Grapes

Golden State Crops Show Promise

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 18:57:32 GMT

Summer’s just around the corner. That means consumers soon will be treating themselves to mouthwatering summer fruits like strawberries, grapes and a full lineup of stone fruit from California.

Early Start for Strawberries

Actually, strawberry season is already underway, says Chris Christian, vice president of market insights for the Watsonville-based California Strawberry Commission.

“There has been an early start to the season this year, driven by warm and dry winter weather,” she says.

April through September is peak season for California strawberries with ample supplies to support promotions, she adds.

The commission projects weekly volume to be 7 million to 8 million trays through August.

“Retailers can maintain sales velocity best by promoting or offering price reductions for multiple consecutive weeks around spring and summer holidays,” Christian says.

Though warm, dry weather is conducive to pest pressure, farmers have been managing any issues and continue to harvest top-quality fruit, she says.

“We project an increase in overall fresh production compared to 2025, based on a slight increase in acreage and the new varieties now in production,” Christian says.

Fresh production was more than 236 million trays in 2025, which was 4.4% higher than the five-year average. California produces about 90% of U.S.-grown strawberries.

To celebrate the International Year of Women in Farming, California Strawberries is spotlighting women shaping the future of the industry, Christian says.

“This year we are focused on elevating these voices and stories, highlighting the vital role women play in producing one of the most vibrant, nutritious fruits enjoyed around the world,” she says.

Nearly all of the U.S. commercially grown table grapes come from California, says Ian LeMay, president of the Fresno-based California Table Grape Commission. In 2025, California shipped approximately 92.5 million 19-pound boxes of table grapes.

(Photo courtesy of California Table Grape Commission)

Table Grape Expectations

California’s table grape season should kick off in May in the Coachella Valley, says Ian LeMay, president of the Fresno-based California Table Grape Commission.

By the end of July, the harvest moves north to the San Joaquin Valley, where California grapes can be harvested into December with promotable volume available through January.

Any time is a good time for retailers to promote California grapes, LeMay says.

“In the early part of the season, it is important for retailers to stock and promote California grapes to let their shoppers know that California grapes are available,” he says. “Through the summer and fall, California grapes fit into any promotion, whether it’s summer celebrations, back-to-school grocery shopping or festive fall gatherings.”

LeMay says 99% of the U.S. commercially grown table grapes come from the Golden State.

In 2025, California shipped approximately 92.5 million 19-pound boxes of table grapes, which is above the five-year average, LeMay says.

The commission plans to launch an extensive global marketing plan for 2026 that will target the U.S. and 23 export markets around the world, LeMay says.

“The campaign motivates the trade — including retailers, wholesalers and importers — to stock and promote California grapes with a variety of incentives such as contests, digital promotions, merchandising, point-of-purchase materials, sampling and a retail registered dietitian program to motivate the sale of California grapes,” he says.

Up to 85% of U.S.-grown stone fruit comes from California, says Courtney Razor, director of member services and communications for the Fresno-based California Fresh Fruit Association. California apricots, nectarines, peaches and plums are available from mid-April to November.

(Photo courtesy of California Fresh Fruit Association)

The State of Stone Fruit

California stone fruit — including apricots, nectarines, peaches and plums — is available from mid-April to November, says Courtney Razor, director of member services and communications for the Fresno-based California Fresh Fruit Association.

Up to 85% of U.S.-grown stone fruit comes from California, she says.

“California’s combination of climate patterns, fertile soils, water supply and availability and unique growing regions creates ideal conditions for producing high-quality stone fruit over an extended season,” she says. “Each season, consumers have come to expect California-grown stone fruit to deliver exceptional quality, consistently offering outstanding flavor, vibrant color and peak freshness.”

This year should be no exception.

Though there’s a lighter snowpack in the mountains, most growing regions received adequate rainfall and chill hours through the winter, Razor says.

“Our growers will continue to play an important role in helping Americans reach their necessary vitamin, mineral and fiber intakes, especially as new federal dietary guidelines encourage us all to consume more fresh produce,” she says.

In addition to supplying their U.S. customers, CFFA growers use USDA market development grants to promote stone fruit exports to Japan, Mexico and Vietnam, Razor adds.

Record Growth and Strategic Partnerships Take Center Stage at Viva Fresh 2026

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 12:47:42 GMT

SAN ANTONIO — Setting a new record for growth in the heart of Texas, the 2026 Viva Fresh Expo hit a major milestone with a total of 2,877 attendees — the highest turnout in the show’s history. With a sold-out floor featuring 199 exhibitors and nearly 400 key retail and foodservice buyers, the event solidified its status as a powerhouse hub for the produce industry.

Energy was high on the show floor, where the true bounty of the Tex-Mex corridor was on full display.

From left, Alfredo Pena, Gary Calaroso, Kristina Lorusso and Sebastian Carmona of Giumarra Cos. turn out for Viva Fresh.

(Photo: Jennifer Strailey)

Giumarra Cos. featured an array of fresh produce including Mexican grapes, SugarWild jumbo blueberries and blackberries, soon-to-arrive DulceVida Nectarines and its Nature’s Partner premium avocados in two different packaging options — one featuring a morning smoothie recipe and another with a compelling retro feel.

“There’s romance to it,” says Kristina Lorusso. “It’s got a Coachella vibe to it, and retailers love it. It really pops in the department.”

Giumarra’s new avocado packaging brings a “Coachella vibe” to the produce aisle.

(Photo by Jennifer Strailey)

Giumarra also highlighted its new partnership with Horton Fruit Co., which will now offer a range of Giumarra’s specialties from its operations in Louisville, Ky., and Dallas.

“Horton Fruit Co. is adding Giumarra items to their list of offerings, which will help with availability heartaches in the retail supply chain,” says Lorusso.

From left, Matt Klare, Mike Wise, Tommy Wilkins and Tom Smith represent the Horton Fruit Co.

(Photo: Jennifer Strailey)

Tommy Wilkins of Horton Fruit Co. is equally excited by the partnership with Giumarra Cos.

“We ask our customers, ‘Where’s your heartburn, and how can we help?’ Giumarra has all of these boutique items that are in demand. We can offer logistical help and be a solution to get better product into stores,” he says.

From left, Sophia Koorkoyk, JC Cavaletto and Giovanni Cavaletto discussed sustainable avocado farming at Viva Fresh 2026.

(Photo: Jennifer Strailey)

Sustainable avocado farming was the main event at the GLC Cerritos booth, where Giovanni Cavaletto showcased the company’s annual sustainability report. The report highlights the company’s many efforts on the sustainability front from its water-saving initiatives to pollination to reforestation and more. The company is GlobalG.A.P., Rainforest Alliance and Fair Trade-certified.

In terms of avocado sourcing, Cavaletto says fruit from Guatemala and Ecuador are next on the horizon.

And GLC Cerritos touted its series of short videos that give customers a look at what’s going on in the market and on the farm.

Bryan Tate and Rod Whisner of IFCO say sustainability has never been more important.

(Photo by Jennifer Strailey)

Sustainability was also a hot topic at IFCO, which showcased its Reusable Packaging Containers.

“The sustainable message has never been bigger,” says Bryan Tate. “More and more people care about it every year.”

Tate says while the packaging space got confusing for a while, he’s seeing more pull from retailers now who are looking for a true end-to-end partnership with IFCO. And as retailers increasingly turn to automation, Tate says IFCO’s standardized RPC footprint, as well as the digital capabilities its adding, play well in automated operations.

North Bay Produce’s Sarah Quackenbush chats about the big boom in bigger berries.

(Photo: Jennifer Strailey)

North Bay Produce’s Sarah Quackenbush showed off its Reserve Blackberries that are coming into peak volume and flavor out of Mexico, as well as its “humungous” jumbo blueberries.

“The jumbo berry market has grown a ton in the past couple of years,” she says. “There’s huge opportunity with bigger berries, and consumers are willing to pay more for them.”

La Bonanza’s Daiana Quintero and Valeria Villasenor showcase avocados from Mexico.

(Photo: Jennifer Strailey)

La Bonanza Avocados, a family-owned avocado grower from Uruapan, Mexico, showcased its sustainably sourced hass avocados and avocado products. As a key hub of Mexico’s avocado-growing region, Uruapan is known as the “Avocado Capital of the World,” says La Bonanza.

From left, David Reyes, Roy Moore and Jeremy Giovannetti talk fresh flavors at Viva Fresh 2026.

(Photo: Jennifer Strailey)

Divine Flavor featured Mexican table grapes, including Cotton Candy grapes out of Jalisco that are available through July, as well as a new crop of roma tomatoes from Baja, mini peppers and new organic cherry tomatoes on the vine.

From left, Eduardo Diaz, Daniel Amavizca and Daniel Ibarra say the crops out of Mexico look good.

(Photo by Jennifer Strailey)

Splendid, a company of growers and exporters based north of Sinaloa, Mexico, featured mangoes, sweet corn, green beans, bell peppers and more.

“We foresee a great season,” says Eduardo Diaz.

From left, Andrew Brown, John Pandol and Stefanie Pandol discuss good quality grapes and early California and Mexico seasons at Viva Fresh 2026.

(Photo by Jennifer Strailey)

John Pandol of Pandol Bros. says grapes from California and Mexico are coming early this year. And while conditions are “so far, so good” in California with no counter indications, in Mexico — which is further along in its season — “quality is good.”

Courtney Schuster and Marabeth Schuster showed off a bevy of beautiful onions from the Lone Star State.

(Photo by Jennifer Strailey)

Courtney Schuster of Rio Fresh, a south Texas-based onion grower-packer-shipper, says the onion season is looking strong and while there was some rain “things are tightening up and so far, quality is great.”

Rio Fresh showcased its Tri-Color organic and conventional red, yellow and white onion packs that are available in different combinations and weights up to 5 pounds.

Kellen Stailey Martin and Susie Rea showcase California Crema Gem avocados at Viva Fresh 2026.

(Photo by Jennifer Strailey
)

Index Fresh showcased its California Crema Gem avocados, available from April to June in bags and bulk.

“Gems are more sustainably grown avocados because the trees are planted closer together, they use less water and there’s a labor savings as well,” says Kellen Stailey Martin.

The striking avocados have a darker skin with gold flecks and grow to a larger, value size, she says.

“The flavor is a little nuttier and it’s easier to scoop,” she adds.

Stailey Martin also touted the company’s cellulose packaging for its bagged organic and conventional AvoTerra line. The cellulose bag is made of 100% paper and is recyclable and compostable. It also features a new home-compostable PLU sticker from Sinclair.

Also new are Avoettes organic avocados.

“There’s a lot of traction with mini avocados,” says Stailey Martin. “They’re single-serve and there’s no waste.”

While Index Fresh launched the mini avocados with organic, Stailey Martin says conventional Avoettes are in the works.

Brooke Eldridge of Matthews Ridgeview Farm talks the trend in purple sweetpotatoes.

(Photo: Jennifer Strailey)

Matthews Ridge Farms’ Brooke Eldridge says the company’s current crop of sweetpotatoes is largely spoken for. She also talked about the rise of the Murasaki sweetpotato.

“The purple market is really growing,” she says. “Retailers are starting to get curious about them. They’re colorful and really grab attention in a dish.”

From left, Sarah Diamond, Tyann Schlimmer and Michelle Youngquist of Bay Baby Produce shared a variety of colorful pumpkin and squash offerings.

(Photo by Jennifer Strailey)

Bay Baby Produce showcased a colorful array of pumpkins and squash, including Day of the Dead pumpkins; a 5-count bag of ornamental pumpkins; pumpkin painting kits; and a new Jack Pack half-pallet display unit that holds up to five different items.

“Jack Pack brings the pumpkin patch to your store,” says Michelle Youngquist of the display units that will be available in September and October.

Bay Baby also featured a host of red, white and blue pumpkins designed to make everything from Labor Day gatherings to celebrating America’s 250th anniversary of independence more festive.

The Evolution of the Spring Grape: Flavor, Science and the 2026 Harvest

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 19:16:47 GMT

The landscape of the American produce aisle is being driven by a sophisticated consumer base that no longer views fruit as a mere commodity. According to The Packer’s Fresh Trends 2026 report, grapes have solidified their position as the No. 3 most purchased fruit in the U.S., trailing only behind staples like bananas and apples.

This surge in popularity is not accidental; it is the result of a multiyear shift toward high-flavor, branded varieties and a strategic expansion of the spring growing season that bridges the gap between southern imports and domestic summer peaks.

Moving through the 2026 season, the industry is witnessing a convergence of organic innovation, advanced viticulture research and a “flavor-first” philosophy that is redefining what consumers expect from a simple bunch of grapes.

