In this episode, Larry Kandarian, a veteran organic farmer and owner of Kandarian Organic Farms, shares his insights into earth-friendly farming, whole foods, and more. A farmer for over 25 years, Kandarian is well-known for his farming and grain advocacy in California and his passion for being a steward of the land. His wealth of knowledge is vast, from mechanical engineering to the flower seed business to sustainable farming practices. In this conversation, Kandarian shares valuable insights into the notable difference between ancient and modern grains and their gluten after-effects, elaborates on what sets organic farming apart from conventional methods, and explains why growing your soil is essential. He speaks passionately about the need to support young farmers starting out, highlights the problem with the Farm Bill, and gives gluten-intolerant listeners great tips for preparing grains. Kandarian also educates us on what to look for when buying food. Listen to it all in this episode of The PrimaFoodie Podcast.


Key Points From This Episode:

• How Larry selects crops for their benefit to the earth and humans.
• Defining ancient grains and what differentiates them from modern grains.  
• The machinery traditionally used in farming and how it differs today.
• What sets organic farming apart. 
• Why the soil (and how you grow it) is so important.
• How Larry applies these soil principles to his own farming.
• Differences between soil and dirt.
• Larry’s thoughts on the growth of organic products and farming (or lack thereof).
• The importance of working toward helping younger farmers get started. 
• Insight into Larry’s take on the problem with the Farm Bill.
• Grain preparation for gluten-intolerant consumers.
• A look at Larry's favorite gluten alternative crop.
• What he means by “warm-season grains” and “cold-season grains.”
• The story of what sparked his transition from mechanical engineering to farming. 
• Where he got his heirloom seeds from. 
• The takeaway for listeners: buy from verified trustworthy seed growers!
• Advice for the average consumer and what to look out for when buying food. 
• A final call to action: shop at farmers’ markets!

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Larry Kandarian on LinkedIn

Kandarian Organic Farms

The Breadlab at Washington State University

Natural Products Conference

Heirloom Festival Ventura

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