Episode 362: Alex Canepa
Oct 01, 2025
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Summary:
In this episode of the Produce Moms Podcast, host Lori Taylor welcomes Alex Canepa, the Policy Director at Fair Food Network. They discuss the importance of nutrition incentives like Double Up Food Bucks, which help low-income families access fresh fruits and vegetables while supporting local farmers. Alex shares insights from his journey as a farmer and the impact of Fair Food Network’s initiatives on community health and agriculture policy. The conversation also touches on the recent Maha report, which emphasizes the need for sustainable nutrition programs and the role of small and mid-sized farmers in the food system.
Takeaways:
- Alex Canepa is the Policy Director at Fair Food Network.
- Double Up Food Bucks incentivizes healthy food purchases for SNAP recipients.
- Fair Food Network focuses on community health and resilience through food.
- Nutrition incentives are crucial for improving public health.
- The Maha report highlights the need for sustainable nutrition programs.
- Small and mid-sized farmers play a vital role in the food system.
- Impact investing helps support farmers and food businesses.
- The federal government has a significant role in food procurement.
- Community support is essential for the success of nutrition programs.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to the Produce Moms Podcast
02:37 Meet Alex Canepa: A Farmer’s Journey
06:45 Understanding Fair Food Network and Double Up Food Bucks
09:21 The Power of Food in Community Health
13:59 Nutrition Incentives: A New Approach to Food Policy
18:43 Fair Food Fund: Supporting Farmers and Food Businesses
22:25 Insights from the Maha Report
26:54 Closing Thoughts and Future Opportunities
Resources:
Website: Fair Food Network
Facebook: Fair Food Network
Instagram: Fair Food Network (@fairfoodnetwork) • Instagram photos and videos
