NEW YORK, NY - New York Apple Sales, Inc. (NYAS) reported that the weather throughout New York state has helped generate an above-average apple bloom.
“Following last year's below-average apple crop and a normal winter, trees this spring responded with healthy and hearty buds that produced a fantastic bloom,” stated Kaari Stannard, President of New York Apple Sales, Inc. “Adding to the tree’s strength, the month of May ended up being a record warm month with many hot sunny days, which created a perfect pollinating season for our apples.”
Many New York apple growers commented on the crop in a press release, and remarked how it has benefited several different apple varieties.
“As of now, we are not seeing any skips or holes in the 2018 crop,” remarked Jeff Crist of Crist Brothers Orchards, NY. “We have a great opportunity with this crop, but as always we are cautiously optimistic, as it is a long time before harvest.”
Similar comments are coming from growers across the state. Jason Woodworth of Lamont Fruit Farms Waterport, NY is excited about the SweeTango® set. According to Woodworth, the SweeTango® crop is off to a great start, with an excellent return on bud and bloom. Rod Farrow of Fish Creek Orchards is very impressed with the KORU® bloom, stating that the new variety’s production continues to increase every year. In Wayne County, Ever Crisp® grower Paul Wafler commented that the bee activity and sunny days gave the company its best Ever Crisp Apple crop thus far. Jay Toohill, of Chazy Orchards, NY added that he is excited about the Honey Crisp crop, due to how difficult of an apple it is to grow. The right amount of bloom and pollination is crucial to the crop’s success.
John Russell, Manager of Lake Ontario Fruit, is also excited about the apple crop, because he can put the company’s new primary packing line into use. He stated that the “state-of-the art packaging equipment” will increase the company’s production. The new line complements a second line that was installed a few years ago, a move that Russel attributes to remaining competitive in the market.
Growers are reporting that other new varieties such as Snap Dragon® and Ruby Frost® along with other popular favorites such as Gala, Fuji, Honey Crisp, McIntosh, Cortland, Empire, and Red/Golden Delicious look strong.
“More apples offer more opportunities for our growers, packers, and for our customers,” stated John Cushing, VP of Sales at NYAS.
In addition to a strong start to the apple season, New York Apple Sales announced two new staff members to its team. Zach O’Keefe joined the Logistics and Production team in April to assist Mike Messler, and will assist in moving this year’s crop. Chelsea VanAcker joined the team in the field in May, and will work alongside Matt Wells. She will help coordinate food safety, grower audits, and compliance issues both in the orchard and in the packinghouses.
CHICAGO, IL - After over forty years in the 'burbs, McDonald’s moved its HQ back to the heart of the Windy City. According to CNBC, Mickey D’s opened its $250 million headquarters building last week as part of its plan to become a more modern and progressive company that stays in-the-know about emerging food trends.
“We were based on the edge of the city for about the last 40 something years,” CEO Steve Easterbrook told CNBC. “It’s been a wonderful facility for us, but it was a little detached from everyday life.”
The new building is open to the public and offers different popular international menu items every few months, so those of us who have been drooling over the likes of The Loaded Lettuce, Pineapple Pies, the McVegan Burger, Banana Sundaes and McFlurries, and the McShake Kiwi, to name a few, only have to travel to Chicago to get our hands on these treats.
With nine floors and at 490,000-square-feet, McDonald’s headquarters also now features a brand-new test kitchen, an employee café with stadium seating for collaboration, outdoor terraces with views of Chicago, a Hamburger University where the company trains its managers, and over 300 conference rooms, “work neighborhoods,” and café-like work spaces around the building.
Will McDonald’s new headquarters keep it relevant with changing consumer convenience demands? AndNowUKnow will continue to report on all things fresh.
WASHINGTON, DC - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has imposed sanctions on four produce businesses for failure to pay reparation awards issued under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA).
According to a press release, the following businesses and individuals are currently restricted from operating in the produce industry:
- Alejandro Produce Inc., operating out of Vista, California, for failing to pay a $22,800 award in favor of a California seller. As of the issuance date of the reparation order, Alejandro Silva was listed as the officer, director and major stockholder of the business.