Rise of the Super-Flavor Spring Variety

For years, the early spring grape market was dominated by traditional varieties bred primarily for their ability to survive long-distance shipping from the Southern Hemisphere. However, Alan Aguirre Camou, chief marketing officer of Divine Flavor, says there has been a significant shift in the flavor profile of the spring harvest as older, traditional acreage is replaced.

“In simple terms, we’re seeing more flavor earlier in the season,” he says. “Newer varieties with stronger flavor profiles are coming into production sooner, allowing us to deliver a better eating experience earlier than ever before.”

For example, Ruby Rush and Karizma are early- to mid-season varieties that offer exceptional sweetness despite their earlier timing, Aguirre Camou says. On the green/white seedless side, Honey Pop is another newer variety that delivers great flavor early in the season.

“In addition, our candy line — featuring Cotton Candy, Sweet Globe, Sweet Celebration, as well as Jellyberries and Gummyberries — continues to perform well from June through July,” he says. “Overall, the industry is clearly shifting away from older, traditional varieties toward newer options that prioritize flavor and consumer appeal.”

While not necessarily surprising, Aguirre Camou says, the clear standout has been the Autumncrisp grapes.

“This white seedless variety has become one of the most sought-after grapes among both buyers and consumers,” he says. “In many ways, it sets the standard for the category due to its size, crunch, flavor and shelf life.”

Additionally, it’s a more sustainable variety, requiring fewer inputs compared to others.

“As the largest producer of this grape in Mexico, we’ve made significant investments in Autumncrisp from the beginning. Thanks to our close relationship with Sun World, we recognized its potential early on and have continued to expand our production,” Aguirre Camou says.

Next Big Thing in Early Flavor

The 2026 season is also seeing the rise of early- to mid-season varieties that prioritize sweetness and sensory appeal. Aguirre Camou highlights Ruby Rush and Karizma as exceptional performers that offer high Brix (sugar) levels despite their early timing. On the green seedless side, Honey Pop is emerging as a top contender for early-season flavor.

“At the same time, we’re continuing to invest in proven standouts like Autumncrisp, while leveraging our Jalisco (Mexico) program to extend availability and create a more consistent and reliable supply window,” he says.

Furthermore, the candy category — which includes Cotton Candy, Sweet Globe, Sweet Celebration and the specialty Jellyberries and Gummyberries — continues to anchor the late spring and early summer programs from June through July.

Organic Heirlooms and the Direct-to-Consumer Connection

While large-scale shippers focus on seedless high-flavor brands, boutique growers like Sunny Cal Farms are carving out a niche with organic heirloom varieties that appeal to flavor purists.

Sunny Cal Farms recently announced the first organic harvest of Niabell Concord and Kyoho grapes will be available for the first time during the summer 2026 season, adding to its already popular organic Thomcords. These new varieties represent a departure from modern breeding trends that often prioritize size over fragrance.

“When we first introduced our conventional Niabell Concord and Kyoho grapes, consumers responded extremely favorably to their fragrance and flavor,” says CJ Buxman, owner of Sunny Cal Farms and a third-generation grower in California’s San Joaquin Valley. “That demand encouraged us to plant for the organic market four years ago, and 2026 will mark our first organic harvest.”

Niabell Concord and Kyoho are heirloom seeded grape varieties known for their distinctive sweet flavor profiles balanced with pronounced tannins. Demand for the conventional versions has been driven by their intense aroma, rich flavor and the growing consumer interest in polyphenol-rich foods.

“Every grape variety we grow is selected for flavor and fragrance,” Buxman says. “Many modern table grape varieties have been bred primarily for size, sweetness and shipping durability. Our Niabell Concord and Kyoho grapes deliver the full, classic ‘grapey’ flavor profile that many consumers remember and increasingly seek out.”

Niabell Concord grapes offer a rich sweetness balanced with bright acidity and a flavor reminiscent of fresh grape juice. Kyoho grapes are intensely aromatic and sweet with a subtle tart edge.

Both varieties are traditional slip-skin grapes, allowing consumers to pop the pulp from the skin for a sweeter taste or eat the whole grape for a more complex flavor experience. The varieties also contain seeds, which contribute to the robust flavor profile valued by many consumers.

“Our grapes are picked and packed to order,” Buxman says. “With limited organic volume this season, we encourage retailers and distributors to contact us early to secure program availability.”

Sunny Cal Farms also expects a strong season for its organic Thomcord grapes, shipping in mid-July. Conventional and organic Kyoho grapes are expected to begin shipping in early August, followed by Niabell grapes in mid-August.

The Human Element: Texting the Farmer

In an era of mass-market logistics, Buxman says Sunny Cal is using a unique marketing strategy: texting customers. Buxman includes text cards in grape packs, allowing consumers to reach out directly to the grower.

“Consumers are blown away when I personally respond to their texts,” Buxman says. This direct connection fosters brand loyalty that keeps consumers searching for his labels at retail, even when they command a premium price.

Science of Sustainability: 2026 Research Strategy

Behind the scenes, the National Grape Research Alliance is ensuring the long-term viability of these varieties through its 2026 National Research and Funding Strategy. Launched in Sacramento, Calif., in March 2026, this roadmap addresses the economic and environmental pressures facing growers today.

NGRA is initiating three major projects aimed at vineyard resilience and automation:

Vitis GEM (Genetics x Environment x Management) — Led by Cornell University, this project examines how management practices influence grapevine traits, giving growers more confidence to adopt new varieties.
Robotic pruning — Another Cornell-led initiative aims to mechanize the complex task of grapevine pruning to improve labor efficiency and vineyard economics.
Drought-tolerant rootstock — Researchers at the University of California, Davis, are developing a breeding framework to accelerate the creation of rootstocks that can survive the increasingly arid conditions of western production regions.

Grapes in the Modern Workplace

The demand for these high-quality grapes is also being felt in the corporate world. Erin Mittelstaedt, CEO for The FruitGuys, notes that while functional snacking (focusing on protein and fiber) is a major trend, fruit remains the ultimate healthy snack due to its natural vitamins and antioxidants.

Office workers are increasingly seeking a sensory experience in their fruit breaks, she says. Mittelstaedt reports significant buzz around trademarked varieties like Ruby Rush, Torch, Gum Drops and Moon Drops. The “crisp grape that pops between your teeth” has become a sought-after sensory characteristic for employees looking for a refreshing midday snack.

“We’re hearing some buzz right now around newer trademarked grape varieties, like Ruby Rush and Torch,” Mittelstaedt says. “Customers are always interested in what’s fresh and different, so our growers are trying new things and expanding existing programs for unique grapes like Gum Drops and Moon Drops — probably to meet that demand. Still, new doesn’t always mean better. Classic California grape varieties like Thomcords and Autumn Royals are always delicious, too. What’s ‘best’ in any given season depends on the weather, where it’s grown and your personal taste.”

Legislative Support and Future Outlook

The health of the grape industry is also tied to legislative progress. The California Table Grape Commission, which represents 99% of U.S. commercial table grape production, recently welcomed the House Agriculture Committee’s approval of H.R. 7567. This progress on the farm bill is seen as essential for maintaining the global competitiveness of California growers.

The California table grape industry welcomed renewed momentum toward advancing the farm bill through the committee’s approval of the resolution, restoring regular order to the legislative process and emphasizing the importance of ensuring specialty crops remain a central part of the discussion.

“California table grape growers compete in a global marketplace while supplying families across the United States with fresh, healthy fruit,” says Ian LeMay, president of the California Table Grape Commission.

“A farm bill that reflects the needs of the specialty crop sector is essential to maintaining that competitiveness,” he adds. “We are encouraged to see forward progress and a return to regular order that gives growers the opportunity to be heard.”

The spring of 2026 serves as a testament to the industry’s ability to innovate. Whether it is a text from the farmer or a drought-tolerant rootstock, the goal remains the same: delivering the classic grapey flavor profile that consumers increasingly crave.

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Unprecedented Heat Pushes California Grape Harvest Toward a Record-Early Start

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 11:22:00 GMT

California’s table grape country is witnessing a historically early bloom that has the industry gearing up for harvest weeks ahead of schedule.

With temperatures consistently hovering 10 to 15 degrees above average, early spring has turned to summer, pushing the grape cycle 14 to 16 days ahead of its typical pace, Pete Hronis, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Hronis Inc., told The Packer.

One of California’s top table grape growers, Hronis Inc. farms about a dozen table grape varieties, including reds, greens, blacks and specialty varieties like candy grapes on more than 6,000 acres in Delano, Calif.

Hronis says this full assortment ensures its customers are supplied with grapes from the start of the season through the end of December.

“Normally we start harvest here around the first week of July, and now we’re on track to be probably either the week of the 15th of June or the week of the 22nd,” says Hronis. “Obviously that can change a little bit if it cools down. And if it cools down, it can push that back a little bit. But we’re so early that even if we get a little bit of cold weather, I don’t see it pushing back to our normal start time. It’s still going to be early.

“When the grapes are ready, they’re going to want to come,” he adds.

One of California’s top table grape growers, Hronis Inc. farms about a dozen table grape varieties, including reds, greens, blacks and specialty varieties like candy grapes on more than 6,000 acres in Delano, Calif.

(Photo courtesy of Hronis Inc.)

Hronis says the summerlike weather has created a phenomenon in which even some late-season varieties are outpacing the early ones.

Across the border, Mexico’s table grapes are also early.

“Mexico is just as early as we are,” he says. “The Mexico deal is going to start the first of May, instead of the middle of May or the 20th of May. So, it’s all just been moved forward.”

But Hronis says he doesn’t see an early and extended season for California and Mexico table grapes becoming the new norm.

“We’ve just had very abnormally high temperatures for California this year,” he says. “But this is really a good thing. We’ll just have that many more California grapes already harvested and through the system. So, we see it as a win for everybody.”

Ready to Promote a Moneymaker

With California table grapes coming several weeks early this year, retailers should prepare to clear shelf space and get ready to promote.

“Get ready to have some big displays,” says Hronis. “We’re going to move a lot of grapes.

“This is a good thing for retailers,” Hronis continues. “Retailers make more money on California grapes in the summer than any other item in their produce department. It’s not the most sold. The most sold are bananas, but the most money made is from grapes.”

Hronis expects the retail opportunity to promote and sell California grapes for 27 to 28 weeks, versus the usual 25 weeks, will translate to strong rings at the register.

“Having more sales days of California grapes on their shelf is a win for them, because they sell more California grapes than they do other grapes other times of the year,” he says.

The even better news for retailers and consumers alike, says Hronis, is that crop quality looks solid and the surety of supply is set.

“This is really shaping up to be a terrific season,” he says. “The size of the crop looks great with lots and lots of promotable grapes coming. So, I’m recommending to my customers, we could probably have a great Labor Day push and even a Veterans Day push.”

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Vista Vineyards Launches 52-Week Table Grape Program

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 18:15:42 GMT

Vista Vineyards has introduced a leadership-owned table grape entity designed to provide a consistent, 52-week supply through the seamless integration of farming, packing and sales operations. By following the sun across California, Mexico and South America, Vista coordinates timing, varietal performance and volume to support uninterrupted retail programs throughout the year.

The company brings together longstanding operations under one structure focused exclusively on table grapes, with key members of Vista’s leadership team having company ownership. Vista Vineyards says this ownership structure reinforces long-term alignment, clear accountability and commitment to retailer partners.

Vista Vineyards operates as a grower-packer-shipper with proprietary licensed access to Sun World and Bloom Fresh varieties across its growing regions. This integrated model allows Vista Vineyards to coordinate production decisions in service of consistent, retail-ready programs year-round.

“Buyers want continuity and accountability,” says Oliver Sill, vice president of sales for Vista Vineyards. “Our leadership team has worked together for years across these regions. Now we’re operating as one company, with clear execution and responsibility behind every shipment.”

Integrated Operations Built for Year-Round Supply

Headquartered in Bakersfield, Calif., Vista Vineyards operates across complementary growing regions to stay in season year-round, maintaining consistent supply and quality:

California (July to December) — Established domestic acreage supporting peak U.S. production.
South America (November to April) — Growing operations that extend supply beyond North America, with further information coming soon.
Mexico (May to July) — Licensed partner growers operating under Vista Vineyards’ proprietary variety sales rights.

This investment structure supports consistent availability of premium green, red and black seedless grapes throughout the year, with production decisions aligned to retail demand, varietal performance and shelf consistency, the company says.

