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NGA calls for congressional action after FTC report on pandemic-era supply chain
NGA calls for congressional action after FTC report on pandemic-era supply chain

A Federal Trade Commission report has prompted the National Grocers Association to respond to the report's suggestion that major grocers' practices during the COVID-19 pandemic impacted competition and consumer choice.

Michigan State University research identifies gene behind cold-induced sweetening
Michigan State University research identifies gene behind cold-induced sweetening

When subjected to cold temperatures, potatoes convert starch to sugar which can darken the flesh and create a carcinogenic compound during high-temperature processing.

How retailers are making strides toward diversity in leadership roles
How retailers are making strides toward diversity in leadership roles

Diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives aim not only to increase diversity in entry-level positions, but also to provide concrete pathways for employees to advance into leadership roles.

Virginia Tech gets $5.7M grant to develop fire blight management tools
Virginia Tech gets $5.7M grant to develop fire blight management tools

A research team from apple- and pear-producing states seeks to identify biological controls and develop tools to help growers better detect and control the devastating pathogen.

Sweetpotato commission seeks to spur consumer demand beyond Easter rush
Sweetpotato commission seeks to spur consumer demand beyond Easter rush

Fueled by Easter shopping lists, sweetpotatoes are expected to be in high demand in late March and into the spring. But the demand won’t stop there, industry leaders say.

Research examines challenges in packinghouse sanitation
Research examines challenges in packinghouse sanitation

Learn how insights into research on foodborne pathogens in packinghouses provide packers and shippers with actionable items to reduce risks in packing facilities.

ZAG Technical Services recognized for contributions to agtech   
ZAG Technical Services recognized for contributions to agtech  

The San Jose, Calif.-based IT consulting firm specializing in cybersecurity, data analytics and managed services, recently received three awards for its contributions to agriculture in the technology space.

EFI offers new courses for creating ethical, sustainable work environments
EFI offers new courses for creating ethical, sustainable work environments

The education opportunities focus on topics such as worker protections, responsible labor practices, understanding retailer sustainability requirements and more.

Naturipe Farms has new vice president of marketing
Naturipe Farms has new vice president of marketing

Ashley Finster, a marketing professional with nearly three decades of management experience, previously served as chief marketing officer at SunFed Ranch.

How the Port of Houston has been gearing up for growth
How the Port of Houston has been gearing up for growth

With strategic investments in new equipment, terminal infrastructure and channel improvements, the port continues to solidify its position as a vital hub for trade in the Gulf region. 

Lack of understanding remains a key issue in FSMA 204 readiness
Lack of understanding remains a key issue in FSMA 204 readiness

Liz Sertl, senior director of supply chain visibility at GS1 US, shares how companies operating in the produce industry need to prepare for FSMA 204 compliance.

Sorting machines help potato grower decrease labor dependence
Sorting machines help potato grower decrease labor dependence

Luke Parr, farm manager for Michigan-based Sackett Ranch, says the Tomra optical sorting machines can do multiple processes at once.

Free training will address responsible worker-recruitment practices
Free training will address responsible worker-recruitment practices

GlobalGAP North America will host the March 25 Stronger Together online training course, which will feature interactive learning through group discussions and exercises.

USDA proposes to clarify standards for organic mushrooms
USDA proposes to clarify standards for organic mushrooms

Topics addressed by the proposed rule for mushrooms include sourcing of substrate and spawn in organic mushroom production and composting requirements for organic mushroom production.

Labor Department awards $2M grant to support worker-driven social compliance systems
Labor Department awards $2M grant to support worker-driven social compliance systems

The funds, awarded to the International Labor Organization, support the use of systems to promote fundamental labor rights and acceptable work conditions, including an end to forced labor in supply chains.

Meridian Growers names communications director
Meridian Growers names communications director

Michelle Carter, who was hired in July 2006 as a sales and marketing assistant, will now oversee all communication strategies for Meridian Growers.

Melissa's debuts Tropical Flight for dragon fruit varieties
Melissa's debuts Tropical Flight for dragon fruit varieties

Inspired by wine flights, where patrons experience a tasting flight of multiple varietals, this retail program offers consumers the opportunity to discover the flavor profiles and vibrant colors of each variety.

