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The year 2021 was a rough one, to say the least. But what was at the forefront of everyone’s mind? The health and safety of our industry’s most valuable asset: employees.

For many, 2021 wasn’t all that much better than 2020, as shortages of pallets, packaging, containers for export shipments and trucks created problems for the produce industry.

Sustainable packaging is no doubt the hot topic among produce industry professionals in 2021. Globally, sustainability overtook personal health as consumers’ biggest issue this year.

United Fresh and Produce Marketing Association combine to create International Fresh Produce Association

The popularity spike of organics in 2020 wasn’t maintained in 2021, but it’s higher than in 2019 and it’s expected to grow in 2022.

U.S. organic fresh produce imports are surging, according to USDA import statistics.

Los Angeles-based 4Earth Farms has launched several new organic items in the past few months, including broccoli and cauliflower florets, halved and shaved Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower rice.

A comparison of central California truck shipments of organic fresh produce in 2021 compared with 2020 showed a big gain in oranges and romaine lettuce, but lower shipments for multiple vegetables.

Select organic apple varieties are in outstanding position for retail promotions in the next few months, said Brianna Shales, marketing director for Wenatchee, Wash.-based Stemilt Growers.

Chelan Fresh will be heavily focused on its organic SugarBee and Rockit apple programs in the months ahead, said Kevin Stennes, organic sales manager for the Chelan Wash.-based company.