- Celestin B B Logistics LLC, operating out of Miami, Florida, for failing to pay a $5,176 award in favor of an Oregon seller. As of the issuance date of the reparation order, Benjamin B. Celestin was listed as a member of the business.
- LV and Sons Produce Company LLC, operating out of Forest Park, Georgia, for failing to pay a $17,604 award in favor of a Florida seller. As of the issuance date of the reparation order, Glenn C. Volpe, II was listed as a member of the business.
- National Produce Sales Inc., operating out of Lake Zurich, Illinois, for failing to pay a $6,980 award in favor of a Florida seller. As of the issuance date of the reparation order, David M. El-Aboudi and Michael Hughes were listed as the officers, directors and/or major stockholders of the business.
PACA provides an administrative forum to handle disputes involving produce transactions; this may result in a reparation order being issued that requires damages to be paid by those not meeting their contractual obligations in buying and selling fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables. USDA is required to suspend the license or impose sanctions on an unlicensed business that fails to pay PACA reparations awarded against it as well as impose restrictions against those principals determined to be responsibly connected to the business when the order is issued. Those individuals, including sole proprietors, partners, members, managers, officers, directors or major stockholders may not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee without USDA approval.
The PACA Division, which is in the Fair Trade Practices Program in the Agricultural Marketing Service, regulates fair trading practices of produce businesses that are operating subject to PACA, including buyers, sellers, commission merchants, dealers and brokers within the fruit and vegetable industry.
In the past three years, USDA resolved approximately 3,400 PACA claims involving more than $58 million. PACA staff also assisted more than 8,500 callers with issues valued at approximately $151 million. These are just two examples of how USDA continues to support the fruit and vegetable industry.
UNITED STATES - From soft shades of white to vibrant oranges, purples, reds, and golds, sweet potatoes are as much prized for their lovely looks as their sweet taste. These spuds are more than just an autumn holiday staple; they’re a delicious addition to any spread.
How can retailers and foodservice operators reap rewards from this versatile and vibrant veggie? We asked the experts at Sysco—the culinary commandos bringing fresh menu ideas and food options to foodservice customers across the country—to share some of their favorite usage ideas.
These are just some of their picks…
Sweet Potato and Apple Gratin with Cider Maple Glaze
“During the Holidays, one of my favorite dishes to make and eat is our Sweet Potato and Apple Gratin with Cider Maple Glaze,” says Chef Jason Knapp, Corporate Division. “It has a great balance of flavors from the apple cider and maple to complement the thinly sliced and layered tart apples and sweet potatoes.”
Grilled Sweet Potatoes
“Some folks prefer to wait for the weather to turn warmer to dust off our grills and cook for the family. Others, like myself, cook on our grills even when we have to shovel a path through the snow. One favorite around these parts is grilled sweet potatoes,” comments Chef Jovan Djokovic, Eastern Wisconsin Division. “Sliced ¼” thin, lightly dressed in olive oil, sea salt and pepper, and tossed on the grill for 3-4 minutes per side, the smoky charcoal pairs well with the inherent sweetness and gives you a crispy outside and fluffy inside with some actual nutritional value!!!”
Grilled Maple-Bourbon Sweet Potatoes
“I’d have to say my favorite sweet potato recipe is grilled maple-bourbon sweet potatoes. Good for any time of year, but especially during grilling season,” shares Chef Josh Korn, Sacramento Division. “The recipe allows the flavor and texture of the sweet potato to be highlighted without turning it into something radically different. Baked in the oven, then cooled, sliced, and grilled with a pinch of salt and pepper and a brush of bourbon-maple glaze. Simply delicious! This recipe works with sweet potatoes or yams.”
Chargrilled Wild Spicy Shrimp and Chorizo with Cheesy Potato Grits
“One of my go-to favorite items to entertain with! Can be used as an appetizer, entrée, or hors d’oeuvres,” says Chef Anthony O’Shea, Central Pennsylvania Division, explaining he adds cheddar, bleu cheese, and a sriarcha bourbon drizzle.
