Dynamic Decision Making: The Power of Digital Twins for Produce Supply Chain

Explore the dynamic realm of digital twins in agriculture with Vonnie Estes and Dr. Ziynet Boz from the University of Florida. Delve into how digital twins can transform complex systems like reusable packaging supply chains, enhancing decision-making by simulating real-world scenarios. Discover the distinction between digital twins and traditional models, the role of AI, and the challenges of implementing digital twins in produce logistics. With insights on optimizing costs, reducing environmental impacts, and improving supply chain dynamics, this episode unveils the future of sustainable agriculture driven by digital innovation.Key TakeawaysDigital twins are dynamic digital representations that remain connected with real-world counterparts to enhance understanding and decision-making.Unlike traditional lifecycle assessment tools and spreadsheets, digital twins can adapt to real-time data and simulate different operational scenarios.Reusable packaging presents a complex challenge well-suited for digital twins due to the numerous feedback loops and supply chain requirements involved.A practical digital twin implementation can integrate and balance economics, environmental impact, and operational efficiency.Collaboration between industry and academia can bridge knowledge gaps, ensuring robust interoperability across varied systems and stages in agriculture.Guest ResourcesDr. Ziynet Boz is an Assistant Professor at the University of Florida, specializing in the intersection of sustainable food systems, packaging modeling, and digitization. With a prolific career focused on systems questions, she is renowned for her expertise in digital twins and their application in agricultural and biological engineering. Ziynet's research interests integrate systems engineering, industrial engineering, and environmental 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/

Explore the evolving role of digital twins in the fresh produce industry in this episode of Fresh Takes on Tech. Host Vonnie Estes is joined by Erik Larsen from the International Fresh Produce Association, who delves into the definition, significance, and implementation challenges of digital twins. Discover how this innovative technology is transforming supply chain data management, enhancing traceability, and optimizing logistics. Erik also shares insights into the importance of data sharing and collaboration among supply chain partners. Tune in for a fresh perspective on leveraging technology for better data-driven decisions.Key TakeawaysDigital twins are virtual models reflecting real-world objects or systems, enhanced with real-time data, pivotal for optimizing supply chain management in the fresh produce industry.Erik Larsen emphasizes the critical shift from focusing on compliance to leveraging robust data infrastructures for optimization, safety, and profitability across the supply chain.Enabling the seamless sharing and interoperability of data among all stakeholders in the supply chain is crucial for successful implementation.Industries are increasingly recognizing that data sharing is a crucial business strategy rather than just a technological endeavor.To adopt digital twins successfully, the industry must prioritize standardized product identification, traceability, and a robust foundational data strategy.Guest ResourcesErik Larsen: Erik Larsen is the Director of Supply Chain at the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA). With over 25 years of experience, he has an extensive background in technology, data, and supply chain operations within the produce industry. His career began in the grower-shipper sector with companies like Gargiulo and Naturipe, where he served as head of IT. Larsen also worked with L&M companies and Duda Farm Fresh Foods, gaining a wealth of experience across various levels of produce supply chains. His involvement in industry committees and chairing the Produce Supply Organization demonstrates his leadership and dedication to advancing the sector.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 welcomes Rob Leclerc from AgFunder to discuss the transformative impact of Agentic AI on the venture capital industry. Delve into AgFunder's cutting-edge use of AI to innovate VC processes, manage portfolios, and streamline operations. With insights into the future of AI-driven investments and real-world use cases, this episode explores how AgFunder is harnessing AI for strategic advantage, offering a glimpse into the evolving landscape of venture capital. Discover the potential of AI as a game-changer in food tech and beyond.Key TakeawaysAgFunder leverages AI to streamline its venture capital processes, optimizing research, deal sourcing, and portfolio management.Rob Leclerc highlights the evolution from traditional to agentic AI, describing significant disruptions in the VC landscape.Agentic AI allows AgFunder to automate complex tasks, equipping it to manage a plethora of articles and data-driven decisions.The potential for AIs to conduct recursive self-improvement and the implications on the future of venture capital are explored.Rob envisions a future where AI agents negotiate and collaborate, representing both startups and investors in the VC ecosystem.Guest ResourcesRob Leclerc is a co-founder of AgFunder, a venture capital firm focused on food tech, climate tech, and agricultural innovation. With around $300 million in assets under management, AgFunder invests primarily in seed and Series A funding rounds, emphasizing transformative technologies in food and agriculture. Rob holds a master's degree in AI and virtual robotics and a PhD in computational biology and evolutionary biology from Yale University. As a leading figure in the venture capital landscape, Rob has a distinguished track record in leveraging technology to drive significant advancements in the agtech and foodtech 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 - https://www.instagram.com/intlfreshproduceassn/

