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We did not grow apples at my farm. So during apple season we would purchase apples to have available for our customers. Finding organic apples was impossible so after some research we found Eco Certified apples from Fishkill Farms - a farm that was about a 2 ½ hour drive from us. However, it was worth the trip to stock up on healthier, more sustainably grown apples. At the time I read about the Eco Certification and it sounded in line with our values. But I have to say that I didn’t fully understand why I couldn’t find organic apples, similar to the certification that we find in the grocery stores.

During a podcast interview with the manager and orchardist from Scott Farm in Vermont, the Eco Certification came up again…they were an eco certified apple farm. And that was when I learned that apples east of the state of Washington pretty much can’t successfully be certified and grown organically. Why can’t they? Well we explore these reasons in my interview with Michael Rozyne, Founder of Red Tomato, the organization that oversees the Eco Certifiication program for apples and peaches.

Funny thing is that the Eco Certification is actually tied to Meryl Streep. And… you will have to listen to the podcast to learn more about that intriguing story.

Turns out that Red Tomato is not just focused on their Eco Certification program but they are also a food distributor, marketing and education powerhouse, and have recently launched an innovative supply chain project to address food access and affordability.

Join Michael and I as we explore how Red Tomato came to be and has evolved to support the changing times. Enjoy my conversation with Michael!

Red Tomato
Scott Farm/Orchard, Vermont - Podcast Episode

Join us for an exciting 'm/cocktail hour' for chocolate lovers at Berkshire Farm Sanctuary! Start with a chocolate mocktail & some delicious charcuterie. Experience how chocolate is made from bean to bar. Savor the tastes of real chocolate from around the world and depart with some of your favorite chocolate bars. All proceeds support the rescued farm animals! Register @ Berkshire Farm Sanctuary.

Grounded in Maine Podcast hosted by Amy Fagan is an open conversation about being mindful about how we show up for the world. Amy is passionate about learning how we can be sustainable in all aspects of life.

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.

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