Jacobs Farm del Cabo adds reseal pint for organic snacking tomatoes
Jacobs Farm del Cabo adds reseal pint for organic snacking tomatoes

The company says the packaging change reduces plastics use by 25% and that it hopes to roll it out for other pints by the end of the year.

Companies unveil digital integration to streamline irrigation management
Companies unveil digital integration to streamline irrigation management

Digital farm management provider CropX Technologies has unveiled an API integration with WiseConn to improve data gathering and analytics for farmers.

IFPA to bring agribusiness industry together at Mexico Conference 
IFPA to bring agribusiness industry together at Mexico Conference 

The event, set for May 22-23 in Guadalajara, is a strategic opportunity for those who do business in Mexico or who wish to do business there, with a gathering of professionals throughout the fresh produce supply chain.

CBP officers seize drugs concealed in carrot shipment
CBP officers seize drugs concealed in carrot shipment

U.S. Customs and Border Protection said its officers discovered 574 suspected packages of methamphetamine with an estimated street value in the millions of dollars.

How CEA is shining bright in the Lone Star State
How CEA is shining bright in the Lone Star State

Controlled environment agriculture continues to grow in Texas. While many growers see the state’s strategic location for distribution as an advantage to setting up shop, it’s more than just location, says one executive.

EFI celebrates National Farmworker Awareness Week
EFI celebrates National Farmworker Awareness Week

Equitable Food Initiative has released an updated communications toolkit in preparation for Farmworker Awareness Week, which is held March 25-31 annually.

APHIS expands huanglongbing quarantine areas in California
APHIS expands huanglongbing quarantine areas in California

The new quarantine includes portions of Los Angeles, San Diego and Ventura counties.

Industry veteran Glenn Beckham remembered
Industry veteran Glenn Beckham remembered

Industry veteran Glenn Beckham, 77, of Bettendorf, Iowa, died March 12 after a courageous battle with health complications due to diabetes. 

Save Mart partners with Flashfood to lower grocery prices, reduce food waste 
Save Mart partners with Flashfood to lower grocery prices, reduce food waste 

The Save Mart Cos. has become the first California grocer to partner with Flashfood, an app that connects shoppers with fresh produce and other groceries at up to 50% off.

Emerald Packaging announces retirement of key executive
Emerald Packaging announces retirement of key executive

James "Jim" M. Kelly, executive vice president, is retiring after 41 years with the company.

Organically Grown Co. wins national award
Organically Grown Co. wins national award

The company was honored with the Organic Company of the Year award at the 2024 Natural Products Expo West trade show.

NCAE expresses 'frustration and dismay' over allegations about UFW use of farmworker funds
NCAE expresses 'frustration and dismay' over allegations about UFW use of farmworker funds

The allegations relate to what the National Council of Agricultural Employers said was coercion of vulnerable workers and misuse of the USDA Farm and Food Worker Relief Grant Program.

USApple board talks trade, labor with agriculture secretary
USApple board talks trade, labor with agriculture secretary

U.S. Apple Association board members discussed the importance of regaining export markets, the impact of proposed regulations for the H-2A program and more.

Blue Diamond Growers lays off 38 corporate employees
Blue Diamond Growers lays off 38 corporate employees

The Sacramento Bee reports the cooperative of more than 3,000 almond growers faces heightened pressure and that the move is intended to help it stay profitable.

ProAmpac adds UP Paper to expand sustainable solutions
ProAmpac adds UP Paper to expand sustainable solutions

The flexible packaging and material science company said the acquisition of the Michigan-based recycled kraft paper manufacturer will help boost environmentally friendly packaging products.

IFPA CEO calls for ‘competitive, level playing field’ for U.S. ag
IFPA CEO calls for ‘competitive, level playing field’ for U.S. ag

International Fresh Produce Association CEO Cathy Burns joined fellow industry leaders to discuss agricultural policy and sustainability at the Agri-Pulse 2024 Ag & Food Policy Summit in Washington, D.C., March 18.

