Social Responsibility

Healthy Family Project, Publix and 20 Produce Partners to Provide a Million-Plus Meals

Thu, 21 May 2026 14:58:24 GMT

Healthy Family Project’s 24th annual Publix Produce for Kids campaign is underway and runs through June 24. The organization says this is the largest campaign in its history, with a record 20 produce companies participating. Participating brands will help provide more than 1,050,000 meals to 40 Feeding America partner food banks throughout Publix’s market area.

Since 2002, the campaign has raised more than $4.3 million to support organizations benefiting families and children in Publix communities while helping provide more than 18 million meals through local food banks.

Bright, colorful signage featuring fresh produce and easy meal inspiration will be displayed in more than 1,434 Publix stores alongside participating produce affiliates. The signs, designed to encourage healthy choices, showcase simple and delicious ways families can enjoy more fruits and vegetables. A QR code will direct shoppers to an online campaign hub where participating companies are featured through a digital campaign that extends the in-store experience into the home through social media, e-newsletters and additional digital marketing efforts.

“Supporting our communities and helping families thrive is part of who we are at Publix,” says Dwaine Stevens, Publix director of community relations. “Through our continued partnership with Healthy Family Project and our suppliers, we’re able to connect shoppers with fresh meal inspiration while helping provide meals for neighbors facing hunger.”

Produce brands supporting the 2026 Publix Produce for Kids campaign include: Ayco Farms, Bay Food Brokerage, California Avocado Commission, California Walnut Board, Chiquita, CMI Orchards, Coast Tropical, Divine Flavor, Driscoll’s, Fresh Express, GT’s Living Foods, Mucci Farms, Passion Growers, Natalie’s Orchid Island Juice, Pure Flavor, Rainier Fruit, RealSweet Vidalia Onions, Sunset, Vegpro International Inc. and The Wonderful Company.

Healthy Family Project will host a volunteer event June 3 at Feeding Tampa Bay, where brands will come together to experience the organization’s hunger-relief efforts firsthand. Following the volunteer activity, attendees will gather for an on-site appreciation and networking event to further support Feeding Tampa Bay and its mission to serve families across the community.

“Produce has the power to bring families together around healthier meals while also making a meaningful impact in local communities,” says Amanda Keefer, Healthy Family Project vice president. “This campaign continues to grow because of the shared commitment from Publix, our produce partners and shoppers who believe every family deserves access to fresh food and support.”

The campaign will raise funds for local Feeding America partner food banks, including Feeding Northeast Florida, Food Bank of North Alabama, Montgomery Area Food Bank Inc., All Faiths Food Bank, America’s Second Harvest of the Big Bend, Feeding Tampa Bay, Feeding South Florida, Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, America’s Second Harvest of Coastal Georgia, Atlanta Community Food Bank, Feeding the Valley Food Bank, Food Bank of Northeast Georgia, Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore, Dare to Care Food Bank, Golden Harvest Food Bank, Middle Georgia Community Food Bank, Second Harvest of South Georgia, Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, Harvest Hope Food Bank, Lowcountry Food Bank, Chattanooga Area Food Bank, Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee, Community Food Bank of Central Alabama, Feed More, Feeding the Gulf Coast, Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina, Food Bank of Albemarle, Fredericksburg Regional Food Bank, Inter-Faith Food Shuttle, Manna FoodBank, Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest North Carolina, Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee, Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee, Second Harvest Food Bank of Southeast North Carolina, Treasure Coast Food Bank and Virginia Peninsula Foodbank.

Hannaford Hits Record 29M Pounds in Food Donations as Retailer Expands Northeast Safety Net

Wed, 13 May 2026 16:34:58 GMT

As food insecurity continues to challenge families across the Northeast, Hannaford Supermarkets says it has expanded its community support systems, headlined by a record-breaking 29 million pounds of food diverted from waste to local dinner tables this past year.

The retailer’s 2025 Community Impact Report shows a shift toward deeper, more strategic regional investments, moving beyond traditional charitable giving to provide $1.3 million for child wellness and $1.5 million for local education. By leveraging a network of 450 hunger-relief organizations and 1,000 local vendors, the Scarborough-based company says it is increasingly positioning its 188 stores as essential infrastructure for regional stability in Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, New York and Vermont.

The 2025 report showcases how Hannaford is moving beyond traditional retail to serve as a cornerstone of community health and sustainability.

“At Hannaford, we believe strongly in the power of doing good in the communities we serve,” says Ericka Dodge Katz, director of external communications and community impact for Hannaford Supermarkets. “This is especially felt in our approach to addressing food insecurity, which is grounded in robust local partnerships and shaped by associates who understand the needs of the communities they call home. Whether it’s supporting the work of local nonprofits or making daily donations to ensure families have access to healthy food, we’re proud to support initiatives that are making a meaningful impact every day.”

2025 Impact Highlights

Combating hunger: Through the Fresh Rescue program, Hannaford donated 29 million pounds of fresh, nutritious food — a 15% increase since 2022. This effort supported more than 450 local food pantries and hunger-relief organizations.
Direct financial investment: Hannaford provided $400,000 in direct support to regional food banks and saw the Hannaford Charitable Foundation invest $1.16 million into nine strategic organizations focusing on food access, health and education.
Empowering youth: The Eat Well, Be Well initiative contributed $1.3 million toward child health and wellness, while the Hannaford Helps Schools program donated $1.5 million to more than 1,700 schools across the Northeast.
Investing in local: Hannaford continues to champion regional economies, sourcing 8,000 store items from over 1,000 local vendors, including more than 125 local farmers.
Environmental leadership: The report reaffirms Hannaford’s status as a sustainability leader, maintaining zero food waste-to-landfill and progressing toward its goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.

A Culture of Care

Beyond external donations, the report underscores Hannaford’s commitment to its 28,000-plus associates. In 2025, the retailer focused on expanded development opportunities and community-centered initiatives, ensuring that the people who serve the community are equally supported.

This dedication to transparency and impact earned Hannaford the PRNews Platinum Award for CSR, ESG or DEI Report for its 2024 edition, setting a high bar for the 2025 release.

“Our approach to addressing food insecurity is grounded in robust local partnerships and shaped by associates who understand the needs of the communities they call home,” Dodge Katz says.

Thx! Turns Nonprofit, Seeks to Usher in New Era of Purpose-Driven Commerce

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 10:55:55 GMT

Thx!, a purpose-driven program connecting consumers with farmworkers through impactful storytelling and dream fulfillment, has reached a major milestone in its evolution: The program will begin operating under the umbrella of Seeding Futures Inc., its U.S.-based 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, according to a news release.

Thx! says this strategic transition marks a significant step forward in its mission to prove that doing good is good business, while unlocking new opportunities for brands, retailers and consumers to create meaningful impact.

By operating within the structure of a nonprofit, Thx! says it will deepen its commitment to social impact, with a stronger focus on education-driven dreams for farmworkers and their families. At the same time, partners across the value chain will benefit from a more efficient and purpose-aligned model, it adds.

“This is a natural evolution of what Thx! has always stood for,” says Martin Casanova, founder of Thx! and Seeding Futures. “We are strengthening our foundation to create more impact, more transparency and more value for everyone involved — from farmworkers to consumers and from brands to retailers.”

Stronger Value Proposition for Partners

With this transition, Thx! partners, including growers, brands and retailers, will now engage with a program operating under a U.S. nonprofit structure.

Thx! says this provides several key advantages:

Enhanced credibility and transparency through nonprofit governance.
Greater impact focus, particularly in education and long-term empowerment.
Potential tax efficiency, as a significant portion of the program cost may qualify as a tax-deductible contribution in the U.S.
Stronger emotional connection with consumers, reinforcing brand value and differentiation.

The integration with Seeding Futures ensures that every action taken within the Thx! ecosystem continues to be verified, measurable and purpose-driven, says the nonprofit.

Leadership Expansion to Support Growth

As part of this new chapter, Matías Notti has joined the board of directors of Seeding Futures. Notti brings extensive experience in agriculture, international business and operations across multiple markets. His addition to the board reinforces the organization’s commitment to scaling impact while maintaining operational excellence, Thx! says.

“Matias has been with us since the very beginning. He was the one who envisioned Thx! as a co-branding program. His contribution has been incredible, and I’m truly excited to see him take on this important role,” Casanova says. “His perspective and experience will be instrumental as we expand globally.”

Bigger Vision for the Future

With this transition, Thx! and Seeding Futures are setting the foundation for accelerated growth and deeper impact across the Americas and beyond. The organization’s short-term goals include:

Expanding education-focused initiatives for farmworkers.
Increasing the number of partner brands and retailers.
Launching purpose-driven business programs across multiple channels.
Continuing to innovate in consumer engagement and storytelling.

Thx! says as it enters this new phase, its mission remains clear: to create a world where every purchase has meaning — and where helping others achieve their dreams becomes part of everyday life.

Hannaford Transforms Fresh Produce Surplus Into a Regional Community Lifeline

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 19:07:20 GMT

For decades, the backrooms of grocery stores were often the final stop for produce that didn’t meet the beauty standards of the retail floor. But at Hannaford Supermarkets, those apples at the bottom of the stack or slightly bruised bell peppers aren’t seen as waste; they are seen as a vital resource for a hungry community.

In 2025, Hannaford reached a milestone by donating 29 million pounds of food across the Northeast, marking a 15% increase from previous years. While the numbers are impressive, the strategy behind them is even more precise. According to Ericka Dodge Katz, director of external communications and community impact for Hannaford, this achievement is the result of a highly sophisticated culling process designed to prioritize human health and environmental sustainability.

Art of the Cull: Prioritizing Produce

Unlike shelf-stable canned goods, fresh produce is a race against the clock. To manage this, Hannaford relies on the expertise of its fresh-trained associates.

“We don’t have someone from the center of the store culling the apples,” Dodge Katz says. “It’s the person who has taken stock and replenished that area. They understand the life cycle of a grape or an apple.”

