Page 257 - Roduce Editorials News Today

When thinking of countries that export fruits and vegetables into the United States, Peru is often at the top of the list — and that is no accident. About 20 years ago, the powers that be in Peru created a local institution, Senasa Peru, to ensure the quality of its exports. Since then, Peruvian exports have been steadily on the rise.    

BrightFarms, a leading provider of locally grown packaged salads, operates six commercial, indoor farms across the East Coast and Midwest. The company recently promoted Abby Prior to chief commercial officer and formed a new commercial team.

Verdant Technologies established a Mexican entity and plans to serve produce and floral customers in Mexico with its shelf-life extension solution, HarvestHold. Mexico is the first country targeted in Verdant’s plans to scale internationally across the globe.

Ocean Mist Farms, the leading grower and marketer of fresh artichokes, welcomes the first Frost Kissed crop of the season. The Frost Kissed artichokes are shipping now and will be intermittently available throughout the winter. Each Frost Kissed Artichoke includes a petal insert to let the shopper know about this unique condition.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has imposed sanctions on Ringer & Son Brokerage Co. Inc. in Brighton, CO, for violating the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act. These sanctions include barring the business and the principal operators of the business from engaging in PACA-licensed business or other activities without approval from USDA.

This year’s shorter onion crop has several sheds in the Treasure Valley of Idaho-E. Oregon, including Haun Packing, based in Weiser, ID, looking at finishing the 2021-’22 shipping season earlier than normal.

International Fruit Genetics has selected Agricola Andrea S.A.C. in Peru as the winner for its inaugural D.W. Cain Award competition, with Exportadora Rio Blanco Spa in Chile selected as the runner-up. 

C&S Wholesale Grocers Inc. named Eric Winn its chief operating officer. In this newly created position, Winn will lead both the commercial and supply chain organizations to create a seamless customer experience. C&S Supply Chain Officer Peter Fiore will remain on the leadership team as a strategic advisor until his retirement at the end of 2022.

As Christmas and the New Year draw near, we are in the season of giving and gathering. There’s no question that good food makes the holiday season merrier. California Strawberries is excited to share some of our favorite recipes featuring our favorite fruit that are perfect for the season, whether entertaining guests or attending a festive gathering.

Produce prices are higher than they have been in decades — and shoppers are taking notice. According to the most recent IRI/210 Analytics report, 90 percent of primary shoppers are aware of the inflation and 91 percent are extremely (41 percent) or somewhat (51 percent) concerned.