Stacking or pouring produce in displays? Columnist Armand Lobato discusses the rare exceptions to the rules.

From long-range climate forecasting down to highway cold chains and the final checkout bar code, automation is removing human error from the fresh supply chain.

By eliminating the manual blind spots of traditional tracking, real-time wireless automation is helping retailers protect fresh food quality and slash spoilage.

After intense social media backlash over microscopic stock and confusing digital checkout lines, Aldi is attempting to make amends by dropping 5,000 additional “Encore” Blind Boxes on Friday.

The request allocates $10 billion to row and specialty crop producers for crops planted in 2026, with the remaining $1.1 billion designated for Florida farmers hit by winter storms in late 2025 and early 2026.

The company says it’s leveraging its more than 25 years of supply chain expertise to help grower-packer-shippers, retailers, foodservice operators and distributors simplify the supply chain, reduce food waste, optimize inventory levels, mitigate compliance risk and increase profitably.

Driven by a consumer desire for health, sustainability and transparency, the sector is experiencing remarkable market growth, which growers are meeting through third-party certifications, supply chain management and high-volume, reliable retail programs.

From patriotic packaging to star-spangled sweepstakes, fresh produce brands are rolling out limited-edition summer features to celebrate the nation’s milestone birthday.