United Fresh to honor Veggie noodle, indoor tech wizards

The United Fresh Produce Association is honoring two industry members, one for advancing indoor growing technology and another for marketing/merchandising unique produce products.

The United Fresh Produce Association is honoring two industry members, one for advancing indoor growing technology and another for marketing/merchandising unique produce products.

Edward Harwood, chief science officer of AeroFarms, Newark, N.J., is receiving the United FreshTEC Achievement Award, and Mason Arnold, founder of Cece’s Veggie Noodle Co., Austin, Texas, is the recipient of the United FreshMKT Achievement Award.

An awards ceremony is scheduled for June 25 at the United FreshTec/FreshMKT shows in Chicago, according to a news release.

Harwood co-founded AeroFarms, which has received accolades from numerous organizations for innovation, sustainability and technology. He has more than 40 years of experience in agriculture, and has several patents relating to indoor agriculture, according to the release.

Arnold, who has a background in chemical engineering, invented the proprietary spiralizing process for the “pasta” made from vegetables his company markets. His work has eliminated common barriers to cooking with fresh vegetables, according to the release, earning 25 awards for everything from promoting local foods to business innovation.

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