Sweet Potato and Pecan Pie
“I fell in love with sweet potato when I came to America, I love the texture and natural sweet flavor without the added sugar,” Chef Neil Doherty Sysco Corporate Division, tells me. “I love to use with baked almond mayonnaise and toasted strudel for a vegan dish or as a thickener for smoothies. My all-time favorite is a sweet potato and pecan pie. Oh yeah!”
For more expert advice on all things fresh food, check in with Sysco on the company’s website. And for more fresh produce news, keep reading AndNowUKnow.
SALINAS, CA - River Fresh Farms and River Fresh Logistics announced industry veteran and marketing executive Joe Feldman is joining its team as General Manager. Feldman, as General Manager of both entities, will continue to help River Fresh Farms accelerate the expansion of River Fresh Logistics as a means to help growers get perishable crops to markets across the country faster, which has been a focus for the company this year.
“I’ve known and respected Joe for more than 25 years,” said Vince Ballesteros, CEO and Founder of River Fresh. “He shares our vision, embodies our core values, and is one of the authentic leaders in our industry. He’s a perfect fit for our team and we’re thrilled to have him help us pursue new opportunities as we continue to grow and wow our customers. I’ve learned a lot from Joe over the years. He’s focused on the customer and brings passion, insight, creativity, and an incredible work ethic to River Fresh. He’s the perfect fit for our team and family.”
River Fresh Farms’ founding concept was rethinking the supply chain via global sourcing and consolidated logistics. This model ensures year-round supply and gets crops to market faster while reducing supply chain losses and shrink. And, with fewer transportation carriers and higher freight rates these days, River Fresh’s model is more necessary than ever, according to a press release.
“I’m very impressed with the model Vince has created, what the team has been able to accomplish, and how River Fresh Farms is strategically positioned to service our customers,” said Feldman. “We’re a solutions-based company, and we have the innovations and resources to address today’s—and tomorrow’s—produce industry challenges. I’m grateful for the opportunity and the company’s confidence in me to help execute River Fresh’s strategy and vision.”
Congratulations, Joe Feldman, on this new journey!
CARPINTERIA, CA - That summertime feeling is hitting consumers, who are in turn hitting their social media feeds to share those gorgeous plates and outdoor activities. Pete’s Living Greens is positioning its brand square in the center of that excitement with the launch of its summer campaign #liveforthis, kicking off today, June 11.
“We are asking consumers to show us what they live for, if it’s family or a goal they’ve set, with a hashtag,” Corrie Hutchens, Senior Director of Marketing, shares with me. “Because whatever it is you live for, you live better by being healthy.”
The campaign will highlight the company’s new brand line We Live For This Stuff, giving consumers the opportunity to share photos using the hashtag #liveforthis showing the Pete’s team what activities they love to do during the summer. And, of course, how they're eating healthy using all things Pete’s, from living lettuce, salads, and greens, to concepts new and fresh.
Those who engage have a chance to win a month’s worth of Pete’s Living Greens lettuce and some fun swag from the company.
Corrie explains that the company has also actively been enlisting the weight of influencers, be they in food or lifestyle, as well as partnering with brands to promote and highlight those #liveforthis moments.
“We live for greens that are still connected to their roots; because they last longer, taste better and stay fresher than any other type of lettuce you can buy. Full of super goodness, Pete’s Living Greens are perfect for any summer adventure. They’ll keep you going on the last mile until the summit, help you stay present on your mat and give you energy to dance the night away,” the company noted in an announcement.
With both short-term and long-term innovation in mind, and plenty in the works within this campaign and beyond, stay tuned to AndNowUKnow for the latest.
WENATCHEE, WA - If I could qualify any month as perfect, it would be June. It marks the beginning of summer vacation, houses the longest day of the year, and has, in my humble opinion, the best weather. But what truly makes June so special is the quantity of readily available cherries. To add to this cherry-induced excitement, Stemilt announced the return of its Skylar Rae® brand Tip Top cultivar cherries.
