With the Lunar New Year here, we’re diving into a season filled with symbolism, tradition, and some of the most beautiful, meaningful produce in the market. It’s the Year of the Horse in the Chinese zodiac. Robert Schueller. “The Produce Expert” joins us once again to tell us all about the most popular fruits & veggies for the Lunar New Year, which is celebrated all across Asia.

From golden kumquats that represent wealth and prosperity, to long beans that stretch toward longevity, to crisp Asian pears that bring sweetness into the new year. Tune in to discover these delicious foods and the symbolism they bring to the holiday.

Avocados are no longer just a trend — they’re a lifestyle. And while many consumers think first of Mexico or California, there’s a country that’s quietly and powerfully carving out its place in the avocado world: Colombia.

This week on the Produce Buzzers Podcast, we’re excited to welcome Manuel Michel of Avocados From Colombia, an organization dedicated to telling the story behind Colombia’s fast-growing avocado industry. From year-round growing regions and ideal climates to sustainability, quality, and expanding global demand, Colombia is becoming an increasingly important player in keeping avocados on shelves and on plates.

Manuel is here to help us understand why Colombian avocados matter, how they complement existing supply, and what retailers and consumers should know about this exciting origin. So whether you’re slicing, smashing, or spreading, get ready to learn more about one of the most dynamic avocado origins in the world.

This week, we’re excited to shine a spotlight on a company that’s become a major force in the berry world — North Bay Produce. Known for their year-round supply of top-quality fruit and a global network of passionate growers, North Bay has been pushing the envelope in flavor, size, and eating experience.

North Bay Produce is a cooperative of more than 30 grower-owners from North, Central, and South America, producing fresh fruits and vegetables year-round – from asparagus to apples, berries, and snow & sugar snap peas. Headquartered in Traverse City, the northwest corner of Michigan’s lower peninsula, the international company markets and distributes its products worldwide.