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The Packer’s editors discuss the big topics of the week, from USDA’s The Emergency Food Assistance Program to PLU stickers to Peruvian avocados — plus an industry conversation on labor, rising costs and forecasting.

Daren Van Dyke, director of marketing for Brawley, Calif.-based Five Crowns Marketing, reports great early acceptance of a new proprietary melon variety called the Picasso.

Mac Riggan, director of marketing for Chelan, Wash.-based Chelan Fresh Marketing, gives growers credit for their patience in cultivating specialty apple varieties like the red-flesh Lucy Rose and Lucy Glo.

Every business has its version of “cap space” and how to manage it.

Pure Flavor’s Cloud 9 Bite-Sized Fruity Tomatoes have been awarded the coveted ChefsBest Excellence Award, adding to the already illustrious reputation of this unique snacking tomato endorsed by professional chefs.

Organic carrots are a huge part of the carrot category, making up more than one-quarter (26.4%) of retail carrot sales in 2019.

The CEA Food Safety Coalition reveals details on the first-ever food safety certification program specifically designed for indoor-grown leafy greens.

Fresno, Calif.-based Trinity Fruit Co. is campaigning for “Peach, Love and Happiness” this stone fruit season, and it has a retail display available to go with its peaches, apricots, nectarines and plums.

As spring’s chill and warmth stop and start, calling for the intense sunniness of summer, we churn along in our social media mayhem.

The Produce Marketing Association and the International Federation for Produce Standards have gone to bat for PLU stickers as environmental groups and some legislation target them for elimination.