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The Credible Vegetable Report with Paul Manfre

Welcome to "The Credible Vegetable Report," the go-to podcast for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the vegetable market's dynamics and trends. Each episode, we dive into the latest developments affecting the agricultural sector, from pricing fluctuations and supply chain challenges to consumption trends and sustainability issues.

Join us as we explore vital topics that impact growers, sellers, and consumers alike. Whether it’s discussing the ripple effects of the Sinaloa water crisis on global markets, analyzing the surge in cucumber prices, or uncovering shifts in consumer eating habits, "The Credible Vegetable Report" provides expert analysis and thoughtful insights.

Our mission is to equip industry stakeholders and interested listeners with the information they need to navigate the complexities of the market effectively. Through engaging discussions, detailed market reports, and guest insights, we aim to foster a better understanding of how environmental factors, economic policies, and consumer behaviors shape the agricultural landscape.

Tune in to stay informed and ahead in the ever-evolving world of agriculture. Whether you're in the field, part of the supply chain, or simply a curious consumer, "The Credible Vegetable Report" is here to provide clarity in the complex world of vegetable markets.

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Last Episode Date: 16 September 2024

Total Episodes: 16

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Hurricane Francine, Inflation, and the Produce Market's Future
16 September 2024
Hurricane Francine, Inflation, and the Produce Market's Future

In this week's episode of the Credible Vegetable Report, Craig Slate and Matt Mandel discuss the latest developments in the world of produce. Hurricane Francine made landfall and disrupted parts of the southern U.S., but how will it impact the produce market? Join us as we explore the effects of the storm, the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report showing inflation cooling down, and the rising costs of limes due to seasonal weather. Plus, Matt shares his pickleball journey, and we dive into the ever-changing produce market landscape, from cucumbers to squash and everything in between.Tune in for insights on how weather, inflation, and market trends are shaping the future of fresh produce!

51 min
Stormy Skies and Fresh Start: Weather, USDA Updates, and the Future of Produce
8 September 2024
Stormy Skies and Fresh Start: Weather, USDA Updates, and the Future of Produce

In this episode of the Credible Vegetable Report, hosts Craig Slate and Matt Mandel dive into the peak of hurricane season, tracking storms and their potential impact on the produce industry. With Saharan dust clearing, tropical waves are rising, which could shape a more intense season. Matt reflects on his sun-soaked return from Hawaii, complete with a light sunburn, and the two discuss everything from back-to-school meal initiatives by the USDA to the discovery of new fruit varieties at a cutting-edge breeding center. Plus, the duo touches on recent shifts in consumer confidence regarding grocery affordability and the impressive growth of the $2.7 billion avocado category.

37 min
Hurricanes, Strikes, and the Latest Produce Insights
31 August 2024
Hurricanes, Strikes, and the Latest Produce Insights

In this episode of the Credible Vegetable Report, Craig Slate and Matt Mandel are back to discuss the latest happenings in the world of produce. From weather updates to industry shifts, here's what you can expect:Hurricane Watch: With multiple tropical storms brewing in the Pacific, find out how these could impact Hawaii's key crops, including a surprising major export.Canadian Rail Strike: The potential ramifications of a Canadian rail workers' strike on the North American produce supply chain.Innovative Retail: A look at Loblaws' new "No Name" store concept aimed at reducing costs and Whole Foods' response to consumer demand for premium, feel-good products.Market Updates: The latest on the cucumber, squash, and tomato markets, including what to expect as we move into September.Join Craig and Matt as they provide expert insights into the produce industry and keep you informed on everything from market trends to innovative retail practices.

43 min
Tropical Storm Ernesto’s Impact, Kroger-Albertsons Merger Concerns, and Surging Avocado Prices
16 August 2024
Tropical Storm Ernesto’s Impact, Kroger-Albertsons Merger Concerns, and Surging Avocado Prices

In this episode:Tropical Storm Ernesto: We dive into the potential impact of Tropical Storm Ernesto on the East Coast and discuss the broader implications of this active hurricane season. Learn more about solar activity's effect on storms and what it means for the produce market.USDA Perishable Trade Trends: A closer look at USDA’s recent reports on perishable trade and how four-week trends are influencing consumer pricing.Kroger-Albertsons Merger: We explore the real impact this massive grocery merger could have on the U.S. and global retail landscapes, beyond just regulatory concerns.Walmart Earnings & Consumer Behavior: As Walmart prepares to report its earnings, we discuss what the results could signal about consumer behavior in a tightening economy.Aldi’s Innovative Retail Strategies: Discover how Aldi and Instacart are upgrading their partnership and leveraging new technologies to enhance the grocery shopping experience. Market Insights: Updates on the current state of the zucchini, bell pepper, and cucumber markets, including pricing trends and quality observations.Tune in to stay ahead of the trends affecting your business and the broader produce industry. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more timely insights!Links to sources:Supermarket News Report on Kroger-Albertsons Merger: https://www.supermarketnews.com/retail-financial/kroger-albertsons-merger-could-have-global-impactAldi’s Partnership with Instacart: https://www.producebluebook.com/2023/08/10/aldi-and-instacart-upgrade-partnership/

