LOS ANGELES, CA - Giumarra has made a sublicense agreement with Homegrown Organic Farms to grow and distribute the company’s recently-announced DulceVida proprietary line of stone fruit.
“We are thrilled to have access to the DulceVida proprietary program for our organic customers and work with Giumarra to bring more of these extraordinary varieties to consumers,” says Scott Mabs, CEO of Homegrown Organic Farms.
In a follow-up to our previous story, these varieties will be exclusively grown and marketed by Homegrown Organic Farms. The San Joaquin Valley-based grower will have access to all Nature’s Partner DulceVida stone fruit varieties. All DulceVida conventional production under the sublicense will be distributed by Giumarra.
“Homegrown’s organic supply of DulceVida stone fruit will naturally complement Giumarra’s DulceVida conventional tree-ripe program,” says Jeannine Martin, Director of Sales for Giumarra Reedley. “In our planning for retail and customer expectations, we recognized the organic piece as a key part of servicing retail markets. We are proud to work with such a well-respected company as Homegrown Organic Farms.”
Homegrown expects its first commercial crop of organic DulceVida varieties to be harvested in 2016.
There are almost no limits when it comes to love. From ground rhino horns, to strange flowers and carved statues placed under your pillow, the search for maximizing the passion of a relationship is one that spans over history... and industries.
Here is a look at fifteen versatile veggies that can make any dish exciting and now we know, according to Healthy Food Mind, can also help set the mood...
1. Artichokes
It’s not always what you eat, but how you eat it. The French prepare artichokes, then alternate dipping them in sauce and feeding them to their significant others leaf by leaf.
2. Asparagus
This particular veggie is filled with Vitamin E, otherwise known as the “fertility vitamin.” Vitamin E stimulates the hormones that are credited to helping with a healthy love life, in all senses of the word.
3. Carrot
The carrot is considered a classic on the list of fire-starting foods, evidently since the 1600s. High in Vitamin A, as well as beta carotene, this root is said to feed an erotic appetite.
4. Celery
Long referred to as the “herbal Viagra,” the celery aroma contains a male hormone called androsterone that female hormones feed off of. And we’ll leave it at that.
5. Cress
Coveted by the Egyptians and Romans, Cress has a hot, spicy flavor said to create equally spicy reactions in those that consume it.
6. Cucumber
“Cool as a cucumber” is not necessarily accurate according to a study by a few curious scientists in the Chicago area. Not only is the cucumber high in water content, therefore able to keep you energized and rejuvenated, but it also evidently increases blood flow by about 13 percent.
7. Eggplant
From the Ottoman Empire to present-day Turkey, this is a crucial vegetable to know how to cook for any couples looking to add to their family. It is said this was served to sultans daily to help produce heirs.
8. Mushrooms
Rich in Vitamin D and antioxidants, mushrooms have a long history of symbolizing all things passionate and affiliated with love. From symbolizing marriage to forbidden love, this vegetable has a more controversial and sexy history than Days of Our Lives.
9. Onions
Known for increasing circulation, onions have been acknowledged as a powerful aphrodisiac for several hundred years in numerous cultures.
10. Peppers
Evidently you can be what you eat, at least emotionally. According to scientists, the spice on your tongue triggered by peppers releases a “happy hormone” that leads to other spicy thoughts as well.
11. Tomatoes
Also known as the “apple of love,” women used to refuse to eat tomatoes as a display of virtue. The red meat and how it is eaten is also perceived as sensual and promotes voluptuousness. You will never see salads the same way again.
12. Garlic
This particular food comes with a written rule- that you and your partner are to eat this together. This, of course, promotes togetherness and helps both of you to be on the same level.
13. Beans
These little trouble makers were banned by the monastery of St. Jerome so as not to cause any unwelcome desires. Luckily for you and your significant other, they are very welcome and permitted now.
14. Rice
There is actually a reason why this was traditionally tossed at weddings. Rice is a symbol of many healthy offspring and is a staple in Chinese love culture. And they have the population to prove it.
15. Truffles
The scent is said to be similar to male pheromones, therefore inspiring the same desires. However, they are rare and come with a warning label; small quantities only.
While this is not an exact science, there is nothing wrong with adding a little more produce to your diet. Cook together, share in the experience, and enjoy.
BAKERSFIELD, CA - Tasteful Selections is highlighting a new campaign, “Amazing Differences.” that seeks to showcase the benefits of the brand for current and future customers.
Tasteful Selections, marketed by RPE, is focused on distinguishing itself from competitors. RPE’s proprietary consumer insights, turnkey consumer marketing support and extensive promotional opportunities are complimented with the product’s notable flavor, precise sizing, and crop reliability.
Consumers attribute Tasteful Selections’ demand and popularity nationwide to its variety of flavors, including the brand’s signature Honey Gold. “They taste gourmet—full flavor, creamy texture. I love them,” stated one consumer in a recent nationwide independent consumer research study. “They have more flavor, making any dish feel a little bit more special,” acknowledged another participant.
