ATLANTA, GA - An exciting announcement was made by the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) at its recent Global Produce & Floral Show. During the State of the Industry keynote session, Chief Executive Officer Cathy Burns revealed the association has been granted observer status to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC). IFPA Vice President of Sustainability Tamara Muruetagoiena will serve as the organization’s representative on the UNFCC.

“Climate change is a top concern for our members, and it’s an incredible honor that IFPA’s work in sustainability and climate-smart agriculture has resulted in the association being granted this status by the United Nations,” said Burns. “The fresh produce and floral community is part of the solution through our commitment to climate-smart agriculture practices, and we will ensure our voice is heard to influence outcomes in global forums such as the UNFCC and COP29.”

A press release explained that included within the UNFCC are the 2015 Paris Agreement and the 1997 Kyoto Protocol. In sum, these agreements are tasked with stabilizing greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that will prevent dangerous human interference with the climate system in a time frame that allows ecosystems to adapt naturally and enables sustainable development.

Muruetagoiena has led many of IFPA’s sustainability programs and efforts, including representing IFPA as Chair of the Consumer Goods Forum Sustainable Supply Chain Initiative’s (SSCI) Environmental Working Group, which developed benchmarking environmental standards that were released in mid-summer.

“Sustainability has always been a cornerstone of my professional career and I am humbled to have this opportunity to represent IFPA,” Muruetagoiena commented. “We are participating in COP29 next month in Azerbaijan to ensure our industry is represented at the highest global meeting discussing climate change.”

IFPA research has found that failure to act on climate and extreme weather are the top two global threats with the highest potential to damage societies, economies, and the planet. In early December, the association will hold climate-smart field trials in California as part of its USDA grant-funded program titled “A Vibrant Future.”

We applaud IFPA as it continues to advocate for our industry on a global scale.

PORTERVILLE, CA - News of a strategic supply-side expansion came across our desks yesterday afternoon. Homegrown Organic Farms (HGO) opened a new loading location for its import berry program in McAllen, Texas, which will begin operating in November.

"Our growth in the import berry program aligns with our long-term vision. The addition of McAllen enables us to serve our customers more efficiently while upholding our commitment to sustainability and delivering high-quality, fresh produce year-round," shared Scott Mabs, Chief Executive Officer.

The McAllen location will reduce transportation time by two days compared to West Coast locations, ensuring fresher fruit for customers while lowering the company's environmental impact through reduced trucking emissions, a press release stated.

In addition to the new Texas location, Homegrown Organic Farms will continue to offer loading from Kingsburg and Los Angeles, California. The company’s import berry program includes organic and conventional blueberries and blackberries sourced from Mexico and Chile.

"Expanding into McAllen strengthens our supply chain and enhances our ability to deliver fresher berries to our customers," said Stephen Paul, Deciduous Category Director.

Leading the company’s import programs is Jacob Gracia, Imports Category Manager. He brings over 20 years of experience in the produce industry and has played a key role in building long-term global partnerships.

"Jacob’s industry experience is a tremendous asset to our team. He’s helping us expand our import programs while ensuring we deliver exceptional quality," added Paul.

This season, Homegrown Organic Farms will introduce the Erendira blackberry variety from Mexico, known for its superior taste and quality. Blueberries from Mexico and Chile will be available in both organic and conventional offerings. The import season is expected to pick up in early November and continue through the end of the year.

Import blueberries will be offered in 6 oz pints and 18 oz clamshells, while blackberries will be available in 6 oz and 12 oz clamshells. All import berries can be loaded from McAllen, TX, or Kingsburg, CA, facilities.

For more industry expansions, stick with us here at ANUK.

MISSION, TX - A famous produce staple is earning a spot on the annual calendar. The Texas onion industry has proudly declared October 15 as Texas 1015 (TX1015) Sweet Onion Day!

“With over 30 million Texans, now is the perfect time to educate consumers about the TX1015 Sweet Onion,” remarks Dante Galeazzi, President of the Texas International Produce Association (TIPA). “With the 'TX1015 Sweet Onion Day' proclamation by the City of Weslaco, we’re shining a spotlight on TX1015 sweet onions. As the first domestically grown sweet onion of the year, the TX1015 deserves to be celebrated for its unique history, incredible flavor, and versatility. This recognition reflects the industry’s commitment to raising awareness and reminding consumers of the bounties of Texas agriculture.”

October 15 commemorates the ideal planting date for TX1015 Sweet Onions, as identified by the onion’s creators, Dr. Leonard Pike and Paul Leeper of Texas A&M University. According to a press release, Weslaco city officials and members of the South Texas Onion Committee (STOC) came together for an official proclamation to mark the special occasion.

During a week-long celebration, STOC featured growers, shippers, and packers as they shared their support for this momentous occasion. Promotional assets—such as fun facts, a drawing contest, an educational poster, and a TX1015 Sweet Onion Day sign—were created to spark conversation and engagement.

As the release went on to note, the South Texas Onion Committee (STOC) and TIPA are proud to partner with the Weslaco Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center, which has shown a strong commitment to highlighting the TX1015 Sweet Onion.

“The TX1015 Sweet Onion is a staple within our community. From the Onion Fest to the Onion Run, this proclamation is another event to bring people from all walks of life together,” states Barbara Jean Garza, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Weslaco Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center. “Over 42,231 Weslaco residents have the power to support our local farmers and celebrate our agricultural heritage. This event not only highlights the unique flavor of this decadent superfood but strengthens our connections and promotes local businesses. We encourage everyone to celebrate this week and make lasting memories together.”

Texas onions are currently being planted throughout the Rio Grande Valley, with the first onions landing on store shelves as early as March. To access the TX1015 Sweet Onion Day Toolkit, click here.

Be on the lookout for more industry updates from ANUK.