These associates make daily judgment calls based on peak freshness. If a piece of produce is no longer top-shelf for sale but remains nutritionally excellent, it is diverted to the Fresh Rescue program. To maintain quality, Hannaford has implemented specific operational protocols:

Dedicated cooling zones — Rescued produce doesn’t sit on a loading dock. It is moved to a dedicated climate-controlled space in the back of the store.
Direct transition — Produce stays in these cooling areas until the moment a local pantry partner arrives for pickup, ensuring the cold chain remains intact.

Hannaford’s strategy is rooted in the EPA Food Recovery Hierarchy, a mental map shared by associates across all 188 stores. The priority is clear:

Feed hungry people — The vast majority of sorted produce goes to Hannaford’s network of over 450 local pantry partners.
Feed animals — For produce that has crossed the line of human consumption, Hannaford partners with local livestock and pig farmers.
Industrial diversion — If the food isn’t fit for a farm, it heads to a bio-digester.

Associates make daily judgment calls based on peak freshness. If a piece of produce is no longer top shelf for sale but remains nutritionally excellent, it is diverted to the Fresh Rescue program.

(Photo courtesy of Hannaford)

This rigorous adherence to the hierarchy allowed Hannaford to achieve zero food waste to landfill as early as 2019. By partnering with companies like Agricycle, it closed the last-mile gap, ensuring that even the scraps contribute to renewable energy rather than methane emissions in a landfill.

Perhaps the most significant recent innovation is how Hannaford is streamlining its partnership with regional food banks. Historically, some items would take a tour of New England — traveling from a store to a recovery center in Maine to be scanned, only to be shipped back to a food bank in Vermont or New York.

Hannaford is now piloting a program to bypass this long-haul logistics model. By processing more items at the store level, it can bundle center-store goods with fresh produce for immediate pickup by local pantries.

“It’s happening faster, and it’s also reducing mileage and spoilage,” Dodge Katz says. “It’s getting food into the community faster because it’s not taking this little tour to get there.”

Culture of Uncommon Care

For Hannaford, this is a legacy that dates back to the 1880s. Whether it’s an apple going to a local family or a bruised pear going to a neighborhood pig farmer, there is a palpable sense of pride among the staff, she says.

In an industry where perfect is often the enemy of the good, Hannaford has proven that with the right operational precision and a deep-rooted commitment to community, the retail floor can be a powerful engine for feeding the hungry and protecting the planet.

Hannaford Supermarkets Donates Record 29M Pounds of Food in 2025

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 19:00:13 GMT

Hannaford Supermarkets says it donated nearly 29 million pounds of food to local food banks and pantries throughout the Northeast in 2025.

The donations, which equate to 24 million meals for individuals experiencing food insecurity, mark a record amount for the grocery retailer and signify another year of consistent growth for its food rescue program. Since 2022, Hannaford has increased its annual food donation totals by more than 15%.

The company says the increase reflects Hannaford’s deep, lasting care for the well-being of its communities and is the result of ongoing efforts to streamline its food rescue operations and expand the amount and variety of products it donates to local food banks and pantries.

“At Hannaford, our commitment to nourishing our communities goes beyond the shelves of our stores,” says Mike Vail, president of Hannaford Supermarkets. “Our associates work in tandem with trusted community partners to help ensure nutritious food reaches our neighbors in need every day. We’re proud to do our part to expand food access for families throughout the region and help families thrive.”

Rescuing Fresh Produce

A key component of Hannaford’s food donation work is its Fresh Rescue program. Through the program, all 188 Hannaford stores donate nutritious, quality unsold food — including fresh produce, meat and dairy products — to local food pantry partners daily.

Each day, Hannaford associates assess and identify products for donation. Produce may have bruises, shelf items may have damaged packaging, and meat or dairy may be near its sell-by date. However, all items are safe and nutritious to eat.

Each store partners with at least one local food pantry that visits the store to pick up the donated product directly. In 2025, Hannaford provided direct donations to eight food banks and more than 450 partner organizations through the Fresh Rescue program.

“Every day, I see firsthand the dedication of our associates to making this program a success,” says Jon Fortier, store manager at the Hannaford in China, Maine, and Fresh Rescue champion for all Hannaford stores in Maine. “Whether it’s carefully sorting fresh produce or coordinating with our community partners, our teams are committed to making a meaningful difference and ensuring that nutritious food reaches those who need it most.”

Feeding a Need

The increase in donations from Hannaford comes as hunger relief organizations across the region report a steady increase in need for food in the communities they serve. Nationally, 48 million people live in food-insecure households, and hunger rates among youth continue to rise, with 1 in 5 children in the U.S. facing food insecurity.

In its home state of Maine, Hannaford partners with Good Shepherd Food Bank and its network of local pantries to increase impact by connecting agencies directly to stores, allowing them to receive and distribute food quickly and efficiently.

“Good Shepherd Food Bank is incredibly grateful for our partnership with Hannaford and their commitment to fighting hunger in Maine,” says Heather Paquette, president of Good Shepherd Food Bank. “Their Fresh Rescue program provides a steady source of high-quality free food for charitable food programs across the state that are serving the more than 190,000 Mainers who live with food insecurity.”

In 2025, Hannaford donated the following amounts to local food bank partners by state:

Maine — 13 million pounds of food, which equates to 11 million meals in partnership with Good Shepherd Food Bank.
New Hampshire — 5 million pounds of food, which equates to 4 million meals in partnership with New Hampshire Food Bank.
New York — 6.5 million pounds of food, which equates to 5.4 million meals in partnership with Food Bank of Central New York and Regional Food Bank.
Massachusetts — 2 million pounds of food, which equates to 1.6 million meals in partnership with Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, The Greater Boston Food Bank and Worcester County Food Bank.
Vermont — 2.5 million pounds of food, which equates to 2 million meals in partnership with Vermont Foodbank.

In addition to its food donation efforts, Hannaford says it also invested a total of nearly $2 million to hunger relief organizations across the region last year, including supporting programs that work to expand access to fresh, locally grown food.

UnitedAg Awards Over $100K in Scholarships to 40 Ag Students

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 20:04:46 GMT

UnitedAg is recognizing 40 recipients of the 2026 UnitedAg Agricultural Education Foundation Scholarship Program , representing agricultural companies throughout California and Arizona. This year, UnitedAg’s Education Committee awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships, with individual awards ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, recognizing individuals who demonstrate academic excellence and a strong commitment to advancing the agricultural industry.

Among the top recipients of the educational scholarships are:

Marcus Montgomery of Almont Orchard Inc, awarded the Maurice McMillan Scholarship
Carl Nielsen of Bullet Ranches Inc, recipient of the William C. Goodrich Scholarship
Madison Williams of Moovin Transport Inc, who received the Women in Agriculture Scholarship
Cristian Vargas of Braga Fresh Family Farms and Wyatt Davidson of UnitedAg, both recipients of the Alex Drollinger Award. Their academic achievements and dedication to agriculture embody the values and emerging leadership UnitedAg aims to cultivate through this program.

The vocational scholarship winners include:

Laura Bucio of Rancho Guadalupe
Martina Chairez of Nichols Farms
Anjanette Niemi of Vegetable Growers Supply.

“UnitedAg’s commitment to supporting those pursuing higher education or vocational training has created meaningful pathways to advance within the agricultural industry,” says scholarship committee chair Debbie Adam. “This opportunity strengthens the future of agriculture by encouraging the development and application of the latest skills in the field.”

Since launching the program in 1989, UnitedAg has remained dedicated to expanding educational opportunities for its members and their families by providing meaningful financial support to students pursuing academic and vocational goals. This year also marks a significant milestone for the organization, as UnitedAg has now awarded $2.1 million in scholarships to over 1,200 students, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to developing the next generation of leaders in agriculture.

“Investment in education and training is the most meaningful way we can support the future of agriculture,” says Kirti Mutatkar, president and CEO of UnitedAg. “These students represent the passion, talent and dedication that will drive our industry forward. We are proud to support their academic journeys and help empower the next generation of agricultural leaders.”

Trudi’s: The New Banana Brand Putting Women First

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 20:09:57 GMT

The banana industry is witnessing a significant shift with the launch of Trudi’s, a new consumer purpose-driven brand from Fyffes. Developed through extensive market research, Trudi’s aims to bridge the gap for consumers who want their grocery choices to reflect their social values.

“Trudi’s concept began with a thorough consumer understanding, gathering data from over 13,000 people on their banana buying habits in Europe and North America,” says Adriano Di Dia, chief marketing officer of Trudi’s. “With these insights, Fyffes realized that there is a very large group of consumers (well over 50%) who feel they are not being served by the current product offerings and are looking for an alternative. Trudi’s is that alternative.”

The banana industry is ripe for a change, Di Dia says, “and we’re up for the challenge. Our mission is simple. We want to show the world that nothing tastes better than knowing the fruit you eat is doing good. Every Trudi’s banana helps us deliver our ambition.”

Empowering the Backbone of Agriculture

The launch aligns with the United Nations International Year of the Woman Farmer. Julie Cournoyer, global director of sustainability for Fyffes, emphasizes the necessity of this focus.

“Across the globe, women are the essential foundation of our agri-food systems. They are central to our global food security and economic resilience, yet all too often, their contributions remain unrecognized and undervalued. Empowering women in the field could raise global GDP by $1 trillion and reduce food insecurity for 45 million people,” Cournoyer says. “We are thrilled that Trudi’s, along with CARE International U.K., is supporting 228 women in banana-growing communities in Costa Rica with the set-up of their own businesses. This is the kind of tangible and sustainable contribution that really makes a difference.”

Marking International Women’s Day 2026, Fyffes announced impressive six-month results from the Partnership for Good program. This collaboration between Trudi’s and CARE International U.K. focuses on strengthening autonomy and resilience in Costa Rican banana-growing communities.

According to the company, key achievements from the first six months include:

Widespread participation — 228 rural women across nine community groups enrolled in structured training.
Comprehensive training — Sessions covered personal empowerment, rights recognition, prevention of gender-based violence, leadership and financial management.
Entrepreneurial momentum — By December 2025, 108 formal business plans were submitted.

Proposed ventures range from agricultural production (livestock, eggs and vegetables) to service-based businesses like tailoring and beauty services, as well as value-added food processing.

