Several U.S. produce firms have been awarded multi-million dollar government contracts to provide fresh fruits and vegetables to military bases and schools.

Southern Belle Organics, Bladenboro, N.C., has hired Vince Ferrante to help the blueberry company expand into organic and conventional vegetables.

The Food and Drug Administration’s investigation into the source of an outbreak of cyclosporiasis from McDonald’s salads continues, with a focus on distributors and growers of romaine and carrots in the salads.

The United Fresh Produce Association has scheduled a number of food safety education events.