As part of its commitment to connecting the fresh produce industry with consumer-facing decision-makers and influential professionals who inspire consumers daily, Produce for Better Health unveiled 38 VIPs who will attend this year’s Consumer Connection Conference in April. Culling from its vast Have A Plant Influencer Network, this unique group of experts span three distinct points of influence: point-of-sale (retail); point-of-flavor (culinary and foodservice) and point-of-inspiration (lifestyle, nutrition and agriculture).

“This group of plant-passionate advocates stand ready to roll up

GrubMarket launched its Sustainable California initiative, a commitment to promote and enhance agricultural sustainability in California by making meaningful investments from a portion of its net profits  in the following endeavors: preserving the farming environment of the Central Valley and other areas of California through methods such as planting trees; promoting organic farming practices by financially supporting local farmers to obtain organic certifications; and developing innovative technologies that improve the sustainability of California's farming system in areas including farming

Weather has been a nasty drawback for crops in some California farming areas. The snowpack alone in the central and southern Nevada mountains is double the normal amount for the year. There is so much accumulated snow that it has caused power failures throughout California mountain neighborhoods, collapsed building roofs, stranded vehicles and closed roads.

We talked to some Salinas, CA, growers and shippers about the status of product and were given some vital information in looking ahead.

The middle of March through the first part of April will be challenging on many items. The early rains

Tops said its partnership with Little Leaf Farms affords the company peace of mind since the grower's lettuces are rooted in sustainability. 

Little Leaf's greenhouses are also centrally located throughout the Northeast, allowing the retailer to cut down on its fuel emissions during transportation from the greenhouse to the Tops warehouse.

“When it comes to best in class, Little Leaf sets the bar pretty high,” said Brandon Bentley, Tops category business manager for vegetables. “Not only do we pride ourselves in the relationship with the farm, but the entire organization believes in the same

The International Fresh Produce Association is bringing top speakers and networking opportunities to The Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference, April 16-18 in Orlando, FL. This highly popular event cultivates women’s potential, develops their skills, and advances their careers. It is also one of the most visible IFPA commitments to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. 
 
“Empowered women empower others, and IFPA’s expert speakers will do just that for current and aspirational female leaders in our industry,” said Brenda Necic of Pure Hothouse Foods Inc., and conference co-chair. “Women benefit

Food solutions company SpartanNash recently hosted its annual fundraising campaign through the company's SpartanNash Foundation, supporting Special Olympics athletes and State Summer Games in eight states. The in-store fundraiser ran from Feb. 8 through Feb. 24 to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics. SpartanNash store guests generously donated approximately $205,000 and, with a generous donation from the SpartanNash Foundation, $235,000 will be distributed to Special Olympics.

Successful SpartanNash Foundation fundraiser brings lifetime donation past $10 million throughout the