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Many Kids Know What Food Is—But Not Where It Comes From

Most children eat three meals a day, yet many have little connection to the farms, farmers, and food systems that make those meals possible. In this episode, Becky Sponholtz, Executive Director of Florida Agriculture in the Classroom, shares how school gardens, hands-on learning, and agricultural education are helping students better understand where their food comes from and why agriculture matters. Growing up in Florida's agricultural heartland and spending years as an agriscience teacher, Becky brings a unique perspective on inspiring the next generation of informed consumers, future farmers, and food system leaders. Together, we explore how agricultural literacy helps cultivate stronger communities, healthier food choices, and a more resilient future for agriculture.

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Fuel the Work Behind the Mic—and Beyond

Behind every episode is a community of supporters who believe in a healthier, more resilient food future. Sponsorship support helps Florida Organic Growers continue connecting farmers, food, and communities through education, resources, and conversations that inspire positive change. 🌱

👉 Visit our sponsor page to learn more and join our community of supporters. Together, we can grow real solutions.

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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!

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!

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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!

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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

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!

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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.

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!

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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.

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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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.

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!

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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 FloridaMandi'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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!*

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We hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

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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

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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!

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Join us for an inspiring conversation with Catt Fields White, founder of Farmers Market Pros and co-host of the Tent Talk podcast, as we celebrate the 25th anniversary of National Farmers Market Week. Discover Catt’s journey from establishing the thriving Little Italy Mercato in San Diego to her ongoing efforts to support new markets. We explore the transformative impact of farmers markets on communities and local economies, delving into challenges farmers face, the importance of authenticity and transparency, and the evolving landscape of farmers markets. Catt offers valuable advice for vendors and market managers on navigating regulations, pricing, marketing, and community engagement.

Catt also shares her work promoting financial sustainability, community engagement, and entrepreneurship through Farmers Market Pros. From online courses to national conferences, her efforts support small farmers and market managers across the US and Canada. As an advocate for local food systems and a member of several farmers market coalitions, Catt's dedication to preserving healthy food options for future generations is truly inspiring. Tune in to gain a wealth of knowledge and insights into the vibrant world of farmers markets. Whether you're a market enthusiast or an aspiring vendor, this episode is a must-listen!

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SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

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Can agriculture heal the invisible wounds of war? Join us as we talk with John Jackson, an Army Ranger with six tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, about his journey from enlistment after 9/11 to finding peace through farming. At Comfort Farms in Milledgeville, Georgia, John helps veterans cope with post-traumatic stress using farming as therapy. Discover how Comfort Farms combines behavioral therapy with agricultural work and community events, fostering teamwork and genuine connections. Tune in to learn about these impactful initiatives and how you can support our veterans.

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Are you aware of the hidden dangers lurking in your fruits and vegetables? Join us on Fresh Take for an eye-opening discussion with Juan Carlos Rodriguez, an Education and Outreach Specialist at Florida Organic Growers. We promise you’ll gain critical insights into the "Dirty Dozen," a list of produce most contaminated with pesticides, and understand the potential health risks these chemicals pose.

In this episode, we unravel the origins and mission of the Environmental Working Group (EWG), established in 1993, and explore how they educate the public using data from the USDA and FDA. You'll learn why strawberries and other crops are heavily sprayed, especially in climates like Florida's, and the regulations in place to ensure consumer safety.

Discover the truths and misconceptions surrounding organic farming as we clarify the selective use of natural and approved synthetic pest control products. We also highlight emerging evidence linking conventional pesticides to serious health issues, including hormonal disruptions and developmental problems. This episode is a must-listen for anyone committed to maintaining a healthy and sustainable lifestyle.

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Discover how your daily cup of coffee can transform lives and support the planet! In this podcast, we sit down with Tripp Pomeroy, co-owner and CEO of Sweetwater Organic Coffee. Tripp shares his journey from working with Latin American landscapers to championing fair trade practices in the coffee industry. Learn how Sweetwater's ethical approach benefits small-scale farmers and promotes sustainable agriculture.

Explore the secrets of fair trade and transparency as Tripp discusses Sweetwater's cooperative model with Co-op Coffees. Discover the real-world impact of fair trade certifications and how they foster trust and accountability across the supply chain.

Concerned about the hidden costs of cheap food and environmental impacts? Tripp dives into the benefits of organic coffee farming and the role of certifications in promoting soil health and sustainability. Hear about innovative solutions like carbon sequestration payments that support farmers in adopting sustainable practices.

Join us to uncover how Sweetwater Organic Coffee is leading the way in ethical commerce and what the future holds for fair trade and sustainable agriculture.

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In this episode we chat with Hannah Wooten, a UF IFAS extension agent from Orange County, Florida, about how urban development and sustainable agriculture intersect in local food systems. Hannah's journey from Valencia Community College to her work in horticulture and ethnobotany shows us the deep connection between plants and people.

We learn about innovative farmers who are blending self-sustaining ecosystems with urban waste management. Collaboration between urban planners, chefs, restaurateurs, and entrepreneurs is key to supporting local farmers.

Challenges like zoning and land use planning are discussed, highlighting the need to update codes to strengthen local food connections in Central Florida. Hannah and other extension agents provide essential tools and info to local food leaders, driving community growth.

We also talk about collaborative efforts to help farmers and food entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of education, self-determination, and community support. Tune in to find out how to tap into resources from UF IFAS and connect with local extension agents to promote sustainable agriculture in your area.

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Can food recovery revolutionize our approach to food waste and sustainability? Find out as we sit down with Emily Grant, Director of Florida Operations for foodrecovery.org, who shares her incredible journey from urban planning to leading food recovery efforts. Emily’s story is rooted in community engagement, from her hands-on work in a Sarasota community garden to her strategic role with UF IFAS Extension's Family Nutrition Program. Her experiences have paved the way for a remarkable career dedicated to reducing food waste and supporting communities in need.

Get ready to rethink your food habits as we explore practical strategies for reducing food waste at home and the significant environmental impacts of these efforts. We discuss savvy techniques like freezing overripe fruits and flash-freezing vegetables, using food scraps to make stock, and the benefits of home composting. We also touch on larger systemic changes, such as policy implementation and curbside compost pickups, that can create broader environmental benefits and significantly lower CO2 emissions.

Tune in to this transformative episode and learn how you can contribute to a more sustainable food system.

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Unlock the potential of organic farming in the Southeast with guidance from experts Amanda Rose Newton and Emily Deruelle of Florida Organic Growers. Our enlightening conversation peels back the layers of the Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program (SE-TOPP), and you'll gain invaluable insights into developing successful organic practices and connecting with a thriving community.

Learn about the program's inception, its key areas of focus, and the invaluable support it provides to both mentors and mentees. Discover how you can get involved and benefit from this program.

Plus, don't miss the upcoming workshop: Preparing for Organic Inspections May 30, 2024 at 12 EST. Find out more and register at https://bit.ly/3Wr8Zy3

If you're passionate about organic farming, this podcast is a must-listen!

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In this episode of Fresh Take, we welcome special guests Hank and Jessica from Allison Acres to discuss their journey into organic blueberry farming. Hank, a retired FBI agent, shares his inspiration for transitioning to farming, influenced by his background in law enforcement. Jessica, with a background in Environmental Science, talks about her start in agriculture and her role at Allison Acres.

They elaborate on their decision to pursue blueberry farming and shed light on the challenges organic farmers encounter, such as disease management and climate change. Additionally, they delve into soil management techniques, blueberry species selection, and their dedication to environmental stewardship through initiatives like "This Farm CARES" and their involvement in the WWOOF (Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms )program. Hank and Jessica’s commitment extends beyond producing delicious, healthy produce; it's about nurturing a healthy planet and community, one blueberry at a time.

Additionally, they invite listeners to an upcoming special event in collaboration with Florida Organic Growers' Florida Local Food Project, the Spring Farm Tour a part of Millstone Institute 2024 Farm Tour!

This event provides an excellent opportunity to network, learn from experts, and foster meaningful connections with others who are passionate about local food May 18, 2024! Registration is free!

Secure your spots at: https://bit.ly/4cU3TAn

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Imagine your palate embarking on a voyage where every flavor tells a story of community, sustainability, and creativity. That's exactly the kind of sensory adventure you're in for as Jeffrey Schlissel, the cuisine virtuoso and barbecue 'Kingpin,' joins us at the table. With nicknames like 'Bacon Cartel,' you know this conversation is going to sizzle with insider knowledge on the smoked meat industry and Jeffrey's heartfelt dedication to seasonal cooking—a practice that not only tantalizes taste buds but also supports the heartbeat of local agriculture.

What does it truly mean to dine with the seasons, and how has it reshaped the restaurant scene in the wake of COVID-19? We chew over the substantial influence of harvest cycles on everything from a dish's nutritional value to the vibrancy of local economies. As we peel back the layers of the food industry, you'll learn about the challenges restaurants face with practices like artificially ripening tomatoes, and how chefs have the power to revolutionize consumer expectations by celebrating the natural diversity of produce. It's a candid talk that serves up a generous portion of food for thought on the importance of farm-to-table relationships.

To cap off our culinary convergence, we slice into the intricacies of designing a seasonal menu that keeps diners coming back for more. While uncovering the importance of color, texture, and flavor harmony, we also stir in a discussion on accountability within the food sourcing process. You'll hear firsthand about the growing trend of transparency in the industry, and why knowing the origin of your meal matters. So, set your table and ready your forks; this episode isn't just about what we eat, but how and why we choose to eat it, with insights from those cultivating change one plate at a time.

Don't miss Jeffrey at the upcoming Organic Food and Farming Summit on April 19 for the Summit workshop – "Plating the Harvest: Embracing Local at Restaurants". Grab your tickets now!

https://www.thewalkintalk.com/walkin-talk-podcast

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Embark on a culinary journey with Hari Pulapaka, the force behind the Global Cooking School. Discover the importance of food transparency and traceability, where every bite tells a story. As a mathematician-turned-chef, Hari's passion for ingredients with a clear backstory has fostered collaborations between chefs and farmers, aiming for an honest food industry.

Explore sustainable seafood and Hari's innovative approaches at Pastelsia. Learn about Hari Cafe's principles of Harmony, Accessibility, Resilience, and Innovation. Discover how technology and education shape consumer choices and trust in food labeling.

Contemplate the future of seafood and aquaculture, with a focus on ocean health. Get a sneak peek into Hari's upcoming heart-healthy cookbook, highlighting the link between culinary arts and sustainability. Join us for an enlightening discussion that challenges your perspective on food and its impact on the industry.

Don't miss Hari at the Organic Food and Farming Summit on April 19 for the Summit workshop – "Plating the Harvest: Embracing Local at Restaurants". Grab your tickets now!

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Join us at the upcoming Organic Food & Farming Summit April 18-19, 2024 in Tampa! Early bird savings ends February 2, 2024! SECURE YOUR SPOTS!
We hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

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Discover the heartbeat of sustainable agriculture with Audrey Coldy from the National Center for Appropriate Technology, as she brings her rich farming heritage and knowledge to our latest conversation. Her passion for intertwining nature with history to promote food equity and environmental stewardship is nothing short of inspiring. As we navigate the narratives of food safety, local production, and marketing strategies, Audrey's insights shed light on the transformative power of hope and history in reshaping our agricultural landscape.

Step into a world where sustainable farming programs flourish and initiatives sow the seeds of community and innovation. From the evolution of ATRA's outreach efforts to the creation of a digital hub for farmers through the "Voices from the Field" podcast, our discussion navigates the advancements in sharing knowledge and fostering connections. The Arm to Farm program stands out, offering veterans a new mission in sustainable agriculture, while farmer networks and conferences bridge the gap between cultures, enhancing resilience and learning. And when it comes to nurturing the next generation, the Farm to School initiative is a testament to the robust link between local agriculture and youth education, guaranteeing a fresh, healthy future for our children and our planet. Join us as we celebrate the collective efforts that are cultivating a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

https://attra.ncat.org/about/staff/

https://attra.ncat.org/events/

https://www.latinofarmersusa.com/

https://www.notillgrowers.com/

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Summary:

In this episode, Dr. Keith Schneider joins Dr. Juan Carlos Rodriguez for a discussion on FSMA’s produce safety rule and microbiology concepts related to food safety.

In this episode, Dr. Keith Schneider discusses microbiology concepts that help farmers better understand how to produce food safely.

