Search - The Packer

A dozen groups representing state and regional apple growers has asked the USDA to reconsider its method of determining direct payments for apple losses through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program.

The Produce Marketing Association’s 2020 Fresh Summit Convention and Expo will be offered online.

Two days into a week-long poll, industry operators are weighing in on the question “What is the top sustainability priority for your company?”

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has awarded $512 million for fresh produce purchases through renewed contracts to companies packing and distributing in the Farmers to Families Food Box Program.

The next Congressional coronavirus aid package could be the last before the November election, and Dennis Nuxoll says it is important to account for the needs of growers in that legislation.

From highlighting the immunity-boosting properties of fresh citrus to taking an in-depth look at how the pandemic is affecting different sectors of the industry, companies continue to respond during the crisis.

The COVID-19 crisis may have quieted the conversations on sustainable packaging, but the future of the sector is as strong as ever, according to panelists at a Produce Marketing Association’s Virtual Town Hall.

Losses suffered by apple and potato growers have not been fairly considered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Coronavirus Food Assistance Program, according to groups that represent the growers.

While a rocky economy and heavy dependence on migrant labor during the COVID-19 are big concerns, global produce industry leaders at the closing general session of United Fresh LIVE! also cited reasons for optimism.

Specialty crop growers have only received a small portion of CFAP funds, and panelists on a United Fresh LIVE! session said the direct payment program for growers is targeted for changes by industry lobbyists.