99% Invisible How To Pick A Pepper
Nov 5, 2019
Rose Eveleth, host of the Flash Forward podcast, dives into the challenges facing New Mexico's chili pepper harvest. She discusses the labor shortage impacting small family farms and the intense work required for picking peppers. The conversation explores the clash between traditional farming methods and the push for automation in harvesting. Eveleth highlights the complexities of mechanizing such a delicate crop while addressing the historical displacement of migrant workers due to agricultural advancements. It's a spicy mix of tradition, innovation, and social justice!
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Chili Rivalry
- New Mexico's governors fought with Colorado's governor on Twitter about the quality of their respective states' chili peppers.
- New Mexico takes chili peppers very seriously, from license plates to state questions.
Chili Industry Challenges
- Despite the pride and tradition surrounding New Mexico chili, the industry faces challenges.
- Small family farms, dedicated to the crop for generations, struggle with labor shortages and competition.
Glenn's Chili Farm Struggles
- Glenn Duggins, a New Mexico chili farmer, laments the changing landscape of the industry.
- He recalls easier times with abundant labor and higher profits.