39 min
From Heatwaves to Market Shifts: The Latest Produce Insights
9 August 2024
From Heatwaves to Market Shifts: The Latest Produce Insights

Welcome to this week’s episode of the Credible Vegetable Report! Craig Slate and Matt Mandel are back to bring you the latest insights from the world of produce, retail, and food service.In this episode:Weather Watch: As the Northwest gets a break from extreme heat, the focus shifts to Southern California, Arizona, Nevada, and Utah, where heat advisories and potential dust storms are making their mark. Meanwhile, the East Coast is seeing significant rainfall, with no tropical storms in sight—for now.FTC Crackdowns: The Federal Trade Commission is launching an inquiry into high grocery prices, questioning whether Americans are truly getting competitive and affordable prices at the supermarket. Learn more about the FTC’s efforts at https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/topics/protecting-consumers.Walmart’s eGrocery Dominance: Walmart continues to set records in the U.S. eGrocery market, capturing 37% of online grocery sales in Q2 2024. Discover how Walmart’s strategies have propelled it to the top at https://www.producebluebook.com/.The Potato Problem: Lamb Weston, one of the world’s largest frozen potato suppliers, is facing a downturn as restaurant demand for America’s favorite starch declines. Find out more about the challenges facing the potato market at https://www.just-food.com/ and https://www.tomra.com/en/solutions/food.Kroger Supports Local Growers: Kroger is introducing a new produce brand, “Field & Vine,” to promote fresh, locally-grown berries across the U.S. Explore more about this initiative at https://www.thepacker.com/ and on Kroger’s official website at https://www.kroger.com/.

32 min
27 July 2024
Heat Waves, Grocery Mergers, and eCommerce Surges: Produce Industry Updates

Welcome to the Credible Vegetable Report! This week, hosts Craig Slate and Matt Mandel delve into the latest updates affecting the produce industry.In this episode:Weather Watch: 🌡️ Extreme heat continues to scorch California, impacting summer crop yields and farm operations. Meanwhile, flood watches are in effect for the southern Midwest and northern New Mexico.Consumer Price Index Insights: 📉 Discover how the June Consumer Price Index (CPI) reports a slight decline, with notable changes in gas and food prices (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics).eGrocery Boom: 🛒 Learn about the 8% rise in U.S. eGrocery sales in June, driven by a surge in delivery and ship-to-home orders (Source: Produce Blue Book).Kroger & Albertsons Merger: 🏪 Get the details on Kroger and Albertsons' plan to divest over 500 stores as part of their $25 billion merger deal (Source: Supermarket News).Retail Trends: 🛍️ Explore how Sprouts and BJ’s are thriving with smaller store formats, and Whole Foods' response with its new 'Daily Market Shop' (Source: Supermarket News).Market Talk: 📈 Updates on squash, cucumber, eggplant, green bell pepper, jalapeno, and Roma tomato markets.Driscoll's Sweetest Batch Strawberries: 🍓 Craig and Matt taste-test Driscoll's new Sweetest Batch strawberries, discussing their exceptional quality.Join us for these topics and more, as we provide valuable updates and market analysis to keep you informed about the produce industry.Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more updates!

41 min
Consumer Prices Drop, eGrocery Sales Surge, and Kroger's Big Shake-Up
19 July 2024
Consumer Prices Drop, eGrocery Sales Surge, and Kroger's Big Shake-Up

Welcome to the Credible Vegetable Report! This week, Craig Slate and Matt Mandel delve into the latest updates affecting the produce industry. Leave a like and subscribe to our channel!In this episode:🥵 Weather Watch: Extreme heat continues to scorch California, impacting summer crop yields and farm operations. Meanwhile, flood watches are in effect for the southern Midwest and northern New Mexico.💹 Consumer Price Index Insights: Discover how the June Consumer Price Index (CPI) reports a slight decline, with notable changes in gas and food prices. (Data sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics)📈 eGrocery Boom: Learn about the 8% rise in U.S. eGrocery sales in June, driven by a surge in delivery and ship-to-home orders. (Data sourced from Produce Blue Book)🛒 Kroger & Albertsons Merger: Get the details on Kroger and Albertsons' plan to divest over 500 stores as part of their $25 billion merger deal.🏬 Retail Trends: Explore how Sprouts and BJ’s are thriving with smaller store formats, and Whole Foods' response with its new 'Daily Market Shop'. (Insights from Supermarket News)Join us for these topics and more, as we provide valuable updates and market analysis to keep you informed about the produce industry.Learn more: https://linktr.ee/thecrediblevegreporthttps://linktr.ee/thefreshcredRather Watch? https://youtu.be/AWtUUcqiyDs

39 min
Farm Income Freefall: What’s Driving the Biggest Drop in History?
12 July 2024
Farm Income Freefall: What’s Driving the Biggest Drop in History?

