor page now to learn more and join our community of supporters. Together, we can make a significant impact!

In this episode we welcome Marina Chaparro, a nationally recognized bilingual nutrition and diabetes expert, to discuss the importance of building positive food relationships and sustainable living. In this episode, Marina shares her insights on raising adventurous eaters, creating supportive food environments, and adopting sustainable practices in the kitchen. Whether you're a parent, a healthy food advocate, or simply interested in making more mindful food choices, this episode offers valuable advice and practical tips for fostering a healthier relationship with food. 

In this episode, you'll learn:

• The importance of nutrition in childhood and its impact on development
• Practical tips for raising healthy eaters and overcoming common challenges
• How to build a positive relationship with food and manage stress-eating
• The benefits of eating organic or local and what to look for when grocery shopping
• Simple ways to create a sustainable kitchen that benefits both your health and the planet

Tune in to gain practical advice and inspiration for making healthier, more sustainable food choices for you and your family!

Support the show

Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

Become a sponsor today! Your sponsorship is crucial for us to continue providing essential programs, including this podcast. Visit our sponsor page now to learn more and join our community of supporters. Together, we can make a significant impact!

Billy Mitchell, food safety expert, talks with us about food safety audits and commonly asked questions from farmers.  

 We welcome Billy Mitchell, FSMA Training Coordinator for the National Farmers Union, for a conversation about questions he commonly hears from farmers about food safety. 

Tune in to hear about: 

• Why food safety certification has become more common 
• Is this certification voluntary for certified organic growers and small farms? 
• How long it takes to prepare a farm for an audit  
• The average cost of a food safety audit 

 Resources: 

Listen to FOG’s food safety-related webinars on our website: https://foginfo.org/food-safety-for-producers/ 

Learn about the National Farmers Union on their website: https://nfu.org 

Find information on food safety on the Produce Safety Alliance website: https://producesafetyalliance.cornell.edu 

Support the show

Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

Become a sponsor today! Your sponsorship is crucial for us to continue providing essential programs, including this podcast. Visit our sponsor page now to learn more and join our community of supporters. Together, we can make a significant impact!

The Organic Food and Farming Summit, taking place in April 8-9 at Florida A&M University, invites farmers and consumers to explore sustainable practices and innovations within the organic agriculture sphere. The event highlights networking opportunities, expert insights, and hands-on experiences to inspire positive change in local food systems.

• Introduction to the Organic Food and Farming Summit
• Event details, including dates and location
• Significance of hosting at Florida A&M University
• Historical context and evolution of the summit
• Role of summits in driving change and building networks
• Focus on innovation and collaboration in organic practices
• Sessions addressing key topics like certification and financial planning
• Opportunities for participation from various community members
• Importance of student involvement and education
• Sponsorship benefits and opportunities for businesses

Don't miss out! Join us at the Organic Food and Farming Summit on April 8-9 at Florida A&M University. Register now to secure your spot before tickets run out. 

Support the show

Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

Become a sponsor today! Your sponsorship is crucial for us to continue providing essential programs, including this podcast. Visit our sponsor page now to learn more and join our community of supporters. Together, we can make a significant impact!

Sheila Gutierrez from Vizcaya Museum and Gardens shares her journey of connecting mental health and community engagement through urban agriculture. The episode highlights how food sustains us socially and physically, emphasizing Vizcaya's unique role in preserving agricultural legacy and fostering sustainable practices for a healthier community. 

• Sheila discusses her background in healthcare and the link to mental health
• Overview of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens' history and agricultural significance
• Introduction to the Vizcaya Village Farmers Market and its role in community engagement
• Explanation of the upcoming Dinner for Farmers event in collaboration with FOG's Florida Local Food Project
• Discussion on educational programs offered at Vizcaya for diverse audiences
• Insights into sustainability practices and their importance for future generations
• Exploration of how individuals can engage with local food systems and support their community

To learn more about Vizcaya and stay updated on upcoming events, visit Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Support their agricultural initiatives and be a part of fostering a healthier, more sustainable community.

Support the show

Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

Become a sponsor today! Your sponsorship is crucial for us to continue providing essential programs, including this podcast. Visit our sponsor page now to learn more and join our community of supporters. Together, we can make a significant impact!

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Hillary Miller, a passionate educator and advocate for sustainable agriculture. Raised in St. Petersburg, Florida, Hillary shares her transformative journey into the world of seed saving, offering insights into how it can preserve biodiversity and empower communities by making food more accessible and affordable. 

