Global Fresh Series

What will it take to keep Europe's pear orchards thriving in the decades ahead? In this episode of the Global Fresh Series , we dive into groundbreaking research on heat tolerance, water efficiency, and sustainable production that's redefining the future of pear growing. Join us for an insightful conversation with experts leading the way. #freshpears. #Europesummers #precisionagriculture

Tune in for a timely discussion on the risks, opportunities, and innovations shaping the future of fresh produce in the face of rising temperatures. Europe's latest heat wave is creating significant challenges across the fresh produce industry, from fields and orchards to distribution centers and retail shelves. In this episode of the Global Fresh Series , we explore how extreme temperatures are i...

Join the Global Fresh Series as we follow the journey of apples across continents and discover how growers, importers, and retailers work together to ensure European consumers continue to enjoy premium apples long after the local season ends. We discuss the outlook for the overseas apple program, changing trade flows, growing demand for premium varieties such as Pink Lady® and Rosy Glow, and how r...

This week's Global Fresh Series takes you to the biggest stage—that could also be fresh produce's biggest opportunity, the FIFA 2026 World Cup to explore how growers, marketers, retailers, commodity boards, and foodservice operators can leverage the world's biggest sporting event. With 48 nations competing across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, billions of viewers, millions of visitors, and...

In this episode of the Global Fresh Series Podcast , we explore how Europe’s potato industry — especially Belgium’s iconic frozen fry sector — was hit by a massive agricultural and economic crisis in 2026. Beyond potatoes, the episode is a broader story about globalization, supply chains, farming economics, and the uncertainty facing the next generation of agricultural producers. At its heart, The...

Join me for a fun, reflective, and produce-filled farewell to Greece as I wrap up an unforgettable month abroad—one conversation, one supermarket, and one peach at a time. 🇬🇷🍑🥒 After a month of living and working as a digital nomad in Athens, it’s time for a final stroll through the streets, markets, and produce aisles of Greece. In this episode of the Global Fresh Series , I reflect on the litt...

In this episode of the Global Fresh Series Podcast, we take an in-depth look at the powerful food trends reshaping consumer behavior across Europe in 2026. From the explosive rise of high-protein products and functional foods to flexitarian eating, convenience-driven meals, premium indulgence, sustainability, and nostalgic comfort foods, Europe’s food landscape is evolving rapidly—but not uniforml...

Join host Juanita Gaglio from Athens, Greece, as she explores Brazil's rising role in the global mango market with expert guest Eryvan Pires, CEO of FruitMarket. Discover how Brazil's year-round mango supply supports key markets in Europe and the US, the intricate logistics behind keeping mangoes fresh across continents, and the future growth opportunities in mango consumption and marketing. A mus...

n this episode of the Global Fresh Series Podcast, we are joined by Athena Vorillas for an engaging discussion on Greece’s vibrant food culture, agricultural heritage, and evolving fresh produce sector. From the deep-rooted importance of olives, citrus, and traditional Mediterranean ingredients to modern consumer trends and the role of fresh food in Greek society, Athena offers valuable insight in...

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...