To ensure the program’s success, an initial baseline study identified critical areas for improvement. At the start of the program:

Only 1% of participants used sustainable, climate-resilient farming practices.
77% of households reported some level of food insecurity.
Only 15% were aware of at least three of their human rights.

The next phase of the program will involve the distribution of seed capital to launch these enterprises and the implementation of climate-smart “kitchen gardens” to bolster local food security.

Looking Toward the U.S. Market

While currently making waves in Europe, Trudi’s has its sights set on North America. The brand notes that thousands of U.S. consumers were included in their initial research, confirming a strong appetite for a “brand that gives back.” Trudi’s has expressed an open invitation to U.S. retailers interested in bringing this socially conscious fruit to American shelves.

DoorDash Scales ‘Food as Medicine’ Initiative for National Nutrition Month

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 21:02:23 GMT

As National Nutrition Month kicks off in March, DoorDash says it will transform from a convenience app into a critical health care link with a series of expansions to its social impact programs. Through its Project DASH initiative, the company is doubling down on the “food as medicine” movement — a health care philosophy treating nutritious food as a primary tool for preventing and managing chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension.

High-Tech Delivery Meets High-Stakes Health

For many patients, the barrier to health isn’t a lack of medical advice but rather a lack of physical access. DoorDash’s latest data suggests that local delivery is solving the last-mile logistics of nutrition.

“Delivery plays a critical role by ensuring patients can consistently receive the healthy groceries and meals their care teams prescribe,” the company says, noting that illness and mobility challenges often prevent at-risk populations from reaching traditional food banks.

Key Regional Impact Successes

DoorDash highlights the following cases in which partners used Project DASH to promote healthier outcomes:

Arkansas partner — University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and Harps; nearly 60% of participants saw improved blood sugar levels.
California partner — Second Harvest; more than 10,000 boxes delivered, with measurable drops in A1C and blood pressure.
Colorado partner — Food Bank of the Rockies; delivery of medically tailored groceries to rural and urban food deserts.

Breaking the Food Desert Barrier

A major pillar of the announcement focuses on the expansion of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program/Electronic Benefits Transfer payment integration. Since 2023, DoorDash says it has opened online grocery access to over 3 million SNAP recipients.

A recent company report, “From Food Deserts to Dinner Tables,” highlights a significant shift in consumer behavior when delivery is an option.

Among surveyed SNAP/EBT users on DoorDash:

67% reported changing their eating habits after using SNAP/EBT on DoorDash.
31% said they are eating more fruits and vegetables.
42% said they are cooking at home more often instead of turning to fast food or takeout.
58% said they feel able to buy more fruits and vegetables without spending more.

Perhaps most telling is the geographic data: SNAP consumers using the platform are twice as likely to live in food deserts compared to non-SNAP users, proving that digital infrastructure is effectively bypassing ZIP code health disparities.

Community Support and App Integration

Beyond logistics, DoorDash says it is deploying Community Credits — grants in the form of gift cards — to local nonprofits. A recent $10,000 contribution to Connecticut-based Hands On Hartford is currently funding the Backpack Nutrition Program, which secures weekend meals for over 200 families.

Throughout March, users will notice a shift within the DoorDash app. The platform will feature curated collections of fresh produce and healthy essentials, including specific sections tailored for SNAP/EBT-eligible items to help users maximize their benefits.

As the “food as medicine” movement gains steam among policymakers and providers, DoorDash appears to be positioning its vast driver network as a permanent fixture of the national public health landscape.

Fair Trade Fruits Continue to Make Gains Despite Challenges

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 22:38:27 GMT

At the start of 2025, fair trade was eyeing growth, eager to build on hard-won momentum. While tariffs threatened to disrupt this trajectory, the year was still a win, says Rob Desson, senior business partnerships manager for fresh produce at Washington, D.C.-based Fairtrade America, the U.S. branch of Fairtrade International.

“2025 was a challenging, yet successful year for us,” Desson says. “Volumes of Fairtrade bananas imported into the U.S. market increased by an impressive 20.4% despite tariffs imposed on major banana-exporting countries and resulting market uncertainty. Our growth figures demonstrate Americans are still committed to supporting ethical sourcing that benefits farmers’ livelihoods despite a higher-cost environment and economic instability.”

While some fair trade produce companies — including Equifruit, a Montreal-based importer of Fairtrade International-certified bananas — say the additional cost of tariffs in 2025 put fair trade banana conversations on hold with some retailers, the future of fair trade in 2026 and beyond looks bright now that tariffs are in the rearview mirror.

“Tariffs may have slowed some retail conversations regarding Fairtrade programs, but we remain confident we will see future market growth in the years to come,” Desson says. “More American retailers are recognizing the long-term value and importance of supporting growers’ ability to invest in their businesses and make changes that increase resilience. Conversations with those mission-aligned partners are continuing.

“Fairtrade sourcing allows retailers to play a key role in shared responsibility throughout their supply chains and is a proven approach that’s been around for more than 30 years with high levels of consumer trust across Europe,” he adds. “We’re actively raising awareness of Fairtrade in the U.S., and consumers are pushing retailers in the right direction.”

Farmworkers tend to bananas on a fair-trade farm in Colombia.

(Photo: Juan Nicolás Becerra)

Desson says the 20% boost to Fairtrade banana imports into the U.S. last year is part of a longer-term growth of 38% from 2022-25.

“We expect this trajectory to continue in years to come as U.S. retailers strive to meet growing demand from their customers,” he says.

Room to Grow

Fairtrade-certified fresh fruit currently accounts for less than 1% of the total market, says Desson, who sees this as a huge opportunity for more sustainable sourcing across the category.

“As the impact of tariffs (and later their lifting on banana imports in November 2025) stabilizes and retailers, vendors and consumers adjust to the current economic climate, we expect to continue building on the momentum we have already seen in the U.S.,” he says. “We are forecasting volume growth in 2026 and expect to achieve this through fostering new and existing partnerships built upon shared responsibility in supply chains and long-term value.”

But there remain challenges to overcome.

“The biggest hurdle is the industry’s perception that banana pricing is highly elastic,” Desson says. “Our latest consumer insights show American shoppers are willing to pay more for Fairtrade bananas, yet retailers are hesitant to introduce small price increases in fear of losing market share.”

In reality, says Desson, switching to Fairtrade bananas would only cost the average American a total of $5 a year, making the fruit one of the most accessible entry points for shoppers interested in making more sustainable purchases.

“This small cost to the consumer now could have a huge impact on farmer livelihoods and help stabilize the banana industry in the face of climate shocks, like crop disease, floods and droughts,” he says.

Consumer Awareness Key to Furthering Fair Trade

While fair trade produce continues to gain ground, consumer enlightenment and education remain key to continued growth, industry insiders say.

“We have seen continued program growth and adoption across categories,” says Leslie Simmons, senior director of business development, fresh goods for the Oakland, Calif.-based Fair Trade USA.

In addition to increased certification and a rise in purchasing across retail partners, Simmons says the program itself continues to see growth.

“We’ve experienced 20% year-over-year program growth in 2024 and another 17% year-over-year (first through third quarters) in 2025,” Simmons says. “We have had 17 new brands join the Fair Trade Certified Produce program and 26 new farms launch programs across multiple major retailers.

“Even with tariffs and other economic headwinds, we have experienced overall growth,” she continues. “People are realizing that protecting people and our planet isn’t just a nice-to-have attribute: It’s the future of business.”

British Columbia-based greenhouse grower Windset Farms began partnering with fair trade-certified farms as part of its commitment to responsible sourcing, growing and ethical labor practices. It’s a partnership that supports transparency, worker well-being and long-term sustainability across the supply chain, says Marketing Manager Randi Church.

“Fair trade produce is grown with respect for workers, communities and the environment. For farmworkers, this means fair wages, safe working conditions and opportunities to have a voice in workplace and community decisions,” Church says.

Windset also says that practices like integrated pest management in its facilities reduce chemical use and create safer working environments.

“These methods help protect worker health while supporting environmental sustainability,” Church says.

But at the end of the day, one of the biggest challenges facing fair trade companies hoping to engage consumers is awareness and understanding, Church says.

“By including a fair trade logo on produce grown at certified farms, Windset works to increase transparency and education by sharing how fair-trade partnerships support both people and high-quality produce,” Church says.

Sharing the fair trade story is also a way to communicate with shoppers directly about the issues they care about. But collaboration is key, says Simmons, who adds that retailers and suppliers face many of the same challenges from labor to climate to quality and safety issues.

“Like any important and complex topic, we must tackle it together with storytelling and data,” she says. “We must leverage resources to support education, and we need to establish a common desire to talk about these issues within our associations, trade media and boardrooms.”

Desson agrees that clear consumer communication is crucial to continued growth for Fairtrade.

“What is crucial is retailers’ communications to their shoppers,” he says. “A switch to Fairtrade should be accompanied by in-store messaging and other marketing efforts to meet consumers where they are in terms of awareness and demonstrate the value and positive impact Fairtrade sourcing has amongst banana-growing communities.

“More Fairtrade options in the fresh produce aisle is something everyone will feel good about if the social and environmental standards required by our certification are communicated clearly,” he says.

Your next read: How Tariffs Grounded Fair Trade Produce in 2025, Just as It Was Poised for Takeoff

Leading with Purpose: A Conversation With Raley's CCO Carol Barsotti

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 17:36:45 GMT

The Raley’s Cos. recently underscored its commitment to purpose-driven growth by appointing Carol Barsotti as its chief communications officer. A seasoned leader with deep roots in public service and sustainable agriculture, Barsotti is a familiar face within the organization’s leadership.

In addition to her new role overseeing public relations and government affairs, she continues to serve as president of fieldTRUE, a farm-box subscription business, and remains a key advocate for local food banks through her work with Raley’s Food For Families.

“We are fortunate to have Carol as an integral part of our executive leadership team,” says Keith Knopf, president and CEO of The Raley’s Cos. “She is purpose-driven, creative, versatile, impactful and proven at developing and leading high-performing teams. Carol is the epitome of a servant leader, always willing to step up to support the needs of the team, company and community.”