“We’ve spent years building relationships and infrastructure across these regions,” says CEO Kevin Andrew. “This structure lets us operate the way we’ve always believed the business should run — with ownership, accountability and a long-term view. We’re building something we believe in.”

Portfolio and Retail Programs

Vista Vineyards’ commercial program includes proprietary brands such as Autumncrisp, Sweet Globe, Applause, Sweet Celebration, Scarlotta Seedless, Ruby Rush, Midnight Beauty, Jack’s Salute, Adora Seedless, Epic Crisp, Honey Pop, Sweet Sapphire, Candy Hearts, Candy Snaps and Berry Snaps.

Retail partners work directly with Vista Vineyards’ leadership to develop seasonal and year-round programs aligned with volume planning, varietal mix and consistent quality standards.

Ongoing Investment

The company says it continues to invest in both its best-performing proprietary varieties and promising new releases from the IP pipeline, including Sugra-60, Sugra-62 and Sugra-63, to support long-term growth and expanded retail programs.

New York-based firm Farmers Gate has sponsored the establishment of Vista Vineyards.

“Vista represents a compelling opportunity to vertically integrate our existing table grape platform, drive long-term growth and create secure, scalable supply programs. We’re excited to support this top-tier management team to build this business for the long term,” says Dan Fabian, partner for Farmers Gate.

Farmers Gate is an agricultural investment platform focused on farmland and farming operations, targeting high-value specialty crops and selective midstream investments to support vertical integration and long-term value creation.

After Florida Freezes, West Mexico Shippers Eye Robust Spring Amid High Prices

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 21:41:33 GMT

A pair of damaging freezes in Florida this winter caused more than $3 billion in agricultural losses in that state and put a squeeze on supplies out of west Mexico. As a result, prices of Mexican produce were sent skyrocketing. Here’s a look at how some distributors near the Nogales, Ariz., port of entry are dealing with conditions this spring.

Ciruli Bros.

Rio Rico, Ariz.-based Ciruli Bros. has a substantial mango program and ships vegetables like cucumbers, squash and eggplant.

“We’ve had some of the highest prices I’ve seen in the past 30 years I’ve been doing this,” says partner Chris Ciruli.

Prices should settle down when the U.S. starts producing again in late March, he says.

The company also has experienced growth in demand for organic items including squash, peppers, cucumbers and cabbage.

Ciruli Bros.’ mango deal kicked off the last week of February with the “first-flower” harvest. Second flower was expected to begin around March 23.

That will lead into Easter business, Ciruli says, with clear sailing for harvesting and preparing for Cinco de Mayo.

“We’re trending ahead of where Mexico was harvesting for 2025,” he said the first week of March.

The company was shipping 100% Champagne mangoes in March and will begin round varieties after Easter, April 5.

“Pricing has been challenging,” he says.

Freight costs have risen, and the U.S.-Mexico currency exchange rate is not favorable. Last year the rate was 18 pesos per dollar. This year it has dropped to 16 pesos per dollar, Ciruli says.

Core products from Rio Rico, Ariz.-based IPR Fresh are conventional and organic hothouse colored bell peppers and hothouse cucumbers, says Mark Munger, vice president of marketing and business development. The company has expanded its west Mexico colored bell pepper program by partnering with new growers in the Sonora region, he says.

(Photo courtesy of IPR Fresh)

IPR Fresh

Rio Rico-based IPR Fresh has expanded its west Mexico colored bell pepper program by partnering with new growers in the Sonora region, says Mark Munger, vice president of marketing and business development.

“We also increased production with our existing grower partners, securing additional acreage and boosting overall bell pepper volume,” he says.

The company’s core products are conventional and organic hothouse colored bell peppers and hothouse cucumbers.

Weather conditions have been favorable for nearly the entire season in central and western Mexico, Munger says, adding that he’s confident market conditions will stay steady into spring.

“Cooler than normal weather in the southeastern U.S. this winter has kept demand strong, resulting in markets for west Mexico hothouse bell peppers that have remained very firm and slightly above historical averages for most of the season,” he says.

Quality and sizing have been strong for most of the season as well.

“Looking ahead to the remainder of the west Mexico program, we’re confident that this consistency will continue,” Munger says.

Grower Alliance

“Prices are through the roof right now on everything — green bell peppers, cucumbers, green beans, watermelons, honeydews, hot peppers,” Jorge Quintero Jr., partner at Grower Alliance LLC in Rio Rico, said in early March.

Prices on up to 90% of the company’s items are strong because of the weather issues in Florida, he says.

“We’ve been able to see some really high prices to offset the bad prices we saw in the fall,” Quintero says.

Quality problems have been minimal, he says. However, some green beans have experienced whitefly infestations that don’t usually materialize until mid-April.

“[Green bean] yields probably will be lower, but with prices where they are right now, we should be able to come out all right,” he says.

The company’s volume should be similar to last year, if not a bit larger, Quintero says.

Caribe yellow chili peppers are among a number of items shipped by Rio Rico, Ariz.-based Rich River Produce LLC, says Edgar Duarte, sales manager. The company is expanding its warehouse by 20,000 square feet this spring, he says.

(Photo courtesy of Rich River Produce LLC)

Rich River

Rio Rico-based Rich River Produce LLC has experienced a hectic season, says Edgar Duarte, sales manager.

“Things started out sky high in October, then came off, then went up again after the freeze happened in Florida,” he says. “We’re expecting to have a strong finish to our season, which will probably go until June.”

The company has seen good but not great production out of west Mexico, he says.

“We are expecting good pricing and good order flow,” he adds.

Quality was looking good for new items now coming out of Hermosillo, Guaymas and Obregon in Sonora, he says. But the same could not be said for the tail end of the deal out of Sinaloa, which will wrap up around the end of March.

“Prices are high, quality is fair,” out of Sinaloa, he says.

“We’re running into issues here and there,” Duarte adds. “We’re not looking at diamonds, but they’re the same amount of money as if they were diamonds.”

Volume at Rich River Produce should be a bit higher than last year because growers were not sending out as much product a year ago because of low markets.

“Right now, with the situation the way it is, they’re sending us everything because they’re getting really good prices for it,” he says.

MAS Melons & Grapes

Rio Rico-based MAS Melons & Grapes will kick off its new honeydew program around April 1 and start watermelons the week of April 12, says Miguel Suarez Jr., sales manager. Good weather should bring on good quality, he says. Volume should be about the same as last year.

“Markets and quality are all pointing in a positive direction,” he says.

Honeydews and watermelons will continue to be shipped out of southern Mexico until the end of March and into April.

“That will take us into our northern Mexico deal probably pretty flawlessly,” he says.

The company also ships butternut squash and kabocha squash.

“The workhorse definitely in the summer is our watermelon and honeydew programs,” Suarez says.

The company has pulled back a bit from table grapes. The Mexican grape deal traditionally has been 10 to 12 weeks in the spring and summer, he says, but that has shrunk to about eight weeks.

“The majority of our acreage was in Caborca, which is the later part of the deal, which is becoming a little bit of a challenge,” he says.

Also, retailers tend to seek out year-round suppliers.

“We were basically a boutique grape company,” he says.

But Suarez is optimistic for the future.

“I do believe the boutique grape will be back at one point,” he says.

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Bari Produce Welcomes New VP of Sales and Marketing

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 18:28:52 GMT

James Benson has joined Fresno, Calif.-based Bari Produce as vice president of sales and marketing.

Benson brings nearly 30 years of experience in the produce industry, most notably in the table grape and citrus categories. The company says he is an esteemed colleague and leader in the produce industry, having served positions on the California Table Grape Commission, the California Fresh Fruit Association and the Fruit and Vegetable Industry Advisory Committee to the USDA.

After graduating from the University of Arkansas, Benson started his produce career with Eden Prairie, Minn.-based C.H. Robinson Worldwide, initially serving as a commodity manager and later as an account manager. He joins Bari Produce after 22 years with a large central California grape shipper, where he held multiple positions, most recently national sales director.

“James is a proven sales leader in the produce industry with a track record of building strong and lasting relationships, and we are excited for him to join Bari Produce,” says Justin Bedwell, president of Bari Produce. “His market knowledge and strong relationships across the industry will help us to continue to grow our produce business.”

Bari Produce is a central California-based grower, shipper and marketer of table grapes, stone fruits and citrus with deep farming roots in the San Joaquin Valley.

Global Grape Group Gains Steam as It Aims to Grow Consumption

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 12:34:38 GMT

BERLIN — The Global Grape Group, an alliance of table grape producers from around the world, gained additional momentum at Fruit Logistica 2026, where the group shared its mission to unite the table grape industry to drive consumption and raise awareness of the fruit’s nutritional benefits, flavor profiles and versatility, with an aim to collectively position grapes as the go-to healthful snack in the U.S. and around the globe.

“We want Global Grape Group to evolve into a truly global alliance,” says Ignacio Caballero, Chile board member of the Global Grape Group and director of marketing for Frutas de Chile. “We’ve met with South Africa, and they’re interested in being part of GGG. We’ve also spoken with Brazil and California table grape producers and breeding companies. We have a platform that brings the whole industry under one roof.”

Launched in March 2025, the global alliance and its “Have a Grape Day” consumer campaign come at a critical time, as global table grape supplies continue to outpace consumption.

“The grape industry is at a turning point right now,” Caballero told The Packer this past March. “Supply has grown 80% in the last 20 years, while demand is only growing at 13%.”

Global Grape Group, now a formal LLC in the U.S., has three main objectives, Caballero says:

Increase consumption, starting in the U.S.
Share information.
Share best practices.

“Grapes compete as a positive, healthy snack, not against other fruit. The first step in driving consumption is to bring the industry together,” says Luis Miguel Vegas of the Peruvian Table Grape Producers Association and the International Blueberry Organization.

Collaboration is powerful, Caballero agrees.

“We can’t do it alone. We can’t solve problems alone. We need to have a communication network where we can pick up the phone and know who to talk to,” says Caballero, who sees Global Grape Group as an opportunity for the entire table grape industry to tap into the power of collaboration — from the world’s top producers to representatives in emerging markets.

While the founding Global Grape Group members include Chile, Peru and Mexico, the group aims to expand to include grape importers from around the world.

“Global Grape Group is taking the best from what blueberries and avocados have been able to do by working collaboratively and bringing that to grapes,” Caballero says. “We’re not here to just talk; we’re taking action with the goal of augmenting production and driving consumption across the world, working together as an industry on common challenges and creating new opportunities.”

From left, Ignacio Caballero, Colin Fain and Luis Miguel Vegas announce launch of The Global Grape Report at Fruit Logistica 2026.

(Photo: Jennifer Strailey)

Table Grape Intelligence

At Fruit Logistica 2026, the Global Grape Group announced a collaboration with marketing intelligence platform and consulting firm Agronometrics to launch The Global Grape Report, a new annual publication designed to deliver a comprehensive, data-driven overview of the global table grape industry.

The Global Grape Report will provide a consolidated view of global table grape production, trade flows and market dynamics, drawing on aggregated industry data and input from producing countries, according to the Global Grape Group. The report, intended to serve as a credible resource for growers, exporters, marketers and other industry stakeholders seeking timely and objective market intelligence, is set to debut in August at the 2026 International Table Grape Conference in Chile.

“The Global Grape Report represents an important step toward greater transparency in the global table grape market,” says Colin Fain, CEO of Agronometrics. “By combining robust analytics with industry collaboration, the initiative aims to support more informed decision-making across the table grape industry.”

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University of Minnesota's Licensing Model Brings High-Flavor Apple Varieties to Direct Marketers

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 23:30:23 GMT

Apple breeding is quite a long game, says Matt Clark, associate professor in the University of Minnesota’s Department of Horticultural Science and director of research at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. The university’s renowned fruit breeding program has created household names such as Honeycrisp and SweeTango as well as Rave, Zestar and countless others.

Clark says he and his university colleague, David Bedford, senior research fellow and apple breeder, have varieties in different stages of development that will likely be released by their successors.

“The work we’re doing in 2025 — the breeding decisions we’re making now are for 2050 and beyond,” Clark says. “We try to be thinking about the future and setting up the next Matt Clark and David Bedford team in 25 years. I keep saying, the crosses I’m making now, I hope to be retired by the time they’re released.”

Clark says Bedford, known for his pivotal role in developing Honeycrisp, also calls variety development a numbers game. Clark says his research team moved forward with 11 selections this year and discarded more than 4,000 crosses. The 11 that advanced still need to go through vigorous assessments to continue in variety development.

High Stakes of Variety Selection

Honeycrisp’s ascent from pick-your-own darling to consumer favorite is nothing that any fruit breeder could have predicted, but it set in motion the current path of both variety management and variety development.

