IFCO SYSTEMS (IFCO), one of the world’s largest operators of Reusable Plastic Containers (RPCs) for fresh food packaging, and Walmart, announced the completion of a multi-year business agreement that will expand the retailer’s use of IFCO RPCs and make IFCO Walmart’s exclusive RPC packaging provider for select fresh fruits and vegetables distributed in the U.S.

“IFCO and Walmart share the goal of an efficient, sustainable fresh food supply chain that helps nourish millions of Americans and billions of consumers worldwide,” said Dan Martin, outgoing president of IFCO North America.  “This

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Church Bros. Farms is offering foodservice customers a new premium pack of Little Gem lettuce under the SweetHearts brand.

Little Gem lettuce is increasingly popular with operators as they look for more options in salad greens.  A cross between Romaine and butter lettuce, Little Gems deliver a crisp texture with a sweet and mild flavor. Their small size and beautiful colors provide an upscale appearance when plated.  Perfect for loose leaf salads or grilling, Little Gems may also serve as vehicles for tapas or shareable bites. Because they are sweeter in

Apple sales were up nearly 5 percent year over year from Nov. 7, 2020 to Jan. 23, 2021 while volume stayed relatively flat according to the latest 12 weeks of Nielsen retail scan data. Stemilt’s marketing director, Brianna Shales, and communications manager, Katie Harmon, analyze the most recent data during Fast Facts: The Cast video analysis with the data conveying there is plenty of promotional opportunity retailers can capitalize on in the coming months.

“Apple sales made up 6.1 percent of total produce department sales during the last 12 weeks,” said Shales. “Of that, Honeycrisp, Gala

Ready-to-eat coconut brand, Genuine Coconut, recently launched three exciting new products in the North American market.  Their new Fresh Organic Coconut Chunks, Fresh Organic Coconut Toppings, and Fresh Organic Grated Coconut are made with just one ingredient — freshly peeled organic mature coconut meat. 

The three items come in a resealable pouch with a transparent window and are certified organic, Kosher, Fair for Life (Fairtrade), verified non-GMO, and contain no preservatives or added sugars.  The three items have a 60-day shelf life, making them a desired new addition on produce

Lunar New Year, which begins on February 12, 2021, is the perfect time to help shoppers discover new food favorites, and Frieda’s customized Asian vegetable program makes it easy. 2021 is the Year of the Ox, symbolizing hard work and honesty; we think it’s quite fitting, wouldn’t you say?

Increased family time and at-home eating might be one of the pandemic’s most positive outcomes. However, shoppers are increasingly facing food fatigue. Celebrating Lunar New Year is a great way to keep shoppers inspired with new Asian vegetable favorites. A recent study shows that 50 percent of shoppers are

The Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association has named James (Jamie) Fussell Jr. as its new director of labor relations. He replaces Mike Carlton, who retired in November.

Fussell comes to FFVA from the Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Office of General Counsel in Tampa. Prior to that, he held various positions in the public sector, including with the Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture, Florida Department of Environmental Protection and Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

“Jamie grew up in the agricultural industry in south Florida,” said FFVA President Mike