In this episode of Recipes for Success, we sit down with Nancy Tregunno, a seasoned food
scientist and founder of Tregunno Food Solutions, who has spent over 30 years helping food and beverage companies develop products, optimize processes, and make smarter packaging decisions.

Nancy brings a rare blend of scientific expertise and real-world experience, supporting small to mid-sized businesses as they navigate everything from formulation to food-package interactions. Lately, her work has focused on one of the industry’s most talked-about topics: sustainable packaging.

With a practical and evidence-based perspective, Nancy shares how food companies can reduce their environmental footprint without compromising on product quality or shelf life. She offers strategies that resonate with both retailers and consumers—focusing on measurable, meaningful changes rather than marketing buzzwords.
Whether you’re launching a new product or rethinking your packaging strategy, this episode is full of grounded, actionable insights from a true expert in the field.

[email protected]
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancy-tregunno-1b343ab6/

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If you would like to be on the show, send us an email :

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Keep informed and up to date about the latest news in the food industry, and follow us on social media:

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In this episode of Recipes for Success, we dive into the powerful role of data in the fresh food industry with Mike Mauti, at Execulytics Consulting. With over 25 years of experience in Canadian retail—most notably in senior leadership at Loblaw—Mike brings a wealth of knowledge on how analytics, execution, and strategy intersect to drive measurable success in the grocery sector.

Mike shares how Execulytics helps fresh food suppliers, producers, and brands make smarter, faster decisions through tools like The Produce Report: Canada, Produce DNA, and Efficient Consumer Surveys. His work bridges the gap between what consumers want and how retailers deliver—offering clients a strategic edge rooted in real data, not guesswork.

We also explore his career journey, including two decades at Loblaw where he led major teams and operations across merchandising, workforce management, and retail strategy. Now, as a respected voice in the industry and a contributor to the Canadian Produce Marketing Association and Vineland Stakeholder Advisory Council, Mike is helping shape the future of fresh retail in Canada.

If you’re in the food business and looking to improve your market positioning, understand your customers better, or navigate retail relationships with more confidence, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

https://execulytics.ca/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikemauti/

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If you would like to be on the show, send us an email :

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Thanks for listening!

In this episode of Recipes for Success, we sit down with Kyla King—certified Red Seal Chef, food entrepreneur, and founder of Rad Jamz & Preserves Inc. and Rad Relish Co. Based in West Kelowna, BC, Kyla has taken her culinary training from Michelin-starred kitchens and turned it into a purpose-driven local business that’s now on shelves in over 200 Canadian retailers.

Raised in East Kelowna on a farm steeped in preserving traditions, Kyla’s childhood pantry was filled with freezer jam, home-canned peaches, and tomato sauces—never store-bought. That early connection to food and flavour led her to earn her Red Seal at Okanagan College, and build a career cooking in top-tier kitchens across Canada, Australia, and the UK. 

Kyla shares her inspiring story of leaving fine dining to launch Rad Jamz in 2016 at a local farmers’ market with her fiancé. The brand quickly gained attention for its bold flavours, sustainable practices, and simple promise: “Real fruit, no BS.” By rescuing surplus fruit from BC farms and focusing on low-sugar, small-batch production, Kyla is building a business that’s both good for the palate and the planet. 

We talk about scaling up, staying true to your values, and why authenticity (and a killer product) can still win in today’s competitive food industry. From jam jars to national growth, Kyla’s journey is a masterclass in craft, community, and creative entrepreneurship.

https://radjamz.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyla-king-32911b2a9/

https://www.instagram.com/radjamz/

https://www.facebook.com/radjamz/

If you like what you heard leave us a comment or a review and subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts.

If you would like to be on the show, send us an email :

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Keep informed and up to date about the latest news in the food industry, and follow us on social media:

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Thanks for listening!

In this episode of Recipes for Success, we’re joined by Emily Nichols, a manufacturing engineer and founder of Connect Better Inc. Growing up on a farm, Emily developed a deep appreciation for the food industry and hands-on problem solving. She later honed her skills working at Quaker, gaining valuable experience in food manufacturing and operations.
Drawing from her engineering background and experience as a keynote speaker and emcee, Emily specializes in helping organizations strengthen the human skills—connection, communication, and creativity—that are essential for success in today’s technical workplaces. She shares insights on how food businesses can foster better collaboration, enhance team dynamics, and build inclusive environments that drive sustainable growth and innovation.

Whether you're leading a food startup or managing a growing team, this conversation offers practical strategies to bridge the gap between technical expertise and human connection, empowering your business to thrive in a competitive industry.

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilynichols/
https://connectbetter.today/about/

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If you would like to be on the show, send us an email :

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Keep informed and up to date about the latest news in the food industry, and follow us on social media:

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Thanks for listening!

In this episode of Recipes for Success, we’re joined by Rochelle Edwards from Calgary Economic Development, Manager of the Trade Accelerator Program (TAP). Rochelle brings a unique perspective as both a passionate supporter of small and medium-sized food businesses and an entrepreneur herself, having founded Tribal Vanilla, a company specializing in premium vanilla products. Drawing from her own experience growing a specialty food brand, Rochelle now helps food producers and other SMEs develop export strategies and expand into international markets.