The Packer sat down with Barsotti to discuss how she plans to align policy and community engagement to create a lasting impact for the business and the people it serves.

The Packer: You are currently the president of fieldTRUE while serving as chief communications officer for The Raley’s Cos. How do these two roles inform one another? Is there a specific fieldTRUE philosophy you are bringing into the Raley’s corporate communications strategy?

Barsotti: The reason these roles fit together so naturally is because the vision is unified; fieldTRUE advances our purpose of changing the way the world eats, and my chief communications officer role advances that same purpose through communications, policy and community engagement.

The fieldTRUE philosophy of transparency, partnership and helping customers feel connected to where their food comes from absolutely shapes my broader communications strategy. My focus is aligning the work, removing barriers and making sure we’re creating meaningful impact in the communities we serve. This allows us to create more transparency in the food system, educate people about healthy food choices, operate sustainably and responsibly and give back.

Raley’s mission is to “change the way the world eats one plate at a time.” As chief communications officer, how do you translate that high-level vision into actionable government affairs and public relations?

For me, translating the mission into action means using communications, policy and community engagement as levers that all support the same goal. Our public relations efforts highlight the innovation and quality that help customers eat well. Our government affairs work focuses on strengthening the systems that make that possible. And our community impact work ensures we’re supporting the organizations on the front lines, especially our food bank partners, so more families have reliable access to nutritious food.

It’s one mission expressed through different, interconnected channels. Our ongoing mission to change the way the world eats, one plate at a time, is truly purpose-driven and helps to differentiate us in the marketplace. Our commitment to nutrition education and accessible, healthy choices extends throughout our enterprise and will continue to evolve. For example, our Raley’s family of brands has always led in this space through the removal of tobacco products, creation of Better for You check stands, development of an innovative Shelf Guide program and the continued evolution of our Raley’s Purely Made line of products.

Your appointment underscores a focus on aligning communications with community engagement. In the past, these were often separate departments. Why is it critical for the chief communications officer to also oversee community impact and Food For Families today?

Community impact is a core part of our strategy, and aligning it with communications ensures our actions and our voice reinforce each other. Bringing Food For Families, our food bank partnerships and our work in the broader community under the chief communications officer role creates consistency and authenticity, allowing us to strengthen partnerships, innovate how we support communities and tell a clearer story about our role in the regional food system.

Food For Families has a 40-year legacy. How are you evolving that program to move beyond traditional food drives toward systemic solutions for food insecurity?

As we honor a 40-year legacy, we’re proud that Food For Families is a strong, year-round, systemic support for hunger relief partners. Since 1986, Food For Families has donated more than $81 million and 70 million pounds of wholesome, nutritious food to our existing network of 12 Feeding America food bank partners and their subsequent network of more than 2,400 agencies.

We leverage our distribution network and buying power to deliver more nutritious food at lower cost, and The Raley’s Cos. covers all administration costs of the program, ensuring that every dollar goes back to benefit the community. And we work closely with food banks to keep innovating as community needs evolve. For example, last year we launched an infrastructure grant program to ensure our partners have the equipment and capacity they need to efficiently and effectively reach those most in need. It’s about understanding local needs and continually adapting our approach to maximize impact across the communities we serve.

You’ve moved from public policy to a family business and now to a C-suite role in a major retail corporation. What is the most important lesson you’ve learned about brand authenticity during that journey?

Across public policy, a family business and now the C-suite, the lesson that’s stayed with me is that authenticity isn’t something you declare, it’s something you demonstrate. For me, that comes from a servant leadership mindset: staying grounded, listening carefully and showing up with humility and clarity.

At Raley’s, that aligns naturally with who we are. This company was built on service to customers, team members and communities, and our brand is strongest when our daily actions reflect the values we talk about. My role is to help ensure that connection is consistent: That how we operate, how we partner and how we show up in our communities genuinely reflects who we are.

Your Next Read: The Raley’s Companies Appoints Carol Barsotti as Chief Communications Officer

How Tariffs Grounded Fair Trade Produce in 2025, Just as It Was Poised for Takeoff

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 11:38:53 GMT

Heading into 2025, all signs pointed to a breakthrough year for fair trade in the U.S. Then came tariffs.

“We had a ton of momentum going into 2025, and I would say it felt like it was going to be a breakthrough year,” says Kim Chackal, co-owner and vice president of sales and marketing for Equifruit, a Montreal-based importer of Fairtrade International-certified bananas from Ecuador, Peru, Colombia and Mexico. “We had some new relationships that were developing and looking very promising, but now that 2025 is behind us, it really was the year of the tariff.”

For Equifruit, which is marking 20 years in the fair trade banana business this year, the April 5 baseline tariff of 10% the Trump administration imposed on nearly all countries slowed the momentum it had been building in the category for two decades.

“What we saw is that retailers who had been talking with us for years and who were finally wrapping their minds around paying more for fair trade bananas — once that additional layer of tariff came in, it just blew up the conversations in many cases,” Chackal says. “It put conversations on hold where they just weren’t ready to pass that additional layer of cost [on top of tariffs] to their customers.”

And then an interesting thing happened.

For years, Equifruit has worked to show retailers that the additional cost of fair trade on bananas, already the cheapest item in the produce department, is only about $5 a year — the equivalent cost to a cup of coffee. But some retailers remained reticent to raise the price of bananas even a little, fearing customer reaction.

“The most significant thing that came out of this ... was that we saw retailers in a position where, assuming that their vendors passed on the tariff cost, they were, in many cases, forced to pass on that cost to their customer in some way,” she says. “And so, for the first time, there was this mass case study on what happens when you raise the price of bananas.

“We saw everybody from the largest retailers to the smallest retailers increase their retails on bananas, and whether it was 5 cents a pound, or 10 or 20 or whatever it was, we saw that tonnage remain flat,” Chackal continues. “It’s been an incredibly powerful part of the conversation with Equifruit and retailers, especially in the U.S., to say, ‘Well, remember 2025 when you did raise your banana prices?’”

With the fear of “what if?” behind retailers wondering if there would be customer fallout with higher banana prices, fair trade fruit may be better positioned for a fair shake moving forward.

“I feel like it set us up for success, because retailers have now lived through raising banana prices,” she says.

Most Equifruit bananas are sourced from Ecuador.

(Photo by Guillermo Marcelo Cantillo Freja)

Moving Fair Trade Forward

Equifruit imports the majority of its 100% Fairtrade International-certified bananas (most of which are also organic) from Ecuador, which was impacted twice by tariffs in 2025: first in April at 10% and then in August when those tariffs increased to 15%. The tariffs were finally lifted in November, clearing the way for a more promising year ahead.

“Thank goodness, as we were finalizing contracts or submitting bids for 2026, the tariffs finally lifted, and that was just no longer part of the conversation,” Chackal says.

The even better news for fair trade products, Chackal adds, is consumers are craving meaningful brands.

“We’re on the other side of tariffs, and we’re in this landscape now where I feel like there’s this even greater desire, not just for Gen Z and millennials, but there really is a pull towards brands that are solving the world’s problems, and a real interest in wanting to do the right thing,” she says.

Chackal sees other certifications resonating with today’s consumer as well.

“In the case of Equifruit being 100% Fairtrade [International]-certified since Day 1, being a women-owned brand, being a [Certified] B Corp, these are all parts of our value add that we are putting forward in this year’s communication in a really significant way, as we celebrate 20 years in business,” she says.

Chackal says the company is redesigning its website and packaging to increase customer awareness around what defines Equifruit as a company.

“We think that that’s going to pull in a new customer base for us and further drive the connection that we have with our current advocates,” she says.

The majority of Equifruit fair trade bananas are also organic.

(Photo courtesy of Equifruit)

Rooted in Relationships

Another lesson learned from tariffs goes back to Equifruit’s relationship with its fair trade suppliers.

In the thick of the tariff wars or wild weather, Equifruit says its relationships with suppliers remain steady.

“What is so big to grower-packer-shippers like Equifruit, who are 100% fair trade certified, is we already have long-standing relationships with our growing partners, which helps supply during dramatic events in the banana industry and helped really protect us,” Chackal says.

She says she sees organic banana supplies as one of the biggest challenges facing retailers.

“If we look specifically at organic bananas, and the year-over-year growth of that category, there’s really limited supply,” Chackal says. “There’s only a handful of countries that can produce organic bananas. I believe it’s only five countries that can produce organic bananas, and so with the growing demand and the limited supply, the challenge for retailers is that if they want to stick with this artificially low price structure, at a certain point, they will not have the supply to meet the growing demand.

“And that’s where we’ve found the solution is in partnering with fair trade farms. They prioritize Equifruit as a customer,” she continues. “Our growers stuck with us through all those challenges that the industry faced as a whole, and we’re channeling that experience into producing more content from a sales perspective that really frames fair trade bananas as a risk mitigation strategy for long-term scalability of a key item in the produce department.“

Expansion on the Horizon

Equifruit, which is now in 80% of Costco Canada warehouses as the organic, fair trade banana, says it experienced a lot of growth in Canada last year. It’s growth that is continuing in 2026.

This week Equifruit is launching with the Pattison Food Group, a Canadian grocer with 11 retail banners and more than 300 locations, and with Calgary Co-op, one of the largest retail cooperatives in North America.

“Our team has been coordinating marketing and communication strategies with all these stores, and it’ll really widen our footprint in western Canada,” Chackal says.

Equifruit has made the Globe and Mail annual report that ranks Canada’s Top Growing Companies for four years in a row. It’s also made Globe and Mail’s list of Canada’s Top Growing Women-Led Companies for two consecutive years.

In terms of its U.S. presence, Equifruit has an organic, fair trade banana program in the New York area with Costco and hopes to expand further.

“There’s been so much momentum around Equifruit as a brand,” Chackal says. “And so, yes, although we had the bummer of the tariff last year, at the same time, we are seeing an explosion around brand awareness, and I think that has been the fruit of our labor from a marketing perspective.”

