SACRAMENTO, CA - Ranch has long held its place in the produce aisle, as have Blue Diamond Growers’ almonds. The two department mainstays have come together in a new product: limited-edition Ranch Flavored Almonds.

"We're so excited to bring a flavor that is loved by so many to our Blue Diamond snack portfolio," said Maya Erwin, Vice President of Marketing and Innovation. "We’re always looking for new ways to incorporate trending flavors into our products, and with Ranch, we hope our customers feel inspired to take their taste buds to a new level of deliciousness.”

Available in a variety of sizes, the 6 oz, 40 oz, and 45 oz options are portable and resealable. The limited-edition flavor will be available in select sizes amid several retail locations, including Walmart in 6 oz cans, available May–October 2024; Costco in 45 oz bags, available this month, May 2024, while supplies last; and Sam’s Club in 40 oz bags, available August 2024 while supplies last.

Recent research found 70 percent of ranch usage occurs outside the salad bowl, according to a press release, which Blue Diamond Growers saw as an exciting opportunity to introduce a flavor consumers are craving across all food varieties, just in time for summer.

Whether they are added to a recipe or simply enjoyed right out of the package, these almonds have earned their place in the produce aisle. For more industry news, you know where to find us.

WASHINGTON, DC - As of last week, the Farm Bill was moved through the United States House Agriculture Committee last week. International Fresh Produce Association’s (IFPA) Vice President of U.S. Government Relations Rebeckah Adcock applauded the news.

“The International Fresh Produce Association is pleased to see the Farm Bill advance out of committee, marking an important step toward securing the future of American agriculture, enhancing food security, and promoting a healthier nation,” Adcock commented in a release from the association.

According to the Nebraska Examiner, the $1.5 trillion legislation would set policy and funding levels for food, agriculture, and conservation programs for the next five years.

“We commend Chairman Thompson and the entire House Agriculture Committee for their diligent work and dedication to this legislation,” Adcock continued. “Their efforts ensure that vital investments for the fresh produce industry and all specialty crops are maintained and expanded. Continued bipartisan negotiation will be essential to ensure the bill meets the diverse needs of our agricultural sector. IFPA stands ready to support those efforts."

As we learn more about the bill, be sure to follow along with ANUK.

WATSONVILLE, CA - In alignment with the company’s efforts to prioritize environmental conservation, sustainability, ethical business practices, and social responsibility, California Giant Berry Farms is sharing the exciting news that it is now a supplier of Fair Trade Certified strawberries.

"We're thrilled to pioneer the production of Fair Trade Certified strawberries within California," Joe Barsi, President, California Giant Berry Farms, expressed. "This represents a significant milestone in our continued journey toward sustainable and socially responsible agriculture. By obtaining Fair Trade USA’s certification, we're not only ensuring fair compensation for workers but also empowering our local communities."

With the inaugural pick of Fair Trade Certified strawberries under its belt, California Giant Berry Farms is meeting the consumer where they are in their values and lifestyles. This new program underscores the company’s mission to deliver the best quality berries and nourish its communities.

California Giant Berry Farms represents a standard-raising class of growers with its large-scale berry operation achieving Fair Trade USA’s certification for California-grown strawberries, according to a press release.

"We are thrilled to partner with California Giant Berry Farms to deliver the first Fair Trade Certified strawberries from California,” Paul Rice, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Fair Trade USA, stated. “When we launch a new product, we always look for a partner who is values-aligned and has demonstrated a commitment to sustainability. It has been wonderful to work with California Giant Berry Farms to bring the program to life with their workers and leadership.”

Providing sweet, sustainable berries to consumers is one of many areas where this company thrives. Congratulations on this amazing achievement, California Giant Berry Farms! Cheers to your continued success.

BATAVIA, IL - I don’t know about you, but during the summer, my fresh produce consumption goes from great to off the charts. Maybe it's the grilling and salads or that cool and refreshing grab-and-go nature of many of its items. One way or another, it's not just my body that feels the impact, but my pocketbook too. As inflation continues to sustain higher food prices, some retailers are adjusting their strategies in the lead-up to summer. Consider this message from Aldi Chief Executive Officer Jason Hart, who is focused on keeping grocery prices lower.

"We don't really focus on what the competition is doing. We're focused on what consumers want and need," Hart said when he joined Good Morning America, as reported by ABC News. "Before the consumer was stressed with inflation, we were still about low prices, but those low prices become even more important as value is even more top of mind for the consumer."

With the summer holidays upon us, Hart continued with the plan for the upcoming period.

"So our actions are all based on consumer demand," Hart added. "We're always looking for opportunities to lower prices to reduce our cost of doing business, to reduce our cost of product and to lean in on our lower prices. So that's what we're all about."

ABC News continued, adding that the CEO reported how lower prices are driving the discount grocer’s growth.

In addition to the price cuts, an aggressive expansion plan is underway, with Aldi’s sights set on adding 800 stores across the United States by the end of 2028.

With a growth model this progressive, what will Aldi do next? Stay tuned to AndNowUKnow as we look for the trailblazing retailer's next move.