Tune in to learn about:

• The Produce Safety Rule
• Problematic foodborne pathogens
• The role of indicator organisms and methods to test for their presence
• Preventative controls

Resources:

Learn more about food safety and upcoming events and webinars on our website: https://foginfo.org/food-safety-for-producers/

Learn more about food safety on the UF/IFAS Southern Center for FSMA Training website: https://sc.ifas.ufl.edu

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

Join us at the upcoming Organic Food & Farming Summit April 18-19, 2024 in Tampa! Early bird savings ends February 2, 2024! SECURE YOUR SPOTS!
We hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

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Discover the transformative world of organic agriculture as Andi Emrich, programs manager of Florida Organic Growers, joins our host Lana Chehabeddine, in unraveling the wonders behind the upcoming Organic Food and Farming Summit April 18-19 in Tampa, FL! Andi, brings her unique expertise to the table, guiding us through the Summit's inception and its mission to connect a diverse community.

Prepare to be inspired as we give you a sneak peek into the upcoming 2024 Summit, with its two-day agenda packed with farm tours, workshops, and a trade show that highlights the best of local sustainable agriculture. Andi and Lana navigate the topics that will sizzle at the event, from urban farming to integrating local produce into your favorite restaurants. The Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program's partnership promises to elevate the learning experience with practical training for those looking to make the big switch to organic farming. Tune in for this episode filled with passion, knowledge, and a deep dive into the future of food and farming.

Book your tickets now to save with our new February Share the Love discount! Order at: https://bit.ly/3uIJkoY

Support the show

Join us at the upcoming Organic Food & Farming Summit April 18-19, 2024 in Tampa! Early bird savings ends February 2, 2024! SECURE YOUR SPOTS!
We hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

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In this podcast episode, Catherine Campbell, PhD, MPH, and Jesse Haskins delve into the impact of the Florida Greenbelt Law on farm property taxes.

Catherine, an Assistant Professor at the University of Florida, shares her expertise in community food systems, emphasizing research for health, sustainability, equity, and resilience. The discussion covers the law's background, implications for stakeholders, and criteria for agricultural classification.

Jesse Haskins, principal attorney at J Haskins Law, brings legal insight, drawing on his experience in agriculture and defamation law. The episode guides farmers through the application process, explores potential tax savings, and discusses avenues for appeal. Key resources are provided for a comprehensive understanding of the Greenbelt Law.

Listeners also get to know Catherine's background and research focus, explore the history of the Florida Greenbelt Law, and receive practical tips on applying and appealing if denied.

Find your county’s property appraiser here: https://floridarevenue.com/property/Pages/LocalOfficials.aspx  

Support the show

Join us at the upcoming Organic Food & Farming Summit April 18-19, 2024 in Tampa! Early bird savings ends February 2, 2024! SECURE YOUR SPOTS!
We hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

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Lana and Andi invite Florida local food actors to join the Florida Local Food Network, and to get started by attending our virtual training event January 18th, "Platform Training & Kickoff!"

Fresh Take host Lana Chehabeddine takes on the guest role to talk about the Florida Local Food Project, FOG’s USDA-funded initiative to connect local farmers with local food entrepreneurs and restaurateurs. Members gain access to a vibrant community where they can collaborate, share ideas, and access valuable resources.

In this episode, learn about:

• How the Florida Local Food Network is working toward a more sustainable local food system

• Benefits of becoming a member of the Florida Local Food Network

• Hylo launch and virtual training event on January 18th

Learn more about Florida Local Food Project on the website: https://foginfo.org/our-programs/local-food-promotion-project/

Support the show

Join us at the upcoming Organic Food & Farming Summit April 18-19, 2024 in Tampa! Early bird savings ends February 2, 2024! SECURE YOUR SPOTS!
We hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

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Join Lana and Joy for a conversation about sustainable baking practices.

Joy, a former pastry chef and current FOG Local Nutrition and Outreach Coordinator, introduces the concept of sustainable baking, emphasizing the importance of minimizing environmental impact, reducing waste, and supporting local communities. Practical tips include embracing sourdough for low-waste baking, optimizing oven efficiency, and adopting eco-friendly ingredient and single-use plastic alternatives.

In this episode, learn about:

• Alternative environmentally friendly flours

• Sourdough bread as a means of low- to no-waste baking

• Practical tips for reducing waste in the kitchen

Learn more about sustainable baking on the King Arthur website: https://www.kingarthurbaking.com/learn/guides/guide-to-sustainable-baking

Learn more about sourdough on The Perfect Loaf: https://www.theperfectloaf.com/beginners-sourdough-bread/

Secure Your Spot at the 2024 Organic Food & Farming Summit in Tampa, FL! Sign up early to take advantage of big savings! Get all the details and your tickets at:https://bit.ly/3uIJkoY

Support the show

Join us at the upcoming Organic Food & Farming Summit April 18-19, 2024 in Tampa! Early bird savings ends February 2, 2024! SECURE YOUR SPOTS!
We hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

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Dr. Javier Garces joins JC for a conversation about Certified Organic Farm Technician training (COFT), a comprehensive program designed to provide high school and post-secondary students with the specialized knowledge, skills, and experience they’ll need to enter the agricultural workforce.

Dr. Garces is currently serving as a Professor and Program Chair for the Plant Science and Agricultural Technology Program at Valencia College. Valencia offers an A.S. degree with specializations in Sustainable Agriculture, Horticulture, or Landscape, as well as several Technical Certificates. Tune in to hear JC and Dr. Garces chat about COFT training and the intersection of academia with real-world agricultural practices.

In this episode, learn about:

• How Dr. Garces got his start in plant science and agricultural technology

• The skills and knowledge COFT training provides

• Where to start if you're interested in transitioning to organic

Learn more about COFT on the website: https://foginfo.org/coft/

Support the show

Join us at the upcoming Organic Food & Farming Summit April 18-19, 2024 in Tampa! Early bird savings ends February 2, 2024! SECURE YOUR SPOTS!
We hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

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In this episode, JC and Dr. Carlene Chase explore some of the biggest challenges facing farmers, discuss the potential of organic farming practices to address these issues, and delve into science-based solutions, highlighting the benefits of cover crops.

Dr. Chase is an associate professor at UF with a research focus on weed management, methyl bromide alternatives, and cover crops. She discusses challenges for organic farmers, including the rising cost of fertilizers and climate change, as well as some ways of mitigating those challenges. In particular, you’ll learn about the benefits of sunn hemp, which not only yields substantial biomass, but is also effective in suppressing nematodes.

In this episode, learn about:

• Organic weed management practices

• Off-season cover cropping

• Southern Cover Crops Council

Learn more about Southern Cover Crops Council on the website: https://southerncovercrops.org/

Support the show

Join us at the upcoming Organic Food & Farming Summit April 18-19, 2024 in Tampa! Early bird savings ends February 2, 2024! SECURE YOUR SPOTS!
We hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

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FOG Board Vice President Logan Petrey joins us to discuss the benefits of organic farming practices and The Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP).

Logan Petrey is the Ranch Manager for Grimmway Farms’ organic farm in North Florida, as well as serving as the National Organic Standard Board member. Join us to learn about SE-TOPP, a USDA program that will provide transitioning and existing organic farmers mentoring services, technical assistance, community building, and organic workforce development.

In this episode, learn about:

• The Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program (SE TOPP)
  -Opportunities at the Organic Food and Farming Summit
• Organics’ role in US agriculture
• How farmers can benefit from adopting organic farming practices

Learn more about SE TOPP at: https://foginfo.org/our-programs/southeast-center-for-organic-transition/

Support the show

Join us at the upcoming Organic Food & Farming Summit April 18-19, 2024 in Tampa! Early bird savings ends February 2, 2024! SECURE YOUR SPOTS!
We hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

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Join us for a conversation with FOG’s own Andi Emrich about the Organic Certification Cost Share Program and how it helps current and future organic farmers.

In this episode, we are spreading the word about the Organic Certification Cost Share Program (OCCSP). Discover how OCCSP offers financial support to organic farmers, assisting them in obtaining or renewing their organic certification.

In this episode, learn about:

• Who is eligible for the Cost Share program and what can and cannot be reimbursed

• How to apply for reimbursements and how you will receive them

• Further resources to help you navigate the program

Learn more about --- on the website: https://foginfo.org/our-programs/cost-share/

https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/occsp/index

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Join us at the upcoming Organic Food & Farming Summit April 18-19, 2024 in Tampa! Early bird savings ends February 2, 2024! SECURE YOUR SPOTS!
We hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

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Patrick Ferguson, Senior Organizing Representative for Sierra Club’s Stop Sugar Field Burning Campaign, joins us to discuss the environmental impact of pre-harvest sugar burning.

Beginning in 2015, the Stop the Burn campaign focuses on the environmental and public health consequences of pre-harvest sugar field burning. We will explore the success of green harvesting alternatives, highlighting countries that have embraced this approach. We will also examine the advocacy initiatives undertaken by local leaders, farmers, consumers, and sustainable food advocates.

In this episode, learn about:

• The Stop the Burn campaign

• The environmental and health impacts of pre-harvest sugar field burning

• How green harvesting has the potential to overhaul sugar burning

Learn more about Sierra Club’s Stop Sugar Field Burning Campaign on the website: https://stopsugarburning.org/

Support the show

Join us at the upcoming Organic Food & Farming Summit April 18-19, 2024 in Tampa! Early bird savings ends February 2, 2024! SECURE YOUR SPOTS!
We hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

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Join us as we dive into the world of food systems and community development with Kim Hines and discover how strategic planning and innovative tools are shaping a more resilient future.  

Kim Hines is a Leadership Co-Chair of the North American Food Systems Network with an interest in following national trends in local and regional food systems employment. We will be discussing challenges faced by food systems practitioners, as well as highlighting ACRE and CARAT as tools for creating a more resilient food system.

In this episode, learn about: 

- Kim’s background and current role at NAFSN

• How the AgriCluster Retention and Expansion helps farmers work together

- The development and utilization of the Community Agriculture Resiliency Audit Tool

• How to get involved

Learn more about NAFSN on the website:  https://www.foodsystemsnetwork.org/

Support the show

Join us at the upcoming Organic Food & Farming Summit April 18-19, 2024 in Tampa! Early bird savings ends February 2, 2024! SECURE YOUR SPOTS!
We hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

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Join us for an informative discussion with Tom Wichman, an expert on eco-friendly landscaping with nearly 50 years’ experience in the industry.

A self-proclaimed plant nerd, Tom is currently the Assistant Director for the Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program and the statewide coordinator for the Green Industries Best Management Practices Program. Tom is also the radio host for Florida-Friendly Landscaping in a Minute radio show, and he and his team just completed filming season 3 of the television show Flip My Florida Yard. We’ll highlight the importance of eco-friendly landscaping and break down its core tenets.

In this episode, learn about:

• How to build biodiversity in your home landscape

• Water wise practices

• Recycling yard waste

Learn more about Florida-Friendly Landscaping on the website: https://ffl.ifas.ufl.edu/

And check out the Free Florida-Landscaping Handbook: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeysnTNBRS6LK6Kcqvdv6gcM6dk5KuUVc-KH2K0OG4BOHkOxQ/viewform

Find your local agricultural extension agent for local events: https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/find-your-local-office/

Support the showWe hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

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Join FOG’s own Lana Chehabeddine and Juan Carlos Rodriguez for a conversation about the Florida Local Food Project.

We will delve into the Florida Local Food Project, a compelling initiative led by FOG, focused on enhancing local food systems across Florida. Through six key objectives, the project aims to bolster food security, sustainability, and community well-being. By driving engagement, empowering local producers, and hosting informative events, the Florida Local Food Project seeks to create a resilient and interconnected local food ecosystem.

In this episode, learn about:

• Lana and Juan Carlos’ experience and expertise

• How FOG is building a Florida Local Food Network and driving food security and food sovereignty

• How LFPP is fostering sustainability and community engagement

Learn more about LFPP on the website: https://foginfo.org/our-programs/local-food-promotion-project/

Support the showWe hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

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Mike Campbell, founder and lead farmer of South Florida’s first commercial aquaponic farm Bare Roots Organics, joins us to talk about how aquaponics fits into his vision for the future of sustainable farming.

Mike shares his journey and passion for building a sustainable world, driven by his background in film/television and love for nature and quality food. We will explore the importance of sustainable farming and the role of aquaponics in conserving resources compared to traditional agriculture. We will also discuss the cooperative relationship between plants and fish in aquaponics, highlighting the symbiotic environment involving three main players: fish, bacteria, and plants.

