Jennifer Tucker has been appointed deputy administrator of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service National Organic Program.

Not long ago, strawberries were considered the mainstay of the berry category, and bush berries were something consumers might pick up for an occasional treat.

The incoming chairwoman’s background could really shake things up on the board of the United Fresh Produce Association.

Trade tension intensified this week as the U.S. attempted to pressure China into ceasing what President Donald Trump describes as unfair trade practices, including the theft of intellectual property and technology.

When Susan Reimer-Sifford became chairwoman of United Fresh, she said her main goal was to encourage more produce industry engagement.

Montreal-based Courchesne Larose Ltd. has taken a minority stake in Montreal-based J.B. Laverdure Inc.

Pennsylvania apple marketer Fred Hess, 70, died June 14.

Westlake Village, Calif.-based Dole Food Co. has hired Michael Solomon as president of Dole Fresh Vegetables.

Masser Potato Farms, Sacramento, Pa., hired Charles “Chip” Callahan as director of foodservice sales.

(UPDATED, June 21) Western Growers has sounded the alarm over a letter from Kroger to fresh produce shippers announcing the company’s standardized payment terms of net 90 days.