Nothing says summer quite like cherries, and with cherries leading the way, the summer’s overall produce markets continue to explode with record-high prices, according to ProduceIQ.

“Most prices rose during the July 4th pull,” said Mark Campbell, founder and CEO of ProduceIQ. “Only a few commodity prices, such as tomatoes and avocados, declined.”

Also in short supply, broccoli prices are up 19 percent over the previous week. “Late June’s heat wave in California is lessening available yields and forcing prices to surge higher,” said Campbell. “Reported volume out of Salinas, CA, is

International Fresh Produce Association announced the keynote speaker for the upcoming Global Produce & Floral Show in October.  World renowned chef, restaurateur and humanitarian José Andrés will take the stage at this year’s event.

“Our industry has gathered in October for years to learn about what’s happening now and what’s happening next,” said Bruce Taylor, CEO of Taylor Farms and chair of the IFPA board of directors. “This year as we mark the first Global Produce & Floral Show, we want to create an experience that challenges our thinking and expectations.  It’s time for us to explore

The potato and onion markets are currently erratic. Supplies are decreasing, creating some gapping. Unless your produce operation has a contract commitment with a supplier, it may be difficult to see full orders being totally filled on arrivals.

POTATOES
Idaho: Potatoes are experiencing an extremely limited supply. Idaho Russet Burbank demand exceeds the supply. Markets will be higher until the new crop is available. Some sheds are gapping and running only three days a week. But the new crop outlook is very promising as the growing conditions have been outstanding. The harvest is estimated

Giant Food relaunched its produce boxes featuring locally sourced, in-season produce sold exclusively through Giant Delivers. Available throughout the summer without a subscription or commitment, the boxes retail for $20 and contain six or more items from local farms in Maryland, Virginia and Delaware.

For the second year in a row, Giant is sourcing all items from local farms to bring the freshest fare to its customers. Items will vary weekly depending on farm harvests and what is in season. The local produce boxes are available weekly through September or while supplies last.

Participating

I don’t know about you, but we just recently received an email from our telephone and utility companies alerting us of monthly increases in the next bill. Grocery price increases only add more complications for the family budget, which is starting to go up in flames. This annoying inflation trend continues like a parade marching straight to our front door with no end in sight. Every family is feeling this same pain.

Grocery shopping is no longer just a common luxury of purchasing favorite items on a regular basis. Now it’s become a pursuit to find more affordable food items that will allow

Food Lion honored a select group of food banks, volunteers, community leaders and associates at the seventh annual Food Lion Feeds Feedys Awards. The event recognized those who dedicate their time and talents to providing meals, resources, education and hope to neighbors battling food insecurity in the towns and cities Food Lion serves.

“One of Food Lion Feeds’ visions is a world where no one is hungry or must choose between dinner and rent or gas and groceries — where we all pull together to set families up for success in life,” said Kevin Durkee, manager of Food Lion Feeds. “Each individual