Vonnie Estes hosts a conversation with Shail Khiyara, CEO of Swarm, exploring the transformative potential of agentic AI in agriculture. Khiyara shares insights on how Swarm's decision intelligence solutions optimize supply chain logistics and workforce planning, enhancing efficiency in various agricultural sectors. The discussion emphasizes the importance of starting with business problems rather than AI, capturing institutional knowledge, and the value of domain-specific AI solutions over generic alternatives. They highlight practical strategies for integrating AI in agriculture to boost margins and decision-making processes.Key TakeawaysVertical Domain AI Solutions: Swarm focuses on vertical domain-specific AI, providing tailored solutions that learn and adapt to specific business environments over time, particularly in agriculture.Start with Business Problems: Businesses should identify core problems needing AI solutions, rather than fixating solely on data cleanup and standard AI applications.AI and Institutional Knowledge: Utilizing AI to capture the decision-making prowess of experienced operators enhances sustainability and knowledge retention within agricultural entities.AI as a Springboard: Companies can treat AI investment as a strategic asset to significantly improve efficiency and profitability, without overhauling existing processes.Human in the Loop: In agriculture, AI is intended to augment human expertise, respecting the complex biological systems intrinsic to the field.Guest ResourcesShail Khiyara is the CEO of Swarm, a decision intelligence company specializing in leveraging AI technology to tackle complex operational and business challenges across various industries, including agriculture and agri-food sectors. With extensive experience in heavy industrial operations such as oil, gas, and infrastructure megaprojects, Shail's oversight is driven by the critical need for precision and safety in decision-making. Under his leadership, Swarm has developed domain-specific AI solutions that transcend common technological hype and directly address customer needs in optimizing supply chain logistics and workforce planning.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/

Delve into the transformative world of AI in the produce industry with host Vonnie Estes and guest Steve Statler, CEO of AmbientChat AI. Explore the intersection of AI, IoT, and supply chains, focusing on how agentic AI can revolutionize food logistics by enhancing efficiency, reducing waste, and improving consumer experiences. Gain insights into the implications of data ownership, AI standards, and the evolving dynamics between tech giants and traditional players. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the future of food supply chains and the vital role of AI.Key TakeawaysAgentic AI: Moves beyond data visibility, offering actionable insights and system-wide improvements in the produce supply chain.Data Ownership: Crucial for leveraging AI technologies in supply chains; businesses must ensure control over their data to retain agency.Physical AI in Logistics: Innovations like sensor-tagged shipping crates drastically improve supply chain efficiency and minimize waste.Consumer Empowerment: AI can customize and optimize food buying decisions, potentially increasing fresh produce consumption.European Initiatives: Europe's efforts in digital product passports may set a global standard for ethical data management in supply chains.Guest ResourcesSteve Statler is the CEO of AmbientChat AI and the host of the Mr. Beacon podcast. With an extensive background at the intersection of AI, ambient IoT, traceability, and supply chains, Steve is a recognized thought leader in the technology sector. His previous work with Wiliot, an Israeli semiconductor company, highlighted his innovation in ambient IoT, pioneering advances like affordable and ubiquitous temperature-sensing tags. Steve is passionate about the transformative potential of AI in physical supply chains, seeking to enhance efficiency 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/

