Global Fresh Series

In this week’s Global Fresh Series, we explore why 2026 may prove to be a defining turning point for the global fresh produce industry. From escalating geopolitical tensions and shifting trade policies to extreme weather events, supply chain disruptions, and climate-driven production challenges, the sector is navigating unprecedented uncertainty. Join us as we examine how growers, exporters, retai...

This week on the Global Fresh Series we conclude our exclusive coverage of the 43rd edition of Macfrut 2026, reflecting on three dynamic days that showcased the very best of the global fresh produce industry. From groundbreaking innovations and international partnerships to emerging technologies, sustainability initiatives, and key market opportunities, Macfrut once again proved why it remains one...

This week on the Global Fresh Series, we take you to the opening day of Macfrut 2026 in Rimini, Italy—where the global fresh produce industry gathers with energy, innovation, and purpose. From the moment the doors open, the show floor comes alive with international voices, forward-thinking technology, and powerful storytelling from growers and brands around the world. In this episode, we explore t...

his week on the Global Fresh Series , we dive into how one everyday staple—tomatoes—has become a powerful symbol of today’s shifting food economy. While broader grocery inflation begins to cool, tomato prices are surging, revealing a perfect storm of converging forces behind the scenes. From tariffs on imported supply to rising diesel fuel costs and increasing fertilizer expenses, the pressure is...

Long before podcasts and digital media, Orion Samuelson mastered the art of connecting farm and consumer through the airwaves. As the iconic voice of WGN Radio, he translated complex agricultural issues into stories people could understand—and trust. This week on the Global Fresh Series , we examine how his approach to communication holds powerful lessons for today’s content creators, brands, and...

Regenerative agriculture is no longer a niche concept—it’s becoming a defining force in the future of global fresh produce. In this episode of the Global Fresh Series, we explore how farmers, retailers, and multinational food companies are working together to restore soil health, improve resilience, and reshape supply chains from the ground up. From large-scale initiatives across Europe to retaile...

his week on the Global Fresh Series, we dive into a major joint venture between two industry powerhouses that is set to redefine the fresh-cut fruit landscape in France. With a strategic location, integrated logistics, and a focus on convenience-driven consumption, this partnership highlights the rapid evolution of value-added produce across Europe. We explore what this means for suppliers, retail...

Two stories. Two continents. One interconnected industry. From booming avocado exports to complex trade policy shifts, this episode dives into the opportunities, challenges, and strategies shaping the future of fresh. In this episode of the Global Fresh Series , we connect the dots across two powerful forces shaping the fresh produce industry in 2025 and beyond. First, we head to Colombia , where...

What does conflict in the Middle East have to do with the price of food on your table? More than you might think. In this episode of The Global Fresh Series , we explore how geopolitical tensions in the Persian Gulf—particularly disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz—are sending ripple effects through the global agriculture supply chain. While headlines often focus on rising oil prices, another criti...

In this episode of the Global Fresh Series, we take you inside the energy and excitement of the SEPC Southern Exposure 2026 in Orlando, Florida—one of the fresh produce industry’s most anticipated gatherings of the year. From the vibrant trade show floor to meaningful conversations with growers, shippers, retailers, and innovators across the supply chain, this episode captures the spirit of collab...

In this vibrant February episode of The Global Fresh Series , we celebrate the spirit of the Chinese (Lunar) New Year — a season of prosperity, renewal, and symbolic foods — while honoring National Heart Month , spotlighting the powerful role fresh produce plays in cardiovascular wellness. From citrus fruits symbolizing good fortune to berries, leafy greens, tomatoes, avocados, root vegetables, an...

This week on The Global Fresh Series , we’re recapping the high points of Fruit Logistica 2026 , where nearly 90,000 fresh produce professionals from around the world gathered in Berlin despite challenging winter conditions. We take a closer look at the business momentum, innovation highlights, and key themes shaping the global fresh produce industry, followed by an overview of the EU–Mercosur tra...

