Episode 42: Uncle Matt's Organic Ben McLean - What Is The Story of Uncle Matt's Organic?

Ben McLean III is a 4th generation citrus grower and Head of Research at Uncle Matt's Organic.

Ben McLean III is a 4th generation Citrus grower born in Clermont, Florida, where he grew up working in his family's Citrus business. Ben attended the University of Florida where he obtained a Bachelor's degree in Health Science in 1988, and a Master's degree in Horticultural Science in 1991. Ben has been involved in Citrus production research since his graduation in 1991 and has collaborated with numerous University scientists during his career focused on the interaction of nutrition and plant health. He is currently the Head of Research for Uncle Matt's Organic, the nation's oldest and best-selling organic orange juice brand. He is also the President of McLean Family Farms, that currently manages over 100 acres of organic production primarily in Citrus and Peaches. McLean Family Farms and Uncle Matt's Organic are actively involved with both public and private entities to enhance organic production in several crops in the state of Florida. Ben is also a former Board member for the University of Florida's Citrus Research and Development Foundation (CRDF) whose mission is to "Advance disease and production research and product development activities to insure the survival and competitiveness of Florida's citrus growers through innovation." Ben currently resides in Clermont, Florida, and is married to his wife Annemarie. They have four wonderful daughters ranging in age from 21 to 28 years, and, one beautiful granddaughter who is 1 year old.

TOPICS EXPLORED

0:00 – 0:24 – Introduction

0:24 – 1:34 – Ben McLean's bio

1:34 – 3:16 – Can you tell me about your family's citrus-growing history?

3:16 – 3:57 – What are some unique facts about Uncle Matt's Organic?

3:57 – 8:28 – What made you decide to continue the family tradition of growing citrus?

8:28 – 10:35 – How did the name – Uncle Matt's Organic – come into being?

10:35 – 11:49 – Can you tell me about the ways your family members are involved in the business?

11:49 – 15:26 – Why is organic agriculture important?

15:26 – 19:08 – How do your growing practices differ from non-organic citrus growers?

19:08 – 25:43 – Could you tell me a little bit about the research you do?

25:43 – 29:01 – What are some of the challenges citrus growers face?

29:01 – 31:40 – Uncle Matt's Organics was the first juice company in the US to be certified Glyphosate (RoundUp) Residue Free. Why was it important for you to ensure that Glyphosate was not used, and for residue-testing and certification to happen?

31:40 – 35:18 – How do you think the food system could be improved to encourage and support organic farmers?

35:18 – 37:11 – What do you see as the future of organic food and farming?

37:11 – 38:39 – Things to share and wrap up

UNCLE MATT'S ORGANIC:

https://www.unclematts.com/

RESOURCES

Uncle Matt's Season To Season Cookbook: https://www.unclematts.com/season-to-season-cookbook/

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Podcast Instagram: @foodforyouandtheplanet

TAGS

Food

Environment

Health

Podcast

Sustainability

Farming

Organic

Organic Agriculture

USDA Certified Organic

Florida

Citrus

Orange Juice