POM Wonderful adds pomegranate fiber to specialty ingredients lineup
POM Wonderful adds pomegranate fiber to specialty ingredients lineup

The Pomegranate Fiber, which is upcycled from POM Wonderful pomegranate husks after juicing, is a fiber-dense powder that can be used in a variety of food applications.

Moonlight, Sun Pacific buy Prima Wawona land
Moonlight, Sun Pacific buy Prima Wawona land

Stone fruit grower Moonlight Cos. has formed a joint venture with Sun Pacific to purchase 5,000 acres of former Prima Wawona land, valued at $91 million.

Despite challenging season for Mexican produce imports, long-term growth continues
Despite challenging season for Mexican produce imports, long-term growth continues

Hurricanes last fall, recent drought and other factors have held back some fresh produce output in Mexico in recent months, but the value of U.S. imports from the country continues to climb. 

Indoor Ag-Con attendance jumps 16%
Indoor Ag-Con attendance jumps 16%

The 11th edition of the event drew controlled environment agriculture industry members from 49 U.S. states and over 30 countries.

Campaign set for TX1015 sweet onions
Campaign set for TX1015 sweet onions

A marketing campaign for TX1015 sweet onions will feature promotions including a sweepstakes, social media giveaways and restaurant events.

Fresh From Florida touts state’s produce
Fresh From Florida touts state’s produce

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has come up with a plethora of ways to promote the state’s fruits and vegetables through the Fresh From Florida retail promotion this spring.

USDA restricts PACA violators in Georgia
USDA restricts PACA violators in Georgia

The sanctions include suspending the businesses’ PACA licenses and barring the principal operators of the businesses from engaging in PACA-licensed business or other activities without approval from USDA.

 USDA lifts PACA reparation sanctions on Texas produce company
USDA lifts PACA reparation sanctions on Texas produce company

The McAllen, Texas, company has met obligations outlined in the reparation order issued under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act and is now free to operate in the produce industry, USDA said.

Save A Lot names chief development officer
Save A Lot names chief development officer

Bill Mayo spent the past 29 years at Wakefern Food Corp. As chief development officer, Mayo will lead the strategic growth of Save A Lot’s licensed retail business to support and strengthen the Save A Lot brand.

Maryland expands spotted lanternfly quarantine
Maryland expands spotted lanternfly quarantine

The state’s department of agriculture added 17 counties to control the spread of the invasive insect.

2024 NGA Show concludes with record attendance, sold-out expo hall
2024 NGA Show concludes with record attendance, sold-out expo hall

Organizers said 3,600 grocery professionals participated in the three-day event, the largest in the National Grocers Association's 42-year history.

Inspiration on the agenda: The Viva Fresh ‘Clean Eating Challenge'
Inspiration on the agenda: The Viva Fresh ‘Clean Eating Challenge'

Now in its fifth year, the Viva Fresh Clean Eating Challenge supports industry peers taking the challenge to eat more fruits and vegetables, while making the meaningful first steps to improve their health and lives.

Research examines intelligent systems to prevent freeze damage
Research examines intelligent systems to prevent freeze damage

A research team at Penn State University looks to use real-time data and an unmanned vehicle to better target heat in orchards during freeze events.

Strong Texas onion crop expected
Strong Texas onion crop expected

Barring unforeseen weather events, Texas spring onion season is expected to feature plenty of good-quality product, growers say.

TIPA adds new VP, general manager
TIPA adds new VP, general manager

Rodrigo Castaneda, who joins the company with more than 25 years of experience in various industries, is expected to help expand the company’s presence.

University of Florida researchers look to extend artichoke shelf life
University of Florida researchers look to extend artichoke shelf life

A new research project hopes to identify genetic markers to breed artichokes for improved storage.

Three’s A Crowd: Hylio Secures FAA Drone Swarm, Night Flight Exemptions
Three’s A Crowd: Hylio Secures FAA Drone Swarm, Night Flight Exemptions

Spray drones are growing more ubiquitous and more scalable across agriculture. One company has unlocked the ability to deploy three at once and it’s a Smart Farming game changer.