Vonnie Estes hosts Seana Day, CEO of Dave Wilson Nursery, on "Fresh Takes on Tech." Seana shares her journey from investment banking to leading a longstanding tree nursery business, tackling challenges of modernizing legacy systems. Discover how Shauna used her tech and finance background to revolutionize the nursery industry, focusing on data-driven decision-making and enhancing customer outcomes. The conversation delves into integrating AI and technology to address implementation challenges in agtech, offering valuable insights for industry stakeholders. Tune in for a comprehensive look at transforming traditional agricultural practices.Key TakeawaysSeana Day transitioned from investment banking to agtech innovation, eventually becoming CEO of Dave Wilson Nursery, showcasing her diverse career in finance and agriculture.The critical role of a nursery in the specialty crop supply chain is often underestimated, as nurseries are integral in helping growers select and commercialize fruit and nut varieties.Modernizing an agribusiness like Dave Wilson Nursery involves creating a comprehensive data backbone, evolving from outdated systems to a more agile, technology-enabled operation.Successfully driving change in a nursery business requires strong leadership, effective communication, and involving staff in the design and implementation processes.Agtech companies often falter in implementation and onboarding; treating these aspects with the same care as product development can greatly enhance adoption and succesGuest ResourcesSeana Day is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in investment banking, agtech innovation, and agriculture. She has worked at the intersection of technology, finance, and agribusiness, transitioning from evaluating agricultural technologies to hands-on leadership as the CEO of Dave Wilson Nursery. Her career spans roles across investment banking, agtech investment strategies, and advisory capacities. At Dave Wilson Nursery, she brings her expertise to revitalize and innovate within this longstanding tree nursery business, applying her knowledge to drive modernization and operational transformation.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/

Vonnie Estes hosts Elliott Grant on Fresh Takes on Tech to explore the revolutionary potential of agentic AI in the food and agriculture sectors. Unlike generative AI, agentic AI autonomously sets goals and executes tasks, transforming processes from pricing negotiations to supply chain efficiency. The conversation delves into how this technology could level the playing field between small suppliers and large retailers, optimize consumer choices for health and sustainability, and fundamentally reshape industry dynamics. Grant also previews his upcoming book, "Eating Tomorrow: AI and the Future of Food."Key TakeawaysAgentic AI vs. Traditional AI: Agentic AI is designed to independently set goals, plan, and execute tasks, unlike existing AI that primarily provides information based on prompts.Potential in Agriculture: Agentic AI could revolutionize agricultural processes, from disease diagnosis to optimizing supply chains, offering actionable insights and automation.Levelling the Playing Field: Smaller producers may benefit from agentic AI as it could provide them with negotiation power comparable to larger corporations, fostering fairness.Consumer Impact: This AI advancement could lead to healthier consumer choices by aligning shopping behaviors with nutrition and sustainability insights.Transparency and Trust: Ensuring that agent discussions are transparent and follow clear protocols is essential for acceptance and success in real-world applications.Guest ResourcesElliott Grant is a distinguished professional who has consistently operated at the intersection of technology, agriculture, food, and data. He has an impressive track record of leading agricultural technology companies and delving deeply into food-related decision-making processes. Currently, Elliot is exploring significant shifts in AI, particularly the transition of AI from being a mere information tool to becoming an active agent capable of making decisions, taking actions, and negotiating autonomously. Elliot is also an author with a forthcoming book that encompasses various dimensions of AI, including a chapter focused on agentic AI. He continues to contribute valuable insights into the fresh produce industry while engaging with cutting-edge technology 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 - https://www.instagram.com/intlfreshproduceassn/

In this enlightening episode of "Fresh Takes on Tech," hosted by Vonnie Estes, the discussion orbits around the transformative role of Agentic AI in the food and agriculture industries. Special guest Jared Helenic from Infor brings valuable insights into how agentic AI can redefine enterprise operations and decision-making in produce companies. As companies struggle to integrate AI into their workflows while maintaining operational stability and security, Jared delineates a balanced approach to adopting this technology strategically and efficiently.Explore the journey of implementation and the strategic nuances of adopting agentic AI within produce companies. Discover how enterprise workflow and decision-making are poised to change dramatically with AI advancements, breaking away from generic AI's limitations. By delving into aspects like data fragmentation, the importance of holistic approaches over isolated use cases, and the future landscape of food and agriculture, this episode sheds light on why operational efficiency and governance in AI are indispensable. Stay engaged to understand how your company might seamlessly transition to leveraging agentic AI effectively.Key TakeawaysAgentic AI versus Generative AI: Unlike generic generative AI models, Agentic AI can execute tasks autonomously and more contextually, like a private chef preparing a dish from start to finish while tailoring it to specific needs.Integration Critical for Success: For successful AI implementation, all enterprise systems need to be interconnected. Disparate systems lead to inefficiencies and increased risk of errors or "hallucinations."Holistic vs. Isolated Use Cases: Companies are encouraged to target entire business units, such as finance or operations, rather than focusing on isolated use cases for impactful AI adoption.Role-Based Access and Security: Proper governance and security are paramount. Setting up role-based access can prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information, promoting trust in AI systems.Guest ResourcesJared Helenic is an expert working at the intersection of food operations, AI, automation, and innovation strategy at Infor. Infor is one of the largest ERP companies worldwide, focusing on manufacturers, distributors, and service companies, particularly in the food and beverage sector. Jared has been instrumental in integrating AI, machine learning, and automation into operational strategies, helping businesses optimize their processes for increased profitability and efficiency.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/