In this episode, learn about:

• Mike Campbell and Bare Roots Organics

• The basics of aquaponics

• Resource conservation

• Labor requirements to run an aquaponics farm

Learn more about Bare Roots Organics on the website: https://www.barerootsorganics.com/

For those interested in Mike’s products, he is a vendor on our Backyard Market, which is our virtual farmer’s market. Be sure to check out his products on www.backyardmarket.org

Support the showWe hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

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Continue our conversation about food sovereignty with the University of South Florida’s Nicole Brand and Will Schanbacher.

Nicole Brand is the Director of the Environmental Conservation Outreach, Research, and Education (ECORE) System at USF, overseeing the USF Forest Preserve, the USF Botanical Gardens and a geological park. Will Schanbacher is an Assistant Professor of Religious Studies at the University of South Florida with a research concentration in religious and social ethics, specializing in the global food system, poverty, and food sovereignty. Additionally, he is the Director of USF's Urban Food Sovereignty Group. We will discuss the impact of food sovereignty on food systems, as well as Florida's unique landscape efforts, and the potential impact of food sovereignty projects in the Tampa Bay area.

In this episode, learn about:

• Nicole and Will’s important work at USF

• The relationship between land, food, and conservation

• Urban Food Sovereignty Group

• Feeding the Future

Learn more about USF’s Urban Food Sovereignty Group on the website: https://www.usf.edu/arts-sciences/centers/ufsg/index.aspx

Learn more from Will Schanbacher’s forthcoming book: Food Insecurity: A Reference Handbook

https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/food-insecurity-9781440878398/

Support the showWe hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

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Dell deChant joins us for a discussion about food sovereignty and its aim to challenge existing food structures and place power back into the people’s hands.

Dell deChant is an Instructor at the University of South Florida, specializing in religion and contemporary cultures. deChant's current research focuses on Agrarianism in American popular culture, with an emphasis on religion, literature, and ecology. He holds various positions, including Chair of the Environmental Committee of the City of New Port Richey and Convener of the USF Urban Food Sovereignty Group. Tune in for a discussion that explores the origins and principles of food sovereignty and highlights its potential to transform the current food system into a more just and sustainable one.

In this episode, learn about:

• Mr. deChant's background

• Demystifying food sovereignty

• Challenging power structures

• Empowering the people and discussing “the right to food”

Checkout additional resources below:

La Via Campesina: https://viacampesina.org/en/

US Food Sovereignty Alliance: http://usfoodsovereigntyalliance.org/

Support the showWe hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

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Join us today as Kabir Parker discusses everything you need to know about seaweed and its contribution to sustainable agriculture. Learn what makes seaweed, “The Secret Sauce”.

Kabir Parker is a passionate ocean entrepreneur. Born in Greenwich, Connecticut and raised in New Delhi, India, he developed a vast knowledge of global oceanic issues. Kabir studied marine science and microbiology at the University of Miami and went on to pursue a career in ocean entrepreneurship.

In this episode, learn about:

• Kabir’s background and current work with his foundation Ocean’s Bounty

• The role that seaweed plays from the sea to the soil

• Process and benefits of seaweed farming

• How seaweed might impact the future of agriculture

We hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

Support the showWe hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

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Join us today as Melissa Desa speaks with us about how the organization Working Food is involved in growing resilient local food systems.

With over a decade of experience, Melissa Desa is a seed steward, artist, educator, and ecologist living in Gainesville, Florida. She is a co-founder of the non-profit Working Food based in Gainesville, Florida which focuses on regional seed biodiversity, and lends itself to research, stewardship, distribution, and outreach. Working Food works closely with the community, collaborating and supporting adults with disabilities, youth, farmers, and the general public.

In this episode, learn about:

• Melissa Desa and her role in the Working Food Organization

• Building a robust local food system

• Collaboration and community engagement surrounding food systems and food access

• Initiatives and efforts currently taking place to increase equitable food access

We hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

Support the showWe hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

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Monica Hampton, Ph.D, national and international agriculture consultant for TerraNutri, converses with Lana Chehabeddine on the topic of nutrient and weed management techniques.

Monica Hampton, Ph.D., brings 20 years of research on agriculture and crop production. She serves on the board of trustees at the Compost Research and Education Foundation at the US Compost Council and shares with FOG her extensive knowledge on organic soil health and control techniques that allow for more sustainable and healthy crop production.

In this episode, learn about:

• Dr. Hampton’s background in agriculture and crop production

• Crop production issues we are currently facing

• Nutrient management techniques for crops

• Mechanisms to control for pests, weeds, and nematodes

Learn more from Dr. Hampton’s book, “Compost Utilization in Production of Horticultural Crops”: https://www.compostingcouncil.org/store/viewproduct.aspx?id=21109188

Checkout additional resources and events below:
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Monica-Ozores-Hampton

2023 Florida Composting Council Annual Composting Conference- June 21, 2023 Bonita Springs, FL

Today’s episode is brought to you by Veransa Group Inc. Veransa’s REGEN Florida Organic Compost® is the only certified organic, OMRI Listed®, and STA Approved compost available in industrial scale in SW and Central Florida.Learn more about Veransa at: https://www.veransa.com/

We hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

Support the showWe hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

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We are thrilled to have Anne Yasalonis with us today, as she discusses Spring Gardening for residents in Florida.

Anne Yasalonis is the residential horticulture agent and master gardener volunteer coordinator at UF/IFAS in Polk County. The residential horticulture program focuses on providing research-based education to Polk County residents on topics of Florida-Friendly Landscaping and best management practices for the home lawn and landscape. Anne began her journey with horticulture at Virginia Tech University, and went on to get her masters from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. It is her vast knowledge that gives her the name, “The Master Gardener”.

In this episode, learn about:

• Anne’s background and current role with UF/IFAS

• How to lay the groundwork for your own spring garden

• Vegetables suitable to grow in Spring in North, Central, and South Florida

• Additional ways to tend to your Spring garden

Locate state gardening events: https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/mastergardener/events/index.html

Florida Vegetable Gardening Guide:

https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/VH021

We hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

Support the showWe hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

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Join us for a chat with one of FOG’s very own Board of Directors, Teresa Pemberton-Jouany, as she gives us a rundown of Earth Day and organics’ role in this celebratory day.

Teresa Pemberton-Jouany is a Florida native from generations of cattle ranchers and citrus growers. After leaving the farm and working around the globe through her career in fashion and advertising, she returned to her roots to follow her passion for organic growing and working with local growers to encourage organic systems.

In this episode, learn about:

• Teresa’s background and current role with Florida Organic Growers

• The history of Earth Day and her experience in rallying for change

• Organics’ role in the environment

• Additional ways to join the fight to protect the Earth

Find the official Earth Day toolkit here and more planet-friendly resources:

2023 Earth Day Toolkit

Eight Tips for Eating for the Planet

Checkout the upcoming Earth Day events near you or learn how to start your own:

https://earthday.maps.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/8d15cc3da12d4338a109c7d64c97c02a

***Today’s episode is brought to you by Veransa Group Inc. Veransa’s REGEN Florida Organic Compost® is the only certified organic, OMRI Listed®, and STA Approved compost available in industrial scale in SW and Central Florida.

Learn more about Veransa at: https://www.veransa.com/*SUBSCRIBE- We hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series!Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

Support the showWe hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

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Join us for a conversation with our Virtual Market Manager, Courtney Ward, to learn about the Backyard Market Initiative and the exciting updates for local consumers and vendors!

Get ready to join a new wave of local food shopping, through the Backyard Market—a virtual farmers market platform developed by Florida Organic Growers that enables producers and consumers to sell and purchase food with flexibility and efficiency. With over a decade of culinary experience, in farm-to-fork and waste-less environments, Courtney proudly shares her knowledge to enhance food access at a local level.

In this episode, learn about:

• How Courtney’s culinary background led to her current role with Florida Organic Growers

• The Backyard Market Initiative and how it differs from a typical farmer’s market

• How to purchase or sell products on the Backyard Market

• A rundown of our current vendors and updates on how to sign-up as a new vendor

Browse the current products on the Backyard Market website and FAQs on FOG’s project page:

www.backyardmarket.org

We hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

Support the showWe hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

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Get the inside scoop with Ira Wallace, also known as “the Godmother of Southern Seeds,” as she sheds light on all things seeds and its importance in the food industry.

Ira Wallace is an organic grower, author, speaker, and one of the original pioneers behind organic seed saving. For the last 25 years, Ira has been a worker/owner of the cooperatively managed Southern Exposure Seed Exchange, which offers over 700 varieties of open-pollinated heirloom and organic seeds selected for flavor and regional adaptability. Ira serves on the boards of the Organic Seed Alliance and the Virginia Association for Biological Farming.

In this episode, learn about:

• Ira’s background and current role with Southern Exposure Seed Exchange

• The various categories of seeds that exist, their differences, and ownership of seeds

• A brief overview of harvesting, saving, and exchanging seeds and the challenges farmers face

• The impact of seeds on historical and current food pathways

Find resources here for new and advanced seed advocates:

Southern Exposure Seed Exchange

Organic Seed Alliance

Checkout the upcoming event:

Roots & Herbs Festival, April 8th: https://bit.ly/3JuNxQS

We hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

Support the showWe hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

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Leslie Touzeau, Organic Policy Manager at QCS (Quality Certification Services), chats with Juan Carlos Rodriguez about how she came across this career path, experiences that contributed to her current role, and places to look further to launch oneself into the organic food industry.

Tune in to learn about:

• Leslie’s background and pathway to her current role

• Applicable skills and experiences to get started in organics

• Specific roles and opportunities at QCS

• Resources for careers in organics/ the food industry

Find more organics career info and opportunities here:

• International Organic Inspectors Association
• World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms
• Organic Trade Association

We hope you enjoyed the episode! Please help us continue to produce more valuable content by subscribing to our Fresh Take Podcast Series! Subscribe here

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY- Learn more about the many benefits of becoming a Sponsor of Florida Organic Growers! Your contribution will not only help to advance an organic and sustainable future but gain brand awareness through our growing audience. If you are interested, click here

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Anna Cesarotti, Associate Director of Organic Certification at QCS (Quality Certification Services), speaks with Juan Carlos Rodriguez about career opportunities in the growing industry of organics. 

In this episode, learn about: 

• How Anna came to work in organics 

• Types of careers in the organic industry 

• Why the organic industry is growing  

• How to find careers in organics
  

Learn more about QCS on their website: https://qcsinfo.org/ 

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Organic Materials Research Institute (OMRI) is an international 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that reviews and lists allowed materials that organic producers can use. 

In this episode, learn about:

• How OMRI began
• OMRI’s mission and role in the industry today
• What it means to be "OMRI Listed®"
• Technical support and training opportunities for professionals in the organic industry

Learn more OMRI on their website: https://www.omri.org 

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Interest in growing and buying local flowers has grown immensely over the past few years, helping consumers embrace local agriculture, support local farmers, and access even more varieties of local grown flowers. 

In this episode, learn about: 

• Floriculture and why it’s becoming an increasingly popular industry today 

• The Slow Flower Movement 

• How consumers can support local flower farmers 

• Opportunities and profitability for new and upcoming flower farmers 

Resources: 

Learn more about the Slow Flower movement at https://www.slowflowers.com. 

Listen to our previous podcast interview with the Florida Wildflower Foundation Executive Director Stacey Matrazzo: https://foginfo.org/freshtake-podcast.php?florida+wildflower+foundation%3A+creating+and+restoring+native+wildflower+habitats+&oid=11141819 

Visit the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers website: https://www.ascfg.org

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With the holiday season right around the corner, now is the time for recipe planning! By incorporating locally grown foods into your holiday recipes, you can make tasty dishes and feel good about supporting your local farmer.

In this episode, hear about:

• What crops are in season in Florida

• Unique recipes using local ingredients

• Where to purchase local foods

• How SNAP/EBT users can double their money at farmers markets

Links to Recipes Mentioned in Episode:

Roselle Mock Cranberry Sauce: https://toadstoolsfairyrings.com/2016/11/15/roselle-mock-cranberry-sauce

Creamed Braising Greens: https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/12248-creamed-braising-greens

Butter Braised Radishes and Turnips: https://simpleseasonal.com/recipes/butter-braised-radishes-and-turnips

Old-fashioned Pumpkin Pie: https://toadstoolsfairyrings.com/2017/12/09/old-fashioned-pumpkin-pie

Other Resources:

Register for the Heritage Foods Symposium “Opportunity and Benefits of Heritage Foods” on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/opportunities-and-benefits-of-heritage-foods-symposium-tickets-370634416517

Learn about Florida Heritage Foods and upcoming events at: www.floridaheritagefoods.com

Find out what’s in season on the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services website: https://www.fdacs.gov/Consumer-Resources/Buy-Fresh-From-Florida/Crops-in-Season

Visit Fresh from Florida’s What’s in Season Page for more in season crops: https://www.followfreshfromflorida.com/whats-in-season

Go to UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions page to learn what crops to grow in your region for each season: https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/care/planting/vegetable-gardens-by-season.html

Learn more about upcoming events on FOG’s website: www.foginfo.org/events

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Carolina Farm Stewardship Association (CFSA) is a farmer-driven, membership-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that helps people in North and South Carolina grow and enjoy local, organic food. Founded in 1979, the organization advocates, educates, and builds connections to create sustainable food systems in the Carolinas centered on local and organic agriculture. 