Explore the often-overlooked significance of seeds and their foundational role in our food systems. We discuss the environmental impacts of commercial seed production and how organic gardening and traditional food preservation methods can contribute to a healthier, more resilient food system. With practical advice for beginners, Hillary dispels common misconceptions about seed saving, encouraging small steps and community engagement as the path to food sovereignty. 

From seed libraries to growing heat-tolerant plants like Okinawa spinach in Florida's climate, we delve into initiatives that reduce dependence on commercial supply chains. Listen as we emphasize the importance of reclaiming vital life skills through master gardener programs, 4-H youth initiatives, and regional gardening networks, fostering a locally-driven approach to food security and community pride.

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Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

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Podcast Description:

In this episode, we’re joined by Mandi Garcia, a Clinical Nutritionist, Master Health Coach, and Performance Specialist with over 20 years of experience in the allied health industry. Mandi’s passion for nutrition began with a deeply personal journey—her dog’s lymphoma diagnosis—which ignited her dedication to holistic eating and sparked a profound connection between food, health, and agriculture.

Mandi shares her expertise in tying nutrition to sustainable agriculture, diving into the concept of farm-to-table nutrition and its impact on our health. We explore the benefits of locally-sourced and seasonal foods, from their superior nutrient density to the role of soil health in creating more nutrient-rich crops. Learn why freshness matters, how reduced transportation time enhances flavor and quality, and why seasonal eating can optimize your overall well-being.

Mandi also provides practical tips for incorporating local foods into your diet, from finding fresh produce at farmers markets and CSAs to crafting simple, nutrient-packed recipes. Whether you’re curious about nutrient retention, soil health, or meal prepping with local ingredients, this episode will inspire you to make informed food choices that support your health, local farmers, and the environment.

Tune in to discover how embracing farm-to-table practices can transform the way you eat, live, and connect with your community!

Learn more at: Wellness | Freedom Health and Well-Being

Additional resources mentioned:
SNAP-ed Connection - Seasonal Produce Guide

Foundation for Fresh Produce

Fresh From Florida

Mandi's "Chicken in a Pot" recipe

Support the show

Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

Become a sponsor today! Your sponsorship is crucial for us to continue providing essential programs, including this podcast. Visit our sponsor page now to learn more and join our community of supporters. Together, we can make a significant impact!

La Dra. Michelle Danyluk Brinda información sobre las 7 reglas principals de FSMA que los agricultores deben conocer.  

La Dra. Michelle Danyluk aclara la relación entre FDA Y La Ley de Modernización de Inocuidad de Alimentos (FSMA), destacando la legislación propuesta que aún no ha sido finalizada y Brinda información sobre las 7 reglas principals de FSMA incluyendo: 

1. La Regla de inocuiad de frutas y verduras 
2. Programa de Verificación de Proveedores Estranjeros (en inglés FSVP) 
3. La Regla de Transporte Sanitario  
4. Protección contra la adulteración intencional 
5. Certificación de terceros acreditados 
6. Reglas de controles preventivos para alimentos humanos y animals 
7. Programa de Importador Voluntario (en inglés, VQIP)  

 Recursos: 

Aprenda más en nuestro sitio web: https://foginfo.org/food-safety-for-producers/  

https://foginfo.org/food-safety-for-producers-spanish/ 

 Obtenga más información sobre la inocuidad de alimentos en el sitio web de the U.S. Food and Drug Administration:https://www.fda.gov/food/guidance-regulation-food-and-dietary-supplements/food-safety-modernization-act-fsma 

Support the show

Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

Become a sponsor today! Your sponsorship is crucial for us to continue providing essential programs, including this podcast. Visit our sponsor page now to learn more and join our community of supporters. Together, we can make a significant impact!

Dr. Michelle Danyluk, Professor and Extension Specialist in the Food Science and Human Nutrition Department at University of Florida, provides insight into 7 major FSMA rules that farmers need to know. 