“Retailers who carry Skylar Rae can build incremental sales within the cherry category, and do so at a high retail price,” said Brianna Shales, Communications Manager. “Your shoppers win because of its unique flavor and experience, and you’ll win by driving more dollars to the produce department with a third cherry SKU.”
In 2004, an accidental discovery of a cherry growing in an orchard block in Wenatchee, WA started the path to the trademarked Skylar Rae cherry brand. Its parentage is still unknown today. Chance cherries rarely become available for commercial production; however, this variety proved to be anything but ordinary. The company noted that Skylar Rae is known as “the sweetest cherry you’ll ever eat” because of its high Brix (sugar) levels ranging from 23-25 Brix. The cherry is also incredibly firm.
“It’s unheard of to have a bi-colored cherry be both sweet and extremely firm,” stated Shales. “Skylar Rae makes for an entirely new eating experience for the consumer. They will experience a crunchy, juicy bite with a sugary-sweet explosion of flavor, and will surely leave a lasting impression.”
As the exclusive marketer for Skylar Rae® cherries, the company has seen tremendous growth in demand since releasing the variety to the market in 2014. Volumes have increased significantly over the years, and 2018 is no exception, with new acreage coming into production to increase volumes by more than 25 percent from 2017.
According to a press release, Stemilt just started harvesting and packing the cherry and retailers should begin loading the product this week. Peak volumes will hit in about the fourth week of June and first week of July with the season wrapping around the third week of July.
“Skylar Rae has a limited availability window, so it’s important retailers jump on carrying it right away,” explained Shales. “We are excited about the quality in this year’s crop, with sizing trending large and absolutely stunning color. The time to promote this special sweet and crisp cherry falls perfectly around the Fourth of July giving retailers an extra boost.”
Skylar Rae is available in a dome-style 1lb. clamshell, and a 1.25lb pouch bag. Stemilt’s in-house marketing team designed both packages to show off the flair, flavor, and tagline of the popular variety. Stemilt also offers lane table display bins to set the product up in high traffic areas to encourage impulse buys.
“Cherries are an impulse purchase, so placing Skylar Rae in heavily populated, high traffic areas is the way to push sales,” said Shales. “Make displays fun with informative signage and encourage sampling in produce departments. Letting consumers get just a small taste of this new and delicious cherry is important to drive sales this year, and build excitement for future years.”
If that doesn’t make you crave cherries something fierce, I don’t know what will.
WASHINGTON, DC - A bipartisan bill was submitted by the Senate Agriculture Committee is hearing rave reviews, particularly from the National Young Farmers Coalition (NYFC). The coalition celebrated the bill, which consisted of funding for beginning and socially disadvantaged farmers, investments, and reforms to preserve farmland for the next generations.
In addition to these goals, the bill aims to expand local and regional food programs, according to a NYFC press release, in which the organization applauded the bill’s inclusion of several provisions explored in its very own Young Farmer Agenda platform.
“Chairman Roberts and Ranking Member Stabenow are listening our nation's young farmers. Despite a challenging budget and political climate, we’re thrilled to see program investments that will support the next generation and the inclusion of policy changes that will make programs better-suited for all farmers. We are also pleased to see additional funding for programs targeting socially disadvantaged farmers, conservation partnerships, and concrete steps to make farmers more resilient in the face of climate change,” NYFC’s Co-Founder and Executive Director Lindsey Lusher Shute expressed in the press release.
Lusher Shute continued, “Like every bipartisan compromise, today’s draft bill isn’t perfect. As we move forward and conduct a full analysis, NYFC looks forward to collaborating with the Committee and every Member of the Senate to make this a farm bill for the future. We thank Senators Roberts and Stabenow for putting ideology and partisanship aside, and working to address the urgent needs of America's farmers and the communities they feed. In stark contrast to the House process, this is how a farm bill should be done.”
Called the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, the bill, released by U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Pat Roberts, R-Kan., and Ranking Member Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., will be marked up on June 13th at 9:30 a.m.