In this episode, learn about: 

• CFSA’s history and mission 

• CFSA’s role in organics in the Carolinas 

• Programs and advocacy initiatives for farmers 

• CFSA’s Annual Conference 

Learn more about CFSA on their website: https://www.carolinafarmstewards.org

Learn about and register for the 2022 CFSA Annual Conference, taking place November 5-7: https://web.cvent.com/event/f8effbda-f430-47e1-95a7-01fe9394d72b/summary?RefId=Sponsor&rp=d75efb73-208d-47b1-a7b5-218dfb3a320a&utm_source=CFSAwebsite 

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Georgia Organics has been rooted in providing direct support to small and organic farmers across Georgia since the 1970s, before formally incorporating as a 501(c)(3) in 1997. Michael Wall, Director of Farmer Advocacy, highlights some of the organization’s programs and farmer advocacy initiatives. 

Tune in to hear about: 

• Georgia Organics’ new mission and vision 

• Preliminary results of Georgia Organic’s recent farmer survey 

• How Georgia Organics advocates for farmers 

• Upcoming events and special projects 

Learn more about Georgia Organics on their website: https://www.georgiaorganics.org 

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Florida Organic Growers and Santa Fe college have partnered in a three-year grant designed to increase access and promote consumption of Florida heritage foods in local farmer’s markets. The project, entitled “Florida Heritage Foods Initiative: Connecting Local Food with Local Culture in Florida Farmers Markets,” aims to highlight historical and cultural significance of 42 crops in Florida and to educate consumers and small farmers on how to cook and grow them.

Over the course of the three-year grant, the college will also host annual educational symposiums and multi-cultural festivals that highlight heritage foods. This year’s symposium “Opportunities and Benefits of Heritage Foods” is scheduled for Friday, September 30, 2022, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m in downtown Gainesville.

Tune in to hear about:

• Why the initiative focuses on heritage foods

• Goals and potential impacts on local communities

• Upcoming events and opportunities to celebrate heritage foods

• Resources and developments for farmers and farmers markets

Register for the Heritage Foods Symposium “Opportunity and Benefits of Heritage Foods” on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/opportunities-and-benefits-of-heritage-foods-symposium-tickets-370634416517

Stay tuned for a new website promoting heritage foods: www.floridaheritagefoods.com

Visit FOG’s website for more details: https://foginfo.org/events

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The mission of the Florida Wildflower Foundation is to protect, connect and expand native wildflower habitats through education, research, planting and conservation. With Florida being one of the fastest growing states in U.S., there has been an increase in urbanization and habitat loss due to development.  

Stacey Matrazzo, Executive Director of the Foundation, shares with us the benefits wildflowers can provide for pollinators and wildlife, and the programs they are employing to combat biodiversity loss. 

Tune in to hear about: 

• How wildflowers affect our ecosystem 

• Grants and programs supporting the purchase, planting and education of wildflowers 

• Research and resources available to the public 

• Upcoming events 

Learn more about the Florida Wildflower Foundation on their website: https://www.flawildflowers.org 

Visit the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center online: https://www.wildflower.org 

Cover photo description: Blue-eyed grass (Sisyrinchium sp.) blooming along Interstate 10 in Suwannee County. Photo by Jeff Norcini/Florida Wildflower Foundation.

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The Organic Certification Cost Share Program (OCCSP) is a USDA program which provides reimbursements to producers and handlers of organic agricultural products who are obtaining or renewing their certification under the National Organic Program (NOP). 

In this episode, we speak with Emily Hetherington from Industry Communications in the Division of Marketing and Development at the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) about the program. 

Tune in to hear about: 

• How OCCSP can benefit organic farmers 

• The application and reimbursement process 

• How to apply through Florida Organic Growers 

• Where to find more information and resources 

Learn more about OCCSP on the USDA’s Farm Service Agency OCCSP website: https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/occsp/index 

Find information about applying for OCCSP on FOG’s website: www.foginfo.org/our-programs/cost-share 

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The Backyard Market is a new virtual farmers market platform launching in Homestead, Florida in fall of 2022. In this episode, we speak with Courtney Ward, FOG’s Virtual Farmers Market Manager, about updates on the market. 

Tune in to hear about: 

• Why FOG decided to create the online market 

• How farmers and consumers can use the market  

• What makes The Backyard Market unique 

• What to expect going forward

Interested in becoming a vendor? Get in touch with our Virtual Farmers Market Manager, Courtney Ward at virtualmarket@foginfo.org 

Learn more about The Backyard Market on our website: www. foginfo.org/our-programs/backyard-market  

Follow The Backyard Market on social media for the latest updates:  

Instagram: @yourbackyardmarket  

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BackyardMarketHomesteadFL 

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Yaupon Brothers American Tea Company was founded in 2015 by two brothers, Bryon and Kyle White and former mentor-turned-business-partner, Mark Steele. Bryon recently took time to speak with us about Yaupon tea, a native crop of the Southern United States. 

Tune in to hear about: 

• How the company was started 

• What Yaupon is and why it is a beneficial crop to sell and consume 

• The ecological impact and sustainability of Yaupon as a crop 

• Upcoming events and resources 

Learn more about Yaupon Brothers American Tea Company on their website: https://yauponbrothers.com 

Visit Florida Organic Grower’s event page https://foginfo.org/events to learn more and register for the “Opportunities and Benefits of Heritage Foods Symposium” taking place on September 30, 2022. 

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Veterans Florida is a non-profit created by the State of Florida in 2013 to help military veterans transition to civilian life and to promote Florida’s status as the nation’s most veteran-friendly state. One of its many programs is the Veterans Florida Agriculture Program, a six-month training fellowship that provides veterans and servicemembers a comprehensive, hands-on experience and equips you with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to be competitive for leading careers in Florida’s $149 Billion agriculture industry.  

Tune in to a conversation with Jeremy Sinnemaki, Veterans Employment and Training Services Director, where we discuss: 

• The history and mission of Veterans Florida 

• Veterans Florida Career Services and Entrepreneurship Program 

• How the Veterans Florida’s Agriculture Program assists transitioning veterans 

• Benefits and the DoD SkillBridge Program  

Visit the Veterans Florida website for information on all their programs: https://www.veteransflorida.org  

Learn more about the Veterans Florida Agriculture Program: https://www.veteransflorida.org/agriculture/ 

Register for the Veterans Florida Expo at: https://www.veteransfloridaexpo.org 

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Farm Aid was founded in 1985 in the midst of the 1980’s farm crisis. As a response to farmers in dire need of assistance, Willie Nelson, Neil Young and John Mellencamp held the first concert which raised over $7 million for America’s family farmers. Since then, Farm Aid has continued to support farmers through a variety of programs. We speak with Caitlin Arnold Stephano, Farm Aid’s Hotline Program Manager, about how Farm Aid is doing this. 

Tune in to hear about: 

• Mental health and resources offered through Farm Aid’s Farmer Hotline  

• How Farm Aid assists farmers through its many programs  

• Farm Aid's annual concert 

• How organizations can get involved 

Learn more about Farm Aid on their website: https://www.farmaid.org 

Farm Aid’s Farmer Hotline is open Monday-Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (EST) and toll-free at 1-800-FARM-AID. Learn more about the hotline here: https://www.farmaid.org/our-work/supporting-family-farmers/ 

Reach out to Grants@farmaid.org for more information about Farm Aid’s grant submission process. 

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Founded in 1990, Rural Advancement for Farmers International (RAFI-USA) challenges the root causes of unjust food systems, supporting and advocating for economically, racially, and ecologically just farm communities.

Lisa Misch, Director of Farmer Outreach and Technical Assistance at RAFI-USA, highlights some of the organization’s programs and funding resources for farmers.

Tune in to hear about:

• RAFI-USA's mission and vision

• RAFI-USA's programs and funding opportunities

• How RAFI-USA assists with Farm Service Agency (FSA) Disaster Relief Loans

• Upcoming events and workshops

Learn more about RAFI-USA on their website: https://www.rafiusa.org

RAFI-USA’s Farmer Crisis Hotline is open Monday-Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and toll-free at (866) 586-6746. Learn more about the hotline here: https://www.rafiusa.org/hotline/

More Resources:

Join the Farmers of Color Network: https://www.rafiusa.org/programs/farmers-of-color-network/join-the-farmers-of-color-network/

Learn more about Resources for Resilient Farms: https://www.rafiusa.org/programs/farmers-of-color-network/resources-for-resilient-farmers/

How to Work with Your FSA Office Webinar: https://www.rafiusa.org/blog/webinar-how-to-work-with-fsa/

Farmers of Color Network Market Readiness Webinar Series: https://www.rafiusa.org/blog/market-readiness-series/

Learn about funding resources and farmer assistance on Farm Aid’s website: https://www.farmaid.org

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Jen Speedy is a farmer and Collective Member of Siembra Farm, a small-scale, sustainable farm in SE Gainesville, FL. With plans to open a new flower farm, Jen talks to us about things people should consider when setting up a new farm. 

In this episode hear about:  

• Challenges new farmers may face when starting a farm 

• Avoiding farmer burnout  

• Methods and tools for farming sustainably 

• Risk-management strategies  

Learn more about Siembra Farm on their website: https://siembrafarm.com 

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In Episode 1 of FOG’s Food Safety for Farmers Podcast Series, Dr. Keith Schneider, Professor and Extension Specialist in the Food Science and Human Nutrition Department at the University of Florida, discusses microbiology concepts that help farmers better understand how to produce food safely. 

Tune in to learn about: 

• The Produce Safety Rule
• Problematic foodborne pathogens
• The role of indicator organisms and methods to test for their presence
• Preventative controls

Resources: 

Learn more about food safety, new podcast episodes, upcoming events and webinars on our website: https://foginfo.org/food-safety-for-producers/

For more information about food safety, visit the UF/IFAS Southern Center for FSMA Training website: https://sc.ifas.ufl.edu

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 

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Aviva Asher and Daniel Robleto are founders and owners of Nicoya Farm, a family fruit and vegetable farm located in Gainesville, Florida. In 2015 they began Nicoya Farm on leased land in South Florida and transitioned the farm to collectively owned land in SE Gainesville.   

In this episode, hear about: 

• How Aviva and Daniel got started farming 

• Their shift from leasing to purchasing land  

• Owning land as part of a collective 

• Considerations for farmers looking for farmland 

Learn more about Nicoya Farm on their website: https://nicoyafarm.wordpress.com 

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Fleet Farming is a non-profit urban agriculture program of IDEAS For Us located in Orlando, Florida. With a mission to empower all generations to grow food to increase local food accessibility, Fleet Farming transforms the average American lawn into a bio-verse, productive micro farms and edible gardens.  

In this episode, Fleet Farming Program Manager Caroline Chomanics, tells us about: 

• The history of Fleet Farming  

• Involvement in community development and programs 

• Opportunities to get involved 

Learn more about Fleet Farming on their website: https://fleetfarming.org 

Learn more about IDEAS for US on their website: https://ideasforus.org 

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The use of technology to solve challenges in organic agriculture is increasing. Jessica Shade, Director of Science Programs at The Organic Center, joins us for a conversation about agricultural technology in organic farming and the upcoming Hack@Organic event. 

In this episode, hear about: 

• Challenges that sustainable and organic farmers often face when growing crops 

• How Hack@Organic will provide a space to collaborate on solutions using technology 

• Updates on research being done at The Organic Center 

Learn more about The Organic Center on their website:  https://www.organic-center.org 

Learn more about the Hack@Organic event: https://www.organic-center.org/hackorganic 

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The Sustainable Living Project (SLP) is an urban farm and education center located in Tampa, Florida. Georgea Snyder, Director of SLP, speaks about her experience and how current programs at the farm are helping educate the community.  