Dr. Michelle Danyluk clarifies the relationship between the Food and Drug Administration and the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), highlights proposed legislation yet to be finalized, and provides insight into 7 major FSMA rules including: 

1. Produce Safety Rule 

2. Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP) 

3. Sanitary Transportation Rule 

4. Protection Against Intentional Adulteration 

5. Accredited Third-party Certification 

6. Preventive Controls Rules for Human and Animal Food 

7. Voluntary Qualified Importer Program (VQIP) 

Resources: 

Learn more about food safety and upcoming events and webinars on our website: https://foginfo.org/food-safety-for-producers/
 
Learn more about FSMA on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Website:
https://www.fda.gov/food/guidance-regulation-food-and-dietary-supplements/food-safety-modernization-act-fsma 

Support the show

Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

Become a sponsor today! Your sponsorship is crucial for us to continue providing essential programs, including this podcast. Visit our sponsor page now to learn more and join our community of supporters. Together, we can make a significant impact!

Ever wonder how a love for gardening and a background in marketing can lead to a thriving sustainable farm? Join us as we chat with Jonathan Way, the visionary co-founder of Calusa Farms and CEO of Topiary Creations, who turned his passion into a movement supporting small farmers across America. 

Jonathan's journey is a testament to resilience and adaptability. When the pandemic forced his farm to temporarily close, leaving unsold produce behind, he turned adversity into opportunity. By inviting chefs to witness the transparency of his food sourcing, he built trust that became invaluable as restaurants shifted to takeout services. This episode highlights the power of strong relationships and Jonathan’s innovative problem-solving.

From starting Calusa Farms with just $300 to leading Topiary Creations, Jonathan shares his evolution from small-scale farming to large-scale agriculture. His story blends hands-on farming expertise with strategic business insights, showing how positivity and openness can turn challenges into opportunities. This inspiring episode offers practical lessons on overcoming obstacles and thriving in unexpected ways.

Support the show

Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

Become a sponsor today! Your sponsorship is crucial for us to continue providing essential programs, including this podcast. Visit our sponsor page now to learn more and join our community of supporters. Together, we can make a significant impact!

Join us for an enlightening episode of Fresh Take, offering invaluable insights into disaster relief and resilience within the farming community. Our special guests, Lisa Misch and Jaimie McGirt from RAFI, share their vast experience in guiding farmers through the challenges posed by natural disasters. From hurricanes to droughts, we discuss the essential support systems that enable farmers to recover and thrive, highlighting the important roles played by the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) and Farm Service Agency (FSA) during times of crisis.

Lisa and Jaimie share their work, highlighting the importance of disaster recovery programs and keeping detailed records. We discuss the challenges of recovery and practical steps farmers can take to navigate the aftermath of extreme weather.
We conclude with a call to action for listeners to engage with RAFI's mission, advocating for a more equitable food system. Don't miss this crucial discussion on building resilient farm communities and the vital support farmers need to face natural disasters.

Additional resources:
USDA Disaster Discovery Tool
Navigating Disaster Programs for Farmers

Support the show

Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

Become a sponsor today! Your sponsorship is crucial for us to continue providing essential programs, including this podcast. Visit our sponsor page now to learn more and join our community of supporters. Together, we can make a significant impact!

In this episode, we sit down with Ali Cox, a visionary in agriculture and food ingredient marketing and the founder of Noble West, an award-winning consultancy that serves the entire agricultural ecosystem—from fresh produce to agTech. As a fifth-generation farmer, Ali returned to California’s Central Valley in 2007 with a mission: to provide world-class marketing to farmers and growers in her community. 

Ali shares her journey of keeping farming viable for future generations, exploring innovative projects like upcycling imperfect produce into valuable products. Through her work, Ali champions environmental sustainability, consulting on upcycling, regenerative water use, and organic farming practices, all with an eye on the climate crisis. This episode dives into the ways agriculture can adapt to changing consumer demands, while reducing waste and building a more sustainable future.

Key Takeaways:
- Understand how upcycling transforms potential waste into economic opportunities.
- Learn the difference between food loss (unharvested resources) and food waste (uneaten food).
- Discover how upcycling supports biodiversity and sustainable practices.
- Hear Ali’s insights on holding processors accountable and ensuring fair compensation for farmers.
- Explore how consumer education can help build acceptance for upcycled products and reduce food waste.

Learn more about Sierra Agra and their mission here!

Tune in for an eye-opening discussion on creating a sustainable food system and the future of upcycling in agriculture!

Support the show

Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

Become a sponsor today! Your sponsorship is crucial for us to continue providing essential programs, including this podcast. Visit our sponsor page now to learn more and join our community of supporters. Together, we can make a significant impact!

