Sourcing Nutrient Dense Foods is Key! - WHY ITALY?
Why source the bulk of our ingredients from Italy and Europe?
Government Regulations:
The Italian government has strict rules on farming. They say “NO” to genetically modified organisms (GMOs), small farmers choose not to use pesticides and herbicides, and there’s no fluoride in the water, to name a few. The government recently banned lab-made meats in Italy. I have spoken with many small farmers, and not one would dare do anything that could harm the integrity of the plant and possibly change the flavor.
Also banned in Italy and other parts of Europe are substances like rBGH (recombinant bovine growth hormone), potassium bromate, brominated vegetable oil, titanium dioxide, azodicarbonamide, Yellow Dye No. 5, Red Dye No. 3, butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), neonicotinoids, and chlorpyrifos. This short list includes toxic substances that are allowed in the USA despite being known to cause harm to the body.
Read 2023 Organic farming in the EU
Farm Structure:
64% of Italian farms are less than 5 hectares and are family-operated. Supporting small family farms is one of my biggest goals.
Side Note:
I have so much admiration for Italian farmers, especially one in particular: Raffaele (a close friend) from Ischia. As the farmer for the island castle, I asked him if he uses GMO seeds, and he didn’t know what they were. They use seeds from the harvest. When I asked if he uses pesticides, he said, ‘No, why would I need them?’ These generational farming methods need to be supported, honored, and protected.
Castello Aragonese D’Ischia
Funny video – My son Lucas and I helping out Raffaele, 2018.
Culinary Culture
In Italy, food is more than just fuel; it’s a way of life. Their commitment to the highest possible quality ingredients keeps the land protected and the traditions strong. By choosing Italy as our sourcing hub, we combine the advantages of geographical isolation, strict government regulations, low production costs, and the traditions of small family farms.
Geographical Size
Texas is 2.2 times bigger than Italy. Top to bottom in 10 hours (drive), which makes it easy to meet with farmers, pick up crops, and manage sourcing. Geographical Features: Surrounded by seas and protected by large mountains, Italy avoids runoff from neighboring countries, preserving the land’s integrity and minimizing contamination risk. The varied regional weather allows year-round harvesting.
Low Cost
Italy has a much lower overall production costs compared to the USA. Savings will be passed down to the consumer, making our nutrient-dense meals more affordable.
Low Price + High Quality + Thoroughly Developed
= Happy Healthy People
Navigating the Italian business landscape
Italian Hurdles:
Complex Regulatory Environment: Negotiating the Italian regulatory landscape requires finesse. Without the right connections, navigating bureaucratic complexities can lead to years of stagnation.
Emphasis on Hierarchy and Status: In Italian business circles, hierarchy and status have a big impact. Establishing and respecting these dynamics is essential for building successful partnerships.
Challenges for Foreigners: Foreigners may find themselves at a disadvantage, susceptible to being taken advantage of due to their unfamiliarity with local practices.
Under-the-Table Dealings: The prevalence of under-the-table business transactions adds a layer of complexity to the business environment, necessitating careful navigation.
Networking and Relationship Building: In Italy, business is profoundly influenced by personal connections. Knowing the right people can open the right doors.
In-Person Meetings and Informal Chats: Face-to-face interactions are not just preferred but crucial. Meetings are not just about business; they involve extended discussions over coffee or wine, fostering a sense of camaraderie.
Everything is Negotiable: Flexibility and adaptability are crucial as nearly everything in Italian business is negotiable. Building a rapport and demonstrating a genuine interest in relationships can be as important as the terms of the deal.
Size and Connectivity: Italy is small and operates on a network where personal connections matter. The saying “6 degrees of separation” is only 1-2 degrees in Italy.
Penetrating the Italian Business Landscape:
A Personal Advantage
“Lucky me, I have
one of these” —->
I married one of Italy’s top business negotiators. My husband, Simone, is a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience, having worked at renowned companies such as Procter & Gamble, Coca-Cola, Lego, Chicco, Warsteiner beer, and others. Currently in a pre-semi-retired phase, he is frequently sought after for consulting roles. His most recent consultation involved providing negotiation strategies for L’Oréal Paris amid the inflation crisis.
Simone’s extensive connections in Italy, particularly with key figures in major food companies such as Alce Nero, Giovanni Rana, Heinz, and the president of organic certifications, complemented by my American business background, love of farming, Master’s in Herbal Medicine, and passion for all things nature, create a powerful team ready to successfully launch NDMeal. His rich experience and network are invaluable assets to our venture.
L’Oréal Meeting
November 2023
My Dream - My Mission - My Goal
With enough resources and time I hope to one day find a plant(s) that will do these two things:
1. Oxidize low pH molecules in the body.
2. Disarm, disable, and disintegrate all pathogens in the body.
Then add these to our meals so humanity can finally heal.
“It’s going to happen, I’m sure of it.”
Camie