In this episode, hear about: 

• Educational opportunities that the Sustainable Living Project offers 

• Implementing “learning by doing” strategies to generate better understanding of the food system 

• Strengths and challenges of urban farming systems 

• Suggestions for creating similar community garden projects 

Learn more about the Sustainable Living Project on their website: https://www.slptampa.com 

Learn more about the Coalition of Community Gardens on their website: https://coalitionofcommunitygardens.weebly.com 

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Aaron and Derek, Founders and Owners of Handsome Harvest Farm, discuss their experience starting a farm and share thoughts on how to become more knowledgeable in organic and sustainable farming practices. 

In this episode, hear about: 

• How Derek and Aaron got into sustainable agriculture 

• Ways to get started and develop experience in organic farming 

• Considerations when scaling up from a home garden to a for-profit farm 

• Thoughts on managing farm operations and systems on the farm 

Learn more about Handsome Harvest Farm on their website: http://handsomeharvest.com/ 

Learn more about Red Hills Small Farm Alliance on their website:  https://www.redhillsfarmalliance.com/ 

Learn more about WWOOF USA on their website: https://wwoofusa.org/ 

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Fresh Take welcomes Wendy Wesley, Registered Dietician and Nutritionist, for a conversation about how to be healthier with food in the New Year. 

In this episode, Wendy shares with us:  

• Reprioritizing time for healthier “shopping, chopping and eating” 

• Foods we should add to our diets 

• What to look for when shopping for groceries 

• The importance of connecting with our food and food system 

Learn more about Wendy Wesley on her website:  https://wendywesleynutrition.com

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The holidays are here! This season, more consumers are looking for sustainable, organic and local gifts. Jillian Childs, Founder of Florida Farm Finder, and Juan Carlos Rodriguez give us some ideas on how to find and support local growers and businesses through gift-giving this holiday season. 

In this episode, hear about: 

• How Florida Farm Finder is connecting farmers and local businesses with consumers 

• Sustainable gift ideas you may not have thought of  

• Resources for finding and supporting food-related businesses 

Learn more about Florida Farm Finder on their website: https://www.FloridaFarmFinder.com and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FLFarmFinder/ 

Join Florida Farm Finder’s Facebook Groups:
Kind of A Big Dill Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/floridafarmfinder/ and Brand Builder Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/389257258778481/ 

Learn more about the Florida Farmers Market Association: https://farmersmarkettoolkit.org 

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Quality Certification Services (QCS) is the certification program of Florida Organic Growers (FOG), which began certifying organic growers in 1989 and received its USDA accreditation in 2001. QCS has grown to provide a variety of quality certification and verification options that can help companies market their products as certified organic, promote sustainability as well as enhance global market access from seed to shelf through partnerships, innovations and technology to clients in 39 states and 12 countries. 

In this episode, hear about: 

• How QCS got started and how it has evolved 

• The types of certifications and services QCS offers   

• Resources for farmers interested in becoming certified and consumers looking to support organic growers and producers 

-  What’s in store going forward 

Learn more about QCS: https://qcsinfo.org 

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The Florida Farmers’ Market Association (FFMA) was established in 2019 with the mission to connect the vast array of farmers markets in Florida into one membership-driven network and provide training and resources for vendors, market managers, and consumers. Since then, FFMA has grown its membership and offerings. 

In this episode, hear about: 

• The history of FFMA and its origins 

• FFMA’s Florida Farmers’ Market Toolkit   

• Membership benefits and how to join 

• Upcoming projects in 2022 

Learn more about FFMA: https://farmersmarkettoolkit.org 

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Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers Inc. (FOG) was established in 1987 with the mission to support and promote organic, regenerative, and sustainable agriculture. Since then, FOG’s staff and programs have grown greatly.  

In this episode, hear from FOG staff members Dr. Juan Carlos Rodriguez, Andi Emrich and Kyndra Love, as they discuss the history of FOG and some of its past, present and future projects. 

Learn about: 

• Education and outreach initiatives advancing knowledge and resources about organic and sustainable agriculture 

• Quality Certification Services (QCS), FOG’s certification branch 

• The Florida Farmers’ Market Association (FFMA) 

• Upcoming projects in 2022 

Learn more about FOG on our website: https://foginfo.org 

Learn more about QCS: https://qcsinfo.org 

Learn more about FFMA: https://farmersmarkettoolkit.org 

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Grow Next Door launched in April 2020 with a mission to create opportunities of access to farming and to support creating a sustainable planet through intentional agriculture. The Grow Next Door platform helps South Florida residents connect directly with local farmers to buy organic and sustainably grown produce. Jonathan Cox, Founder and CEO, talks with us about his journey and how the platform has expanded over the last year. 

Tune in to hear about: 

• How Grow Next Door got started  

• Adapting agricultural practices long-term to fit urban settings  

• Grow Next Door’s process for leveraging its network to connect 

• Next steps forward for Grow Next Door 

Learn more about Grow Next Door on their website: www.grownextdoor.com 

Listen to more episodes on urban farming on our website: https://foginfo.org/freshtake.php 

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Florida is historically and still currently an agricultural state. However, with rapid urbanization, the food systems landscape is changing. Currently, 44 of the 67 counties are classified as “urban” by the USDA, and over 87 percent of residents now live in urban areas. 

In this episode, learn about: 

• How urban agriculture is defined 

• What urban farming looks like in Florida 

• Barriers and opportunities for urban farms 

• And get a sneak peek of findings from Dr. Campbell’s research on “The Future of Urban Farming in Florida” 

Follow Dr. Campbell on Twitter at @FLFoodSystems for updates on research on urban farming in Florida. 

Listen to more episodes on urban farming on our website: https://foginfo.org/freshtake.php 

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Zion Farms & Market started in 2016 on a 20-acre farm in Apopka, Florida, with a mission to establish urban farms throughout Central Florida and be an affordable source of organic produce and education to the community at large. Registered as a 501(c)(3) organization, through collaboration with other urban farmers in the Central Florida area the alliance was able to break ground on Infinite Zion Farms in the Parramore neighborhood in 2019.

In this episode, hear about: 

• Infinite Zion Farms’ approach to supporting the local community and food system 

• Success stories from the farm 

• How the farm has overcome unique challenges  

• Recommendations and resources for farmers and consumers 

Learn more about Infinite Zion farms on their website: https://www.infinitezionfarms.org 

*Photo Credit: Special thank you to Infinite Zion Farms for allowing us to use a photo of their farm! 

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Interest in local food systems has been steadily increasing as shown by the growing supply of and demand for local foods. Some evidence of this growth includes the number of farmers’ markets that have nearly tripled, and the initiation of thousands of farm-to-school programs across the U.S. Additionally, local foods have often topped consumer and food professional surveys of food trends. 

How do we define these local systems? How can we help to sustain them? In this episode, David Outerbridge, UF/IFAS Lee County Sustainable Food Systems Agent talks to us to answer these questions. 

Find out about: 

• How terms like “local” and “sustainable” food systems are often defined 

• Challenges to the local food movement 

• Solutions to local food systems challenges 

Learn more about food systems on the UF/IFAS Food Systems Institute website: https://foodsystems.ifas.ufl.edu 

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On this episode, hear about two unique farms in South Florida that are providing support for their communities: Empower farms, a certified organic and eco-friendly farm for people of all abilities, and Aloha Redland, a female-led farm blending art and nutrition for a more vibrant local community. 

Learn about: 

• How their CSA programs were started and how they have evolved 

• The impact COVID-19 has had on the farms and their CSA programs 

• Special programs offered at these non-traditional farms 

• Recommendations for farmers and consumers interested in CSAs 

Learn more about Empower Farms on their website: www.empowerfarms.com

Find out more about Aloha Redland on their website: www.aloharedland.com

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Frog Song Organics, located in Alachua County, started in 2011 with a mission to provide nutritious foods to the local community through sustainable farming. One way they do this is through their Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program.  

In this episode, hear about: 

• What led Frog Song to start their CSA 

• How their CSA model has evolved over time 

• Tips for farmers who are interested in starting a CSA 

• Recommendations for consumers thinking about joining a CSA 

Learn more about Frog Song Organics on their website: https://frogsongorganics.com  

*Photo Credit: Special thank you to Frog Song Organics for allowing us to use the photo from their farm!

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Community supported agriculture is one model through which producers and consumers can be more connected. We sat down with Rick Martinez, Founder of Sweetwater Organic Farm, which is thought to be the first CSA in Florida, to talk about his experience with this food systems model. 

In this episode, hear about: 

• The history of the CSA model at Sweetwater Organic Farm 

• Challenges faced while running the CSA 

• Benefits to the community and producers 

• Tips for sustaining CSAs into the future 

Learn more about Sweetwater Organic Farm on their website: www.sweetwater-organic.org 

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Every day, there are millions of children and adults who do not get the meals they need to thrive. According to Feeding America, Florida is 3rd in the nation with the highest number of people living in food-insecure households—over 2,500,000 people.  

In this episode, Katie Delaney, Fresh Access Bucks (FAB) Co-Manager, and Andi Emrich, Florida Farmers Market Association Coordinator (FFMA), join us to discuss how the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Fresh Access Bucks Programs (FAB) are being used to respond to these needs. 

In this episode, learn about: 

• The history of the SNAP and FAB programs 

• Benefits these programs provide to the food system as a whole 

• Where these programs operate 

• Resources to learn more and get involved 

Learn more about the Fresh Access Bucks program on the Feeding Florida website: www.feedingflorida.org/food-access/fresh-access-bucks  

For more resources on Farmers Markets., visit the Florida Farmers Market Association's website: https://foginfo.org/ffma/ and online toolkit: https://farmersmarkettoolkit.org/

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In our 50th episode, hear from Elizabeth Whitlow and Dr. Juan Carlos Rodriguez as they discuss Regenerative Organic Certified™ (ROC™) and how this form of regenerative agriculture may be one solution to the climate crisis. 

Tune in to learn about: 

• Regenerative agriculture’s place in organic and sustainable agriculture systems 

• Ways that regenerative organic agriculture can help mitigate climate change effects 

• Long-term solutions that can come from this movement 

Visit the Regenerative Organic Alliance website at https://regenorganic.org/ to learn more about Regenerative Organic Certified™.  

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Agriculture has an enormous impact on global ecosystems. As effects from climate change become more visible, it is important to address agriculture’s impact and the potential solutions that come from implementing organic and sustainable production methods. 

In this episode, Dr. Shade and Dr. Rodriguez discuss:  

- How organic agriculture can mitigate climate change problems 

• Common myths and claims about organic agriculture and climate change from skeptics  

• How investing in research, education and resources can help

Learn more about The Organic Center on their website: https://www.organic-center.org 

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There is a lot of misinformation surrounding climate change. In this episode, Mary-Elizabeth Estrada and Dr. Ram Balasubramanian discuss three climate myths:  

Myth 1 - Beef consumption is bad for climate change.  

Meat and dairy specifically account for around 14.5% of global greenhouse emissions. By using sustainable practices when producing meat and dairy products, greenhouse emissions can be reduced. 

Myth 2 - Aquatic ecosystems can easily adapt to climate change. 

Increasing ocean acidification, sea level rise and the increase of red tide are alarming as they can directly harm Florida’s marine ecosystems, fisheries, and tourism. It is important to find and implement strategies to help protect these systems for environmental, human, and economic health. 

Myth 3 - Everyone switching to alternative energies will solve climate change problems. 

The manufacturing of alternative energy products must be sustainable to have the greatest impact. However, they are not a silver bullet solution to mitigating climate change problems.

Learn more about The CLEO Institute on their website: https://cleoinstitute.org

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There are a lot of myths surrounding food safety. In this episode, our guest speaker Dr. Schneider breaks down the truth about these often-heard food safety suggestions: 

-  Always wash your fruits and vegetables, even when pre-washed.

• Wash raw chicken before cooking. 

• Freezing food kills harmful bacteria. 

• It’s okay to thaw meat on the counter. 

• Check if your meat is done with a thermometer. 

• You don’t need to deep clean a grill every time it is used. 

Listen in for some helpful tips for keeping food safe over the summer and especially in preparation for holidays, parties and get togethers.  

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Gardening in summer can be a challenge, especially with the Florida heat. But if you have plan, growing a summer garden is possible. 

In this episode, our guest speaker Dr. Rodriguez discusses: 

• starting a garden in summer, 

• what to grow in your garden, 

• purchasing seeds and seedlings,  

• and methods for growing in different areas. 

When creating a plan for your garden, start by deciding what types of crops you want to grow.  UF/IFAS extension offices and agents provide great resources that help gardeners understand which plants grow well in each zone. Preparing your soil and understanding what kinds of soil to use in your raised beds or potted garden is also key.  