UNFI Marks 50 Years by Launching $2M Effort to Fight Food Insecurity Nationwide

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 21:16:05 GMT

To celebrate its 50^th anniversary, United Natural Foods Inc. says it is going nationwide with a $2 million commitment to local food systems. Through its newly launched “50 for 50” initiative, the UNFI Foundation plans to award 50 grants to nonprofits across every U.S. state and Canada throughout 2026, ensuring that the company’s milestone birthday has a tangible impact on food security.

The announcement served as the centerpiece of UNFI’s Spring and Summer Selling Show in Long Beach, Calif., a full-circle moment for a company that was founded in the Golden State in 1976. CEO Sandy Douglas and co-founder Michael Funk shared the stage with 3,500 partners and customers to kick off a year-long celebration of “partnership and purpose,” the company says.

“For 50 years, UNFI has believed that better food builds stronger communities,” Douglas says. “As we mark this milestone, we want to honor the people and partners who share that belief and work every day to make our industry vibrant, resilient and sustainable. The UNFI Foundation’s ‘50 for 50’ initiative is another way to recognize this work — and invest in a better shared future.”

Douglas, Funk and UNFI Foundation Chair Matt Echols presented the first “50 for 50” grant — a $10,000 donation — to Food Finders, a Southern California nonprofit that recovers surplus, wholesome food and redistributes it to communities facing food insecurity. In 2024 alone, Food Finders rescued more than 15 million pounds of food, turning potential waste into millions of meals, according to the company.

“We’re honored to be the first grantee of the UNFI Foundation’s ‘50 for 50’ initiative,” says Diana Lara, executive director of Food Finders. “This support helps us continue expanding our food recovery efforts and ensures more families across Southern California have access to nutritious meals.”

As part of the celebration, UNFI also recognized two long-standing partners with the Michael Funk Legacy Award, honoring businesses that have paved the way in innovation and sustainability across the food retail industry.

Sacramento Natural Foods Co op, one of UNFI’s earliest customers, was honored for its decades-long commitment to local farmers, sustainable practices and community education.
Lundberg Family Farms, a UNFI supplier since 1976, was recognized for its multigenerational leadership in organic rice production, regenerative agriculture and environmental stewardship.

“UNFI has been a trusted partner to our business for nearly five decades,” says Brian Munn, president and general manager of Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op. “From our early days as a small buying club to the co-op we are today, UNFI has consistently supported our mission, our growth and our commitment to local and sustainable food. We’re honored to receive the Michael Funk Legacy Award and appreciate the role UNFI continues to play in supporting our cooperative food systems.”

“Our industry has long been shaped by pioneers who believed in doing the right thing — for people and for the planet,” Funk says. “Partners like Sacramento Natural Foods Co op and Lundberg Family Farms have helped transform natural and organic food from a movement to the mainstream, and UNFI is proud to have supported their growth along the way.”

UNFI’s West Spring and Summer Selling Show in Long Beach brought together more than 1,700 retail representatives and over 1,800 supplier brands across natural, organic, fresh, specialty and conventional categories. Exhibitors showcased thousands of innovative products designed to help retailers prepare for the upcoming seasons.

UNFI says it will host its Central/East Spring and Summer Show Feb. 11-12 in Orlando, Fla.

Know an Exemplary Farmworker? EFI and The Packer Call for Farmworker of the Year Nominations

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 23:56:37 GMT

Equitable Food Initiative , the workforce development and certification organization partnering with growers, farmworkers and retailers, has launched the third annual Farmworker of the Year Award, presented in partnership with fresh produce media company The Packer, part of Farm Journal.

The award, which recognizes farmworkers whose leadership, skills and dedication strengthen the fresh produce industry and agricultural communities, is set to be presented at The Packer’s West Coast Produce Expo , May 27-29 in Palm Desert, Calif. Please note the deadline to nominate a farmworker for this important award is Feb. 27, 2026.

The Farmworker of the Year Award was created to elevate farmworker voices and celebrate individuals whose contributions are essential to the success, safety and sustainability of the food system. Last year’s winner, Rafael Teran Melchor of Stemilt Growers , was honored for his thoughtful mentorship and calm, solutions-oriented approach over his 23-year career.

Exemplifying the dedication, teamwork and humility that earned him the award, Teran Melchor accepted his award, giving thanks to his team.

“Thank you so much to everyone who supports me every day at work to be able to deliver a great product,” he said. “Working in a team makes everything possible.”

Now in its third year, the program continues to grow, drawing nominations from across the produce industry and shining a light on farmworkers who lead by example in their workplaces and beyond.

“Farmworkers bring deep knowledge, responsibility and pride to their work, yet their leadership is too often overlooked,” says Alexandra Martinez, senior digital marketing and sales associate for EFI. “This award is about recognizing the people whose experience and dedication make a real difference every day, while reinforcing the value of farmworkers’ voices across the industry.”

Farmworkers at all levels and across all crops and regions are eligible for nomination. Candidates may be nominated by employers, supervisors, coworkers or industry partners. Nominees are evaluated based on their leadership, commitment to workplace safety and quality, positive influence on their teams and impact within their communities.

The review process is being expanded in 2026 to include a panel of leaders from a range of industry organizations. The 2026 review panel will include:

Jeff Cady, vice president of produce and floral, Tops Friendly Markets
Emily Fragoso, vice president, Mixtec Group
Jane Kuhn, senior director of strategic sourcing and sustainability, Once Upon a Farm
Lori Taylor, founder and CEO, The Produce Moms

In recognition of their leadership and dedication, the Farmworker of the Year will receive a $1,000 cash prize and a crystal award, each finalist will be awarded $500 and a commemorative plaque, and every nominee receives a certificate as an expression of appreciation for their contributions that extend far beyond any single award.

Previous Farmworker of the Year promotions have drawn dozens of nominations from companies, large and small, representing a wide range of roles, regions and years of service. Past honorees have been recognized for mentoring coworkers, improving workplace practices, fostering strong communication, contributing to safer, more engaged teams and the positive impact they’ve had in their communities.

Nominations for the 2026 Farmworker of the Year Award are now open. For more information and to submit a nomination, visit equitablefood.org/fwoy .

Wellness Clinics Aim to Break Through Barriers to Farmworker Health Care

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 14:49:39 GMT

Domestic fresh produce depends on California, and California’s farmworkers face numerous barriers to accessing healthcare. According to reports from the University of California, Merced, half of the state’s farmworkers are uninsured, for example. Combine that with the difficulty and cost of seeing a doctor, plus fears of immigration and lack of trust, and you have a situation where farmworkers often put off care until things are serious.

UnitedAg is trying to change that situation with its network of wellness centers. President and CEO Kirti Mutatkar says she is excited for what the wellness centers are doing for farmworkers — and possibly even for the health care industry overall.

“I’m super, super passionate about this topic because the health care industry as a whole needs to be focusing on the human side of things, and so we are,” she tells The Packer, adding that she doesn’t see UnitedAg as a health plan for farmworkers but instead as an experiment in what health care can be.

UnitedAg, an agricultural trade association providing health and education benefits to members, currently operates six wellness centers in California’s produce-heavy Central Valley. The Visalia center was the first in 2017. Others followed, including in Colusa, Salinas, Santa Maria, Turlock and Chico. Another will be opening soon in Redding.

According to Maribel Ochoa, UnitedAg’s director of communications and membership, the six wellness centers see an average of 20,896 visits from farmworkers and their families annually. However, she adds that these numbers don’t include on-site care or preventative screens UnitedAg conducts at member workplaces.

Mutatkar says that the Chico Wellness Center operated part-time when it opened in 2021, starting at just two days a week, then later going to three. In December 2025, however, the Chico location shifted to being open five days a week due to growing demand for service.

“We felt the need to be full-time here in Chico because just the growth that we’ve seen,” Mutatkar says. “What the clinic represents and what it provides has led to tremendous growth and interest within this region.”

Removing Health Care Barriers for Farmworkers

Citing the UC Merced Community and Labor Center, Ochoa notes that about half of California’s farmworkers are uninsured, with that number being higher at 62% among undocumented workers. Cost concerns such as high deductibles and copays compound with immigration fears to result in low rates of doctor visits.

For Mutatkar, UnitedAg’s wellness centers represent an effort to reduce those barriers through lower costs, reduce time involved with appointments and provide culturally connected staff taking a holistic approach. She summarizes it as a different mindset about health care.

“It is more: ‘How do we provide the care that’s needed in these communities? How do we do it in a very affordable way and the right way?’ Because of that, we are actually looking to expand more clinics in some of the underserved regions within different parts of California,” she says.

In speaking of the Redding center that will open March 1, Mutatkar says the group looks to regions where there are large agricultural communities that are underserved by health care options such as health care providers and urgent care clinics.

“We are expanding into Redding because we realize that Redding has a similar need out there,” she says.

Different Approach to Health Care

Mutatkar points to the approach to care the wellness centers take as something that sets them apart from mainstream health care.

“When you come in, we’re going to look at you as a holistic person and not just for the issue you have come in for,” she says, giving the example of providers asking after other potential issues patients might be experiencing, such as blood sugar or mental health complaints.

Being attentive to the whole person — what they are saying and not saying — asking questions and treating them like family is key, she adds.

“If you and I were to be treated, how would you want to be treated? We took that approach,” she says. “Just treat everybody like it’s your dad or your brother [who] walks in and help them.”

But treating farmworkers like family means the providers need to know the community or, ideally, be from the community, Mutatkar says. This means being selective with recruiting for the wellness clinics. Finding people who have connections with the community helps make those patient-provider relationships stronger.

“When a patient comes in or a call comes in even to UnitedAg, basically what somebody’s imagining on the other line is their parent, their uncle or aunt or mom,” she says.

That holistic, “treat you like family” approach to care is also what Mutatkar calls the successful health care experiment that UnitedAg is doing.

“Not just the clinics, but through UnitedAg, I feel like we are conducting an experiment where if you do right by the people, does it create a financially sustainable health plan?” she says.

Mutatkar says they have at UnitedAg, adding: “What I would like to see is, if UnitedAg enables this and it becomes a norm, then everybody else has to provide that kind of care. How awesome would that be?”

