EDUCATING THE MIND WITHOUT EDUCATING THE HEART IS NO EDUCATION AT ALL
– ARISTOTLE

In 2022, John Paap, host of History of Fresh Produce, and Patrick Kelly recognized an opportunity to highlight the deep historical roots of the fresh produce industry. Their vision was to create a platform that educates and informs industry professionals, consumers, and history enthusiasts about the origins of various crops. They sought to explore when and where different fruits and vegetables were first cultivated, the agricultural techniques used in their early development, and the cultural significance these crops held for different civilizations. 

Additionally, they aimed to uncover the political and economic forces that shaped their production, including trade policies, technological advancements, and shifts in consumer demand. A key focus was understanding how farming transitioned from small-scale, subsistence agriculture to large-scale commercial production, shaping modern food systems. Through their work, they strive to provide a richer appreciation for the journey of fresh produce from its historical beginnings to the global industry it is today.