Together, we explore how TAP equips entrepreneurs with the tools, resources, and networks needed to navigate the complexities of global trade, overcome export challenges, and scale their businesses beyond local borders. Whether you’re just launching your food product or ready to take your brand worldwide, this conversation offers valuable insights and practical advice to help you succeed on the global stage.

https://www.calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com/export/trade-accelerator-program/SKu 

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If you would like to be on the show, send us an email :

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Keep informed and up to date about the latest news in the food industry, and follow us on social media:

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Thanks for listening!

In this episode of SKUFood Recipes for Success, we head to Prince Edward Island to explore the unique world of dairy with Lee Turner, National Sales Manager at Amalgamated Dairies Limited (ADL). With over a decade at ADL and nearly 15 years of advocacy for local food and beverage in Atlantic Canada, Lee shares how a cooperative rooted in community has built a national presence on grocery shelves across the country.

Lee reflects on his role in launching ADL’s Dairy Isle brand and the importance of strong partnerships with major retailers like Walmart, Loblaws, and Sobeys. He gives us an inside look at what it takes to grow a local dairy brand into a trusted national supplier, all while staying true to its PEI roots.

We also dive into the evolving dynamics of the Canadian dairy market, from shifting consumer expectations to supply chain complexities. Lee speaks candidly about the role of innovation in traditional industries, the challenges of navigating national distribution from a small island province, and why supporting local processors is more vital than ever.

It’s a conversation about legacy, leadership and local pride, straight from the Island to the national stage.

Website:
https://adl.ca/

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Thanks for listening!

Sweet supply: berries, borders and the terminal market flow

In this episode of SKUFood Recipes for Success, we speak with Anthony Bisogno, a seasoned leader in Canada’s fresh produce industry. From his early days on the floor of the Ontario Food Terminal to managing some of the most high-value produce categories like berries, grapes and stone fruit. 

Anthony offers a behind-the-scenes look at the complex world of berry importing, where success depends not only on global sourcing relationships but also on how well you manage the unpredictable. From frost-damaged crops in key growing regions to transportation delays caused by weather disruptions, he explains how volatile conditions can impact quality, supply, and pricing. His insights reveal how the produce industry responds to these ongoing challenges, and how strong communication and trust across the supply chain—from grower to retailer—are more important than ever.

Drawing on his early experience serving independent retailers and restaurateurs, Anthony also reflects on the critical role terminal markets play in keeping fresh, high-quality produce moving into local communities. As customer expectations rise and weather patterns grow more erratic, he discusses what it takes to stay agile and deliver consistency in a category where freshness is everything.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the food business who wants to better understand how imported produce, makes it to market, and what it takes to navigate the pressures of a changing climate and an increasingly demanding marketplace.

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If you would like to be on the show, send us an email :

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Thanks for listening!

In this episode of Recipes for Success, we sit down with Karl Wirtz, President of WG Corporate, to explore the vital but often misunderstood world of co-packing in the food industry. With decades of experience helping brands find packaging solutions from concept to shelf, Karl shares invaluable insights into what makes a successful co-packing partnership and why more food businesses are turning to experts like WG Corporate to bring their visions to market efficiently and effectively.

This episode is packed with strategic advice, operational wisdom and real world examples, demystifying the co-packing process.

https://wgcorporate.com/

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If you would like to be on the show, send us an email :

[email protected] or [email protected]

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Thanks for listening!

Welcome to Recipe for Success! In this episode, we’re excited to feature Carzan Local Meats, a family-owned business from Southey, Saskatchewan, dedicated to producing premium grass-fed beef and jerky products. Founded on the principles of sustainability and regenerative ranching, Carzan has become known for its locally raised meats and innovative flavour offerings in their growing jerky business.

Join us as we delve into their journey with Carter and Carmen, from their family roots to their commitment to providing top-tier products that reflect their passion for sustainability and community.

Get ready to hear the inspiring story behind Carzan Local Meats.

​Website: https://carzanmeats.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carzanmeats
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carzanmeats/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@carzangrassfed

If you like what you heard leave us a comment or a review and subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts.

If you would like to be on the show, send us an email :

[email protected] or [email protected]

Keep informed and up to date about the latest news in the food industry, and follow us on social media:

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Thanks for listening!

Welcome to "Recipe for Success," the podcast that explores the journeys of trailblazers in the food industry. In this episode, we're thrilled to feature Ameen Fadel, Cofounder and President of Cedar Valley, a Canadian food manufacturer known for its authentic style pita chips made with better-for-you ingredients.

Ameen's entrepreneurial journey began at just 16 years old as a high school project. Together with his mother, he has transformed Cedar Valley into a fast-growing business, employing 16 people at their 5000 sq ft facility in Windsor, Ontario. The company has gained national recognition, appearing on CBC’s Dragons’ Den and earning accolades from TELUS Business, Desjardins, and the Food Network.

Recently named to Forbes 30 Under 30, Class of 2024, Ameen continues to drive Cedar Valley's success. Join us as Ameen shares his inspiring story, insights into building a successful food brand, and strategies for navigating the challenges of the industry. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and inspiration for achieving success in the food sector.

Website: https://cedarvalleyselections.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cedarvalleyinc/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cedarvalleyinc/
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cedarvalleyinc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ameen-fadel-48175514b/ 

If you like what you heard leave us a comment or a review and subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts.

If you would like to be on the show, send us an email :

[email protected] or [email protected]

Keep informed and up to date about the latest news in the food industry, and follow us on social media:

• Join our weekly SKUFood newsletter
• Connect with Peter on LinkedIn
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Thanks for listening!