Some examples of the crops that grow well across the state in summer are beans, eggplant, okra, peppers, sweet potatoes, and watermelon. However, summer is also a great time to take a break from growing to prepare the soil for fall planting. 

With the summer heat, growing indoors is another option. Plants like herbs and tomatoes are a good choice. However, gardeners must keep in mind that plenty of light for many of these plants will be necessary. Consider growing plants that don’t require pollinators or learn about how to self-pollinate and the necessary requirements.  

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In this episode, we have a conversation with Dr. Tatiana Sanchez about strategies for keeping organic gardens healthy. 

Dr. Sanchez gives tips on:

• understanding and maintaining soil health,

• strategies for preventing disease,

• managing pests in your soil, 

• and how to correctly manage plant nutrients in your garden.

When starting your garden, it’s important to begin with a soil test. Once you know what is in your soil, you will be able to amend the soil so it is richer and healthier. This will also help you select plants that will grow well in your soil. 

For preventing disease in your garden, it’s best to start “clean.” Make sure that the soil, seeds and plants you are planning to add to your garden are healthy and free of disease or infestation. Growing diverse types of crops can also help prevent diseases by lessening the ability for spread and encouraging different ecological shelters for beneficial microorganisms and insects. 

Understanding your habitat and creating an appropriate nutrient management plan is another important component to keeping your garden healthy. 

For more resources or questions, visit the UF/IFAS Master Gardener Program website.

You can also submit photos from your garden to UF/IFAS Extension’s Distance Diagnostic and Identification System (DDIS) to receive assistance with diagnosis of diseases and plant management.

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Since COVID-19, farms across the nation have had to adapt to new and unpredictable circumstances. In Florida alone, more than $500 million dollars in crop losses were reported due to the pandemic. 

In this episode, our guest speaker Logan Petrey discusses: 

• how COVID-19 has affected her farm, 

• steps that have been taken to increase food safety on the farm,  

• and general food safety tips going forward. 

Although the supply chain was most greatly affected at the beginning of the pandemic, Ms. Petrey says that effects are still being felt today.  

COVID-19 caused a large shift in consumer behavior. The food service industry, which included restaurants and schools, took a big hit. However, there was an increased demand for product in other areas such as food pantries. Some products both in large- and small-scale farms saw record-breaking prices, yet the rise of cost in production because of added expense to safety for laborers offset profits.  

According to the CDC, COVID-19 is not a food-borne illness – it is a respiratory illness—and no evidence of food or food packing being associated with transmission of COVID-19 has been found. It does, however, affect farm workers so keeping workers healthy is a large concern. 

For Ms. Petrey’s farm, increased health testing as well as spacing in production facilities, shipping departments and worker housing were some of the procedures taken to protect workers.  

As for how to improve food safety on farms, Ms. Petrey recommends: 

• delegating a food safety point person on your farm, 

• creating simple standard operating procedures for any task on the farm that could compromise food safety, 

• educating and training all contracted employees, which may require language translation, 

• and attending trainings at universities to learn more about food safety. 

Learn more about Ms. Petrey’s farm (Grimmway Farms) by visiting their website. Find more information on the CDC website for recommendations on food safety during COVID-19. 

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We welcome Dr. Katie Sieving who is an expert in avian ecology and behavior and holds a PhD in Ecology, Ethology, & Evolution.

In this episode, Dr. Sieving discusses:

• how to identify birds,
• methods that can attract birds to your garden,
• why birds are important for gardens,
• and how to deter birds from feeding on crops.

Depending on where you live, you will encounter different birds in your garden. To become better at identifying them, find a safe spot to visit on a repeated basis, so you can observe birds, take notes on their behaviors and other characteristics. Over time, you’ll learn about how they react to their environments, what’s important to them, what they’re afraid of and what they love to eat.

To attract birds to your garden, it’s important to have cover to shade smaller birds from larger predators and to have diversity in your plants to satisfy the different functions the birds are looking for.

Among the many benefits of having birds in your garden, pest management is one of the best, since they feed on many harmful crop pests. Another important role birds have is that they serve as indicators of a healthy environment. Organic producers know that the presence of birds means that there is biodiversity on the farm. This is because biodiversity is not as noticeable on farms where there has been high pesticide use.

Although having birds in your garden can be beneficial, for people who grow certain fruits and vegetables, they can be a nuisance. Dr. Sieving explains some of the strategies for deterring birds from foraging such as using sounds or netting.

For more information on Dr. Sieving, visit her website on UF/IFAS. Learn more about her research on using sunflowers to attract birds and research on farmers’ opinions about bird conservation and pest management on organic and conventional north Florida farms.

To learn more about identifying birds, check out UF/IFAS bird and farm research leaflets or visit the Alachua Audubon Society website.

Other great resources include the Audubon Birds App, National Audubon Society Field Guides and the eBook “What the Robin Knows” by Job Young.

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Gardening provides several health benefits. Among them, our guest speaker explains how designing and nurturing your garden can contribute to your self-care.

Ms. Marewski first became interested in sacred gardens through active meditation, which is a style of meditation that advocates movement followed by silence.

She explains that what we are doing physically transcends to what we are doing mentally, and that active meditation translates to the garden in a way of being totally present. “That dialogue is about the dialogue with the plants and what’s at hand. What does my garden need? What are the plants saying?”

Ms. Marewski explains her process for gardening and the meditation process that goes with each step of the nurturing process. Emphasizing that it’s not just feeding our bodies with good organic food but also about nurturing our soul.

There are many types of gardens that bring joy. Gardens can be created using raised beds or tucked into landscaping and various types of plants can be grown. What is most important is to focus on what resonates most for you—whether that be an edible garden, a medicinal garden, or a pollinator garden with lots of colorful annual and perennial flowers.

As flowers are the highest expression of a plant's energy, Ms. Marewski encourages letting plants go to flower and consuming edible flowers in your diet.

She also explains some of the unique uses for edible flowers:

• Begonia encourages letting go
• Borage brings courage and optimism
• Nasturtium brings balance from excess mental activity which is good for insomnia
• Sunnhemp is the energy of the sun so it brightens our day

For those who have issues with insomnia and sleep, she recommends Passionflower and St. Johns Wart which are both calming.

When starting your garden, she also notes the importance of using Organic soil, and explains the differences between Organic, Hybrid and GMO seeds.

Follow Gabriele’s adventures at StorySkyrts.com and learn more about Paradise Farms Organic, a showcase 5-acre certified organic farm specializing in micro-greens, baby greens, over 52 varieties of edible flowers, mushrooms, tropical fruits and vegetables located in Miami.

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Do you know how perceptions about environmental issues in politics have changed over time in Florida? How can we achieve bipartisan support on these important issues? Dr. Ram Balasubramanian and Ryan Smart provide some background on these questions and suggest strategies moving forward. 

Before 2010, environmental issues such as protecting Florida’s everglades and springs, conserving natural lands, rivers and beaches, and taking on polluters, was supported by both our Republican and Democratic representatives. However, Mr. Smart notes that since then, there has been much less support from both parties on taking meaningful action to protect Florida’s environment. 

Although Floridians are clear at the ballot box that they want their tax dollars to be spent providing more protections for the environment, many believe that the will of the people is not being upheld by the politicians in Tallahassee.  

Mr. Smart says that this is due to numerous reasons such as influence from lobbyists and large industries, but especially because of a lack of regulatory action from government agencies to enforce meaningful protections, which has led to disasters such as the recent Piney Point disaster. 

As 70% of nitrogen pollution across the State comes from agriculture, improving this and other agricultural practices is an important place to start. Our speakers discuss how policymakers can provide more resources to help the economic viability of farmers transitioning to Organic and sustainable practices, which would have a great impact on Florida’s environment.  

To reduce pollution in Florida’s waterways, stronger implementation and improvement of Best Management Practices (BMP) is another actionable step that can be taken right away.   

Dr. Balasubramanian explains that organizations like FOG and the Florida Springs Council play an important role in advocating for policies and politicians that protect the environment while educating citizens who must support these initiatives on an individual basis as well.  

Stay up-to-date on policy issues and how you can advocate by visiting the Florida Springs Council and FOG websites.  

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Our guests answer questions such as: How are Florida’s springs being protected? How do large companies like Seven Springs receive permits to take water for bottling purposes? What can you do to help? We cover these topics and more.

With over 700 springs, Florida has the largest concentration of fresh water springs in the world. More than 90 percent of people in Northeast and Central Florida use groundwater, which comes from an aquifer, as their water supply, making the springs a reflection of what is in our drinking water.

Two of the main threats facing the springs are water quality and water quantity.  Thus, controlling pollutants from contaminating the springs and how much water is taken out of the springs is key.

According to Mr. Smart, despite Florida’s water use permit system, its implementation leaves a lot to be desired. With the recent Seven Springs case, a number of these issues are highlighted such as the ease of which permits can be received. 

To receive a permit, three factors must be taken into account: 1) there must be a reasonable beneficial use, 2) the renewing use would not encroach upon the legal rights of others, and 3) public opinion. 

Mr. Haskins explains the details about how the Seven Springs Water Company’s permit to take out nearly 1 million gallons of water per day was approved by the Suwanee Water Management District.

The speakers also gave some strategies on how to help:

-       Stay involved in the process.

-       Attend Water Management District public meetings.

-       Support organizations that monitor the springs.

-       Reduce your bottled water usage.

If you would like to learn more about what the Florida Springs Council is doing, follow this link to their website.

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Is the food we consume safe from COVID-19? How are farmers making sure it is safe to eat the fruits and vegetables they grow for all of us? Dr. Keith Schneider, food safety expert and a professor at the University of Florida’s Food Science and Human Nutrition Department answers these questions and provides more information about our food system during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr. Schneider explains how farm and farmworkers are threatened by the COVID-19 and what is being done.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that there is no evidence that food or food packaging facilitates the transmission of COVID-19. However, Dr. Schneider reminds us that it is always important to follow good hygiene practices when handling or preparing foods

One of the biggest production and distribution challenges farmers must deal with is their farm workers getting sick. Many produce farms are small operations run by one or two managers and a minimal crew. Thus, the safety of our food system begins on the farm and it can potentially be compromised if the workforce is out sick and cannot adequately perform the required tasks to grow and harvest crops.

To protect workers and practice proper food safety at the farm level, Dr. Schneider recommends increasing the use of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), such as masks, goggles, gloves, etc., as well as to emphasize the use of suitable handwashing, sanitation and personal hygiene. Other recommendations include more distance between workers, avoid clustering during breaktime, “quarantining” people that regularly work together, and the use of barriers like plexiglass so there is less transfer of respiratory droplets.

Dr. Schneider also gives strategies on how to improve farm food safety:

• Put as much distance between workers as possible.

• Workers should continue to wash hands as they did before.

• Workers need to self-report illness and not go to work if they are sick.

• Administer temperature checks, although this may be ineffective as the virus can be asymptomatic.

After COVID we see that keeping workers safe the top priority. Going forward, continuing with a high focus on sanitation is the best way to keep the workforce healthy, which will help businesses stay open longer.

If you would like to learn more about CDC recommendations on food safety during COVID-19, visit here.

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On this episode of Fresh Take we welcome Dr. Taylor Clem, the Alachua County Environmental and Community Horticulture Agent.

Tune in to learn how you can attract hummingbirds to your garden!

Dr. Clem will help our listeners

• identify the ruby throated hummingbird,
• give landscaping tips on how to attract the beautiful bird,
• and inform you of the benefits these pollinators provide to our ecosystem and to our own well being!

For more from Dr. Clem check out our Florida Friendly Yards episode!

Dr. Taylor Clem from UF IFAS Alachua county extension services joins us to talk about the Florida Yard and Neighborhood program. Tune in to find out about the 9 principles of Florida Friendly Yards, and other best practices you can implement at home! How to introduce this practices to your HOA ... and more!

Taylor Clem-

Alachua County - Northeast

Specialty: Environmental Horticulture

2800 NE 39th Ave

Gainesville, FL 32609-2658

taylorclem87@ufl.edu

Tel: (352) 955-2402 Fax: (352) 334-0122

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On this Fresh Take episode we welcome Dr. Ram Balasubramanian and Dr. Stephen Forbes. Tune in to listen to our experts share about genetically modified mosquitoes scheduled to be released in Florida and Texas.