Dive into regenerative agriculture with host Vonnie Estes as she explores the USDA's Advancing Markets for Producers (AMP) program. Guests Nikki Cossio and Kyle Cosgrove from Measure to Improve discuss the importance of implementing sustainable practices on farms, the challenges growers face, and how AMP bridges the gap between farm practices and market recognition. This episode highlights the collaborative efforts needed across the supply chain to empower growers, enhance sustainability, and foster market demand. Listen to discover how regenerative agriculture is reshaping the future of farming and produce industry.Key TakeawaysProof of Concept: The AMP program aims to establish viable conservation practices that work across different farms and environments, providing growers with confidence in their sustainability investments.Supply Chain Education: There is a need for alignment and clarity among supply chain stakeholders concerning terms like "sustainable" and "regenerative," ensuring everyone speaks the same language.Risk Reduction: The program offers financial and technical support to mitigate the risks growers face when trialing new practices.Storytelling Importance: Effective communication of sustainability efforts is crucial in connecting farm practices to market value and consumer understanding.Farmer-First Approach: While centered on growers' needs, the initiative demands active participation from the entire supply chain for holistic success.Guest ResourcesMeasure to Improve (MTI): WebsiteInternational Fresh Produce Association (IFPA): WebsiteUSDA's Advancing Markets for Producers (AMP): USDA AMP PageEmbark on this informative journey as Vonnie Estes and her guests, Nikki Cossio and Kyle Cosgrove, discuss these crucial themes in agriculture today. Listen to the full episode for deeper insights and stay tuned to Fresh Takes on Tech for more engaging discussions on the future of food and agriculture.Show LinksInternational Fresh Produce Association - https://www.freshproduce.com/Fresh Takes on Tech - https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/takes-on-tech-podcast/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFreshProduceAssociation/Twitter - https://twitter.com/IntFreshProduce/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/international-fresh-produce-association/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/intlfreshproduceassn/

Episode Summary:In this episode of "Fresh Takes on Tech," host Vonnie Estes delves into the significant themes of regenerative agriculture and market opportunities for growers engaged in climate-smart practices. The episode specifically highlights the USDA's Advancing Markets for Producers (AMP) program, showcasing its attempt to forge tangible market value for sustainable farming practices. Featured guest Peter Wells from Elevated Foods shares insights into his company's role within this program, focusing on how they aggregate products from multiple growers to reach new consumer markets.Elevated Foods is actively contributing to resolving the disconnect between sustainable agricultural practices and market incentives by developing commercial supply chains linking growers with consumers and buyers. The discussion centers on the innovative approaches that Elevated Foods is pursuing, such as nutrient density testing, and the emphasis on local and regional food systems. Wells discusses the challenges and successes encountered, particularly with data collection and market engagement, providing listeners with a detailed view of the company's strategic initiatives.Key TakeawaysThe USDA's AMP program aims to connect climate-smart agricultural practices with real market value for growers by fostering collaborations among producers, buyers, and supply chain partners.Elevated Foods focuses on aggregating produce from multiple growers to enter new markets, relying on storytelling and local food systems to differentiate their products.Nutrient density testing is an innovative approach being utilized by Elevated Foods to highlight the quality and health benefits of sustainably grown produce.The challenges of data collection have been alleviated somewhat by recent changes to the program, enabling more efficient engagement with growers.There is significant interest from growers in adopting sustainability practices, and buyers are intrigued by the potential for differentiation through these practices in the marketplace.Guest ResourcesElevated FoodsInternational Fresh Produce Association (IFPA)For those intrigued by the interplay between sustainable agriculture and market forces, this episode offers a deep dive into the solutions and opportunities being explored. Listen to the full episode to gain further insights and stay tuned for more discussions that push the boundaries of innovation in the food and agricultural 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 - https://www.instagram.com/intlfreshproduceassn/