Vanessa Aflalo: CEO & Founder
What’s your favorite fruit or vegetable?
I really love all fruits and veggies! The ones I always have in my fridge are cucumbers and, of course, tomatoes. Lemons are a must — I use them on everything from dressings to avocado toast. I actually eat a salad with every meal. My fiancé always says our house is like a mini market!
What do you love most about working with Green Tomato?
Founding Green Tomato has truly been the pleasure of my life. It’s been so fulfilling to see how much we’ve grown and to witness the amazing work our team, farmers, and artisan partners do every single day. The most exciting part for me is seeing people genuinely care about where their food comes from. Even things like recycling our bags and juice bottles — it was hard at first, but now it’s become part of our culture. I’m so grateful to our customers for embracing it and supporting us.
What new sustainability practice have you implemented?
I stopped buying paper towels and napkins about three years ago. At home, we only use reusable cloth napkins — my family complains when they visit, but now they’re used to it! I’ve also stopped throwing away food. Instead of shopping for specific recipes, I cook with whatever we already have. It’s helped us save so much money and reduce waste.
What do you do for fun?
I love spending time outdoors — I’ve run five half marathons! I’m also into rock climbing and yoga. I also love spending time with my family, especially my 3-year-old niece, my fiancé, and my friends. Going out to eat and enjoying the city is one of my favorite ways to unwind.
Claudia Artigas: Supply Chain and Logistics Manager
What’s your favorite fruit or vegetable?
My favorite fruits are apple, blackberry, and passion fruit—with apple definitely being number one. As for veggies, I’d have to say potato. I love how versatile it is in the kitchen.
What do you love most about working with Green Tomato?
Working at Green Tomato has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life—both professionally and personally. I truly enjoy connecting people with locally grown Florida produce and promoting a healthy, sustainable lifestyle. It’s something that means a lot to me, as I’ve been passionate about preservation, recycling, sustainability, and environmental care ever since I was a child.
What new sustainability practice have you implemented?
I currently recycle my waste through local programs and focus on consuming mostly local, sustainably sourced products. About 3–4 years ago, I also began making conscious efforts to reduce my water and electricity usage—like air-drying my clothes, turning off the tap when not in use, switching off lights in empty rooms, and more.
What do you do for fun?
I love getting out and exploring new places—whether it’s parks or any spot where I can enjoy the outdoors and take in something new. I’m also a big fan of board games and jigsaw puzzles.
Cesar Piña: Customer Support and Fulfillment Associate
What’s your favorite fruit or vegetable?
My favorite fruit is definitely mango—it’s so naturally sweet and refreshing, I could eat it every day! As for vegetables, I’d say onions. I love the spicy kick they add to food... though they don’t always help with your breath!
What is your favorite part of working for Green Tomato?
What I enjoy most is being able to offer customers fresh, farm-grown produce that’s free from harmful additives or chemicals. It’s really rewarding to know that we’re helping people eat healthier while supporting local growers.
What new sustainability practice have you implemented?
During the rainy season, we collect and repurpose rainwater for things like watering plants and cleaning floors. I also save a lot of cardboard for my sister—she studies architecture and uses it to build her models and school projects. On a daily level, I try to reduce electricity and water usage by turning off unused lights, air-drying clothes, and being mindful of my consumption at home.
What do you do for fun?
Climbing is one of my favorite activities—I go hiking or mountain climbing with friends whenever I can. Being out in nature and away from the noise is super relaxing. I’m also learning to play guitar and love discovering new movies to watch in my downtime.
Alex de la Ossa: Sustainability and Outreach Intern
What’s your favorite fruit or vegetable?
To me, fruit is like dessert—I’m always eating it. I have a banana every day, but mango season here in Florida is something else entirely. My idea of the perfect natural juice is a blend of orange, carrot, beet, and ginger. I also love vegetables; I do not understand how some people have a problem with them. I love broccoli and any type of sweet potato.
What is your favorite part of working for Green Tomato?
I love that people are able to eat real food. Visiting farms and speaking with workers who are so genuinely passionate and knowledgeable is incredible. It’s amazing to share excitement about something as “simple” or “ordinary” as a fruit or vegetable. In reality, witnessing the land and plants that create life is the greatest gift. It’s truly an honor and a privilege to experience that.
What new sustainability practice have you implemented?
I’ve started shopping exclusively at local fruit stands near my home, where all the produce is grown in Florida. I’ve also made it my mission to use everything I buy and avoid letting any food go to waste.
What do you do for fun?
Any chance I get, I love going to the beach. I regularly invite my friends, and we go almost every other week. I love the ocean. If I could, I’d spend more time in Homestead’s green spaces. Back in school art classes and still love to draw.