While managed varieties offer growers the chance to grow something exclusive and brands to control the final product, Clark says what’s missing is the direct-to-consumer aspect of a licensing model in many cases.

The University of Minnesota recently launched Superior Fruit Innovations, a grower-focused license model that opens its catalog of varieties to growers of different scales. While a few organizations have opened varieties to pick-your-own and direct-to-consumer markets, the university felt it was important to offer something with its own noteworthy IP, Clark says.

“It’s strategic for us to be thinking about getting varieties — that we’ve invested a lot of time and energy into — producing exceptional eating-quality apples that they can grow and direct-market to their customer, who they know,” he says. “At the same time, they don’t necessarily compete with wholesale growers who are producing for a year-round market.”

New Model for Flavor

Clark says, in many ways, some of the varieties developed for the direct-to-consumer market won’t be successful wholesale or commercial apples.

They might have thinner skin and bruise easily, but the flavor might be out of this world. Instead of scrapping a variety because it can’t be successful from grower to packer, this licensing model helps set the varieties up to a place where they’ll shine: in a farm market where a grower or a retail staff member can help consumers find flavors tailored to their tastes and expectations.

“Growers know their customers because they see them and they come back every week and buy these products,” he says.

Superior Fruit Innovations has just released Big Flirt and Super Snap. Clark says Rave, also known as First Kiss, is also a part of this licensing agreement.

Clark says Super Snap is “ultracrisp.” While the University of Minnesota classifies Honeycrisp as crisp, there are two other categories the breeding program classifies as crisp.

“It’s elevated, and it’s possible that the only way you’re going to get that is going to these direct marketers, because who knows what it’s like after three months, five months; we don’t have enough data, what the production scale is like,” he says. “But for us, we’re like, ‘Wow, that is something that consumers are going to remember.’ It’s crispier and juicier than Honeycrisp.”

Clark says there are more releases planned, including more in the direct-to-consumer marketplace.

“We have more of this pipeline because we have some that we know would never make it through a packinghouse,” he says. “They have this tender, crisp, super juicy, almost meltinglike texture. The only way to have that experience really is to pick it yourself and eat it.”

Cultivating the Future of Fresh

Clark says success as a fruit breeder is an interesting notion, as many may see wide adoption as a success, though he also sees sustainability as part of success. This means disease resistance, varieties that are easier for growers to grow and more.

“I came into this field thinking success as farmers is making money and growing things that people want, trying new things and diversifying their farms,” he says. “Success also looks like making sure I can pay for my staff and take care of the orchard and continue the innovation.”

And Clark says this licensing model will help growers access more varieties.

“We think that this model is useful,” he says. “We’ve basically set up our own in-house club, and it’s not an exclusive club, but it’s a way of saying, ‘We want you to be successful; we want you to try these varieties,’ and mirroring in some ways what the Midwest Apple Improvement Association is doing but not being exclusive like what we’ve done on some of these other varieties.”

While Honeycrisp and SweeTango put the University of Minnesota on the map for apple breeding, Clark notes the program’s reach extends to table grapes, blueberries, strawberries and raspberries. Having spent the last decade focused on the university’s table grape breeding, Clark is now seeing those efforts come to fruition. Several new cold-hardy varieties, including the LumiGlo grape, are being released through the Superior Fruit Innovations model.

“They have the most fantastic flavor,” he says. “If you’ve never tasted a grape that tastes something like pineapple and strawberry and guava together, we’ve got that. Does it have the best texture? No. Does it have a little bit of a seed trace that you might notice? Yeah, but the flavor is awesome. And why sit on that? Let’s try to get growers to produce this.”

Clark says he hopes the licensing model will help support the continued effort of land-grant university breeding programs, though the goal is also to continue to push the envelope of flavor to draw more consumers to fresh produce.

“It’s a win to get really tasty varieties into the mouths of consumers who should be eating more fruits and vegetables,” he says. “And then I think they’re going to have an eating experience that they’re going to enjoy.”

As for the crosses he’s making today, Clark says he just hopes his successor will agree with the direction the program moves toward.

“We’re already thinking about who [is] your successor and how are they going to use this information and hope that they agree with our decisions that we’re making,” he says. “We’re hoping that we’re doing the right thing and making good decisions.”

The Evolution of the Table Grape: How Breeding Innovations Continue to Transform the Category

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 22:50:45 GMT

BERLIN — In the last 10 years, table grapes have undergone one of the most impressive transformations of any category in fresh produce, so much so that it’s hard to imagine there was ever a time that supermarkets offered only two or three choices in the category.

At last week’s Fruit Logistica 2026, fruit breeding companies brought next-level innovation, including Bloom Fresh, which showcased its new Boombites Red Berry Grapes, a Fruit Logistica Innovation Award finalist .

To learn more about the black-skinned grape with a red flesh interior, The Packer sat down with Fiachra Moloney, chief marketing officer for Bloom Fresh.

“Boombites are the product of over a decade of natural breeding, crossing some of the world’s best table grapes with traditional red-flesh winegrapes to give us something that not only eats and tastes like one of the world’s best table grapes but also has this incredible red flesh inside,” says Moloney, who adds, “The quality of grapes keeps getting better and better.”

Not only do Boombites deliver an exceptional eating experience, but they also have an enviable nutritional profile.

“The levels of antioxidants like anthocyanins in Boombites are comparable to those in other superfruit categories, like blueberries, and they’re high in resveratrol, which is associated with red wine,” he says.

Moloney says the benefits of grape skins were recently touted in Vogue magazine in an article that linked the outer skins of red grapes, which are high in the polyphenol resveratrol, to “ageless skin.” When it comes to skin, says Vogue, resveratrol’s ability to protect against free radicals also comes into play, helping to reduce inflammation and improve skin elasticity.

“So, we’re hugely excited about the potential for this new brand — almost a new category — to drive the fresh produce and healthy snacking categories,” says Moloney, who sees Boombites hitting a “sweet spot between grapes and berries.”

Flavor-Forward Grapes Drive Category Growth

New flavor-forward branded grape varieties like Cotton Candy and others are undoubtedly driving consumption, sales and volume growth in the category.

The Packer’s Fresh Trends 2026 report, based on a survey of more than 1,000 consumers nationwide about their produce buying habits, finds that grapes are the No. 3 most purchased fruit in the last 12 months, behind bananas and apples.

Dollar sales of grapes were $5.6 billion in 2025, up 3% over a year ago, and volume sales were up 4%, according to retail sales data from Circana OmniMarket Integrated Fresh for the 52-week period ending Nov. 2, 2025.

But there’s still plenty of room to grow the branded grape category and increase consumer awareness, says Moloney, who explains that the company is putting a huge emphasis on the Cotton Candy brand in the U.S. through social media and in-store campaigns.

“Surveys show that while only 40% of consumers know about Cotton Candy grapes in the U.S., 80% say, when they try it, that they would buy it again,” he says. “We still see a huge opportunity in flavor grapes in the U.S. They’re an incremental product that doesn’t replace consumption in standard table grapes.”

Bloom Fresh is also eyeing expansion for its Mojito Fresh, another premium grape 10 years in the making that offers herbal, sweet and refreshing notes.

“It’s really important to match up a great eating experience and flavor with branding a consumer can immediately see and understand,” Moloney says. “We see that as one of our key strengths.”

When are Boombites Coming to America?

While at present the only commercial production of Boombites is in Murcia, Spain, Bloom Fresh is encouraged by its trials in other countries including Mexico, the U.S., Peru and Chile.

“Darker fruits are good for you and fit with eating the rainbow,” Moloney says. “We see the U.S. market as a high opportunity for Boombites.”

Moloney says Boombites are expected to hit U.S. shelves nationwide within five years.

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Bloom Fresh Declares Victory as China’s Supreme Court Upholds Sweet Sapphire Infringement Case

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 18:02:27 GMT

Bloom Fresh, a premium fruit breeding company, has won a decisive victory in China, where a multiyear infringement case involving large scale hectares of illegally planted Sweet Sapphire grapes in one of China’s most important grape-producing regions, has closed.

China’s Supreme People’s Court has upheld an earlier administrative penalty decision made by the Binchuan Bureau of Agriculture and Rural Affairs concerning a Yunnan-based target engaged in the unauthorized production, propagation and sales of the protected IFG Six grape variety, marketed under the trademark Sweet Saphire and the trade name Zi Yu Tian Zhu, according to a news release.

The court determined the target infringed Bloom Fresh’s plant variety rights; the fine issued by the local authority was correct and enforceable; and the destruction of all propagating materials was lawful and appropriate.

“This ruling represents a decisive enforcement win and reinforces the strength of [plant variety rights] PVR protection in China,” says Bloom Fresh CEO Josep Estiarte.

With the appeal dismissed at the highest level, the fine and penalty originally imposed by the Binchuan Bureau of Agriculture and Rural Affairs will be fully enforced against the target, the release said.

“We applaud the efforts of the local authorities to implement the PVR law and take action against infringements. We also applaud the Supreme People’s Court for uploading the decision and actions of the administrative authorities,” says Alanna Rennie, chief legal officer of Bloom Fresh. “This implementation and upholding of the law in China gives Bloom Fresh renewed energy and confidence to continue investing in the long-term development of varieties for Chinese farms and consumers and commercializing these in China. This cements our long-term vision in China.”

The enforcement victory also coincides with Bloom Fresh’s completion of the IFG Six legalization program in China on Oct. 31.

With this case now closed, Bloom Fresh says it will actively pursue any IFG Six infringements it identifies, ensuring that compliant, authorized growers are fully protected and continue to receive the benefits of being Bloom Fresh licensees.

“Our ambition to support the growth of the industry in China depends on protecting the integrity of our varieties and the interests of our licensed growers,” adds Campbell Banfield, general manager for Bloom Fresh China, Australia and Southeast Asia. “This judgment ensures that legitimate growers can feel protected and is a clear signal to all growers, nurseries, marketers and retailers that it is critical to be confident in the legitimacy and legality of your value chain. Bloom Fresh is here in China to support legitimate operators and work to ensure we have a fair and prosperous industry.”

Bloom Fresh says it will continue to stamp out illegal production and propagation of IFG Six across the country and throughout the supply chain, while investing to build the Sweet Sapphire brand.

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The USDA’s 2025 Organic Survey is Coming Soon

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 14:30:57 GMT

If you’re an organic grower, keep a watch on your mailbox. The 2025 Organic Survey is headed your way.

USDA announced Dec. 10 that the National Agricultural Statistics Service will soon mail the survey to all known organic farms and ranches, as well as producers who are transitioning to certified organic, across all 50 states. Growers will first receive survey codes with an invitation to reply online, followed by the full questionnaire in early January, according to NASS. The questionnaire will ask producers to provide information on acreage, production and sales, as well as production and marketing practices.

“Organic agriculture is a growing industry, and it is our job as a federal statistical agency to help measure this part of the agriculture sector,” NASS Administrator Joseph Parsons says. “We are excited to provide data on organic agriculture that will help inform organic producers and other industry professionals to make informed decisions for their operations.”

Federal laws require producers to respond to the survey, as well as requiring USDA to keep respondents’ identities and responses confidential. The deadline for response is Feb. 5, 2026.

Organic Information of the Past

The USDA organic survey is a special study from the Census of Agriculture and was last conducted in 2021 .

That survey reported there were 17,445 certified organic farms in 2021, up 5% from 2019, and 4.9 million organic acres. California led the states with 3,061 certified operations and 813,710 organic acres. Indiana saw the largest proportional growth in operations at 697 in 2021 compared to 595 in 2019, a 17% increase, while Idaho saw the largest proportional growth of organic acres at 215,668, a 19% increase compared to 2019.

In 2021, the market value of certified organic products sold stood at $11.2 billion, up 13% compared to 2019. Produce items on the top 10 list by market value included apples ($629 million), strawberries ($336 million), grapes ($309 million) and lettuce ($276 million).

The results of this new organic survey will be available Oct. 30, 2026, according to NASS.

South American Produce Drives Philly’s Peak Reefer Season

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 19:12:46 GMT

There’s a seasonality to the trucking world just like there is to any element of the fresh produce industry. For the Port of Philadelphia, late fall and the influx of produce from South America kicks off and drives what could be called peak reefer season on the spot market.

“You get to the winter months and you start to get produce out of the southern hemisphere,” says Dean Croke, DAT iQ industry analyst. DAT iQ is a data analytics service from DAT One, a truckload freight marketplace for North America.

“But we start to see a lot of our refrigerated trucks now gravitate towards the South American produce and that principally shifts to the port of Philadelphia,” he adds, highlighting that the port is now receiving high-value perishables such as Peruvian blueberries and Chilean grapes.

