The Packer Podcast
The Packer Podcast: Frank Yiannas on How AI Can Transform the Future of Food Safety
Yiannas joins "The Packer Podcast" to discuss the potential for machine learning to turn food safety from reactive to predictive and its tangible benefits for the fresh produce industry.
31:25
The Packer Podcast: Fibermaxxing and Why Pears Are the Perfect Superfood for Modern Nutrition Trends
Barbara Ruhs, director of nutrition affairs and communications for Pears USA, explains how the produce industry can use her "science sandwich" method to leverage viral TikTok movements and reach younger consumers to share the benefits of a diet rich in fresh produce.
33:57
John Hollay on Why the 21st-Century Food System Cannot Be Saddled With 1980s Labor Policies
Emphasizing that certainty is an economic necessity, NCAE President and CEO John Hollay discusses the critical role of the H-2A program and why growers must press Congress for permanent legislative fixes rather than relying solely on regulatory shift
28:14
Why Hispanic Consumers are the Future Engine of Produce Growth
Ahead of the West Coast Produce Expo, Ruth Villalonga explains why the $2.8 trillion Hispanic market is no longer a niche and how retailers can capture this high-spending demographic through authentic storytelling and cultural connection.
17:24
The Packer Podcast: Kam Quarles on the Path Toward Economic Recovery
The National Potato Council CEO breaks down the push for a more resilient Farm Bill and why targeted relief is essential for the future of specialty crops and U.S. growers
33:22
The Packer Podcast: South Mill Champs' Lewis Macleod on Why Mushroom Automation is No Longer Optional
With labor costs reaching up to 50% of production and a massive gap in infrastructure, the CEO of South Mill Champs explains how robotics and AI are transforming North American mushroom farming from a manual craft into a 24/7 high-tech operation.
32:37
The Packer Podcast: Tamara Muruetagoiena on Building a Unified Roadmap for Sustainability for Fresh Produce
The International Fresh Produce Association's vice president of sustainability shares how this new strategic path will standardize metrics and streamline efforts across the global supply chain.
33:00
The Packer Podcast: How Molly Pop Harnesses Nostalgia for Modern Marketing
John Cymbal, co-founder and chief marketing officer for Molly’s Grape & Citrus Co., explains how ditching the commodity mindset for a CPG strategy is helping the brand win over consumers.
31:03
Jonna Parker on Why the Industry Needs to Focus on Produce Pounds Not Just Dollars
Circana's vice president of the fresh foods group says the fresh produce industry is poised for a record-breaking dollar growth in 2026, but cautions the industry must move away from a commodity mindset toward data-driven consumer insights.
31:18
The Packer Podcast: Peter O'Driscoll on EFI's Bold Stakeholder Strategy to Unlock Systems Change
The executive director of the Equitable Food Initiative shares how the organization works to promote trust and collaboration among different stakeholders to enact real, tangible progress toward its goals.
31:42