Explore the invisible threats in our food with Vonnie Estes and Wendalyn Jones, CEO of the Institute for the Advancement of Food and Nutrition Sciences. Delve into the world of microplastics, PFAS, and heavy metals, their presence in produce, and implications for health and agriculture. Wendlyn separates science from hype, discusses regulatory perspectives, and emphasizes transparency and collaboration in tackling these challenges. Gain insights on the future of food safety and sustainability, highlighting the roles of innovation and industry in navigating these complex issues.

• Microplastics and Risk: Present scientific evidence suggests a need for further research to confirm the potential health risks of microplastics in food, despite improvements in detection technologies.
• PFAS in Focus: Known as forever chemicals for their resistance to degradation, PFAS face strong regulatory scrutiny due to their extensive industrial use and potential contamination of soil and water systems.
• Heavy Metals Compliance: The Closer to Zero initiative is an essential FDA strategy aimed at reducing the levels of heavy metals in the food system, promoting collaboration across various agencies.
• Industry Challenges and Opportunities: Transparency and consumer education are crucial for producers aiming to address contaminants in the food industry. Firms must also engage in collaborative efforts for a wider industry impact.
• Research and Technological Solutions: New initiatives by IAFNS and USDA are targeting the understanding of soil contamination impacts on crops, potentially guiding future agricultural practices.

• Institute for the Advancement of Food and Nutrition Sciences (IAFNS): Iafns.org
• FDA Closer to Zero Initiative: Information available at FDA.gov
• University of Nebraska Research on Microplastics: Explore university publications for more insights.

For full context and a more in-depth understanding of these crucial topics, be sure to listen to the entire episode of “Fresh Takes on Tech.” Stay tuned for more episodes that delve into the scientific and policy landscapes reshaping the future of our food system.

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Explore the pivotal intersection of science, agriculture, and policy with Vonnie Estes and policy expert Rebeckah F. Adcock as they discuss the produce industry’s future. Delve into how science influences policy, technological advancements, and climate change impacts. Understand the challenges of agricultural labor and the importance of civic engagement. Rebeckah offers insights on leveraging science-driven policies to benefit growers, shippers, and retailers. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, this episode provides a comprehensive look into the evolving landscape of agriculture policy and its real-world implications.

• Understanding Government Dynamics: It is crucial for the produce industry to comprehend the interplay between the branches of government to effectively navigate policy changes.
• Science vs. Opinion: While scientific evidence is fundamental, varying interpretations and external influences significantly impact how policies are crafted.
• Innovation Opportunities: The current administration may provide more flexibility for tech advancements in gene editing and biotechnology, presenting new opportunities for industry growth.
• Policy Influence: Public perception heavily influences policy development, particularly in areas like GMOs and nutrition.
• Labor Challenges: Addressing labor shortages through policy reforms remains a critical issue for the agriculture sector, affecting production and economic stability.

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Description:

Vonnie Estes sits down with three innovators transforming how agriculture manages energy, water, and disease detection. Michael Salvador, co-founder and CEO of Mirai Solar, discusses how photovoltaic shading systems generate clean energy while protecting crops from excessive sunlight. Sarah Placella, founder and CEO of Root Applied Sciences, shares how their airborne pathogen detection system helps growers optimize pesticide use and improve scouting precision. Bryce Buesing, Manager of Client Relations at Responsive Drip Irrigation (RDI), explains their plant-responsive irrigation system that delivers water only when plants need it, improving efficiency and conservation.

Each of these technologies is shaping a more sustainable and data-driven future for farming, offering solutions that enhance productivity, reduce waste, and support climate resilience.

Key Points from the Conversation:

•​Mirai Solar: Photovoltaic shading replaces traditional greenhouse and field shading, providing crops with optimal light exposure while generating electricity.

•​Root Applied Sciences: DNA-based airborne pathogen detection helps farmers reduce pesticide use by identifying disease presence before visible symptoms appear.

•​Responsive Drip Irrigation (RDI): A sensor-free, plant-responsive irrigation system that releases water based on root signals, optimizing water use for a variety of crops.

•​The increasing need for precision agriculture solutions in response to climate change and resource limitations.

•​Insights from the Fresh Field Catalyst Accelerator, including the value of industry mentorship and collaboration in bringing new ag-tech innovations to market.

Guest Information:

•​Michael Salvador – Co-founder & CEO of Mirai Solar, leading innovation in solar-powered shading for agriculture.

•​Sarah Placella – Founder & CEO of Root Applied Sciences, pioneering DNA-based pathogen detection to optimize crop protection.

•​Bryce Buesing – Manager of Client Relations at Responsive Drip Irrigation, specializing in plant-responsive irrigation solutions for water conservation.