“It becomes a real harbor of activity that wouldn’t have been on many people’s radar until you start to see significant volumes start to land from South America,” Croke says.

With the need to move fresh produce when it hits the dock, he explains that the highly interstate-connected Port of Philadelphia is ideal for the time-sensitive task.

“The proximity of Philadelphia to probably 45% to 50% of the U.S. population is absolutely key to why Philadelphia is sort of that epicenter of produce for South America,” Croke says.

Regional reefers by the numbers

According to Croke and DAT iQ data, outbound reefer volumes during the week of Thanksgiving were up 16% compared to the same time last year, with spot rates up 4% to average $2.25 per mile. They came down a little in the first week of December, Croke says, to just 10% and 2% respectively. He also notes there is currently an oversupply of trucks in the market, which is suppressing national spot rates.

But those nationwide numbers don’t tell the whole story, he adds.

“The high-volume lanes give you a little bit better read on where the volume goes,” Croke says. “Chicago’s the No. 1 lane for all of that produce that comes into Philadelphia. Volumes are up 33% year over year. Rates are up 7% year over year.”

But things can also fluctuate wildly this time of year depending on other local conditions as well, he adds.

“If it gets freezing cold, rates are going to go through the roof,” Croke offers as an example. “Not because there’s more freight, but because everyone that ships laundry detergent and Coca-Cola will want a refrigerated trailer to keep them warm so they don’t freeze. It’s counterintuitive.

The combination of these local conditions, such as South American blueberries arriving at the Port of Philadelphia headed to Toronto during a freeze, can also cause rates to spike all of a sudden.

“You get all these sort of swings and ebbs and flows on the supply side and the demand side, and you have a lot of rate volatility that enters the market,” Croke says, describing it almost like a ballet. “It’s an unusual thing to watch, but there’s this sort of supply and demand balance that gets played out even at an hourly level, depending on weather when you get to this time of the year.”

Fruit Exports from Chile Going Strong into Winter

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 00:24:07 GMT

“Chile is a powerhouse in global fruit exports.” So says the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service.

“Chile is recognized as one of the world’s leading fruit exporters, ranking fifth globally with exports exceeding $8.2 billion,” reads a recent FAS report . It goes on to name fresh cherries, blueberries and table grapes among the country’s standout products. And the U.S. consumes a good deal of those products.

The U.S. is Chile’s second-largest destination after China for all exported goods, according to the World Trade Organization . Fresh fruit and fruit-derived products top its agricultural exports by value. Stone fruit — especially cherries, but also apricots, plums and peaches — occupied the most valuable line item in that category, representing roughly 18% of the value share of its agricultural exports, in 2022.

Chile also represents an important piece of the puzzle that is getting U.S. consumers fresh fruit all year round.

“Chile continues to invest in the U.S. market and is one of the largest suppliers of fresh fruit to the U.S. during the winter months,” says Joe Klick, associate vice president of product management for Naturipe.

Chile’s growing climate is ideal for winter fruit, he adds, and its steady investment in fruit quality and logistics has helped make year-round fresh fruit possible.

Of course, Chile isn’t the only Central or South American country to target the U.S. market and its love of tropical fruit and demand for fruit all year . Colombia seeks to drive U.S. demand for its avocados, for instance, and Peru recently set a new all-time record for its mango exports to the U.S.

“Peru’s growth in both volume and quality has raised the bar across the board,” says Klick, speaking about blueberries. “Chile responded by dialing up its own game. You’re seeing more focus on premium fruit and proprietary varieties that deliver standout flavor and consistency. It’s all part of staying competitive and keeping those berries at their best.”

Getting fresh fruit from Chile — a trip that can take over 4,800 miles by sea from the closest seaports or 4,100 miles by air from the main airports — can be a challenge, however. Klick says the country is rising to the occasion with the competition sparking innovation.

“We’re seeing smarter, faster shipping routes and exciting advancements in genetics that extend shelf life and deliver better flavor,” he adds. “Plus, Chile’s timing is great as its fruit lands just as the import season wraps and U.S. crops start up. It keeps the momentum (and the berries) rolling year-round.”

Building Blueberry Demand

Speaking of those blueberries, Klick says Chile has been keeping U.S. consumers stocked in winter for decades.

“Chile actually helped pioneer the winter blueberry market here in the U.S.,” he adds. “They got started back in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, then really took off between 2004 and 2008.”

The USDA’s Economic Research Service calls blueberries the second-most economically important berry behind strawberries. And it’s one that has grown in popularity. Compared to 1980, when the per-capita availability (a stand-in for consumption) of fresh blueberries stood at not even a fifth of a pound, in 2023 it was over 2.6 pounds.

That growing demand has to be supplied from somewhere. In 2023, the U.S. imported 558.62 million pounds of fresh blueberries according to USDA. Imports from Chile represented roughly 16% of total U.S. blueberry imports that year.

The U.S. has been the top market for Chilean fresh and frozen blueberries , receiving more than half of the Chilean export volume annually in recent years. Fresh Chilean blueberries are imported into the U.S. from September through April, with volumes peaking in January and February. In the completed 2024-25 market year, the U.S. imported 87.28 million pounds of fresh blueberries (cultivated and wild) from Chile.

Klick says that most of Chile’s blueberry fields, which are located in the north-south middle of the coastal country, have Mediterranean climates.

“Cool winters, dry summers, and low disease pressure are basically perfect growing conditions,” he says. “Combine that with Chile’s top-tier export systems and cold chain logistics, and you get fresh, flavorful berries.”

He adds that Naturipe sees Chile as a key partner in supplying year-round blueberries and projects good things for Chile’s peak blueberry season this year.

“Come January and February, shoppers can expect plenty of top-notch Chilean blueberries ready to enjoy,” Klick says.

Table Grape Competition and Oversupply is a Challenge

Agricultural Economics

(Graphic courtesy of USDA)

Fresh table grapes are another area where Chilean fruit exports to the U.S. shine.

The U.S. is the main export market for the Southern Hemisphere’s table grapes. According to ERS, U.S. imports of table grapes from May 2024 through April 2025 exceeded 2 billion pounds. Almost all (97%) of that volume came from Chile, Peru and Mexico.

Chile has historically been the primary source for the U.S.’s imported table grapes by volume, though Peru has become a key source of competition to Chile for U.S. table grape import market share.

“Table grape production in Chile has been faced with tight margins, due in part to export competition from neighboring Peru putting downward pressure on prices,” read the July Fruit and Tree Nuts Outlook by ERS.

Frutas de Chile reports that the country’s total global exports are down almost 7% year-over-year, despite increases in the U.S. The reason for this decrease is “The acceleration of the varietal replacement process, where new varieties are gaining ground but have not yet fully replaced older, phased-out varieties,” the group explains. It estimates that new grape varieties are expected to represent 71% of total Chilean table grape exports this season, up from 67% last season.

However, there might be fewer grapes going to the U.S. in the near future.

“Shipments to Latin America are expected to increase by 14%, while shipments to Asia and North America are projected to decrease by 18% and 9%, respectively,” the group says, adding that it “will be running a robust consumer and trade campaign throughout the season.”

Indeed, the recently formed Global Grape Group , of which Frutas de Chile is a member together with Peruvian and Mexican representatives, has the goal to grow U.S. table grape demand to address the current mismatch between supply and demand.

“In the last eight years, we have seen a 40% increase in the supply of Southern Hemisphere grapes to its main market, the U.S., while demand has only increased by 3% during the same period,” said Ignacio Caballero, executive director of Frutas de Chile’s Table Grape Committee, at the Second International Table Grape Congress held in August. He added that it is crucial for the entire industry, not just Chile, to increase table grape demand.

Record-Setting Export Volumes Projected for Cherries

Discussion of Chilean fruit exports wouldn’t be complete without cherries. The FAS even called cherries “the jewel of Chilean fruits.”

“In the southern hemisphere, Chile accounts for 96% of cherry exports, reinforcing its global leadership in this market,” says Frutas de Chile, adding that the Chilean Cherry Committee projects total exports of to reach 131 million boxes during the 2025-26 season.

The FAS estimates that volume as 670,000 metric tons , or 1.48 billion pounds, a record for the country if realized, assuming no “unexpected shocks to the cherry production and export industry.” However, it also notes that China consumed 90.8% of Chile’s 2024-25 fresh cherry exports and expects China’s demand to remain strong in the upcoming season.

When it comes to exports of Chilean cherries to the U.S., FAS forecasts the U.S. will import a total of 30,000 metric tons or 66.14 million pounds, largely due to increased shipments from Chile. If realized, this would be a record for U.S. cherry imports.

“Chile continues to increase its investment in North America, and we will see an expanded consumer and retail campaign this season,” reports Frutas de Chile. The group says that the first air shipments of Chilean cherries usually hit New York markets in late October, and it reports that product on those early flights were cited as being of excellent condition.

“Peak U.S. availability [runs] from late December through February, with the first charter vessel arriving on the East Coast in mid-December,” the group adds, noting that it is “working with retailers to promote over the holidays, New Year’s, Valentine’s Day and National Cherry Month in February.”

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For the Produce Lover Who Has Everything — $60 Grapes Are in Season

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 18:59:26 GMT

Just in time for the holidays, Melissa’s Produce has introduced Red Heart K-Grapes from South Korea. Part of the Los Angeles-based specialty produce company’s luxury line, the glossy, deep-red grapes with a naturally sweet flavor, crunchy texture and signature heart shape are making their U.S. debut with a recommended SRP of $55 to $60 per 1-pound, 5-ounce package.

Melissa’s says the Red Heart K-Grapes combine crisp texture, floral juiciness and a playful shape that makes every bite feel special.

“Red Heart K-Grapes bring something totally new to the grape aisle,” says Robert Schueller, director of public relations at Melissa’s Produce. “They stand out visually and offer a flavor experience that’s exciting, elevated and completely fresh to American shoppers.”

With their distinct heart shape, sweet flavor and crisp texture, each bite of Red Heart K-Grapes feels special, according to Melissa’s Produce.

(Photo courtesy of Melissa’s Produce)

Their vibrant crimson hue and unique form make them as beautiful as they are delicious; perfect for snacking, gifting and dressing up cheese boards, holiday platters, and bento boxes, Schueller adds.

Melissa’s says the Red Heart K-Grapes’ premium look and limited availability create strong opportunities for seasonal retail displays and incremental sales. The company recommends creating eye-catching signage and cross-merchandising the grapes with specialty cheeses, gourmet snacks and holiday gifts in both produce and specialty departments.

Red Heart K-Grapes’ novelty and striking appearance also make them ideal for social media campaigns and consumer engagement, the company says.

Non-GMO and grown with care by farmers in South Korea, Red Heart K-Grapes are available for a limited time, August through December, according to the company. The limited-availability grapes join Melissa’s other luxury produce items, including Rubyglow Pineapple, for which there’s a waiting list; Crown Melon, which is pre-order only; Pinkglow Pineapple; Japanese Jewelbox Strawberries; Pink Elephant Mango from Vietnam; and more.

Melissa’s Red Heart K-Grapes are now available at select retailers and online at Melissas.com.

Sun World Welcomes New Licensees in Chile, Egypt

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 17:58:07 GMT

Sun World International LLC announced Oct. 30 that it has added six new licensees to its worldwide network. The new partners — spanning key production regions in Egypt and Chile — represent diverse business models, from vertically integrated exporters to long-standing family-owned farms.

“These partnerships reflect the kind of thoughtful growth that defines Sun World,” says Pablo Ramirez, vice president of global licensing. “We work intentionally to identify partners who share our values and uphold the integrity of our brands. Together, they strengthen our ability to deliver exceptional fruit to retailers and consumers across every region.”

Sun World says the new licensees are:

Delipack Spa (Chile) — A family-owned company with more than 60 years in the fresh fruit industry, Delipack manages 1,000-plus hectares of production and is recognized for its quality, innovation and sustainable practices serving global markets.
Cairo 3A for Agricultural and Animal Production (Egypt) — A vertically integrated supplier of produce through advanced farming, postharvest and distribution systems across Egypt and the Middle East and North Africa region.
ITAMCO for Agricultural Development (Egypt) — Established in 1991, ITAMCO (GB Farms) cultivates more than 2,000 acres of grapes and mangoes and is known for its focus on traceability, environmental stewardship and export quality.
Al-Bustania Agricultural Development Company (Egypt) — A leading grower and exporter serving major European retailers, Al-Bustania operates extensive acreage and multiple certified packing facilities across Egypt.
Nivex for Agricultural Investment and Export (Egypt) — A second-generation family enterprise specializing in fruit production and export to retailers across the European Union and the United Kingdom.
Geofrut (Chile) — Founded in 1991, Geofrut manages more than 1,500 hectares of owned farmland and collaborates with 180-plus producers, supplying fruit to markets worldwide through a strong commitment to sustainability and traceability.

