Naturipe Farms has become one of the first avocado packing houses in Mexico to earn the Pro-Forest certification, using satellite mapping to verify deforestation-free production and meet the growing demand for transparent, sustainably sourced produce from major retailers.

This Wisconsin farm has turned vertical integration into a blueprint for growth by controlling every stage of production, from growing to packing and national distribution, for millions of pounds of potatoes, pumpkins and produce annually.

From 25 years of negotiations in Mexico to the halls of Congress, The Packer’s 2026 Potato Person of the Year, Jared Balcom, says that honest dialogue and grower expertise are key to advocating for the industry on a global stage.

Created to elevate farmworker voices and celebrate individuals whose contributions are essential to the success, safety and sustainability of the food system, the award — now in its third year — will be presented at The Packer’s West Coast Produce Expo, May 27-29 in Palm Desert, Calif.

A soil scientist explores how regenerative soil health acts as the “secret ingredient” for sustainable food by shifting the farming focus toward microbial health and long-term soil structure, which directly enhances the flavor, nutrient density and retail story of specialty crops.

The company says the collective expertise will help it play a significant role in the global mushroom industry into the future.