Curious how a chef champions urban farming? Meet Mike Garcia, who traded his chef’s knife for a garden trowel and founded Everoak Farm in Orlando, Florida. In this episode, we explore Mike's journey from culinary school to sustainable farming, where his expertise helps him provide fresh, local produce that exceeds customer expectations.

Mike shares his vision for a collaborative food system in Orlando, emphasizing community-supported agriculture and the potential of urban farming networks. He offers practical advice for aspiring farmers, including land leasing and reinvesting earnings.

Join us at the Florida Local Food Project's Field to Fork Farm Day at Everoak Farm on November 14, 2024! This event provides you with an excellent opportunity to network, learn from experts, and foster meaningful connections with others who are passionate about local food.

This event is offered to local food actors at no cost and is limited to 50 attendees.

Register here!

Support the show

Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

Become a sponsor today! Your sponsorship is crucial for us to continue providing essential programs, including this podcast. Visit our sponsor page now to learn more and join our community of supporters. Together, we can make a significant impact!

Unlock the secrets to starting a successful home-based food business with expert insights from Jennifer Hagen, Extension Agent specializing in Family and Consumer Sciences from the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. Jennifer’s inspiring journey from urban planning to guiding aspiring food entrepreneurs offers practical advice for those eager to launch their own ventures.

In this podcast, Jennifer breaks down the essentials of Florida’s cottage food laws, explaining which products can and cannot be sold from home. She also clarifies the critical distinctions between shelf-stable products that are allowed and those like dairy and meats that require refrigeration. With Jennifer's guidance, you’ll feel confident about starting your own food business while adhering to regulations.

**For even more info and an interactive experience, join Jennifer on Monday, September 30, 2024, from 12pm – 1pm EST for the Cottage Food and Value-Added Practices Virtual Training. Registration is free!**

Support the show

Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

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We welcome back Dr. Keith Schneider for a discussion on post-harvest water use. Dr. Schneider shares strategies to keep produce safe.  

Tune in to hear about: 

- Why harvest and postharvest water quality is important 

- How cross-contamination can occur  

- Which mitigation strategies are effective 

- The use of sanitizers and their role in growing safe produce 

Learn more on our website: https://foginfo.org/food-safety-for-producers/ 

For the latest news on FSMA, visit the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Website:
https://www.fda.gov/food/guidance-regulation-food-and-dietary-supplements/food-safety-modernization-act-fsma 

Support the show

Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

Become a sponsor today! Your sponsorship is crucial for us to continue providing essential programs, including this podcast. Visit our sponsor page now to learn more and join our community of supporters. Together, we can make a significant impact!

Join us as we talk with Jessica Riles, UF/IFAS Agriculture and Sustainable Food Systems agent in Collier County, and chair of the Southwest Florida Small Farmer Network. Jessica shares her transition from local government to supporting small farmers, discussing the importance of community support, relationship-building, and how the Southwest Florida Small Farmer Network connects farmers with vital resources.

We also dive into the challenges small farmers face, like labor shortages and high land costs, and explore innovative solutions like the Southwest Florida Fresh initiative. Jessica highlights how strategic planning, marketing, and collaboration are empowering local farmers and strengthening sustainable food systems in the region.

Thursday September 26 Fall Southwest Florida Small Farmer Network Meeting

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Can you trust what’s on your plate? In this episode of Fresh Take, we explore the critical role of maintaining integrity in USDA-certified organic products. We're joined by Orsi Dézsi, Executive Director and CEO of OMRI, who shares insights on how OMRI ensures organic inputs meet stringent standards and fortifies consumer trust in the organic label. Discover OMRI’s journey to listing 10,000 certified products and its pivotal role in guiding organic operations.

We also dive into the Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) rule, designed to strengthens oversight and enforcement of the production, handling, and sale of organic products. Orsi discusses SOE’s impact on OMRI, particularly in processing aids now requiring organic certification, and highlights how USDA organic standards stand out among food labels.

Tune in and stay informed on the latest in organic certification and enforcement!

Support the show

Due to the ongoing federal funding freeze, we must redirect our efforts to other FOG programs. But we need your help to keep programs like Fresh Take and other FOG initiatives alive!

Become a sponsor today! Your sponsorship is crucial for us to continue providing essential programs, including this podcast. Visit our sponsor page now to learn more and join our community of supporters. Together, we can make a significant impact!