Karli Barton Wins 2026 Sollum Student Scholarship

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 22:32:02 GMT

On Jan. 13, Indoor Ag-Con and Sollum Technologies announced Karli Barton as the recipient of the 2026 Sollum Student Scholarship to Indoor Ag-Con.

The scholarship supports emerging leaders in controlled environment agriculture by providing a fully funded opportunity to attend Indoor Ag-Con, taking place this year on Feb. 11-12 in Las Vegas, Nev. The program is designed to connect academic research with real-world industry application through mentorship, networking and exposure to the latest technologies shaping indoor farming.

Barton is a second-year Masters of Environmental Science student at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada. Her research focuses on the intersection of advanced LED lighting strategies and sustainable pest management in controlled-environment strawberry production. A key component of her work examines how dynamic lighting regimes, such as blue-light night interruption and continuous lighting, affect the performance of biological control agents used to manage aphid pests.

Before beginning graduate studies, Barton spent nearly a decade working in integrated pest management roles across both field and controlled-environment systems, including six years as a biocontrol consultant supporting commercial greenhouse operations. Her research aims to help growers adopt innovative lighting technologies without compromising the effectiveness of biological pest control, bridging scientific research with practical, on-farm decision-making.

“Supporting emerging researchers like Karli is critical to the future of controlled environment agriculture,” says Jenny Zammit, vice president of marketing and customer success at Sollum Technologies. “Her work reflects exactly what this scholarship was designed to encourage — rigorous, applied research that helps growers integrate new technologies in a sustainable and practical way.”

“Indoor Ag-Con is proud to partner with Sollum Technologies to provide meaningful opportunities for students who are shaping the future of indoor agriculture,” says Brian Sullivan, CEO of Indoor Ag-Con. “Karli’s background and research exemplify the kind of industry-connected innovation we aim to support through this scholarship.”

Raley’s Food For Families Marks 40 Years of Hunger Relief

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 22:11:16 GMT

For 40 years, Raley’s Food For Families has been a steadfast partner in the fight against hunger. Since 1986, the organization has donated more than 81 million dollars and 70 million pounds of wholesome, nutritious food to its existing network of 12 Feeding America food bank partners and their subsequent network of more than 2,400 agencies.

Now, as Raley’s Food For Families marks this significant anniversary, the organization says it is demonstrating its long-term dedication with the launch of its renewed 2026 Infrastructure Grant Program with applications open now through Feb. 2. The grant initiative builds on immediate hunger relief efforts by investing in infrastructure that enables sustained, meaningful impact for years to come.

“For four decades, Food For Families has been privileged to donate millions of pounds of food and to provide support to hungry families across our communities. This milestone is a moment to celebrate that impact and recommit to the long-term work of food security,” says Julie Teel, president of Food For Families board of directors. “By focusing on infrastructure, we’re strategically making funds available so these vital community partners can strengthen their ability to get food to those who need it most.”

Building on a Year of Impact

The new grant cycle builds on the success of the inaugural 2025 Infrastructure Grant Program, which distributed just over $340,000 to support critical needs identified by food banks and their partner agencies. The first funding round made a significant impact, including funds for refrigeration units, box trucks, forklifts and pallet jacks, along with many smaller infrastructure items, such as shelving units.

“These investments directly translate to increased food access for families by allowing food bank staff and volunteers to work more efficiently, ultimately serving more people with the same resources. For example, a single pallet jack can save 76 manual trips per truckload,” Teel says. “The grant funding is a tangible example of the profound commitment Raley’s has made to the communities it serves.”

2026 Infrastructure Grant Cycle Details and Guidelines

The 2026 Infrastructure Grant Program will prioritize grants that directly increase food access rather than focus on food education. Eligible applicants include partner agencies, food pantries and closets affiliated with Raley’s Food For Families’ Feeding America food bank partners:

Alameda County Community Food Bank
Central California Food Bank
Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano
Food Bank for Monterey County
Food Bank of Northern Nevada
Feeding the Foothills
Redwood Empire Food Bank
Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services
Second Harvest Silicon Valley
Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County
Second Harvest of The Greater Valley
Yolo Food Bank

As a way to celebrate and recognize its long-term food bank partner network, Raley’s says it will also highlight the work of one partner food bank each month throughout 2026. For more information about the 2026 Infrastructure Grant Program, including application deadlines and specific requirements, food bank partners should reach out to their Feeding America food bank partner.

“We’re honored to mark 40 years of food security leadership and real-world impact,” Teel says. “Raley’s Food For Families has remained committed in its mission to alleviate hunger by providing nutritious food to those in need. The organization’s longevity reflects a deep-rooted belief that food security is foundational to community health and opportunity.”

Rachael Laenen Elected Chair of the California Avocado Commission

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 21:51:50 GMT

The California Avocado Commission recently conducted board of directors elections, which were confirmed by the California Department of Food and Agriculture. On Jan 12. the board announced the results of the election, including board chair Rachael Laenen, making her the first woman to chair the California Avocado Commission board of directors.

Laenen has served on the CAC board since November 2020, with three of those years as an executive officer. She is the sixth generation of her family to farm in Ventura County and the fourth generation to grow avocados. She now manages the family’s avocado enterprise.

Before her farming career, Laenen worked in international motorsports, managing global sponsorships for some of the world’s most valuable brands as well as delivering high-level events and hospitality.

“Being the first female chair of the CAC board of directors is not what matters to me,” Laenen says. “Doing an excellent job representing California avocado growers and the premium avocados we produce is paramount. With that said, I’m proud of the contributions California’s female growers have made and continue to make in our industry.”

Also elected to the commission board executive committee were Ohannes Karaoghlanian, vice chair; John Berns, secretary; and Maureen Cottingham, treasurer. Board members serve two-year terms, and the executive officers are elected annually.

Recognizing women who farm

The United Nations declared 2026 the International Year of the Woman Farmer, a historic milestone recognizing women’s vital role in agriculture worldwide. Supported by 123 countries and led by the U.S., the resolution represents a global pledge to promote equity, visibility and opportunity.

This California avocado season, the California Avocado Commission will support the CA Grown program and its initiative promoting the role of women in agriculture. The group notes that California is home to one of the most diverse and productive agricultural economies in the world and has experienced steady growth in the number of female farmers, up 13% in the past decade, a sign that more women are stepping into roles of ownership and influence.

With 63% of California farms being female-operated, women are often leading in soil health, water conservation and long-term orchard management.

“The commission has supported the CA Grown program for many years because being locally grown and grown in California is a strong purchase driver for California avocado customers and consumers,” says Terry Splane, CAC vice president of marketing.

The International Year of the Woman Farmer highlights that agriculture encompasses more than mere production; it centers on individuals who nourish and support their communities. CAC’s support of this CA Grown initiative will include PR and social media content promoting the impact of California’s female avocado farmers, the commission reports.

Texas Produce Hall of Fame Inductees for 2026 Released

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 20:46:47 GMT

The Texas International Produce Association announced the 2026 inductees into the Texas Produce Hall of Fame on Jan. 7. The honor recognizes leaders whose vision, service and commitment have shaped the Texas produce industry. The celebration will take place on Monday, Jan. 19 at the Mission Events Center in Mission with festivities beginning at 6 p.m.

Established in 1988, the Texas Produce Hall of Fame acknowledges individuals who have made profound and lasting contributions to the growth and success of the produce trade throughout Texas. The celebration event brings together growers, shippers, importers and allied industry members to honor both the pioneers and the rising leaders driving the industry forward.

The 2026 Texas Produce Hall of Fame inductees are:

Steve Cargil of Cargil Farms Produce: Cargil has spent more than five decades championing Texas agriculture and leading his family’s multigenerational farming operation. His commitment to growers, water stewardship and industry advocacy has strengthened agricultural policy and elevated South Texas produce on a national stage. He is widely respected for his integrity, leadership and service.
Marvin Davis of Tex-Mex Sales: Davis built a distinguished produce career over four decades, evolving from buyer to respected business owner and mentor. His partnership with his son at Tex-Mex Sales and his dedication to guiding future leaders, including his granddaughter, left a lasting influence across the industry. He is remembered for his leadership, work ethic and deep commitment to family and agriculture.
James Peterson of Starr Produce: Peterson spent nearly 40 years advancing South Texas agriculture through innovation and dedicated service. A pioneering grower and community leader, he played key roles in early drip irrigation adoption and supported the development of the famed 1015Y onion. His legacy lives on through his family and the many agricultural organizations he helped lead.
Tommy Wilkins of Horton Fruit Co.: With 50 years in the produce industry, Wilkins is known for bridging production and retail and for championing grower-retailer partnerships built on trust. His hands-on experience, from working the fields to leading procurement and serving in national industry roles, has made him a respected voice for growers and fresh food access. His passion and integrity continue to guide the future of Texas produce.

In addition to the Hall of Fame inductees, TIPA will present several special recognitions celebrating remarkable achievements and emerging leadership including:

The Scott Toothaker Award, going to Craig Fox of Fox Packaging
Rising Star Awards, going to: Will Beckwith of Beckwith Produce, Jose Bernal of Sweet Seasons, Kristen Davis of Tex-Mex Sales, and Johnny Garcia of The Veg Depot

IFPA Releases its 2025 Impact Report

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 20:37:34 GMT

The International Fresh Produce Association released its 2025 Annual Impact Report on Jan. 5, highlighting the association’s work with, and on behalf of, the global fresh produce and floral industry. The report outlines major advancements in trade, food safety, sustainability, nutrition and health, labor policy, business connections, technology and the supply chain.

“In 2025, IFPA continued to show up where it mattered most,” says CEO Cathy Burns, praising the commitment of IFPA members. “We protected industry interests in trade and labor, delivered science-based food safety improvements, advanced global sustainability frameworks and further strengthened our position as the trusted voice for fresh produce and floral around the world.”

