Avocados originated in the highlands that connect south central Mexico and Guatemala and were domesticated around 7,000 BCE. It is actually a fruit and was referred to as an “alligator pear.” Mexico produces the most avocados in the world, representing 30 percent of the product.

There will be good volume coming out of Mexico in the next several weeks. Some imported product will also be available from the Caribbean. The larger sizes are very light, holding markets firm. Smaller 60 sizes are promotable loose and in bags.

Set up large aggressive displays of avocados along with tomatoes. The two

Ippolito International is welcoming fall with a seasonal favorite, Brussels sprouts stalks. "Brussels sprouts have continued to grow, in the pre-washed and packaged formats, but one of our unsung heroes of the crop is our stalks," said Katie Dozier, sales and commodity manager.

A Brussels sprout stalk at full maturity is about two to three feet in height, but the product that Ippolito International harvests and packs can be cut to a more manageable 12-14 inches (18-count pack) or full size, about 18-20 inches (nine-count pack). "Stalks are eye-catching and easy to prepare — they roast

The Chilean Fresh Fruit Association believes no other country in the Southern Hemisphere exports the range of summer fruits that are available from Chile. “Our counter-seasonal supply enables consumers to enjoy their favorite summer fruits in the winter,” said Karen Brux, managing director of the Chilean Fresh Fruit Association. “The first Chilean fruits coming into season are blueberries and cherries, followed by stone fruit (plums, nectarines peaches) and grapes.”

Chile’s first blueberry export estimate for the 2024-25 season is more than 135,000 tons, reflecting a growth of 3.2 percent

Ocean Mist Farms has long been a trusted source for premium, fresh produce, and recently introduced its latest innovation: ready-to-cook meal kits designed for consumers seeking quick, healthy and delicious family meals. 

“Innovation is one of Ocean Mist Farms’ core pillars and a driving force in our strategy to diversify our product portfolio, transforming the company from a primarily commodity-based business to one offering a range of value-added products,” said Mark Munger, senior director of marketing for the company. “While the fresh produce category has seen some innovation, especially

World renowned chef and humanitarian José Andrés once stated at a conference I attended that the most important source of energy on earth is the food that we eat. This profound statement rings true on multiple levels. Food is not just sustenance; it embodies community, economy, health and love. Currently, a transformative movement is reshaping the way our society fuels itself — a shift that is imperative for the survival of our species and the preservation of our planet.

Over the past several years, I have dedicated considerable time to investigating and understanding the initiatives aimed at

Equitable Food Initiative, the workforce development and certification organization that partners with growers, farmworkers, retailers and consumer groups, recently celebrated the Ethical Charter Implementation Program’s Leadership Circle at an event held on the first night of the Global Produce & Floral Show in Atlanta. The celebration served as a platform to recognize 26 supplier companies who have shown exceptional leadership in adopting ECIP and accelerating awareness of the importance of responsible labor practices in the produce industry.

The gathering, held at Der Biergarten in