Dr. Forbes, an expert in microbiology and genetics, holds a PhD in Biomedical Sciences (Immunology and Infectious diseases track), while Dr. Balasubramanian holds degrees in Crop Sciences, Agricultural Engineering, and Ecological Agriculture. Learn what is a GMO mosquito and it's potential implication for Floridians.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the agency supervising the release of GMO mosquitoes into the Florida environment. The mosquitoes to be released by a third party are to be male mosquitoes, being female mosquitoes the ones needing blood to survive.
The male GMO mosquitoes are to breed with female Aedes Aegypti mosquitoes (disease carrying mosquitoes) and produce nonviable offspring.
Ideally, the female disease carrying mosquito population will be reduced. The environmental implications are still unknown. Dr. Balasubramanian shares his concern on the development of a drug resistant "super mosquito," and also touches the lack of information available to the general public.
The panel of experts share natural and organic ways of controlling mosquito population. These tips and suggestions are non toxic and can be easily followed:

• Get rid of standing water: puddles, ponds, etc. mosquitoes need standing water to do natural life processes. Eliminate standing water and you might be able to reduce mosquito population around you.
• Coffee grounds: Dr. Balasubramanian shares how he has been using coffee grounds in his property to keep mosquitoes away.
• Citronella/ Lemongrass: widely used as a natural mosquito repellent. Want to grow and care for your own citronella? This article explains citronella basics. If your citronella needs fertilizer, we suggest an organic fertilizer as the best alternative.
• Fans/ Air movement: mosquitoes don't enjoy the breeze! regular airflow might just be the solution to decrease mosquito population in your home.

Want to learn more about Aedes Aegypti?Here is comprehensive guide by UF IFAS department of Entomology & Nematology.

If you live in an area where GMO mosquito is being released and have a certified organic production, please share that information with your certifying agency.

If you would like to learn more about regulations and official documents surrounding this topic, follow this link to Regulations.gov.

• Photograph by James Gathany, Center for Disease Control Public Health Image Library.

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Welcome Amy Vu and Dr. JC Rodriguez! We discuss the Asian Giant Hornet “murder hornet” with Amy, Extension coordinator for the Honey Bee Research and Extension Lab (HBREL) @ UF, and Dr. JC Rodriguez, appreciated member of our staff.

Amy and JC are both passionate about bees, both started their bee keeping journey during college. JC shares with us his experience handling Africanized “killer” bees, and the bad reputation around these bees and any other bees named “killer” or “murder.”

It is important to emphasize that everyone will experience a different reaction to any insect. The safest is to keep your distance form any stinging insect.

Amy shares about two (2) types of Asian hornets

(1) Asian giant hornet (Vespa mandarinia): Also known as “murder hornet”

(2) Asian hornet (Vespa velutina): NOT present in the USA

Asian giant hornet first appearance was at the end of 2019. A press release was issued to report on the findings on a small area of Washington State. During the moths of March/April, coming out of the winter, 2 species were found dead.

No one is 100% sure on how this specie reached the continental US, but it is believed that a queen bee was transported by a cargo ship.

The Washington State Department of Agriculture has put compiled comprehensive material on the Giant Asian Hornet, how to identify it and its differences from other similar looking hornets.

The Asian Giant Hornet preys on more insects than just honey bees, this kind of hornet can cause harm to other pollinators as well.

Please, keep a safe distance form any stinging insect. Snap a picture if possible, that is the best proof to identify species.

Visit the Honey Bee Research and Extension Lab website to learn more about Amy Vu and the Research Lab!

For more information on this topic, check out this document by the University of Florida’s Honey Bee Research and Extension Laboratory FAQs - Asian Giant Hornet.

Interested in bees and managed honey bees? Check out our episode SAVE THE BEES, with Dr. Jamie Ellis from the UF Honey Bee Research and Extension Laboratory!
Image Credits:By Alpsdake - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=21275572

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Join our talk with Tripp Pomeroy CEO of Sweetwater Organic Coffee! We chat about certified Fair Trade, certified Organic, and sustainable coffee. We also touch on the unprecedented times we are living in along with Tripp’s efforts to adapt and protect business, people, and earth!
Sweetwater BeginningsIn 2004, Tripp was given the opportunity to buy-in and co-own, Café Campesino in Americus, GA. Tripp mentions this opportunity being the perfect marriage between his interests: international development and an environmentally sustainable, fair traded operation. During 2008, Café Campesino was approached by Sweetwater Organic Coffee to take over the roaster. Some of Sweetwater staff owns part of the company as they stay true to their principles.

Fair Trade Coffee
Tripp tells us Fair Trade is the identity of their business. Café Campesino has followed Fair Trade standards for 20 years, while Sweetwater has done it for 10 years.
There is a known misconception about Fair Trade items having a higher price tag. Tripp tells us that ethically sourced coffee does not cost more to the consumer since the business absorbs the cost. Tripp emphasizes that it is possible to run and grow a sustainable business, for people and planet, and being profitable at the same time.
Café Campesino is a founding member of Cooperative Coffees, a green coffee importing organization committed to fair or alternative trading relationships between farmers and roasters. Café campesino and Sweetwater Organic Coffee have maintained relationships with trading partners for 5 – 20 years.
If done properly: principles + federation that regulates fair trade. change the industry equity, fair trade, transparency.

COVID-19 and Sweetwater Organic CoffeeTripp touches on 4 important factors during these unprecedented times;
- Staff: the health and wellbeing of Sweetwater staff is primordial. Staff is provided protective equipment, while all sanitary procedures that already existed are leveled up. Staff has split into two teams that rotate to restrict the amount of people in the building at a given time.
- Costumers: Sweetwater is keeping coffee going! They are upholding safety measures, running promotions to support customers, and focused on online retail to support the business.
- Trading partners: main issue Sweetwater trading partners face is food security. Sweetwater and Cooperative Coffees have allocated 130K impact fund to be used as response to the needs of farmers.
- Community: Sweetwater is committed to support community, doing their part to keep everyone safe and healthy. Tripp talks to us about the re-opining plan for their restaurant in Americus, GA. He says that even though GA gave the green light to open restaurant businesses, they want to carefully balance the re-opening by taking all precautions to protect the community.
OpportunitiesTripp says this pandemic has brought opportunities to connect with people online and create a virtual community. Also, he mentions this chaotic time can be used as an opportunity to spend more time talking with costumers and building links in the community. Furthermore, Tripp says he is using this time to expand dialogue and share information with other specialty coffee teams.
Certified Organic CoffeeCoffee prefers to be grown naturally, says Tripp. He believes organic coffee is superior in taste and in nature. Organic growing methods protect farmers and their families form harsh chemicals used in traditional farming. Tripp shares how a well-run organic coffee farm can sequester carbon creating healthy soil!

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Today, we welcome back Ram, CEO of Quality Certification Services (QCS) and an experienced Food Safety Auditor and trainer on various food safety topics. Join us to learn more about how to safely shop during unprecedented times!
COVID-19 is not a foodborne illness!

Sanitizers vs. Disinfectants:
- Sanitizer are substance that significantly reduces the germ population, but doesn't destroy or eliminate all the germs. Typically, sanitizers do not claim to reduce viruses.

• Disinfectants are substances that destroy germs: bacteria, fungi and viruses.

Hand sanitizers vs. sanitizers used in food processing facilities:

Ram shares that "not all hand sanitizer are tested against virus and bacteria. FDA tests are usually directed to how safe he product is to be applied to hands/body, and not necessarily the product's efficacy"

Sanitizer used at food processing facility are Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registered and the label indicates the product's efficacy and what germs the product targets. Remember: Off label use of EPA approved sanitizes is a violation of US EPA regulation!

Alcohol based hand sanitizer vs. Alcohol-free hand sanitizer:

Accodrding to CDC, Alcohol-free hand sanitizers may are not work against many types of germs, including COVID-19. Ram shares "alcohol-free hand sanitizer is better than nothing."

Aalcohol based hand sanitizer is effective against COVID 19. CDC recommends a concentration greater than 60% if the active ingredient is ethanol or greater than 70% if the active ingredient is isopropanol.

Ram mentions, "The efficacy of hand sanitizer depends how dirty or oily your hands are, the type of germs you had contact with, and the alcohol content on the product applied"

Best practices while shopping!
- Maintain social distance
- Wash hands often and for at least 20 seconds
- Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available
- Limit the amount of products touched
- Wash produce to eliminate soil residues (COVID19 is no a foodborne illness)
- Wear a mask in public. Dispose gloves and mask in a safe way
- Wash the bags you bring to the store
- If feeling sick, do not leave the house and do not come in contact with others
- Follow the new store patterns and adapt "one way aisle"

Support you local farmers! Use Florida Farmers' Market Association interactive map to find fresh healthy eats near you

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Join Ram, CEO of Quality Certification Services, while he talks about the financial impact of COVID-19 on Florida's agriculture and the financial resources available to farmers. 

1. Federal Assistance administered by SBA

1.1 Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)

1.2 Economic Injury Disaster Loan - unable to accept new application 

1. Assistance not administered by SBA 

2.1 CARES act: 

State of Florida

Direct-to-Consumer Sellers and Online Markets for Florida-Grown Foods 

Florida Farmers’ Market Association 

Find a Market - interactive map

Which Markets are open in FL?

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On this episode we welcome Quality Certification Services (QCS) staff to talk about Organic Certification during the COVID19 pandemic. Our panelists are Beth Rota, policy and quality assurance manager, Brian Rakita, inspection manager, and Ram, CEO of QCS.
Ram shares with us that the agricultural sector is holding strong, with some operations even doubling sales since the lock-down started. He also shares his work linking small and medium producers to buyers, improving the distribution system that currently mostly benefits large scale producers.
Beth, a member of Accredited Certifiers Association, tells how different certifying bodies are working together to come up with a document that outlines best practices to ensure the integrity of the organic label during these difficult times. You can contact Beth about different certifying bodies' efforts to maintain integrity of the organic label at beth@qcsinfo.org.
Brian shares how inspectors have had to adapt to online inspections to maintain the robust USDA organic label. You can contact Brian about remote, online inspections at brian@qcsinfo.org.
If you have issues with your operation or would like to learn more about resources available to you, please email education@foginfo.org with your questions. Information can also be found on our website foginfo.org under Florida Farmers Market Association (FFMA) tab. Newsletter and weekly updates provide resources for producers.

Fresh Take is your weekly dose of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So, if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Monday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

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Our guest today is Alane Humrich from Gainesville based Community Weatherization Coalition! Tune in to learn about their work and to find out how you can save water and electricity.

Fresh Take is your weekly dose of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So, if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Monday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

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Second part is here! We continue our conversation with Dan and Adam regarding organic certification. On this episode, we touch on common misconceptions surrounding organic certification, transitional organic, and a final rundown on the certification process!

Fresh Take is your weekly dose of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So, if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Monday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

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On today's episode, Dan Zaman and Adam Maxwell chat with us regarding what it takes to get certified organic, what the label means, and the level of scrutiny they follow. Get your questions answered HERE! Dan and Adam have the appropriate background and extensive training on the certification process, they understand what is behind the label and have complete knowledge on the current NOP regulation. Part 2 to follow next week!

Fresh Take is your weekly dose of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So, if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Monday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

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This week on Fresh Take we chat with Michael Purvis. He serves as a Waste Alternative Specialist for Alachua County Solid Waste & Resource Recovery. Michel grew up in Georgia and after attending UGA he moved to Gainesville, FL to start his journey as a public servant in Alachua County. Tune in to learn about Recycling and the benefits!!

Fresh Take is your weekly dose of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So, if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Monday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

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It is our pleasure to present our very special guest for today's episode!
Anna Prizzia – Director of UF IFAS Field & Fork and Board Member of Working Foods
Karissa Raskin – City of Gainesville Civic Collaboration Specialist
Yvette Thomas– Planner for the City of Gainesville

Different stakeholder groups, UF IFAS Field & Fork, Working Foods, Levin College of Law Conservation Clinic, Food System Collation, local farmers, and others have come together to present a draft on Urban Agriculture. This ordinance has been drafted by different entities around the local food system and it’s your turn to have your voice heard! You can comment on the draft until Feb 21st. Tune in to learn about urban agriculture, it's benefits, and the new draft for the City of Gainesville!

Fresh Take is your weekly dose of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So, if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Monday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

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Do you want to start a farmers market business, but you don’t know how or where to start? The Farmers Market Promotion Program is here to help you! Today, we talked with Dr. Sarah Cervone and Andi Emrich and learned about the amazing work they do managing the Farmers Market Promotion Program!
This USDA grant funds the creation and dissemination of resources useful for food entrepreneurs. Sarah and Andi work together in the creation of a website that includes all information needed to create and continue a successful farmers market business. This website focuses on food safety, entrepreneurship, and additional resources for beginners and advanced food workers. STAY TUNED FOR THE WEBSITE RELEASE!