Each new partner will market Sun World’s signature grape brands tailored to their regions’ growing conditions and retail markets. As part of the Sun World licensee network, they’ll receive agronomic support as well as access to proprietary breeding insights and marketing tools to help drive long-term success, the company says.

“By expanding across both hemispheres, we’re not just growing our footprint — we’re strengthening the reliability and reach of Sun World fruit for retailers and consumers everywhere,” says Petri van der Merwe, vice president of global licensing. “This balance allows us to deliver premium quality 12 months a year, from our vines to the global marketplace.”

California Table Grapes Give Back to Central California Food Bank

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 16:49:39 GMT

The California Table Grape Commission says its growers will double the impact of each donation made to the Central California Food Bank through Oct. 31.

Since October is California Farmer and Farmworker Month, growers have pledged to match up to $15,000 to support food distributions in the San Joaquin Valley. The commission says these funds raised will help strengthen the Central California Food Bank’s Farmworker Community Partnership Program across Fresno, Kern and Tulare counties.

The Central California Food Bank is the largest hunger-relief organization in Central California and serves Fresno, Kern, Kings, Madera and Tulare counties. The Central California Food Bank distributes food to more than 320,000 people and more than 100,000 children.

“The commission is a service-based organization, and this initiative is a reflection of the commitment of California table grape growers to the communities they live and work in,” says Ian LeMay, commission president.

To learn more about the campaign and to donate, visit give.ccfoodbank.org/calgrapes .

Seen and Heard at IFPA Global Produce and Floral Show 2025: Expanded Lines and New Introductions

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 15:50:03 GMT

ANAHEIM, Calif. — Ocean Mist showcased its expanded Roastables line, now with seven items, at the International Fresh Produce Association’s Global Produce and Floral Show. The company will soon debut new packaging for the Roastables line.

“It’s a breath of fresh air into this line,” says Lori Bigras, communications manager at Ocean Mist Farms. “We want them to jump off the shelves.

The new packaging features a vertical window and fun typography and Ocean Mist plans to launch the new packaging in the first quarter of 2026.

Jeff Fulton, Chris Drew, Lori Bigras, Brian Hawes and Joe Angelo at Ocean Mist Farms’ Global Produce and Floral Show booth.

(Photo: Christina Herrick)

This new look is designed to meet customers where they are, with seasons and flavoring that is aligned with today’s shopper.

“We’re focused on service, quality and innovation,” says Chris Drew, president and CEO of Ocean Mist Farms, noting Ocean Mist really focuses on educating consumers on the value of Rostables. “We want everyone to have access to flavorful and nutritious produce.”

Robert Hernandez, Martha Noriega, Ana Romero Carbajal, Alan Voll and Daniel Heguertty at the Fresh Farms Global Produce and Floral Show booth.

(Photo: Christina Herrick)

Fresh Farms showcased new Candy Hearts and Candy Snaps additions to its frozen grape line, joining the popular Cotton Candy frozen grapes.

Frederico Albonetti, Gianluca Vignoli, Nour Abdrabbo at Unitec’s IFPA Global Produce and Floral Show booth.

(Photo: Christina Herrick)

Unitec showcased its newest sorting and packing technology at the IFPA Global Produce and Floral Show.

Justin Wright and Jeff Richardson at Great Lakes Greenhouses’ IFPA Global Produce and Floral Show.

(Photo: Christina Herrick)

Visitors to the Great Lakes Greenhouses booth talked about the upcoming winter season mini organic cucumbers program.

Ashley Filliol, Hailey Monson, Catherine Gipe-Stewart, Trisha Casper, Destiny Nash, Jeff Webb, Luis Gonzalez, Matthew Snider and Derek Tweedy at the Superfresh Growers IFPA Global Produce and Floral Show Booth.

(Photo: Christina Herrick)

Superfresh Growers highlighted its new packing line and a new pear grower added to the fold, which brings breath, volume and quality to the pear category. The company plans to open a new Rainier cherry packing line in the spring with new packaging and merchandising. Superfresh Growers have a dedicated Rainier line and offers the cherries in a 2- and 3-pound and polybagged options.

“We continue to increase our quality and reduce scuffs,” says Catherine Gipe-Stewart, director of marketing for Superfresh Growers.

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Bloom Fresh Awarded 750,000 Euros in Italian Infringement Case

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 17:05:48 GMT

Bloom Fresh International Limited, a premium fruit-breeding company, says it has achieved another decisive victory in Italy in the fight against intellectual property infringement. Following years of litigation, the court has issued final judgments in favor of Bloom Fresh, awarding over €750,000 in damages, costs and penalties against serial infringers already the subject of a court order to remove illegal Bloom Fresh vines last year, according to a news release.

The case began in 2020 with a search order that led to a court-ordered seizure and injunction in 2022, but the defendants repeatedly breached the order by selling unauthorized grapes, triggering criminal referrals, the release says.

In a September 2025 judgment, the court has declared the defendants infringed Bloom Fresh’s plant variety rights and issued a new mandate to destroy any remaining infringing plants and varietal materials. The defendants were also ordered to pay damages.

Bloom Fresh says the total financial impact for the infringers exceeds €750,000 and is comprised of damages, the reimbursement of Bloom Fresh legal and court fees, and any profits the infringers earned from the illegal activity.

This ruling follows other significant actions against the same grower, the release says. In 2024, Bloom Fresh announced the enforced uprooting of thousands of illegal vines in Bari, which it says was one of the largest such removals in Italian agricultural history.

“This landmark judgment sends a crystal-clear signal: Infringement does not pay,” says Josep Estiarte, Bloom Fresh CEO. “With payments awarded now exceeding three quarters of a million euros, coupled with the destruction of illegal vines and publication orders, the Italian courts have shown that intellectual property rights in agriculture are real, enforceable and carry serious consequences. We will not hesitate to pursue infringers with the full weight of the law, to protect our varieties and our legitimate growers worldwide.”

Bloom Fresh says this outcome also follows failed attempts by associates of the defendants to undermine breeders’ rights through unsuccessful antitrust proceedings. Courts have consistently rejected such tactics, affirming the fundamental role of intellectual property in safeguarding innovation, investment and fair competition in agriculture, the release says.

“The integrity of our brands, and the trust placed in us by legitimate growers, are paramount,” Estiarte says. “Upholding IP rights is vital not only for Bloom Fresh, but for the entire agricultural community. This decision strengthens the framework that ensures fairness, quality and innovation across the fruit industry.”

Bloom Fresh continues to lead global enforcement efforts and as a founding member of The Breeders’ Alliance is working with retailers, distributors and law enforcement to combat infringement.

The company says it employs extensive market surveillance, DNA testing and legal expertise to ensure compliance and to defend the interests of growers who invest honestly in licensed plantings.

Favorable Conditions Bode Well for Fall Grape Crop

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 23:11:10 GMT

Fall brings cooler nights, leaves on the ground and, of course, table grapes. The cooler nights that late summer and early fall offer bring sweetness to this popular snacking fruit, and the fall crop brings a wider selection of table grape varieties to consumers.

“I think the flavor and the varieties in the fall are the best all year,” says Justin Bedwell, president of Bari Produce. He adds that “nothing eats quite like the fall grapes.”

Ian LeMay, president of the California Table Grape Commission, also notes that fall is when the majority of California’s table grape volume and 80-plus varieties become available. This dynamic holds true for those table grape providers that source their grapes internationally as well.

“From a supply standpoint, fall also brings broader regional overlap and steadier availability, creating stronger opportunities for promotions,” explains Jen Sanchez, vice president of marketing at Sun World International.

By all accounts, the 2025 fall table grape season is shaping up to be a great one in terms of quality.

Where We Find the Fall Crop

Weather in fall table grape growing regions has been kind to the crop this year.

LeMay reports that in California there have not been too many long stretches of excessive heat. Bedwell agrees, noting the comparatively mild temps in California have meant almost no berry- or vine-stressing heat events this year.

“The vines are happy and really producing some excellent grapes,” he says. “Weather will always keep you on your toes as you get deeper into the season. However, it seems like the fruit is being harvested a little earlier than last season, so perhaps we won’t have many unharvested grapes to worry about, should Mother Nature throw us some weather issues.”

Sun World licensees have reported bigger berries this year that show the qualities table grape buyers are after, according to Sanchez. She also says that more table grape acreage is hitting full stride in key regions for this fall crop compared with recent years.

“Growers report efficient picks and solid yields with fewer passes, supporting margins while maintaining premium quality,” she adds, speaking specifically about the proprietary Autumncrisp brand grapes.

Value of Varieties

Micheal DuPuis, quality assurance and public relations manager at Divine Flavor, which supplies brands like Autumncrisp, Cotton Candy and Sweet Globe, also highlights the value of proprietary varieties within the fall table grapes crop, as well as to the table grape industry overall.

“In California, we’re seeing a clear distinction between traditional grape varieties and the newer, proprietary ones,” he says, noting that consumer demand has shifted.

“The modern table grape consumer is looking for more than just a grape; they want an experience,” he says. And the proprietary varieties are rising to that demand.

“We’re in an exciting and pivotal moment in the grape industry,” DuPuis says. “More high-flavor, proprietary varieties are entering the market; varieties that are not only better tasting but also more sustainable, offer longer shelf life and require fewer inputs to grow. This is a win for both consumers and growers.”

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Grape Expectations: Meeting Consumer Demand with Innovation

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 23:34:00 GMT

According to The Packer’s 2025 Fresh Trends report , over half of all respondents reported buying grapes, making it one of the more commonly selected fruits in the produce section.

But consumers have expectations about their grapes. Fresh Trends survey participants who reported buying grapes said they overwhelmingly (90%) buy grapes as a snack, they prefer seedless grapes over seeded and green grapes slightly more than red. They even had decided opinions about brands, with over a third (37%) of grape-buying respondents saying they bought Cotton Candy and a quarter reporting Autumncrisp purchases.

Those in the industry say consumer demands on which grapes end up on their snacking table are getting pickier.

“Today’s shopper doesn’t just want grapes — they want a premium snacking experience,” says Jen Sanchez, vice president of marketing at Sun World International. While that experience includes sweetness and non-negotiable crispy crunch, it goes beyond that too, she adds.

“Increasingly, consumers are seeking out larger, vibrant green grapes with strong visual appeal,” she continues. “The preference is clear: large, Instagram-worthy berries with a real crunch and reliability over novelty. Every bag needs to deliver.”

The valuation (and challenge) of varieties

The ability of consumers to be selective when it comes to their grapes is two pronged. On the one hand, the industry is oversupplied , according to Michael DuPuis, Divine Flavor’s quality assurance and public relations manager. This can pressure prices and drive retailers to accept subpar fruit, which just risks damaging consumer trust. On the other hand, consumers increasingly have been given ever more unique options in the form of proprietary varieties.

“These varieties hit the sweet spot across audiences,” Sanchez says. “Luxury shoppers see them as indulgent and charcuterie-ready; parents value the health halo and convenience; kids respond to the crunch and flavor; and on social media, standout grapes have become shareable ‘status snacks.’”

“One of the most exciting innovations in the table grape industry is the development of next-generation proprietary varieties that prioritize flavor, shelf life, sustainability and health benefits — all in one,” DuPuis says. “Breeders are pushing the boundaries with grapes that not only taste better but also grow more efficiently, use fewer inputs and offer higher nutritional value.”

Other challenges

As with all produce, the grower-side concerns of the impacts of climate change, labor cost and shortage, and water availability are challenges facing the table grape industry.

For Sun World, Sanchez says that reality means “breeding grapes that are more climate-resilient, require fewer inputs and still deliver breakthrough flavor and texture. We’re leveraging marker-assisted, AI-guided breeding to fast-track improvements in crunch, size and flavor, while also investing in predictive agronomy tools that help guide canopy and irrigation decisions tied to heat and rain risk.”

The trouble is new varieties can take a long time, up to 10 years, to bring a new variety from seedling to shelf, Sanchez adds.

Ian LeMay, president of California Table Grape Commission, reports the commission is funding research programs to more efficiently care for, grow and harvest grapes in the state.

“For example, technologies and practices such as precision irrigation, weed mats and plastic coverings help ensure every drop of water is used as efficiently as possible in the vineyard,” LeMay says. “At the same time, developments in power wheelbarrows and automatic clippers can reduce the physical labor required of harvesting grapes.”

