Overall Tour de Fresh salad bar contributions near $1 million

The 2019 Tour de Fresh broke fundraising records for the event, with more than $180,000 raised to purchase 51 salad bars.

The event has raised more than $930,000 since it was introduced in 2014, placing more than 265 salad bars in schools across the U.S., according to a news release.

The salad bars will go to schools in California, Georgia, Michigan, Ohio and Texas, according to a news release. The annual cycling event, established by the California Giant Foundation, works with the United Fresh Start Foundation on the program, part of the Let’s Move Salad Bars to Schools campaign.

“The Tour de Fresh has truly become a special event in the industry, and it’s incredible to see so many friends come together for an important cause,” Tom Stenzel, president and CEO of the United Fresh Produce Association, said in the release. “The idea of rallying around school salad bars, getting kids access to fresh produce, and helping create excitement in schools and communities for our products, it makes sense on so many levels, and the United Fresh Start Foundation is honored to play our part in moving these efforts forward.”

The multi-day cycling event is scheduled in connection the Produce Marketing Association’s Fresh Summit Convention, with finish-line festivities part of the annual trade show.

“By providing more students with access to fresh fruits and vegetables during school, we’re shaping heathy eating behavior far beyond school hours and for years to come,” Cindy Jewell, vice president of marketing for California Giant Berry Farms, said in the release.

Almost 50 industry and allied businesses sponsored this year’s Tour de Fresh, which was Oct. 12-16.

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