Dutch Greenhouse Delta proudly launches The Fresh FoodCast, a brand-new podcast series exploring the future of food security, food safety, and sustainable food production in the Gulf region. Developed in collaboration with the Embassy and Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the UAE and the Netherlands Agricultural Network in the GCC, the series is hosted by Giovanni Angiolini and highlights how Dutch expertise and collaboration can transform food systems in one of the world’s most challenging climates.
Turning Challenges into Opportunities
Producing food in the Gulf countries is not easy. Extreme temperatures, limited water availability, and poor soil conditions make local food production complex, leaving countries heavily reliant on imports. Yet, the region is rapidly transforming, and the demand for fresh, locally grown food is rising fast.
“The Gulf region is transforming its food systems at an unprecedented pace,” says Nienke Gelderloos, Agricultural Advisor UAE. “Countries are making food security not only a sustainability goal but a matter of national resilience. The Netherlands is proud to share its knowledge and expertise to collaborate on these efforts.”
Through The Fresh FoodCast, listeners gain insight on how Dutch expertise in Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA), water management, and public-private partnerships can help co-create resilient and sustainable food systems.
First Episodes: Why Controlled Environment Agriculture Matters
The first two episodes of The FreshFoodcast are now live, focusing on the theme “Why Controlled Environment Agriculture Matters in the Gulf.”
Episode 1 explores the strategic importance of CEA, featuring Dutch experts who share insights on advanced greenhouse technology, climate control, and enabling policies.
Episode 2 takes this a step further, translating technology into practice. It highlights the importance of capacity building, knowledge sharing, and public-private collaboration to turn innovation into real-world results.
Together, these episodes reveal why CEA is central to the Gulf’s food security ambitions, showing how sustainability and economic growth can go hand in hand.
Looking Ahead
Future episodes will cover key topics shaping the region’s horticultural future, including sustainable water management, education and knowledge transfer, investment in CEA, and cold chain development. Each conversation demonstrates how the Netherlands contributes not only through technology but through collaboration, knowledge exchange, and locally adapted solutions.
Listen and Learn More
The Fresh FoodCast by the Netherlands is available now on all major podcast platforms, including Buzzsprout, Apple Music and Spotify. Tune in to discover how Dutch innovation and partnership are driving the Gulf region toward a more secure and sustainable food future.