DuPuis similarly reports progress in other parts of the table grape supply chain, particularly in areas important to the international work of Divine Flavor.

“We’re also seeing advancements in postharvest technology and cold chain management that help preserve quality and extend freshness during transport — crucial for global programs like ours,” DuPuis says.

He adds that these innovations are helping the industry meet consumer expectations for quality and variety, while also “navigating ongoing challenges like unpredictable weather, sustainability concerns, resource constraints, labor shortages and the need to preserve soil health.”

“These issues can’t be solved overnight, but innovation in farming practices, supply chain efficiency and strategic variety planning will help,” he adds.

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Divine Flavor Delivers Grapes From Around the Globe

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 19:34:58 GMT

As the fall table grapes season is underway and as the International Fresh Produce Association’s annual show is coming, The Packer talked with Divine Flavor’s quality assurance and public relations manager, Michael DuPuis, on the international table grape situation.

He reports the table grape season, particularly from its international suppliers, has been mixed. On the one hand, there have been better yields in some growing regions and good supplies of consumer-favorite varieties. For example, during last season, he noted Peru saw “nearly a 48% increase in production compared to last year.”

Michael DuPuis, quality assurance and public relations manager for Divine Flavor.

(Photo courtesy of Divine Flavor)

“Chile also saw a rise in output despite reduced acreage,” he adds.

Divine Flavor’s Mexican table grapes season started in March in Jalisco. He describes this region as having become a key region for growing proprietary varieties like Autumncrisp, Cotton Candy and Sweet Globe that are consumer favorites.

“These arrive at an ideal time, when South American grapes are aging and nearing the end of shelf life, making Jalisco fruit a standout during the early import window.”

Challenges of table grape imports

On the other hand, there have also been challenges related to weather, tariffs and oversupplies for Divine Flavor’s international table grape operations. Weather repeatedly became a problem for Mexican growers, for instance.

Tropical Storm Alvin struck in late May and early June. This system particularly caused problems for the Flame seedless grapes grown in Sonora, where humidity from the storm caused cracking just before harvest.

“However, through our mother-ship company, Grupo Alta, and other experienced growers, we adapted quickly to navigate through the early rain issues that hit in early June,” DuPuis reports. “By the time our premium varieties came in, quality and consistency were back on track.”

Tariffs can also be a challenge for the grape importer, but because Divine Flavor sources from several different countries throughout the season, the impact varies. DuPuis explains grapes from the Mexican operations enter the U.S. tariff-free due to the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement.

“This gives our Mexican programs, particularly from Jalisco and Sonora, a strategic advantage in terms of cost and competitiveness,” he says.

The situation is more challenging when it comes to grapes from the South American countries, however. DuPuis describes the tariffs as playing a significant role in the current import landscape for Divine Flavor’s South American operations. Chile and Peru are both currently under a 10% tariff.

“Since Peru begins the season earlier, the added cost is immediately felt by exporters and importers, impacting overall pricing and margins,” DuPuis says. “For Chile, the effect could be even more significant. As they finish later in the season — when Mexican fruit starts hitting the market — the 10% tariff could reduce their competitiveness and potentially limit the volume of Chilean grapes shipped to the U.S.”

Potentially the most pressing challenge is an oversupply of table grapes compared to consumer demand, however, which puts pressure on prices for growers. DuPuis says this dynamic is at play in both the international and the California-based table grape industries and for traditional varieties as well as newer proprietary varieties.

“While premium grapes, such as high-flavor varieties and organics, are still performing well, the sheer abundance of grapes across all categories is creating a difficult environment,” DuPuis says. But the company is rising to tackle those obstacles, he adds.

“At Divine Flavor, we manage our programs strategically — timing promotions, client needs and variety selection to stay ahead of these challenges.”

Looking to the table grape future

DuPuis says one of the biggest opportunities for the table grape industry is to deal with the issue of overproduction.

“To address this, it’s critical that the grape sector comes together to collectively promote grape consumption,” he says. “We have incredible varieties, both established and in development, but without unified marketing efforts, we risk missing the opportunity to grow demand alongside supply.”

He also describes oversupplies of table grapes as something that “can tempt the system to accept subpar fruit, which ultimately hurts consumer trust and long-term demand.” And keeping consumers’ changing demands in mind is key.

“Looking ahead, consumer demand is clearly moving toward grapes that offer both exceptional flavor and enhanced health benefits,” DuPuis adds. “Grapes are already a naturally healthy fruit, but ongoing innovation from breeders is introducing varieties with even higher levels of antioxidants, vitamins and overall nutritional value.”

He additionally praises the ongoing innovation from table-grape breeders to make more sustainable, nutritious grapes one of the most exciting innovations going on in the industry. This is particularly important as consumer preferences become more personalized.

“Variety matters,” he stresses. “People know what they like, and flavor drives their choices.”

Divine Flavor at 2025 Global Produce Show

When it comes to looking to the future, Divine Flavor will have a booth at the upcoming International Fresh Produce Association’s 2025 Global Produce and Floral Show in Anaheim, Calif. Oct. 16-18.

“Our goal at events like this is to share our story, update our retail partners on the upcoming season, and provide real solutions to their retail needs,” DuPuis says. “While we’re best known for our premium table grapes, our footprint continues to grow across our vegetable programs, including bell peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers and other hot house items, available in both conventional and organic. We’re working hard to close production gaps and become a true year-round supplier across all our core categories.”

DuPuis adds that the entire Divine Flavor sales team will be out in full force at the event, urging attendees to “come stop by and visit us at Booth 647 to chat more about the opportunities we can create together.”

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Cash Receipts for Fresh Produce Up in 2024 — Here Are the Top 10

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 12:36:21 GMT

The numbers are in for what U.S. agricultural commodities generated during 2024.

On Sept 3, the USDA Economic Research Service (ERS) updated its extensive Farm Income and Wealth Statistics dashboard to include the cash receipts for all agricultural commodities across the country for 2024.

Cash receipts for all fruit, vegetable and nut commodities — excluding categories noted as being for processing rather than fresh consumption — in 2024 stood at $58.33 billion, up 4.72% from 2023. This does include some commodity categories, which did not distinguish between processing or fresh use. Potatoes were one such example, where potatoes for fresh consumption versus chipping or other processing uses were not broken out.

The top 10 produce commodities by cash receipts in 2024 were the same as in 2023, though the individual rankings shifted somewhat. The top fresh produce commodities with their 2024 cash receipts were:

Grapes (all grapes, including wine, table, and raisin), $6.19 billion
Almonds, $5.66 billion
Potatoes (all potatoes, including chipping, etc.), $4.99 billion
Lettuce (all lettuce, including head, leaf, and romaine), $4.6 billion
Strawberries, $3.997 billion
Apples (for all purposes), $2.9 billion
Pistachios, $2.05 billion
Onions, $2.004 billion
Carrots (only fresh, excluding processing), $1.67 billion
Blueberries, $1.196 billion

Changing Rank

While the top 10 produce commodities stayed the same in 2024 compared with 2023, the rankings changed from year to year.

In 2024, almonds saw the second-largest cash receipts for fresh produce. The year before, almonds ranked fourth with $4.045 billion, meaning almonds gained $1.617 billion or almost 40% in one year.

According to the 2025 California Almond Forecast report, released in May 2025, there was no appreciable change in almond acres in California between 2023 and 2024. However, yield per acre increased 200 lbs. to 1,980 lbs per acre in 2024, for a total production of 2.73 billion pounds. Added to this, the price per pound jumped 24.42% from 2023 to 2024 to $2.14.

Almonds shifting to second place pushed down 2023’s second- and third-ranked commodities — potatoes and lettuce, respectively — to the third and fourth position in 2024. Receipts for all potatoes in 2024 gained $99 million, or 2.02%, compared with 2023, while receipts for all lettuce declined by $179 million or 3.75%.

While all grapes remained at the top of the cash receipts ranking for produce, the commodity shed significant value in 2024 compared with 2023, down $643 million, or 9.41%. Similarly, while pistachios maintained their position as seventh-highest produce commodity, cash receipts declined by $740 million or 26.57%, the largest raw and percentage decline seen on the top 10 list for produce.

Expectations for 2025

While overall inflation-adjusted cash receipts are forecast by ERS to grow $10.9 billion (2.1%) from 2024 to $535.2 billion in 2025 for all agricultural commodities, those gains are expected from animal-based commodities.

Overall crop cash receipts are expected to decline $12.3 billion (4.9%) in 2025 compared with 2024. Cash receipts for the vegetable and melon subcategory are expected to fall by a half billion (2.1%) in 2025, but are forecast to increase $2 billion (6.5%) for the fruits and nuts subcategory.

For almonds specifically, the recent May report projected a 2025 almond crop of 2.8 billion pounds, up slightly from the 2024 crop. A later estimate released in July increased that to 3 billion pounds, which initially dropped prices significantly , but they have since recovered “closer to multi-year highs.”

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Sun World Gives Growers, Retailers a Preview of What’s Next for Table Grapes

Sun, 24 Aug 2025 18:35:49 GMT

Sun World International, a global fruit breeder, licensor and marketer known for grape brands like Autumncrisp, Ruby Rush and Midnight Beauty, recently welcomed more than 200 licensed growers and partners to its Center for Innovation in Wasco, Calif., for two field days — one in July focused on early-season grape varieties and second on Aug. 21, focused on late-season grape varieties.

“We had a combination of licensed growers, marketers, importers and nurseries, and with that, we’re really capturing the majority of the supply chain from breeding all the way to the folks that are getting that last mile to retail,” Jen Sanchez, vice president of marketing at Sun World International, told The Packer.

Sun World says the field days offer an in-field look at the company’s latest developments, providing partners with updates on planting trends, performance insights, and shared goals around flavor, sustainability, and market leadership.

Currently, Sun World has growers and marketers in 17 countries, with additional countries to come, notes Sanchez, who says the company’s field days attract licensees from almost all of those countries.

“It’s an amazing opportunity, not just for them to come out and see what’s commercial right now, but also to see what’s next for them. What are we bringing to the table? What’s going to be available in a year, two years, five years,” says Sanchez.

This look at what’s next is crucial, as the breeding process from the first natural seedling crossing to a commercial grape variety on store shelves can take eight to 10 years, says Sanchez.

“Because it is such a long process, we have to be looking ahead and determining what do we think that it’s going to look like five years from now? What are consumer trends that are emerging right now? How can we stay ahead of that?” says Sanchez. “Because it’s not, ‘Hey, let’s just put a new formulation together, drop it in a can, and we’re good to go.’

“That’s not how this works. It is a long, long process, and we do a lot to ensure that the final product getting to our growers, our marketers, distributors, etc., is going to work for them — not only in the field, but in the market,” she says.

Testing Cultivars With an Edge

The July event spotlighted five early-season pipeline varieties — including Sugrafiftythree, Sugra60 and advanced, yet-to-be-released selections. Bred for early maturity, high yield and post-harvest performance, Sun World says these cultivars give growers an edge in delivering fruit that meets both consumer expectations and production needs.

Sanchez says the testing process for each new variety is rigorous because failure is not an option.

“We do a lot of testing…so that by the time it gets to the grower, and they put that vine in the ground, we know it’s going to succeed because…we know what goes into it for the grower. We know that it’s a massive financial and labor investment,” says Sanchez. “So, we’re not going to gamble our reputation; we’re not going to gamble our growers’ money; and we’re not going to gamble our marketers’ credibility.”

Sanchez says once grape varieties are planted, Sun World’s global technical team offers support and evaluation, helping to troubleshoot any issues its growers may have.

At its Center for Innovation, Sun World has a 140-acre test block, where it can monitor different test stages. Once the fruit gets to the midway point between initial testing and commercialization, that’s when Sun World seeks feedback from retailers, growers and marketers on the characteristics in the field.

Sanchez says Sun World has welcomed nearly two-dozen retailers to its field days in the last two years.

“We’ve really ramped that up, especially with the addition of Elena Hernandez, who’s our director of global marketing insights. She works closely with our marketers as well as our retailers to help connect them and then try and build demand in the market for our brands and support retail to help build that business for them as well,” says Sanchez.

Size and Texture Trends

When it comes to top trends in the grape category, Sanchez says size matters.

“People are really interested in larger berries. There’s still a market, obviously, for the smaller ones, but we are seeing people’s preferences change towards that larger berry,” she says. “It’s that idea of the buzzworthy, Instagram-worthy, ‘holy-cow-these-grapes- are-massive trend.

