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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence and automation on the produce and floral industries with host Vonnie Estes and guest Joe Don Zetzsche. With insights from Joe’s extensive experience, the episode delves into AI’s role in reshaping retail, revolutionizing floriculture breeding, and redefining supply chains. Discover strategies for growers and retailers to adapt and thrive amid rapid technological advancements. As AI models grow exponentially, understand how embracing these changes can unlock abundance and sustainability in everyday business practices.Key Takeaways•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Exponential Growth Understanding: Joe explains the concept of exponential tech growth and its implications on human understanding and industry evolution.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;AI in Retail: AI is revolutionizing retail operations, with companies like Amazon and Walmart leading through data integration and automation.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Impact on Medium and Small Retailers: Smaller retailers may face challenges without strategic adoption of AI technologies, potentially paying other companies to fill those gaps.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;AI’s Role in Floriculture: AI’s integration in breeding processes is leading to more resilient and higher-performing floral varieties, highlighting future potentials for genomics and CRISPR technologies.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cultural and Economic Shifts: Consumer acceptance of AI-driven services, like delivery of perishables, signals a cultural shift towards automation-enhanced convenience.Guest Resources•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Joe Don Zetzsche: Currently supporting the floral and retail industries through consulting.•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA): Fresh ProduceFor more insights into how AI and technology are reshaping industries, listen to the full episode and stay tuned to “Fresh Takes on Tech” for more thought-provoking discussions.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/

Explore the transformative role of AI in agriculture with Vonnie Estes and guest Dr.&nbsp;Brian Lutz from Corteva Agriscience. Delve into the integration of AI and machine learning in crop protection and breeding to enhance prediction accuracy and hasten discovery processes. Discover how AI reshapes traditional methodologies, and learn about managing data and model performance in agriculture. Dr.&nbsp;Lutz shares insights on overcoming challenges in AI adoption and the importance of a robust data strategy in fostering innovation within large companies. Tune in for a forward-looking discussion on AI’s impact on farming’s future.Key TakeawaysAI in Agriculture: AI is transforming the agriculture sector by enhancing genetic research and crop protection with predictive modeling, significantly improving the R&amp;D process.Complexity and Scale: The vast complexity of agricultural data, comparable to immense structures like genomes or vast chemical spaces, necessitates sophisticated AI to efficiently explore and optimize outcomes.Customization over Commoditization: Success in using AI involves tailoring both self-developed and existing models to specific agricultural problems, rather than relying solely on out-of-the-box solutions.Data as a Product: Emphasizing a data-centric approach, Corteva sees data not just as a resource for applications but as a standalone product, vital for effective AI implementation.Transformative Culture: Developing a culture that integrates innovative AI methodologies with domain expertise promotes progress and adaptation in agricultural practices.Guest ResourcesCorteva Agriscience: CortevaDr.&nbsp;Brian Lutz: LinkedIn profile International Fresh Produce Association: IFPAThis episode offers a deep dive into AI’s impact on agriculture, making it an essential listen for anyone interested in the future of farming technology. Tune in for more insightful discussions on Fresh Takes on Tech and stay informed about the leading-edge practices that are reshaping the industry. Subscribe for more episodes and stay ahead in the ag-tech landscape.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/

Explore the transformative role of artificial intelligence in agriculture with Vani Estes and guest Ranveer Chandra, VP at Microsoft. Discover how Microsoft integrates AI to enhance productivity and decision-making in the agriculture and food industry. From AI-powered agronomists and predictive analytics to overcoming industry challenges such as data sparsity, Chandra shares insights on the future of AI, the importance of reskilling, and the ethical considerations for sustainable practices. Tune in to understand how AI is reshaping agriculture from farm to table.Key TakeawaysAI as a Powerful Enabler: Artificial intelligence is emphasized as a tool that can transform agriculture by making data-driven decisions, improving efficiency, and reducing reliance on guesswork.Generative AI in Agriculture: Chandra explains the role generative AI can play in empowering different stakeholders in the agriculture supply chain, from predicting yields to optimizing business processes.Customized AI Models: Future directions point towards personalized AI models tailored to specific organizational needs, taking internal data into account for more informed and effective decision-making.Need for Continuous Learning: The fast-evolving field of AI necessitates continual education and adaptation by individuals and organizations to fully leverage these tools.Equity and Bias in AI: Addressing potential biases in AI systems and ensuring equitable access to technology is essential to avoid a divide where certain parties are disadvantaged.Guest ResourcesRanveer Chandra’s LinkedInIFPA WebsiteDive into this riveting episode to learn how AI is poised to redefine agriculture and how you can prepare for its advances. Stay tuned for more insights from Fresh Takes on Tech as we continue to uncover the future of innovation in the food and agriculture industry.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/

Explore how AI is transforming the agtech investment landscape in this episode of Fresh Takes on Tech. Host Vonnie Estes sits down with Chuck Templeton, founding partner at S2G Ventures, to discuss AI’s role in sustainable innovation. Discover how companies are using AI for personalized marketing, efficient resource management, and collaborative solutions in food and agriculture. Learn about the shift towards more agile, cost-effective business models and how AI is enabling faster, targeted problem-solving and innovative partnerships. Join Chuck and Vonnie as they delve into AI’s potential to reshape agtech.Key TakeawaysInvestment Efficiency: AI is drastically shifting investment landscapes by enabling companies to be more capital-efficient, moving at the pace of industry adoption cycles.Cross-Industry Solutions: AI enables creative collaboration across different sectors by developing shared solutions, showcasing new models for innovation in agriculture.Dynamic Business Models: With AI, companies can discover opportunities faster and restructure marketplaces, redefining traditional industry models.Personalized Communication: AI is revolutionizing how companies communicate with their customers, creating customized content tailored to individual learning styles and preferences.Collaborative Research: Initiatives like pre-competitive consortia offer pathways to industry-wide collaboration, enabling shared research and development efforts.Guest ResourcesS2G Ventures - Investment firm focusing on sustainable food and agricultureOpenAI’s GPT-3 and its applications in organizational tasks and content developmentCompanies like Arable, Brightseed, and Shiru mentioned as examples of AI’s impact on the industryShow 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/