How SupHerb Brings Flavor to Life: Q&A with David Sieperda
At SupHerb Farms, agricultural operations start with a deep understanding of flavor and how it performs in the real world.
We sat down with our Vice President of Agriculture Operations, David Sieperda, who leads our team of growers. He shared his approach to agricultural operations at SupHerb Farms and an inspiring harvest story that captures what being a Flavor Maker means to him.
Q: What is your title?
A: “VP of Ag Operations.”
Q: Please describe your current role at SupHerb Farms.
A: “I have the privilege of leading a crew responsible for contracting, growing and harvesting herbs grown here in California.”
Q: How long have you been with the company?
A: “5 and a half years.”
Q: What previous roles (at SupHerb Farms or other companies) have prepared you for today?
A: “I have worked in crop production roles through all my professional life. My first experience with IQF came while I worked for Stahlbush Island Farms in Corvallis, OR. There, I learned a great deal about growing and harvesting fruits and vegetables at the peak of their flavor and capturing that taste and nutrition through the IQF process.”
Q: What have you enjoyed most in your time with SupHerb Farms?
A: “One early morning in 2022, we were harvesting basil near Tracy, CA when a couple approached me around 3 am, drawn by the aroma of fresh-cut basil in the cool morning air. They had both come from Italy in the 50’s and recently moved to Tracy from San Francisco to be closer to their children. The husband, originally from near Genoa, said the smell reminded him of the basil fields from his youth. They had walked more than a mile just to find the source of the aroma and said it reminded them of home and family.
“We talked about Italy, family and World War II, when many basil fields near Genoa were destroyed during bombings near the port. Before leaving, they picked a little basil to take home.
“The next morning, the couple returned with bread, cheese and homemade pesto to share, and they stayed for a while to soak up the aroma of the basil field and the morning air before saying goodbye.
“Those two mornings reminded me how the flavor and aroma of basil can bring people together and create a sense of happiness, comfort and connection.”
Q: How does your approach to agriculture make you a true Flavor Maker?
A: “Patience. Growing the most flavorful and beautiful herbs takes time.”
Q: How does working closely with our growers ensure premium quality herbs?
A: “SupHerb Farms’ growers are the tip of the spear – the first step in the process of delivering quality herbs to our customers. The Ag Operations team stands side-by-side with our growers, providing insights and knowledge in all aspects of herb production gained from many years of experience. The relationship with growers creates a foundation for quality and consistency in SupHerb Farms’ products.”
Q: Anything else we should know about you?
A: “You can learn anything you want to know about me if you join me on a mountain or gravel bike ride. That’s where all the concerns and worries are lost and where many good ideas are formed.”
