When considering the Israel-Palestine conflict, fruit may not be the first thing that comes to mind. Yet, what if fruit, specifically the orange, played a significant role in that story? In the late 19th century, the Jaffa orange emerged as a thriving crop in Palestine, gaining global recognition from royalty and celebrities. This lecture will explore the Jaffa orange’s transformation from a sought-after export to a symbol of cultural contestation, providing valuable perspectives on how agriculture can both bridge and deepen divides.

About the presenter: John Paap is an accomplished professional with over 17 years of experience in the fresh produce industry. He has been instrumental in advancing sustainable agricultural practices and driving innovation within the sector. Beyond his work in sustainability, John co-hosts The History of Fresh Produce podcast where he explores the fascinating stories behind various fresh produce items and their influence on broader historical events. He is also a contributing writer for the “Produce Provenance” column in Vision Magazine, where he shares his insights on produce history, connecting the past with the challenges of today.