NEW ZEALAND - More than three million trays, or 10,800 tonnes of Zespri RubyRed™ Kiwifruit will be available this season, with its berry-like taste available for the first time in a number of exciting new markets.

The RubyRed harvest will get underway in New Zealand in the coming weeks with a large increase in volume to Mainland China to more than one million trays, or 3,500 tonnes, and a further one million trays to Japan. It will also be available for the first time this season in the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand and the Pacific Islands.

CEO Jason Te Brake says it’s an exciting time for Zespri RubyRed™ Kiwifruit with volume doubling compared with last season which is great news for consumers who love its sweet berry taste, vibrant red flesh colour and the health benefits delivered by its high content of antioxidants.

“With harvest set to get underway in mid-February, Zespri RubyRed™ Kiwifruit will soon be available in most supermarkets and fruit and vegetables stores across Asia Pacific," he said. “There’ll be more RubyRed volume in our core markets of Mainland China, Taiwan, Japan and South Korea and the popular fruit will also be back in New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia, as well as our exciting new markets.”

Zespri RubyRed™ Kiwifruit is the latest variety to come through Zespri’s world-leading kiwifruit breeding programme, in partnership with Plant & Food Research, with 2025 marking the fourth year of commercial production. It is naturally high in Vitamin C and contains anthocyanins that are naturally occurring pigments within the fruit giving the fruit its red colour, a press release stated.

Mr Te Brake says Zespri RubyRed™ Kiwifruit has been a popular addition with the variety complementing Zespri’s Green and SunGold Kiwifruit and helping to attract new and younger consumers to the kiwifruit category.

“We’re seeing strong demand for Zespri RubyRed™ which is unique as it’s more seasonal than Green and SunGold. It’s the first variety to arrive in market from New Zealand each season and only available for up to eight weeks once it hits supermarket and fruit and vegetable store shelves.

“It’s fantastic to see volumes ramping up and we continue to build our knowledge on the variety. The increasing volumes also give us the opportunity to grow demand further and maximise the value we can return for our growers.”

KINGSVILLE, ONTARIO, CANADA - A new chapter in greenhouse agriculture is set to begin with the opening of KingsOne Farms in Kingsville, Ontario. Spearheaded by Cole Mucci, a third-generation grower from the well-regarded Mucci family, this venture will focus on producing clean, nutritious, and flavorful lettuce using cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices.

“Greenhouse farming is in my blood,” says Cole Mucci, who grew up in the industry. “Both of my grandfathers were growers who came to Canada from Italy. My dad, Bert, along with my uncle Danny and their partners, built Mucci Farms into what it is today. I’m proud to carry on that legacy. Agriculture has always been a part of my life, and I’m passionate about producing food that’s safe, clean, and packed with flavor.”

Cole chose lettuce as the focus of KingsOne Farms because of its potential and importance to consumers.

“Here in Canada, over 80 percent of our lettuce is imported from the United States so there’s tremendous opportunity in this space, especially when it’s sustainably grown with a premium emphasis on cleanliness. We can provide high-quality product 365 days a year,” he explains.

A State-of-the-Art Facility

KingsOne Farms will be a 6.5-acre facility, with production slated to begin in fall 2025. The greenhouse will be designed with cutting-edge technology and automation to maximize efficiency and production. The operation will produce nearly 210,000 heads of lettuce each week, totaling nearly 11 million heads annually.

“What excites me most about this project is the advanced technology we’ve built into the facility,” says Mucci. “It’s almost fully automated, which is one of the reasons I was drawn to lettuce. This is about growing healthy food in a way that sustains the future. I’m just getting started and have big plans for what’s next for leafy greens and agriculture technology.”

A Vision for the Future

Cole Mucci’s goals for KingsOne go beyond production numbers.

“My aim is to grow lettuce that’s clean, nutritious, and tastes great,” he says. “I want people to feel confident that the food they’re eating is safe and good for them.”

With expansion plans already on the horizon, KingsOne Farms aims to set new standards in sustainable agriculture while contributing to the local and North American markets with fresh, high-quality produce.