Among the highlights included in the 2025 Impact Report:

Nutrition and Health: Secured full funding for WIC, launched Fresh Produce for a Healthier America to emphasize produce’s essential role to the Make America Healthy Again Commission and provided EU leaders with evidence-based recommendations on the role of produce in preventing chronic disease.
Food Safety: Prompted FDA to change its Cyclospora detection method through a scientific review, thereby reducing false positives and saving companies substantial costs, while also contributing to FDA’s food safety road map and supporting FDA’s “10 to 1” deregulation strategies to reduce FSMA-related burdens.
Labor: Delivered major labor wins, including a lawsuit that suspended burdensome H-2A regulations, advocated for a dedicated Department of Labor farm labor role and secured DHS/ICE clarity to prevent disruptive on-farm enforcement activities.
Technology: Launched the Global Intelligence Engine providing members with data-backed insights from POS trends, consumer behavior, import/export flows and production patterns.
Supply Chain: Launched the Fresh Supply Chain of the Future program, forming partnerships with brands to advance collaboration on shelf-life predictability, dynamic incentives, harmonized standards, smart data escrow and more.
Sustainability: Strengthened its role on the global stage through UN Environment Programme accreditation, demonstrated leadership at UN treaty on plastic pollution negotiations and developed a Sustainable Packaging Innovation Program.
Trade: Secured tariff exemptions on major produce categories, led advocacy around USMCA protections, expanded support in key global markets and convened high-level discussions with the U.S. Trade Representative and National Economic Council.
Business Connection: Set global buyer records at the Global Produce and Floral Show, launched geolocated global website content, strengthened presence in key markets through new councils and partnerships and achieved strong global membership growth.

This year marks the second year of IFPA’s 2025 to 2027 strategic plan, designed to future-proof the industry, personalize the member experience and exert worldwide influence.

“Our ability to lead globally comes directly from the strength of our diverse membership,” Burns says. “Thanks to the engagement of our members, IFPA didn’t just show up, we helped shape the decisions and dialogues that are defining our industry. Together, we are ensuring fruits, vegetables and floral products remain central to creating a vibrant future for all.”

EFI Celebrates a Decade of Progress in 2025

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 17:53:23 GMT

Equitable Food Initiative says it marked a year of significant progress in 2025, advancing responsible labor practices, strengthening industry collaboration and driving meaningful worker engagement throughout the fresh produce supply chain.

In 2025, EFI celebrated its 10th year as an independent nonprofit with program expansions and strengthened industry partnerships. Thanks to firm commitment from participating retailers, EFI says nearly $30 million has been generated in worker bonuses since the launch of its certification program, recognizing workers’ essential role in upholding EFI’s rigorous labor and integrated pest management standards. In welcoming diverse new suppliers this year, including Rainbow Valley Orchards, one of the smallest companies to achieve certification, EFI certified operations now span more than 300 locations across the Americas.

This year, EFI and its partners also launched the Engagement 2.0 version of the Ethical Charter Implementation Program, further raising the bar on social responsibility across the industry, according to the organization. ECIP participation grew to more than 300 suppliers and 1,600 growers in 2025, supported by grants from the Walmart Foundation and Kroger’s Zero Hunger, Zero Waste Foundation that helped expand the program and its capacity-building tools and resources.

As a founding board member, Costco Wholesale continues to play a leadership role in expanding EFI’s impact and reach, serving as the largest contributor to the worker bonus on EFI-certified farms and as the first retailer to invite its entire fresh produce supplier network into ECIP, according to the organization.

“Costco’s commitment to our own employees extends back into the supply chain to the essential workers that provide us with fresh produce. That is why we have been strong supporters of both ECIP and EFI’s certification program,” says Bob Huskey, vice president and general merchandise manager of fresh produce for Costco’s U.S. business. “Treating workers well is not only the right thing to do, [but] it also results in higher quality and safer products for our members. Partnering with EFI and our suppliers to support skilled workers helps ensure a more ethical and transparent supply chain.”

EFI says it advanced its commitment to workforce development by training 220 additional workers in the foundational skills of communication, problem-solving and conflict resolution, bringing the total number of workers and supervisors who have received this multiday, intensive training to 3,158 since 2014. The organization also joined state agencies and industry partners across California to begin work on a statewide framework for the documentation, assessment and credentialing of agricultural skills, helping build pathways to long-term economic mobility for this essential and professional workforce.

To further strengthen certification integrity, EFI updated its Responsibly Grown, Farmworker Assured program, improving efficiency while maintaining the rigorous standards trusted by buyers and growers.

“These refinements ensure that the program continues to meet the needs of a rapidly evolving industry, while preserving the credibility and rigor that stakeholders rely on,” says Peter O’Driscoll, EFI executive director. “It’s essential that our certification remains both practical for growers and meaningful for workers and consumers.”

EFI continued to amplify the voices and contributions of farmworkers throughout the year with targeted campaigns, including Farmworker Awareness Week, Hispanic Heritage Month and the organization’s second annual Farmworker of the Year campaign. From more than 50 nominations, five finalists were selected, and Rafael Teran Melchor of Stemilt Growers was named the 2025 Farmworker of the Year.

“These stories remind the entire industry, and consumers, that the people behind our food are leaders, innovators and essential contributors,” says LeAnne Ruzzamenti, director of marketing and communications for EFI. “Celebrating their impact is central to EFI’s mission.”

EFI also welcomed seven new members to its board of directors in 2025. They represent a wide range of roles across the food industry, from ethical sourcing and labor rights experts to educators, retailers and consumer health advocates. Their diverse professional backgrounds bring invaluable expertise and fresh perspectives to drive culture change and advance more equitable labor practices throughout the supply chain, according to the organization.

EFI says it enters 2026 with deep appreciation for the growers, workers, buyers and partners who continue to strengthen a more transparent, equitable and sustainable food system, and with a renewed commitment to advancing the prosperity of everyone who helps to secure the food supply chain.

UnitedAg Named a Top Workplace by Orange County

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 17:43:30 GMT

UnitedAg — a Southern California-based agricultural trade association that provides health benefits and services to the agricultural community — was awarded The Orange County Register’s Top Workplaces 2025 honor. This was the second consecutive year that UnitedAg received the honor.

According to The Register, its Orange County Top Workplaces program honors companies that “go above and beyond for their employees — fostering connection, growth and a culture that inspires success.”

“Earning a Top Workplaces award is a badge of honor for companies, especially because it comes authentically from their employees,” says Eric Rubino, CEO of Energage, The Register’s program partner that conducts the employee surveys that are critical to the selection process.

“That’s something to be proud of,” Rubino continues. “In today’s market, leaders must ensure they’re allowing employees to have a voice and be heard. That’s paramount. Top Workplaces do this, and it pays dividends.”

UnitedAg was one of 61 mid-sized companies to win the honor in 2025. Mid-sized companies are those with 100-499 employees. The process starts in the summer with nominations, followed by confidential employee surveys that measure the employee experience. According to The Register, winners were celebrated at a special event Dec. 4 and again in a special publication of The Register on Dec. 5.

“We are deeply honored to receive this award for the second year in a row,” says Kirti Mutatkar, CEO of UnitedAg. “Our team is the heart of everything we do, and this recognition reflects our commitment to fostering a culture where every voice is valued and every individual can grow. We are proud to serve the agricultural community with a team that leads with passion, collaboration, and purpose.”

NatureSweet Expands its Bachelor’s Degree Program for Ag Workers

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 19:35:34 GMT

NatureSweet, the vertically integrated company that grows, harvests and sells premium greenhouse tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers, announced Dec. 11 that it has expanded its long-standing adult education initiative for its agricultural workforce, including expanding its bachelor’s degree program.

Nearly 20 years after the program began in Zapotlán, Mexico, with just 26 graduates in 2005, NatureSweet has reached record graduation numbers and launched new university cohorts.

As of December 2025, NatureSweet has celebrated:

431 associates graduating the program in 2025 alone, the highest number in the program’s 20-year history
2,846 total graduates across all education levels since the program began
539 associates completing literacy training
471 completing elementary school
1,072 completing middle school
759 completing high school, including the oldest graduate at 59 years old
5 university graduates to date, with enrollment rapidly growing

Currently, 179 associates are actively pursuing diplomas, 20 in high school and 159 at the university level. Among those pursuing higher education, the youngest is 22 years old and the oldest is 55, underscoring the program’s accessibility and life-changing potential at any age.

In 2023, the company introduced its “Unleashing Your Power” bachelor’s program to provide NatureSweet associates with the opportunity to pursue a university degree. With expanded support from fair-trade committees, which voted to direct resources toward educational advancement, NatureSweet established three new university groups in 2025 at its Colima, San Isidro and Zapotlán locations. These new cohorts provided 102 additional associates with the opportunity to begin a university degree. Today:

129 associates are pursuing a bachelor’s in agricultural engineering
30 associates are pursuing a bachelor’s in industrial engineering

“Our mission has always been to elevate the lives of the people who grow our food,” says Rodolfo Spielmann, president and CEO of NatureSweet. “When agricultural workers gain access to education, they gain the power to transform their families’ futures, power to lead and power to dream bigger than the circumstances around them. These milestones prove what is possible when a company invests in its people with trust, respect and long-term commitment. We’re incredibly proud of every associate who has stepped forward to pursue their education and we remain dedicated to expanding this opportunity even further.”

Food Lion Feeds Awards More Than $985K in Grants

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 19:21:56 GMT

The Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation has awarded more than $985,000 in Nourishing our Neighbors grants to 318 feeding partners across Food Lion’s 10-state operating area.

These grants help local nonprofits provide fresh, nutritious food and offer nutritional education that empowers families to thrive, according to a news release.

“Every community we serve is unique, but they share a common need: access to nourishing food,” says Natasha Brinegar, president of Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation and vice president of category management, meat and seafood for Food Lion. “These Nourishing our Neighbors grants strengthen local organizations that know our communities best and make a meaningful difference in our neighbors’ lives each day.”

Beyond making fresh, nutritious food more accessible, the grants also promote nutritional education programs that set families up for success in life. Partner organizations provide hands-on skills like meal planning, budgeting and cooking, giving families the confidence to prepare meals at home and support their well-being in the future. These efforts are crucial to ending the cycle of hunger and align with the foundation’s mission of helping reduce the health risks that come with food insecurity.

The Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization operated by a volunteer board of Food Lion associates from across the company. Since 2001, the foundation says it has distributed more than $25 million throughout Food Lion’s 10-state operating area. The foundation focuses on addressing the root causes of hunger and helps feeding organizations expand their capacity to provide fresh produce and other staples.

Brighter Bites Raises Over $225K with Silent Auction

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 19:01:24 GMT

Brighter Bites, a national nonprofit committed to improving the long-term health of children and families, says its silent auction, which also included an in-person event at this year’s New York Produce Show, was a success.

As a direct result of the generosity and enthusiasm of sponsors and donors, the auction raised a total of $225,515 in support of their mission to improve access to fresh food and nutrition education, according to a news release.

“We’re deeply grateful for the outpouring of support from our friends, supporters and partners this year,” says Amy Priebe, newly named chief operating officer of Brighter Bites. “Each contribution fuels our ability to deliver fresh food, nutrition education and lasting impact for the families we serve.”

In addition to the online event, Brighter Bites hosted two days of silent auction activations at the New York Produce Show, where thousands of attendees connected with the organization’s mission. A curated selection of items, including a special collection of wines from the late Jim Prevor, a beloved industry leader and a central figure in shaping the New York Produce Show, was showcased at both the opening cocktail reception and a double-booth display. Attendees played a major role in the auction’s overall success through their enthusiastic and competitive bidding.

“We asked the industry to support this effort, and they overwhelmed us with their support. It is gratifying to see the produce community rally around our work,” says Rich Dachman, CEO of Brighter Bites. “Their generosity doesn’t just fund our programs; it reinforces that our mission resonates deeply across the industry that feeds America.”

Brighter Bites says it extends its sincere appreciation to Phoenix Media Network Inc., saying its generosity in providing a complimentary, full-event presence enabled Brighter Bites to connect with attendees throughout the show.

Longtime Brighter Bites supporter and board member Melissa Ackerman, co-founder of Planet Harvest, also purchased multiple packages in support of the auction. “Fresh produce is foundational to health, and Brighter Bites is making that foundation accessible to families who need it most,” Ackerman says. “I’m proud to support this mission personally and as part of the produce industry.”

Brighter Bites says it is grateful for the commitment of sponsors who made this year’s auction possible, including: Nature Sweet, Driscoll’s, Braga Fresh Family farms, Taylor Farms, EarthFresh, Lange, Dole, MD Anderson, UTHealth Houston, Tonya Antle, Bolthouse Fresh Foods, Arizona Diamondbacks, Oppy, Maui Fresh International, Prosource Produce and Sigma Sales Produce.

Brighter Bites also extends its warmest thanks to the many individuals, businesses and organizations who contributed unique and generous items to the auction, saying their creativity and kindness helped drive strong participation and played a significant role in reaching this year’s fundraising milestone.

For more information about the Brighter Bites program, visit brighterbites.org .

Amazon Deepens Commitment to Hunger Relief with $35K Donation to Midwest Food Bank

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 18:16:14 GMT

Amazon has provided consistent, widespread support to Midwest Food Bank through freight transportation, food donations and food box distribution, the company says.

Now, in response to heightened food insecurity triggered by the government shutdown and lapse in SNAP funding, Amazon has awarded an additional $35,000 donation to support the nonprofit’s growing relief efforts, according to a news release.

This financial contribution arrives at a pivotal time, the company says, giving Midwest Food Bank the flexibility to procure additional food and deliver it where it’s needed most.

“We’re incredibly grateful for Amazon’s ongoing partnership,” says Jada Hoerr, chief resource officer for Midwest Food Bank. “Financial support like this gives us the flexibility to respond quickly when needs surge, whether it’s sourcing more food or expanding distribution. Amazon’s consistent generosity, from freight support to food boxes, helps us stay mission-focused and impact-driven.”

Midwest Food Bank was founded in 2003 on the Kieser family farm in rural McLean County, Ill. Partner non-profit agencies receive food from Midwest Food Bank at no cost. The food bank has 10 domestic locations serving 25 states. There are also two international locations, East Africa and Haiti.

How to Get Involved
Midwest Food Bank relies on donors and volunteers to serve communities in need.

Donate: Visit Midwest Food Bank’s website to make a financial gift.
Volunteer: Help sort and pack food boxes at any of Amazon’s warehouse locations.

Publix Fall Produce for Kids Campaign Gains Support From Village Fresh Greenhouse Grown

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 23:22:57 GMT

The Healthy Family Project fall Publix Produce for Kids cause-marketing campaign, which concluded Nov. 5, featured participation from 13 produce sponsors, including Village Farms Greenhouse Grown.

Based on the campaign’s performance, this season’s program helped provide approximately 875,000 meals to 35 Feeding America partner food banks across Publix’s market footprint, according to a news release. Since Produce for Kids launched in 2002, the biannual campaign has generated more than $4.2 million for causes benefiting families and children while delivering over 18 million meals to local Feeding America food banks.

With 1,419 Publix stores engaged across multiple store regions, Publix once again played a central role in expanding the reach of Produce for Kids, bringing hunger-relief support and healthy-eating encouragement directly into the communities where families shop every week. In-store displays featuring participating produce partners paired fresh fruits and vegetables with easy meal ideas, helping shoppers turn everyday produce purchases into meaningful community impact.

For Village Fresh Greenhouse Grown, Produce for Kids has long been more than a campaign; it’s a shared commitment to nourishing families, the release says.

“Produce for Kids continues to prove what’s possible when a retailer like Publix uses its scale to rally growers and shoppers around a common cause,” says Helen L. Aquino, director brand marketing and communication for Village Fresh Greenhouse Grown. “Publix’s reach across its store regions makes this program visible, easy to engage with, and genuinely powerful. We’re honored to help fuel the meal donations this campaign delivers year after year, while inspiring families to put more fresh produce at the center of everyday meals.”

Healthy Family Project, the national nonprofit that created Produce for Kids, says it experienced another strong Publix season— one that combined charitable outcomes with practical, kid-friendly nutrition education.

“The Publix Produce for Kids campaign shows how lasting change happens; consistent partners, community-minded shoppers, and a shared belief that healthy food should be part of every family’s life,” says Siad Tray Shaw, partnership manager for Healthy Family Project. “Publix’s leadership and long-time commitment of partners like Village Fresh Greenhouse Grown helps this program deliver millions of meals over time. while keeping produce approachable and fun for families.”

Campaign programming included digital and social content from Healthy Family Project registered dietitians, seasonal family-friendly recipe ideas, and ongoing healthy-eating tips shared across email, social and digital channels, reinforcing the campaign’s dual mission: increase produce consumption among families and provide meals to those facing hunger.

USDA estimates one in five children in the U.S. experiences hunger. Produce for Kids, produce sponsors and Publix shoppers are helping to meet this need with donations that support Feeding America food banks throughout the Publix footprint.

USDA’s $30M Citrus Purchase Could Provide Major Lift for California Growers

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 20:01:34 GMT

U.S. citrus producers stand to benefit from USDA’s newly announced plan to purchase up to $30 million in fresh oranges, grapefruit and mandarins for food banks and nutrition programs nationwide. While the purchases will be open to growers across multiple states, California’s dominant role in the fresh citrus market positions the industry for significant gains once bidding begins.

The USDA action, announced Nov. 24 by Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, is intended to support farmers facing surpluses, import pressure and weakened markets. The agency will procure $15 million in fresh oranges, $10 million in grapefruit and $5 million in mandarins through USDA’s authority under Section 32 of the Agriculture Act of 1935.

The purchases will assist producers and communities in need, Rollins says, and will bolster American prosperity by supporting American agriculture, rural communities and those in need of nutrition assistance.

“President [Donald] Trump is standing with America’s farmers, especially right now while the farm economy recovers from years of neglect under the last administration,” Rollins says in a news release. “Certain commodities are experiencing a surplus, and USDA is ensuring these crops do not go to waste and instead go to Americans in need across the country. These fresh fruits will reach those in need, boosting healthier options for Americans at food banks across the country, all while benefiting American farmers facing unfair actions from foreign competitors.”

(Photo courtesy of California Citrus Mutual)

Casey Creamer, president and CEO of California Citrus Mutual, says the purchase will not only benefit those who secure USDA contracts but the entire domestic citrus sector by easing volume pressure and strengthening grower returns.

“California … sort of dominates the fresh space,” Creamer says, noting that while fruit from Florida and Texas is also eligible, California marketers will be active bidders when solicitations open. “We’re hopeful that California gets … its fair share of those bids.”

More importantly, he says, USDA’s intervention helps stabilize the market overall.

“When you’ve got a little bit of excess fruit, or you’ve been dealing with import competition, cheap imports coming in at certain timing, all that impacts the growers’ pocketbook negatively,” Creamer says. By reducing the volume headed to retail channels, he adds, “it helps keep prices to where they should be for growers and hopefully more profitable.”

USDA has not yet allocated specific volumes by state. Solicitations will outline varieties, delivery points and contract terms, after which marketers nationwide will submit bids. Creamer says USDA typically awards contracts based on price competitiveness.

“This is starting the solicitation process,” he says. “There’s competition from across the country and lots of different companies that will be competing.”

Even growers who do not directly supply USDA will still gain from the federal investment, Creamer says. With $30 million in product removed from the commercial market, the indirect benefits could multiply.

“If you take it easily, it’s $30 million of benefit to the industry. But if you add in the other factors, we think it’s three to four times more value to the growers,” Creamer says, pointing to high production costs, interest rates and ongoing pricing challenges.

He also underscored the importance of federal support at a time when trade disruptions and reciprocal tariffs have strained exports.

“There’s been a lot of impacts negatively to the industry over the last five, six, seven years, and so every little bit helps,” he says. “The greatest long-term benefit to U.S. consumers is having a really solid domestic industry.”

Creamer expresses gratitude to Rollins, USDA and members of Congress, who help make things happen to support the industry, he says.

As solicitations are issued in the coming weeks, California growers and marketers are preparing to compete for contracts while anticipating broader market relief from USDA’s intervention.