Curious about the latest trends and developments in the produce industry? Join hosts Craig Slate and Matt Mandel in this week’s episode of The Credible Vegetable Report for a deep dive into the hottest topics affecting your grocery aisle and beyond.Key Questions Answered in This Episode: • How are recent weather events affecting the produce industry? • What’s behind the USDA’s alarming prediction of a $43 billion drop in farm income? • How has Driscoll’s managed to create the most flavorful berries yet? • Why is H-E-B considered the top grocery retailer in the U.S.? • How are payment innovations at Hy-Vee enhancing the online shopping experience?Why You Should Watch: • Stay informed about critical changes in the produce market that could affect your business or shopping habits. • Learn from industry experts about the latest innovations and strategies in grocery retail. • Get ahead of the curve with insights on how weather patterns are impacting crops and prices.Find Out More: https://linktr.ee/TheFreshCrEdJoin us for an engaging and informative episode that’s sure to keep you on the cutting edge of the produce world!Don’t forget to like, comment, and share this episode with your network. Follow us for more updates and insights from the world of produce. Tune in now and stay ahead with The Credible Vegetable Report!

35 min
Surviving the Heatwave: Innovative Strategies from Farmers
28 June 2024
Surviving the Heatwave: Innovative Strategies from Farmers

Welcome to another episode of the Credible Vegetable Report! This week, we dive deep into the challenges farmers are facing amid unprecedented heatwaves and drought conditions. Joining the show today is co-host, Tommy Wilkins, who brings over 40 years of expertise in buying, selling, and growing fresh produce.In this episode, we’ll cover:Weather Watch: An update on the scorching temperatures and dry weather sweeping across Texas, the plains, and beyond, and how these conditions are impacting agricultural operations.Farmers' Fight: Insights from Tommy Wilkins on the innovative strategies and practical adaptations farmers are employing to cope with the extreme weather. From adjusting planting schedules to using drought-resistant crops and advanced irrigation techniques, discover how these measures are helping to mitigate the negative impacts on crop production.Economic Impact: A discussion on the broader implications of climate change for the agricultural sector, including the economic challenges and the necessity for sustainable solutions.Trade and Infrastructure: The latest on President Biden’s permits for expanding trade bridges in South Texas, aiming to streamline imports and support the agricultural supply chain. https://agfstorage.blob.core.windows.net/misc/FP_com/2024/06/24/Addi.pdfGlobal Perspective: A look at how a Scottish strawberry grower is partnering with Wimbledon to bring fresh produce to the forefront of major events. https://www.producebusinessuk.com/asda-stewarts-prep-for-wimbledon-by-serving-up-millions-of-strawberries/Join us as we explore these pressing issues and highlight the resilience and ingenuity of farmers in the face of climate challenges. Don't miss out on this insightful and timely discussion!Be sure to checkout the Horton Fruit Company!https://hortonfruit.com/

38 min
Farming in the Eye of the Storm: Market and Weather Impact
21 June 2024
Farming in the Eye of the Storm: Market and Weather Impact

Join us for this week’s Credible Vegetable Report with special guest, Dustin Blank. This episode dives deep into the ever-changing world of produce, exploring how tropical storms, market dynamics, and organic trends are shaping the industry.🌾 What’s Covered:Weather Impacts: How tropical storm Alberto and other weather phenomena are affecting crops from Kentucky to Mexico.Organic Trends: The rise of organic produce and its challenges, particularly in different regions of the US and Mexico.Market Shifts: Insight into the fluctuating prices and quality issues in the squash, cucumber, and watermelon markets.Government Support: Discussing the recent USDA support for farm workers and its implications for the industry.💡 Why Watch?Stay informed about the latest trends and challenges in the produce industry. This episode is packed with expert analysis and practical insights for anyone involved in or interested in agriculture.👇 Engage With Us:Have you noticed any changes in your local produce market? What are your thoughts on the increasing role of organic produce? Share your experiences and questions in the comments below—we love hearing from you!Links to Resources:https://thefreshcred.comhttps://www.farmers-alliance.com🔔 Subscribe and Stay Updated:Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the bell icon to get notified about our latest episodes. Stay connected and stay informed with "The Credible Vegetable Report."#Agriculture #OrganicFarming #MarketTrends #ProduceIndustry #WeatherImpact

37 min
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