Timeline

• Planting Begins: Fall 2025
• First Harvest: Fall 2025
• Initial Capacity: 6.5 acres producing nearly 11 million heads of lettuce annually
• Future Plans: Expansion and integration of new agricultural technologies
• Marketing: All product will be packed under the Mucci Farms brand

NEW YORK - Love is in the air—or in this case, the apple orchard.

“NYAA has produced over 45 videos featuring New York apple growers and the apples they grow, and we are launching them one by one throughout the winter and spring,” said Cynthia Haskins, President and Chief Executive Officer of the New York Apple Association.

“We have been interviewing growers throughout this season, and this winter we’ve been busy in the edit room. I must admit, one story stands out as my favorite because it centers around love, and Valentine's Day is always a special time,” said Haskins.

The sweet and heartwarming love story started in Wayne County when Lindsey Mercurio and Thomas Coene, an apple grower from Ontario, New York, met. Family and friends enjoyed watching the budding relationship grow. You could tell the love was hand-picked for these two.

As the NYAA staff, videographers, and Bob for Apples from New York were visiting different apple orchards and filming various apple growers, they were touched when Lindsey shared the couple’s love story, according to the press release.

Thomas Coene, Vice President of the New York Apple Association, shared that he invited Lindsey for a ride to the apple orchard, a cherished pastime for the couple. Little did Lindsey know that this familiar outing would turn into the moment of a lifetime.

It was no easy feat for Thomas to keep his plans a secret from his girlfriend. As they stopped by a nearby pond with a panoramic view of the vast acres of apple trees, he knew this was the perfect place and the perfect moment.

The video captures Lindsey recounting the magical story of how Thomas proposed. He surprised her by getting down on one knee to ask the love of his life for her hand in marriage. Lindsey shares that he didn't even get a chance to finish popping the question before she eagerly answered yes.

Apple orchards make a romantic and rustic venue. The picturesque farm’s breathtaking apple orchards are the perfect backdrop for any engagement. New York is home to over 150 apple-picking destinations and over 125 hard cider destinations, with many making space available for events like weddings and gatherings.

Bringing apples and this special engagement moment together feels natural, as apple growers love what they do. Thomas, a fifth-generation farmer with degrees in agriculture business management and sustainable crop production, proudly continues his family's legacy. In 2020, their farm, now operated by his grandfather, father, and himself, was honored as a centennial farm.

“For over 100 years, one thing has remained constant—our commitment to growing the best apples possible,” said Thomas.

This season, New York apple production resulted in 31 million bushels of apples across 50,000 acres, making the state the second-largest producer of apples in the country. New York farmers cultivate over 250 unique apple varieties, and approximately 36 of those are grown in promotable volumes. As the New York Apple Association continues to coordinate promotions with retailers to sell the current crop, the growers are out in the orchards caring for their dormant trees to prepare for the next season.

The New York Apple Association reminds retailers that cross-merchandising apples, apple slicers, and apple slices with dark chocolate dipping kits are a perfect pairing for Valentine's Day. New York State utilizes state-of-the-art controlled atmosphere storage, ensuring apples are in grocery stores year-round. Several apple varieties are available to promote during Valentine's Day. Everyone has their own favorite apples, and we're delighted to see that Thomas found the apple of his eye.

ANAHEIM, CA - For over six decades, Frieda’s Branded Produce has been at the forefront of produce innovation, introducing more than 200 unique fruits and vegetables to the U.S. market. From staples like kiwifruit and sugar snap peas to spaghetti squash and shallots, the company has consistently inspired culinary exploration and set the standard for what lands on kitchen tables. Now, as we look ahead to 2025, Frieda’s is once again leading the charge by identifying key trends that could shape the future of fresh produce.

Alex Jackson, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Frieda’s, is continuing her family’s legacy of innovation by pinpointing four major trends the company is betting on for the coming year. These trends, as stated in the press release, reflect Frieda’s overarching goal of increasing produce consumption and meeting consumers where they are.

Food is STILL Medicine

The first trend centers on the growing consumer focus on food as a form of preventive medicine. Younger generations, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, are seeking produce that supports longevity, cognitive health, hydration, and overall well-being. Functional ingredients like fresh turmeric and juicing kits are becoming essential in the produce aisle.

