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The Ontario Produce Marketing Association has three new directors and a new board chair, following appointments made at its Annual General Meeting, June 11 in Toronto.

Marco Andrea Corbo, produce veteran and vice president of sales and operations for Toronto’s J.E. Russell Produce Ltd., died June 18.

The USDA on June 17 paused inspections of mangoes and avocados after agency inspectors were reportedly held and physically assaulted in the Mexican state.

Older age groups tend to be more frequent buyers of carrots, with 70.7% of those aged 60 and older and 66.7% of those aged 50-59 reporting purchases, compared with 46.9% of those aged 18-29.

Dips and sauces are an easy way for consumers to add flavor, according to market research company Mintel. Shoppers are looking for interesting flavors, and real ingredients and plant-based products are gaining momentum.

The department said it will focus on studying pollinator stressors and make recommendations on pollinator health to strengthen its research efforts.

With the theme of “Comin’ in Hot” the organization’s inaugural display contest sought to increase demand and interest in Florida sweet corn.

Retailers — and consumers — looking to liven up their melon menus continue to turn to the specialty category.

The company says Chief Operating Officer Jason Te Brake will succeed outgoing CEO Daniel Mathieson, who is leaving Zespri to join Driscoll’s, effective July 1.

The Hass Avocado Board has named marketing firm Meyocks as its agency partner to lead research and nutrition-focused advertising and creative strategy promoting the benefits of avocados to health professionals.