“But they also have to have good texture and flavor,” she continued. “And while I think there’s something to be said for unique flavors, when you really get down to it, and you talk to consumers, they’re like, ‘I just want a really good grape.’”

Sanchez also says the pace of change in the grape category has accelerated and the excitement level around brands has grown significantly, even in the last several years. She attributes the buzz to brands like Autumncrisp, which she says, “has changed how consumers look at grapes.”

“Consumers are realizing that they can have something better,” she says. “Gone are the days of the squishy, dry looking grapes that don’t really have any flavor. Today, there’s crispness. There’s something unique. The crunch, the juiciness — it’s like, oh my gosh, this is amazing. That’s what we are seeing from consumers.”

Consistency is also key says Sanchez. Consumers need to be able to go the store and find Autumncrisp grapes again and again, she says. Because as consumers repeatedly have a good experience with the brand, they become a repeat purchaser for that retailer.

What Growers Want

On the grower side, trends support the importance of yield.

“We want to make sure that that ground is used most effectively. We want to make sure that growers are getting the bang for their buck, if they’re going to put that vine in the ground,” she says. “They want to have something that’s going to help keep them, their business or their family sustained.”

Sustainability is another driver of Sun World’s grape variety cultivation and the company looks at where growers are being hit hardest when it comes to costs, says Sanchez.

“Everything we can do in terms of [developing varieties that require] less mechanical intervention, a reduced carbon impact, a need for less pesticides, less water — we look at those things that we as a breeding organization can help impact,” says Sanchez.

The company also looks at how grape varieties perform in different climates and recommends varieties that maximize the grower’s resources.

“We also look at varieties that are strong in post-harvest, because we do see a lot of product moving around the world,” says Sanchez. “There are now grapes available pretty much every day of the year. And the way that Sun World approaches this is to look for varieties that can help us achieve that year-round availability.”

During the field tours, Sun World received great feedback on some of its new varieties, says Sanchez. “I think looking at the horizon, there’s a lot of opportunity. I think there’s a lot of excitement, and I think that’s the best part of weeks like this, we’re able to bring people in where they can see what’s coming, and then we can help build — obviously excitement, but I think also confidence. I think it’s about building grower confidence that they’re making the right choice about what they’re putting in the ground.”

Sun World says its field day events are more than a look at what’s next in grapes, they’re a celebration of the growers, marketers and visionaries driving the future of fresh produce across the globe.

Global Grape Group Talks Strategy for Boosting U.S. Demand

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 18:56:07 GMT

Presenting and defining the Global Grape Group’s (GGG) demand strategy was one of the key topics at the Second International Table Grape Congress, held in Lima, Peru, Aug. 13-14.

Organized by the Peruvian Table Grape Producers Association (Provid), the event featured participation from Frutas de Chile, along with its grape committee, and Table Grapes from Mexico, gathering nearly 700 representatives from the industry who analyzed technical, climatic, logistical and market issues related to table grapes.

During the “From Individual Challenge to Collective Action: The Value of Competition in the Table Grape Industry” panel, GGG representatives reflected on the group as a driving force to build a common voice, face shared challenges and strengthen the competitiveness of the industry in major global markets.

Ignacio Caballero, executive director of Frutas de Chile’s Table Grape Committee, addressed the main challenge facing the industry.

“In the last eight years, we have seen a 40% increase in the supply of Southern Hemisphere grapes to its main market, the U.S., while demand has only increased by 3% during the same period,” Caballero says. “If we expect a 13% increase in volumes in the coming years, the mismatch between supply and demand will be even greater. The weekly demand level is stagnant at 3.5 million boxes; when it exceeds this level, as happened for more than 10 weeks during the last season, prices drop dramatically. Therefore, it is crucial that we, as GGG, work together to increase this demand. The cost of doing nothing is too high for everyone.”

For his part, Rodrigo Vallejo, CEO of the Ro2media agency, presented the results of the “Have a Grape Day” campaign , developed in collaboration with the GGG, that launched in the U.S. for the 2024-25 season.

“The campaign clearly establishes, in a versatile manner, filled with positive energy and emotionally effective, the concept that a grape can improve your day — it’s that simple,” Vallejo points out, adding that there were significant achievements in this first campaign.

He says this initial campaign achieved important coverage through specialized industry media, with great results considering the relatively low initial resources invested for the challenge at hand.

“We exceeded the goals, achieving incremental sales of over US$10 million with our 49 programs in supermarkets,” he says. Additionally, he emphasizes that “this campaign impacted 83 million consumers, creating 35 million new ones and increasing an additional 1.4 kilograms per capita for those who saw the campaign.”

To conclude, Vallejo presented data from other similar success cases, such as Zespri, Chilean Cherries, and Avocados from Mexico, stating: “It was a good start, but we need to invest more as we should expect a return on investment between 450% and 600%. We are currently investing only US$0.7 per ton, while others are investing up to US$71 per ton. This is just the beginning; we aim for more. We need more participants.”

Luis Miguel Vegas, general manager of Provid, highlighted the importance of industry collaboration and questioned what Peru needs to manage a projected production of 100 million boxes of grapes in the future, emphasizing the need for the industry to work cohesively to sustain its development. The major issues from the past season were logistical problems caused by volume concentration. For this reason, he urges the industry to start investing in promotions through the GGG.

“The United States is the main market for table grapes; it is the ideal place to begin the GGG’s actions,” adds Sergio Lugo, general manager of Table Grapes from Mexico. “We must have a medium-term strategy, starting in one place to generate a strong impact, and as we achieve results, diversify campaigns to other destinations.”

Regarding who can join the GGG, Lugo explains: “The idea is to start the GGG with our three countries but to include other origins as we have the plan ready. California, South Africa, and Brazil, among others, have already shown interest in joining. Additionally, we are defining the framework for other industry stakeholders to join.”

GGG Strategy

The steps defined by GGG initially included a “Sowing” phase in 2024-2025, which involved creating the GGG through the signing of a memo of understanding and its establishment with headquarters in the U.S. Ro2media, which works with Avocados from Mexico among other clients, was then selected. GGG defined its objectives during this period as well, focusing on increasing grape consumption globally, exchanging information among the countries of the group and promoting best sustainability practices.

The 2025-2026 season will mark the “First Harvest” stage, which includes the first full promotional campaign of the GGG and its launch in the U.S., according to the group.

GGG representatives estimate that efforts to boost grape demand in the U.S. could mean an investment of between $2 million and $3 million for the 2025-26 season, which equates to between 2-3 cents per box of grapes, with a potential medium-term benefit of between $1 and $2 per box.

GGG plans to present its complete plan to the industry during the International Fresh Produce Association’s 2026 Global Produce and Floral Show on Oct. 16, at 3 p.m. in Anaheim, Calif.

Eight Students Win CA Grape Growers Scholarships

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 15:29:36 GMT

On Aug. 7, just as high school graduates prepare to begin their college careers this fall, the California Table Grape Commission announced it had awarded eight scholarships to students from the table grape growing regions of California.

According to the announcement, California table grape growers have awarded more than 200 scholarships to help students in the grape growing regions of California attend college since 1985.

“Maintaining a scholarship program for 40 years is an exciting milestone and a testament to California table grape growers’ continued investment in the community that surrounds the California table grape industry,” says Ian LeMay, the commission’s president, in a news release. “At the same time, it illustrates why choosing California grapes is important in that it helps fuel support for all those working in the industry and their families.”

Growers awarded two $25,000 field worker scholarships to students attending a four-year college or university. Three $14,500 field worker bridge scholarships were awarded to students attending two years of community college and transferring to a four-year college or university. To be eligible for a field worker scholarship, applicants or a parent or guardian must work in the California table grape harvest. Three $25,000 agricultural scholarships were awarded to students attending a four-year California college or university and planning to pursue an undergraduate degree in a field of study pertinent to the table grape industry.

The winners for this year’s scholarships are:

Alexa Yvette Ruiz Rios ($25,000 Field Worker Scholarship) — Rios graduated at the top of her class from Roosevelt High School with a 4.32 GPA and will attend University of California, Irvine to study business administration and political science. She studied law and policy, and business finance at The Center for Advanced Research and Technology. Her involvement in a number of extracurriculars, including Health Youth corps, youth court, and the Californians for Justice Club have well prepared her for her upcoming journey to become a corporate lawyer. Hear Rios in her own words .
Daisy Sanchez Fernandez ($25,000 Field Worker Scholarship) — Fernandez graduated from Delano High School with a 4.38 GPA and will attend University of California, Berkeley to study political science as she starts her journey in becoming an immigration lawyer. She was awarded the 2025 Migrant Honor Student of the Year and served as the soprano section leader in choir. She was an active member of multiple school clubs and organizations, including the service club, math club, mock trial, choir and Future Business Leaders of California. Hear Fernandez in her own words .
Adriana Cerpas ($14,500 Field Worker Bridge Scholarship) — Cerpas graduated from South High School with a 3.53 GPA and will attend Bakersfield College to study radiologic technology. Cerpas participated in South High School’s theater program where she found mentorship and was encouraged to pursue her goals and dreams. She looks forward to becoming an ultrasound technician to combine her interest in healthcare and desire to make a positive impact on people’s lives. Hear Cerpas in her own words .
Kelly Ledezma ($14,500 Field Worker Bridge Scholarship) — Ledezma graduated from Cesar E. Chavez High School with a 3.49 GPA and will attend Bakersfield College to study education. Ledezma was an active member of her school’s NAMI club and excelled in the Education Pathway program, which prepared her for a career in education. Kelly looks forward to becoming an elementary school teacher and wants to encourage future students to succeed. Hear Ledezma in her own words .
Yaribeth Suarez ($14,500 Field Worker Bridge Scholarship) — Suarez graduated from East Bakersfield High School with a 4.18 GPA and will attend Bakersfield College to study radiologic sciences. Suarez was exposed to healthcare education through the Health Careers Academy, which nurtured her passion for the medical field. She was also a member of multiple school clubs, including the history club, Great Outdoors Club and Link Crew. Hear Suarez in her own words .
David Cox ($25,000 Agriculture Scholarship) — Cox graduated from Riverdale High School with a 4.39 GPA and will attend California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo to study agricultural business. Cox was actively involved in a number of school clubs and activities, including Future Farmers of America leadership, and varsity captain of the baseball and basketball teams. He plans to be a business proprietor in the Central Valley and start a farm equipment company to support the agricultural industry. Hear Cox in his own words .
Malia Giumarra ($25,000 Agriculture Scholarship) — Giumarra graduated from Garces Memorial High School with a 4.70 GPA and will attend University of California, Los Angeles to study business economics. Throughout high school, Giumarra held multiple leadership positions, including leadership team member and student visionary for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, and dream builder with the Jim Burke Ford Dimension. She belonged to various school clubs and organizations, including Link Crew, Garden Pathways and ASB, and was the women’s golf team captain her junior and senior years. Giumarra plans to build a career in the produce marketing industry. Hear Giumarra in her own words .
Reygan Jones ($25,000 Agriculture Scholarship) — Jones graduated from Kingsburg High School with a 4.13 GPA and will attend California State University, Fresno to study agricultural business. Jones’ work experience with a local farm sparked her passion for agriculture and inspired her to pursue a lifelong career in the industry. She is actively involved in her community and participated in numerous school activities, including softball, volleyball and Link Crew. Hear Jones in her own words .

Sun Grape Kicks Off Season with New Sustainable Packaging

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 19:27:43 GMT

Sun Grape California , an Oppy Company, says the California table grape season is off to a strong start with good volume and new sustainable packaging.

Sun Grape says it expects a good harvest for the California season, which will run through December. Sun Grape says Dole, Ocean Spray and Sun Grape brands will pack up to 15 premium grape varieties, with private-label options available, too.

The company says as part of its commitment to innovation and sustainability, it has introduced eco-friendly packaging this season.

“Sun Grape is debuting a new MDOPE (machine direction oriented polyethylene) grape bag,” says Bill Poulos, executive director of grapes and stone fruit for Oppy. “This next-generation packaging solution reduces the use of traditional plastics by utilizing a recyclable, mono-material film that offers both environmental and performance benefits.”

Sun Grape says the MDOPE bags passed rigorous shelf-life tests in cool storage, demonstrating excellent durability, breathability and product protection. The company says this new packaging reflects Sun Grape’s broader commitment to responsible innovation and supporting retail partners in meeting their sustainability goals.

“This year marks another exciting step forward for our team and our customers,” says Sammy Cacciatore, president of Sun Grape California. “With quality at the forefront, we’re delivering a broad range of varieties and packaging solutions, backed by a service model that allows us to move quickly and efficiently to meet market demands.”