“Suppliers must understand the health benefits of their items deeply as it’s our responsibility to educate the consumer and the retailer. Health is wealth!” Alex Jackson emphasized.

Retailers can engage these health-conscious shoppers by highlighting functional benefits through juicing displays, recipe cards, and in-store education. The produce aisle, brimming with health-promoting options, is uniquely positioned to meet this demand.

Protein

Protein’s resurgence is another trend Frieda’s is watching closely. While not inherently a produce trend, the focus on protein creates opportunities for fresh fruits and vegetables to complement protein-rich diets. Vegetables like Brussels sprouts, green beans, and asparagus are prime candidates for the spotlight, as are pairings with trending protein items like cottage cheese and Greek yogurt.

Freeze- or Soft-Dried Produce

The third trend highlights the growing popularity of freeze-dried and soft-dried produce. From mushroom crisps to shishito peppers, dried produce satisfies consumer curiosity for global flavors, reduces food waste, and offers convenient, healthy snacking options.

The challenge, however, lies in merchandising. Should dried produce be marketed as a healthier alternative to chips and cookies in the snack aisle or displayed alongside fresh counterparts in the produce department? Collaborations between growers and dried produce manufacturers could unlock new opportunities by utilizing surplus or out-of-spec produce, keeping production domestic and sustainable.

Collaborating With Other Industries

The final trend Frieda’s is betting on involves cross-industry innovation. Produce is finding its way into unexpected categories, from beauty products with produce-inspired ingredients to tea companies embracing ube and guava flavors.

“Partnering with other sectors can help our industry cut through the food media clutter and gain a stronger foothold in consumer conversations,” Alex explained.

These collaborations not only expand reach but also create a sense of urgency and excitement around produce, helping to position it front and center in consumer media.

The Path Forward

With only 10 percent of Americans meeting their recommended daily fruit and vegetable intake, Frieda’s is committed to driving a significant leap in fresh produce consumption in 2025. By leaning into these trends, the company aims to inspire new food experiences and continue its legacy of bold introductions.

As Frieda’s Branded Produce continues to lead the way, the future of food looks brighter—and fresher—than ever.

LOS ANGELES, CA - POM Wonderful, the number-one-selling 100% pomegranate juice in North America, and OAKBERRY, the global quick-service superfood brand with always fresh açaí, announced the launch of a limited-time collaboration for National Heart Month: the Very POM® Berry Smoothie. Available throughout February at all U.S. locations, for every smoothie sold, $1 will be donated to pediatric heart initiatives in the Los Angeles area.

The Very POM® Berry smoothie is part of OAKBERRY’s Layered Smoothie lineup, offering a burst of berry flavor, including frozen blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries blended with sweet and tart POM Wonderful 100% Pomegranate Juice, atop a layer of OAKBERRY’s açaí.

This partnership underscores both brands’ mission to provide consumers with pure, better-for-you ingredients, açaí and pomegranate. According to the press release, pomegranate juice delivers antioxidant power that helps fight free radicals – the unstable molecules that can damage our bodies over time.

“We’re thrilled to partner with OAKBERRY on this delicious smoothie as both brands have a shared ethos to provide our consumers with wholesome and healthy options,” said Jennifer Hirano, vice president of marketing at POM Wonderful. “The heart in the POM logo represents the love we pour into our products, and this partnership in support of National Heart Month showcases our passion for supporting meaningful causes.”

POM Wonderful 100% Pomegranate Juice contains the juice of two whole-pressed California-grown pomegranates per 8oz serving and nothing more – no fillers and never any added sugar. POM Wonderful 100% Pomegranate Juice’s unique process is thoughtfully crafted: Wonderful variety pomegranates are whole-pressed to release the polyphenols in the rind, pith, and arils, optimizing potential antioxidant benefits.

“We’re excited to team up with POM to bring our fans an exclusive new addition to our layered smoothie menu that supports pediatric heart initiatives in the Los Angeles area,” said Bruno Cardinali, global head of marketing at OAKBERRY. “We look forward to everyone getting to taste what we blended up for such a great cause.”

Offering six must-try options, each of OAKBERRY’s layered smoothies provides a stunning visual contrast with a base of OAKBERRY’s açaí topped with a frozen blend of a variety of fruits, supplements, coffees, and matcha to keep fans fueled throughout the day. The artfully layered smoothies reveal new tastes, colors, and textures with every stir and sip.