This week on The Global Fresh Series , we’re coming to you from Fruit Logistica in Berlin , where the global fresh produce industry gathers to shape the future of trade, innovation, and market access. In this special episode, we share insights from the show floor and introduce a guest with years of hands-on experience doing business in the China fresh produce market . As China continues to play an...

We begin with a deep dive into France’s recent decree banning five active substances on a range of fresh produce, regardless of country of origin , and explore what this unilateral move means for growers, exporters, and global supply chains operating within and beyond the European Union. Next, we’re excited to introduce a new segment, Consumer Insights , featuring Nicole MacDonald , who joins us t...

This week on The Global Fresh Series , we take a wide-angle look at the forces reshaping the global fresh produce industry—from avocado boardroom power, with the blockbuster acquisition of Calavo Growers by Mission Produce , a deal that signals a new era of scale, vertical integration, and expansion into prepared foods. moves to unexpected environmental challenges influencing what ends up on our p...

This week on The Global Fresh Series , we take a wide-angle look at how rapidly shifting environmental conditions, global demand, and innovation are reshaping the fresh produce landscape. We begin in California , where the state has officially been declared drought-free , marking a major turning point for growers, water policy, and long-term agricultural planning. From there, we travel to Southeas...

In this timely episode of the Global Fresh Series , we sit down with Ron Lemaire , President of the Canadian Fresh Produce Association, for a candid conversation on one of the most challenging years the global fresh produce industry has faced in recent memory. Ron reflects on the realities of 2025—marked by shifting tariffs, trade uncertainty, and geopolitical pressures—and how these forces reshap...

The final Global Fresh Series episode of 2025 is all about celebration. We’re highlighting the people, ideas, and breakthroughs that shaped the year across the global fresh produce industry. From farm fields to global markets, this episode captures the energy, resilience, and innovation that defined 2025—and sets the stage for an exciting year ahead. Join us as we close the season with gratitude,...

Twas the price before Christmas, and all through the supply chain, avocados were falling while citrus felt the strain. In this festive episode of the Global Fresh Series , we unwrap the latest market moves—avocado prices hitting multi-year lows thanks to booming imports, while California citrus climbs to holiday-high territory. With a nod to a classic Christmas tale (reimagined with fresh produce)...

In this episode of the  Global Fresh Series , we begin with a lighthearted (and honest) reflection on holiday travel, how flying has changed over the years, and why a cup of fresh fruit might be the best carry-on you can bring. But quickly, the conversation turns serious as we examine how timing, weather, and global trade pressures are reshaping fresh produce supply chains. Shifting to t...

In this week’s episode, host  Juanita Gaglio  takes listeners on a whirlwind tour of the global fresh-produce scene — from  bananas mysteriously washing ashore on U.K. beaches  to the  first shipments of Chilean cherries  sparking excitement for the holiday season. We’ll also look at why  broccolini is having a major moment  on menus and market shelves alike...

In this episode of  The Global Fresh Series , we take a deep dive into the numbers shaping what’s on our plates — comparing the staggering $3.23 trillion global ultra-processed foods market with the $1.27 trillion fresh-produce sector projected by 2034. Host  Juanita Gaglio  unpacks where the real opportunities lie for fruits and vegetables to innovate, inspire, and add value — from...

In this episode of  The Global Fresh Series , we explore three dynamic stories shaping the produce world and beyond. First, we dive into the innovative trend of packing premium avocados in festive Christmas gift boxes—what it means for growers, exporters, retailers and the seasonal consumer mindset. Next, we examine the latest global public-health push around ultra-processed foods: how policy...

The Global Fresh Series is back with a triple-feature episode bursting with fresh trends and global milestones. We kick things off with the rising “sour grape” sensation taking over taste buds and social media. Then we dive into a historic turning point for British agriculture as the UK embraces precision breeding with a bold new regulatory framework. And finally, we head to Paris, where Natexpo 2...

In this episode of the Global Fresh Series , host Juanita Gaglio welcomes Patrick Kelly , founder and host of The Produce Industry Podcast , for an engaging conversation about the dynamic world of fresh produce. Together, they explore how international trade and global trade shows are shaping the future of the industry, and discuss the innovations, challenges, and opportunities driving growth arou...