"I’m pleased that today marks a big step in the process to get a Farm Bill reauthorized on time,” Chairman Roberts expressed, according to a press release from the Committee. “Whether it’s low prices, over-burdensome regulations, or unpredictable trade markets, it’s no secret that farmers and ranchers are struggling. That’s why we need a Farm Bill that works for all producers across all regions. Simply put, our producers need predictability–and that’s just what our bill provides.”
As stated in the Committee’s press release, the following will be addressed in in the bill to create certainty and predictability:
Providing Certainty for Farmers, Ranchers, and Growers
- Preserving and strengthening crop insurance and other risk management tools for commodity, dairy, livestock, and other producers
- Providing flexibility for producers during times of natural disasters
- Continuing and strengthening export and trade-related programs
- Supporting agriculture research and encouraging research partnerships that make farmers more productive and profitable
Strengthening Integrity and Food Access for Families
- Strengthening the integrity of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Building on successful public-private partnerships and job training to improve SNAP participants’ path to sustainable employment
- Protecting food assistance for families and expanding access to healthy foods
- Reducing burdensome paperwork for seniors in need of assistance
Strengthening Voluntary Conservation and Forest Management
- Investing in voluntary conservation on working lands and expanding regional partnerships that leverage private funds to address natural resource concerns and improve water quality
- Providing forest management reforms to federal land managers and protecting against wildfires
- Securing opportunities for outdoor recreation by adding 1 million new acres to the Conservation Reserve Program and strengthening voluntary public access
Investing in Rural America
- Connecting rural America by expanding high-speed internet
- Fighting the opioid epidemic with prevention and treatment efforts
- Investing in water infrastructure for rural communities
- Preserving renewable energy investments that lower utility bills and support energy installation jobs
Growing the Diversity of the American Agricultural Economy
- Supporting farmer veterans and new farmers beginning careers in agriculture
- Strengthening local food economies that enable farmers to sell their products to their neighbors
- Growing emerging opportunities in organic production and urban agriculture
- Bolstering biodefense preparedness efforts to protect United States agriculture and food.
For more farm and fresh produce news, stay tuned into AndNowUKnow.
PHOENIX, AZ - Seasoned retail veteran Dan Croce has joined the senior executive team of Sprouts Farmers Market in the capacity of SVP East Division. In his new role, Croce will oversee Sprout’s East Division, including the company's first ever store in Pennsylvania, opening this September.
According to the executive's LinkedIn, the former Acme Markets President left his position with the New York-based Albertsons banner this May—after serving in leadership roles of increasing importance with the company for more than a decade. Croce first joined Acme markets as Division Operations Manager in January of 2005—before moving on to serve as Director of Operations, VP Sales Support, VP of Operations and Vice President of Marketing. Croce served as President of the banner for more than three years before departing in May.
Prior to joining Acme Markets, Croce worked with New Jersey-based Super Fresh Food Markets—joining the store as a Store Director serving at various locations throughout the Delaware Valley and eventually rising to the role of District Manager with responsibilities throughout Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, and New Jersey.
This April, Sprouts announced the addition of 13 new stores—including the first to open in Pennsylvania, and Croce will presumably oversee this and other stores in the eastern U.S. as Sprouts eyes avenues for expansion.
For more breaking news on important retailers in our industry, keep reading AndNowUKnow.
SANTIAGO, CHILE - Working in the produce industry, we get a glimpse into the world of farms, groves, and orchards everyday. This time around, Karen Brux of Fruits From Chile, offered an inside look at what the clementine and mandarin season is shaping up to look like in Santiago, Chile.
Standing in the middle of a gorgeous clementine orchard, surrounded by palm trees and blue skies, Karen shares that the beginning of clementine season is here.
“Clementines are already in market, with volume available from June through August, and then we’ll have mandarins from August to the end of October, maybe early November,” Karen says, going on to explain that there are large promotable volumes this year—about a 30% increase.
Due to this increase in volume, Karen explains that retailers should get their promotions ready, especially during August. Easily promotable as additions to school lunches, clementines and mandarins are the answers to parents looking for healthy add-ons to their children's lunches.
Hear more about the start of clementine season in the brief video above.