Fresh Take is your weekly dose of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So, if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Monday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

Support the show (https://foginfo.org/get-involved/donate/)

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Dr. Taylor Clem from UF IFAS Alachua county extension services joins us to talk about the Florida Yard and Neighborhood program. Tune in to find out about the 9 principles of Florida Friendly Yards, and other best practices you can implement at home! How to introduce this practices to your HOA ... and more!

Check here The Florida Yards and Neighborhoods Handbook!
What is the Florida Yard and Neighborhood program?
It is a program that compiles best management practices for homeowners to ensure water quality, water quantity, protect natural resources, flora and fauna.

If you are interested in transforming your yard to a Florida Friendly yard get started by calling your county extension agent and ask to speak to someone from the Master Gardener Program. Master gardeners are able to guide you on identifying diseases, pests, invasive species, and will provide advice on best practices to get started or continue the work on your yard.
How can I get my HOA involved in the program?
Dialogue between the two parties is the starting point to cultivate a relationship for change. Extension agent can help to push for change creating a custom plan to fulfill different needs, even the smallest changes can create the biggest impact.

9 Principles of the Florida Yards and Neighborhood Program

1 Right plant, right place

Reduce the amount of work and inputs your plants need by choosing plants suited to your landscape conditions.
#2 Water Efficiently
By choosing to water your yard on an efficient way, you can lower down your water bill, prevent pests, and reduce the amount of maintenance your yard needs.
#3 Fertilize appropriately
Carefully follow instructions to fertilize, and only do so if needed. Limiting fertilizer use maximizes plant health and prevents runoff to water systems.

4 Mulch

Mulch is one of your yard’s best friends! Mulch keeps soil moisture, help control weeds, and reduce water runoff. Be careful, too much mulch might play against you. Always prefer mulch from sustainable sources like pine. Cypress and cedar mulch are not sustainable sourced.

5 Attract Wildlife

Provide water, food, and shelter in your backyard! Butterflies, birds, and other creatures will thank you. Suburban sprawl is fragmenting landscapes harming flora and fauna. By attracting wildlife, you can create an oasis and help preserve biodiversity!

6 Manage Yard Pests Responsible

It is possible to manage pests using little chemicals! Smart planning is key to create an effective defense against pests while minimizing your impact on the environment!

7 Recycle

It’s easy to recycle yard waste. Re-use your yard waste to save money and enrich soil.

8 Reduce storm water runoff

The decisions you make in your lawn and garden directly influence the health of Florida’s water. Filter rain through your landscape to protect waterways and replenish the aquifer.

9 Protect the waterfront

Surface water that leaves your yard as runoff (either due to rain or over-watering), together with any fertilizers and pesticides in that runoff, will eventually drain into a water body. Help preserve Florida’s waterways, plants, and wildlife.
EDIT: Dr. Clem refers to irrigation restrictions, says “once a day” and “twice a day”. He actually means “Once a week” and “Twice a week”.

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Join Sarah, JC, Isabel, and Jessica while they tackle #7 common myths and misconceptions that surround Eco-friendly living.

Fresh Take is your weekly dose of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So, if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Monday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

Support the show (https://foginfo.org/get-involved/donate/)

Support the show (https://foginfo.org/donate/)

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Have you ever wonderer who protects the integrity of the certified organic label? Join us in our chat with NOP Deputy Administrator, Dr. Jenny Tucker. We talk about organic standards, organic label integrity, NOP's actions against fraud, barriers and challenges organic producers face, NOP's support for the organic program, and resources for consumer protection.

Fresh Take is your weekly dose of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So, if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Monday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

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We talk with Grace Ebner from Gainesville based environmental non-profit, We are Neutral. Tune in to learn about carbon footprint, biggest print contributors, and tips to identify and reduce your mark. Grace shares tips and suggestions for a cleaner, more neutral life! Let's be mindful on carbon footprint and our environmental impact!

Fresh Take is your weekly roundup of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So, if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Friday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

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Tune in to listen our host, Jessica, and our guest Sarah share their sustainable resolutions for 2020! We share tips on how you can create a healthier, cleaner, and greener new year. We touch on the single use plastic issue, the problems associated with over fertilizing, the vital role of pollinators in agriculture, the importance of eating local, and advice on how to advocate for what you believe in! FOG wishes you a great start of the year!

Fresh Take is your weekly roundup of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So, if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Friday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

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The FOG family wants to share our best tips to be and keep being sustainable this holiday season! In this episode, Jane, Sarah, and Isabel from FOG/QCS share their bests ideas for an environmentally friendly December's celebrations. Let's reduce, reuse, and recycle together this holidays. Ideas and tips regarding gifts, decorations, wrapping paper, meal prepping, Christmas tree, cards, and parties! Tune in to learn how we make sure to be green during this season.

Fresh Take is your weekly roundup of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So, if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Friday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

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Join us and Dr. Jamie Ellis from UF IFAS Honey Bee Research and Extension Laboratory, while we chat about everything related to honey bees! Lets raise awareness for the decline of population on managed honey bees! Everything you need to know about honeybees and their importance on our lives, explained here!! Also, tips and advice for you to take action. 

Fresh Take is your weekly roundup of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So, if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Friday to get your Fresh Take. 

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment. 

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

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Join our chat with aspiring beauty blogger, Odalys Alvarez, while we talk about the toxic chemicals in our everyday personal care products. What are these chemicals? why should we stay away from them? Also, cosmetic labels explained: vegan, cruelty free, organic, and more. Listen to these tips that will change the way you look at cosmetics!

Fresh Take is your weekly roundup of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So, if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Friday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

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Today, we have the pleasure of bringing you Trevor Gilbert, who is a Produce Safety Expert from FDA Department of Health & Human Services. We talk about food safety, FDA regulations, collaboration between Food & Drug Administration and State agencies, and food safety in organic food systems. Also, Trevor shares tips and resources available to farming communities.

Fresh Take is your weekly roundup of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So, if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Friday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

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Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) extension agent, Sarah Bostick, join us to talk about the importance of community supported agriculture (CSA). What is CSA? Why is it beneficial? Tune in to hear about CSA origins, challenges, and advice from Sarasota County extension agent. Sarah tell us about the different labels found in supermarkets and farmers markets. What do these labels mean? Tune in to find out the answer from an expert on the topic!

Fresh Take is your weekly roundup of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So, if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Friday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

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Join us in part 2 of our conversation with Chuck O’Neil. In this episode, we continue talking about natural resources and wildlife conservation in Florida. Particularly, we talk about how to protect soil and aquifer by reducing fertilizer use, and the benefits of creating a wild life habitat in your yard! We also touch on the environmental impact of new toll roads in Florida, and what you can do to protect our beautiful state. 

Fresh Take is your weekly roundup of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So, if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Friday to get your Fresh Take. 

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment. 

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

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A very special guest joins us in this week’s episode! Rights of Nature state wide coordinator, Chuck O'Neal, speaks about natural resources and wildlife conservation in the state of Florida. Tune in to learn about the most pressing issues threatening Florida’s ecosystem and what you and your community can do to fight back! It doesn’t matter if you are a kid or an adult, everyone is needed to keep Florida alive!

Fresh Take is your weekly roundup of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So, if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Friday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

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In this episode, we chat with former owner of an edible landscape business and QCS senior certification manager, Ryan Brouillard, about the magic of comestible landscaping in north and central Florida. Join us to learn more about how you and your family can move from a decorative landscape to an edible one. What does it take? How to do it? What grows well in Florida? Tune in to get the answers to these questions, and more! 

Fresh Take is your weekly roundup of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So, if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Friday to get your Fresh Take. 

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment. 

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

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Florida Organic Growers is proud to host organic farmer and social activist from Montana, Bob Quinn, as he tours the USA promoting his new book Grain by Grain – A Quest to Revive Ancient Wheat, Rural Jobs, and Healthy Food. Along side with expert in organic farming, Marc Ketchel, we discuss regenerative agriculture, Bob's journey as an activist for high-quality foods, rural and local communities' agriculture, and we touch on the popular question Can organic agriculture feed the world? Join us in our advocacy efforts to create a healthier and happier world.

Fresh Take is your weekly roundup of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So, if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Friday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

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Join us while we talk to hemp expert, Brian Rakita. This is the first episode in a series dedicated to bring you all in the information you need to know about hemp. In this episode, we solve hemp related questions: What is hemp? How is hemp different from marijuana? What is CBD? How old is hemp? Why was hemp banned in the past? Why is hemp so good for farmers? What are some hemp uses? and more. 

Fresh Take is your weekly roundup of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Friday to get your Fresh Take. 

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment. 

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

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On this weeks episode we chat with Isabel, an immigrant from Chile. We talk about her take on the organic lifestyle and what sustainability means to her. Tune in to hear about her journey and how she changed her lifestyle to help mitigate climate change! Here you will find thoughts and opinions from a Gen-Z immigrant. 

Fresh Take is your weekly roundup of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Friday to get your Fresh Take. 

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment. 

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

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In this week's episode, we chat with Matt McLean from Uncle Matt's Organic. Join us to discover how Uncle Matt's Organic got started 20 years ago! Learn about what Citrus Greening disease is and how Uncle Matt's Organic is handling this situation. Tune in to listen to why Uncle Matt's loves organic agriculture and it's benefits.

Fresh Take is your weekly roundup of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Friday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

Support the show (https://foginfo.org/donate/)

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Get ready to plant fall crops! In this week's episode, we chat with Dr. JC Rodriguez about implementing your very own organic garden. We discuss tips, best practices, and how to get started growing your own food. Dr. Rodriguez also touches on potential issues and how to solve them.

Fresh Take is your weekly roundup of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Friday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

Support the show (https://foginfo.org/donate/)

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In this week’s episode we’re going further in depth about GMOs. Dr. Stephen Forbes, an expert in microbiology, joins us to discuss different types of GMOS, how they are developed, and gives us insight into how labeling works and how testing is conducted.

Fresh Take is your weekly roundup of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Friday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

Support the show (https://foginfo.org/donate/)

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In this week's episode Danielle Marsh, a health and fitness expert, gives us the tips and tricks to making more sustainable food choices and the benefits these choices bring. Danielle shows us that dedicating more time to food prep and sourcing sustainable options helps not only the environment, but also your wallet.

Fresh Take is your weekly roundup of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Friday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

Support the show (https://foginfo.org/donate/)

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This week we're discussing farmers' markets: how your purchases at your local farmers' markets impact the economy, how to ensure you're actually buying local, and FOG's efforts to make fresh, local foods more accessible to all.

Fresh Take is your weekly roundup of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Friday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

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In this week’s episode we're joined by True Parker, owner of Rebel Coast Fishing Charter in Clearwater, FL. We discuss water quality issues and the impacts that unsustainable agricultural practices have had on our water systems. As a fisherman, True sees first-hand the damage fertilizer runoff has caused to our oceans. We also discuss a variety of agricultural practices that mitigate these water issues and what the future of sustainable agriculture looks like for our oceans and streams.

Fresh Take is your weekly roundup of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Friday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

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This week’s episode tackles the controversial topic of genetically modified organisms (GMO). A GMO is any organism whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering technique. As per the organic regulation, the use of GMOs are not permitted in organic production. We’ll be discussing GMOs, their role in modern agriculture, and their potential effects on our environment.

Fresh Take is your weekly roundup of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in every Friday to get your Fresh Take.

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment.

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

Support the show (https://foginfo.org/donate/)

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Today, we’ll be discussing the origins of organics, what the term means, the history of certification, and how you can make sure you’re making the right choices with your food. 

Florida Certified Organic Growers and Consumers, Inc. (FOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit established in 1987 as a grassroots organization, formed by those who believe in organic, sustainable, and regenerative agriculture. Our vision is to create a more sustainable and just food system that benefits both consumers and the environment. 

Quality Certification Services (QCS) has been an industry leader in providing organic, food safety, and ethical certifications since 1989. As an accredited certifying agency, QCS has been meeting the demands of a growing food industry for more than 30 years. QCS is proud to offer organic and food safety certification for crop production, livestock, retail, restaurants, processing and handling, and importer and exporter operations of all sizes. As the largest US-based certification agency on the eastern seaboard, QCS and our staff of highly qualified and dedicated food and agricultural scientists, educators, and regulators, is capable of meeting all certification needs with expertise.

Support the show (https://foginfo.org/donate/)