Fresh Picks & Sustainability Tips: March 2025
Field Day Event at Solminer
I’ve said it before — and it bears repeating.
Sustainability is no longer optional—it's part of doing business.
With growing consumer expectations around transparency and increasing regulatory requirements, retailers are asking more from their suppliers. However, responding to retailer sustainability requests takes time, strategy, and the right expertise and guidance.
At Measure to Improve, our team of sustainability experts can become your in-house sustainability department and help you collect the right data, assemble a trained team, and build a system that makes sustainability compliance more efficient and creates value for your organization.
Completing retailer sustainability requests isn't just about checking boxes—it's about using your data to drive decisions and investments, set meaningful goals, and make credible marketing claims that will set you apart in a crowded marketplace.
Getting ahead on this year's requests starts now. The sooner you prepare, the stronger your sustainability program will be. Let's make sustainability compliance work for you – we have the solution that is right for you.
Warmest Regards,
Nikki Cossio - Founder & CEO - Measure to Improve
Exploring the Benefits of Grazing in Vineyards
Sheep Grazing in Solminer Vineyard
Grazing in vineyards is not a new concept—its roots trace back to ancient Mediterranean civilizations. Historical records indicate civilizations like the Romans utilized grazing animals to manage vegetation and enhance soil fertility.
More recently, wineries in have reintroduced grazing as part of organic and biodynamic farming practices, with promising results.
Solminer, led by owners Anna and David deLaski, have integrated animals into their Biodynamic and Regenerative Organic vineyard practices.
During our recent Field Days event, they shared insights into how these practices improve soil health, reduce synthetic inputs, and create a balanced ecosystem within the vineyard.
Read more about this powerful regenerative practice and download our Grazing Sheep in Vineyards Case Study.
Reflections from SEPC Southern Exposure
Key Takeaways on Sustainability and Industry Trends
At SEPC’s Southern Exposure Conference
Attending the SEPC Southern Exposure conference was a valuable experience that gave me much to reflect on. From thought-provoking educational sessions to meaningful connections, the event underscored the importance of collaboration, leadership, and sustainability in the fresh produce industry.
The event’s theme, “Produce Means Family,” resonated with me personally and professionally. Traveling with Measure to Improve’s Director of Sustainability, Kieran Ficken-McNeice, and my sister, Nelia Alamo who is also in the produce industry, the conference reinforced how connected this industry is—not just in business but through relationships and shared experiences.
SEPC brought this sense of community to life, demonstrating that our work is not just about growing and selling produce but about the people behind it and the impact we collectively make.
Keep reading for the key takeaways from this year’s conference, including industry trends and sustainability insights we all need to be aware of!
Upcoming Events
If you are attending BPIA, please join us at the Women in Biological Agriculture Panel: Leading women in the biological products industry will discuss the challenges and opportunities they face in a male-dominated field. Nikki Cossio, Measure to Improve Founder & CEO, will be speaking on this panel!