What's Happening?
Elevated Foods and the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) co-hosted the second annual Regenerative Agriculture Tour at the 2026 Global Produce & Floral Show. The event, held on October 16 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando,
connected nearly 90 fresh produce industry professionals, including growers, retailers, suppliers, and foodservice buyers. The guided tour highlighted companies that are advancing regenerative agriculture through various initiatives such as soil health, resource management, grower engagement, and sustainability measurement. Led by Elevated Foods founder and CEO Steve Brazeel and vice president of sales Paul Kneeland, the tour featured nine exhibiting organizations. These organizations represented diverse approaches to agricultural sustainability, certification, supply chain collaboration, and regenerative practices, with five of the nine exhibitors being new to the experience this year.
Why It's Important?
This initiative is crucial for the U.S. agricultural sector as it promotes the adoption and understanding of regenerative agriculture practices. As consumer demand for sustainably produced food grows, demonstrating measurable outcomes of these practices becomes increasingly important for market access and brand reputation. The tour facilitates direct connections between growers and buyers, helping to build supply chains that prioritize environmental stewardship. For small- to mid-sized family growers, this platform offers an opportunity to showcase their efforts and connect with markets that value their sustainable practices, potentially leading to increased sales and economic stability. The emphasis on measurable improvements in nutrient density, flavor, and food quality also highlights the tangible benefits of regenerative agriculture for consumers, driving broader market acceptance and demand.
What's Next?
The continued collaboration between Elevated Foods and IFPA suggests a sustained effort to promote regenerative agriculture within the fresh produce industry. Future tours will likely expand to include more participants and a wider array of companies showcasing innovative sustainable practices. The focus on measurable outcomes indicates a trend towards data-driven approaches in agricultural sustainability, which will likely lead to more robust certification programs and consumer labeling. Elevated Foods, with its mission to connect small and mid-sized growers with valuing markets, will continue to leverage initiatives like this tour, supported by programs such as the USDA's 'Advancing Markets for Producers' grant, to foster a more sustainable and equitable food system. The ongoing dialogue between growers, retailers, and consumers will be critical in shaping the future of regenerative agriculture.
Beyond the Headlines
The Regenerative Agriculture Tour signifies a broader shift in the agricultural industry towards ecological and holistic farming methods. Beyond the immediate economic benefits for participating businesses, this movement addresses critical environmental concerns such as soil degradation, water scarcity, and biodiversity loss. By emphasizing soil health, the initiative contributes to carbon sequestration, a key strategy in mitigating climate change. The focus on pollinator conservation, as exemplified by organizations like Bee Better Certified, underscores the interconnectedness of agricultural practices and ecosystem health. This shift also has ethical implications, promoting a more responsible and respectful relationship with the land and its resources. Ultimately, the widespread adoption of regenerative agriculture could lead to a more resilient food system, capable of withstanding environmental shocks and providing healthier food for communities.
