The newly elected president of the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA) questioned the model by which fruits and vegetables are sold, and if the industry was going to be able to meet the growing global demand.
Asked about his vision on fruits and vegetables, Matt Mandel said he was optimistic, but that there were several issues that had to be addressed, such as the structure of the supply chain and the adaptation of the Law on Food Safety Modernization (FSMA).
"The main questions should be: Where does the problem really lie? Do we need to improve production methods to increase yields, and what is the best way to do so?" stated Mandel, who is also the vice president of sales and marketing of SunFed in the border town of Nogales, Arizona.
Mandel said it was too early to know the implications of FSMA, which became law in 2011, and that the professionals of the fruit and vegetable sector could use the law to their advantage and change regulations for the better.
"The good news is that this is a great opportunity for the industry to help shape the next round of rules and regulations that will ultimately lead the industry, at least in the near foreseeable future," he said.
"The collaborative nature with which we are moving is a good omen to make our food supply safer," he added.
This involves working closely with the Government to ensure that decisions are based on science and facts.
"There are certain sectors of the fresh fruit and vegetable industry that have chosen not to innovate, to not keep up with the times; therefore, their methods and products are of lower quality and their demand is lowering," he added.
Mandel said the FPAA and its members were constantly advocating for a higher level of goods, looking for new and creative ways to meet the needs of a diverse customer base.
In conclusion, much of the Mandel's optimism stems from what he thinks of the people within the fruit and vegetable industry.
"I've worked in other industries and I can honestly say that I have never met a more committed and passionate group of people," he said. "It makes me hopeful, we will find solutions to feed future generations," he said.
Source: Fresh Fruit Portal