LAKEWOOD, CO - Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage, is proud to release its 2024 Sustainability Report, highlighting the values and practices that drive America's largest family-operated organic and natural grocery retailer. This year's report celebrates how Natural Grocers continues to prioritize affordable, high-quality, and environmentally conscious products while sharing stories of vendors, farmers, and partnerships that reflect the company's dedication to human health, animal welfare, and the planet.

By staying true to its Five Founding Principles, Natural Grocers aims to create lasting, positive change. "At Natural Grocers, we see grocery stores as a vital link in the food chain — integral to the health of people and the planet," said Kemper Isely, co-president of Natural Grocers. "For nearly 70 years, Natural Grocers has been committed to driving change in how food is grown, raised and sold — and we remain as dedicated as ever. This year's sustainability report highlights our rigorous product standards, commitment to regenerative agriculture, dedication to nutrition education, investment in our good4u Crew's well-being, and partnerships that strengthen communities and protect the environment."

As Natural Grocers looks toward the future, its record financial performance in fiscal year 2024 underscores the company's belief that a more sustainable and affordable food system is not only possible but also essential. With each step forward, the company remains dedicated to building a healthier, more sustainable food system for generations to come.

Key Highlights From the 2024 Report

In 2024 Natural Grocers:

• Maintained industry leadership with rigorous product standards across all categories (including its minimum egg standard of free-range), upholding its stance against artificial flavors, preservatives, sweeteners (as defined by Company standards), synthetic colors, and partially or fully hydrogenated oils.
• Partnered with Rodale™ Institute to advance regenerative organic agriculture and raised over $80,000 during Organic Month to support its Farmer Training and Veteran Farmer Training Programs.
• Donated more than $4 million of in-kind food and products to local food bank partners.
• Invested more than $7 million to offer free nutrition education services, provided by its Nutritional Health Coaches to its customers, good4u Crew, and communities.
• Installed a CO2 refrigeration system in a third store, which saves energy and provides enhanced environmental protection compared to conventional refrigerant technologies.
• Expanded its "Meet Your Farmer" film series. These short documentaries showcase the farmers and ranchers behind specific products you'll find at Natural Grocers — those who are changing the way our food is produced to ensure a livable, healthy tomorrow.

To view the company's complete Fiscal Year 2024 Sustainability report, click here.

BERLIN - At this year’s Fruit Logistica trade fair, Fyffes is showcasing its commitment to sustainable growth—expanding the category alongside retail partners, introducing innovative, consumer-tested concepts, and strengthening relationships with communities and suppliers.

With a strong focus on sustainability, Fyffes continues to make healthy foods more accessible while collaborating with partners to reduce food waste. As stated in the press release, the company’s long-standing dedication to the well-being of the communities where it sources fresh produce—both environmentally and socially—remains central to its vision of Shaping Wellbeing for the World.

Frank Burkhardt, Chief Commercial Officer at Fyffes, states: “We look forward to meeting with customers and demonstrating how we can support their ambitious sustainability goals—whether in greenhouse gas reduction, living wage commitments, human rights, or community initiatives.”

Fyffes is dedicated to delivering delicious, sustainably sourced fresh produce that meets the evolving needs of consumers. Together with retail partners, the company continues to drive category growth, increasing shopper engagement through innovative products and initiatives.

In addition to the well-established Fyffes brand, particularly in the UK and Ireland, the company will also highlight Trudi’s—a purpose-driven consumer brand under the banner ‘Good Fruit Doing Good.’ At Fruit Logistica 2025, Fyffes will showcase how Trudi’s is driving category value while promoting female empowerment and supporting farming communities.

As climate change increasingly impacts growing conditions, operational excellence is more critical than ever to ensure a stable and resilient supply chain. Through continuous investment in innovation, logistics, and responsible sourcing, Fyffes is working closely with growers and supermarkets to mitigate climate-related risks and drive long-term improvements across the value chain.

“Our focus remains on delivering high-quality fresh produce while upholding our commitments to environmental stewardship and community well-being,” adds Frank Burkhardt.