Packer Insight — Vaccines for farmworkers, New York expos and more

Clockwise from top left: Amy Sowder, Ashley Nickle, Tom Karst
Clockwise from top left: Amy Sowder, Ashley Nickle, Tom Karst
(The Packer)

The Packer's editor-in-chief Tom Karst, Northeast editor Amy Sowder and retail editor Ashley Nickle discuss the news of the week. For more details on all topics, check out these articles.

Washington growers prioritize vaccinations for all farmworkers — Fruit and vegetable growers in Washington state are urging the state to prioritize vaccinations for all farmworkers. 

New York apple promotions barrel forward in digital, retail — There has been no pause in promoting New York apples since the COVID-19 pandemic stalled normal life in the state and its eponymous city’s usual frenetic business activity.

Also in the news this week:

Blueberry groups spar over effects of imports during ITC hearing — The ITC heard hours of testimony on whether imported blueberries harm the livelihoods of domestic growers, with dozens of stakeholders on either side sparring over what affects prices in the U.S. blueberry market.

Organic produce industry hopeful about new administration — Organic produce trade organizations seem optimistic about the incoming administration of President-elect Joe Biden and his appointment of Tom Vilsack as secretary of agriculture.

‘Excellent’ quality ahead for California's citrus crops — Although USDA's NASS estimated that California’s navel orange crop will be about 42 million 80-pound boxes this season, some grower-shippers estimate that number might be a bit on the heavy side.

 

Latest News

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.