Tasteful Selections’ competitors can’t match the fantastic flavors paired with best-in-class uniform sizing, according to a press release. The varieties, which also include organics, are offered in three different bite sizes, as well as a variety of packaging sizes including both mesh and poly packs. Packaging options can be customized to fit a customer’s specific needs. Tasteful Selections has the largest continual supply of bite-sized potatoes with five harvests each year for the freshest quality increasing demand in stores.
The “Small Potatoes. Big Opportunities.” campaign outlines the brand’s aggressive growth andexpansion to a new 200,000 square foot facility in Bakersfield, California. Grand opening events will kickoff next month with a day for trade media on March 18 followed by a day for food bloggers March 20.
LOS ANGELES, CA - For the second year in a row, 4EARTH FARMS has been awarded the much sought after SQF Code Edition 7.2 - Level 3 food safety certification by the Safe Quality Food Institute. Level 3 is the highest certification level bestowed by the SQF Institute and is recognized to be an achievement in food safety.
“Retaining our SQF Code 7.2 - Level 3 certification for the second year in a row is a testament to how seriously we take food safety and quality assurance,” said Mark Munger, Vice President of Sales and Marketing.
SQF Code Edition 7.2 - Level 3 covers all aspects of operations from basic food handling, to risk analysis plans and procedures, systems development, employee training and management responsibility to maintain the highest quality of product and performance, according to a press release.
“Achieving the SQF pinnacle allows us to clearly demonstrate to our customers and the produce industry that the time and energy we’ve put into our warehouse, packing room and procurement systems has, and will continue to set us apart from our competition,” continued Munger.
“I believe passionately that food safety is and must continue to be ingrained in our company’s culture”, said David Lake, Co-Founder and C.E.O. of 4EARTH FARMS. “I believe it is the core foundation of our brand.”
Lake added that the yearly SQF audits keep the 4EARTH FARMS team on their toes and delivering the safest produce possible.
CONSHOHOCKEN, PA – Saladworks has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection this week and announced that it is seeking a buyer in an effort to end litigation between its owners.
In documents filed with U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Delaware, Saladworks listed over $10 million owed to two companies controlled by Vernon Hill, the Commerce Bank founder who has owned a 30% stake in Saladworks since 2008.
The company says that it has been searching for potential buyers since 2013, but the litigation between the companies controlled by Hill and majority owner J Scar Holdings have scared away interested parties, according to the Morning Call.
Saladworks also stated that this litigation has been keeping away franchisees, which are holding off on opening new restaurants until the dispute is resolved.
John Scarpadane, Chairman and CEO of Saladworks LLC, said in a statement, “This process is the best way to maximize value for our franchisees as well as other stakeholders and allow our operations to emerge from bankruptcy quickly.”
The company said this week that the bankruptcy filing will not include individual locations or affiliates, and the restaurants will continue operating as normal. Saladworks hopes to find a buyer within 45 days.
MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - This February 11th, Mexico City became a meeting point for produce industry leaders across North America. The day marked the formalization of the “Alianza Hortofrutícola Internacional para el Fomento de la Responsabilidad Social” (AHIFORES), known in English as “International Fruit and Vegetable Alliance for Social Responsibility.” As a demonstration of support for the new organization, Mexico’s Secretary of Agriculture Enrique Martinez y Martinez hosted the members of the Alliance and appointed Under Secretary of Agriculture Jesus Aguilar as his liaison.
The mission of AHIFORES is to enhance visibility for Mexico’s fresh produce industry and its long term commitment to the integral development of farm workers, as well as to actively promote industry-wide awareness and consistency in the implementation of socially responsible business practices, according to a press release.
“I was honored to be part of the groundbreaking meeting which included leading innovators in Mexico’s fresh produce industry,” said Alan Aguirre, President of Grupo Alta and Interim Chairman of AHIFORES. “Based on our collective experience and dedication to the responsible treatment of our valued employees, I am confident AHIFORES will play a significant role in inspiring, educating and advancing socially responsible business practices on Mexico’s farms.”
Members of the alliance include fresh produce associations and volunteer leaders from both the U.S. and Mexico who met and agreed on November 14, 2014 to create the AHIFORES. Members currently represent 90% of Mexico’s fresh produce industry, including top exports such as asparagus, avocados, berries, citrus, grapes, mangos, papayas, and tomatoes, among others. Outside private and public sector experts will be invited to contribute as AHIFORES moves forward in executing its objectives.
“For years, leading Mexican growers have set new standards in social responsibility. Yet few have told the story of that commitment. It’s time that we share with consumers around the world the Mexican industry’s history of responsible treatment of their workers. We are proud to be part of AHIFORES and look forward to contributing to the fulfillment of its mission,” said Mario Robles, Director of CAADES Vegetable Division, and Industry Spokesperson for AHIFORES.
AHIFORES believes its strength lies in its extensive network of fresh produce growers across Mexico and experts in the field of social responsibility. That network hopes to be valuable in disseminating the best practices, educational programming, and the information resources AHIFORES plans to offer.
BAKERSFIELD, CA - Sun World’s new President and CEO, Merrill Dibble, joined us to share insights into his family upbringing, his educational background, and a valuable look into the company’s strategic three point plan to expand its grape business.
Check out our exclusive interview with Merrill Dibble by watching the video above!
Dibble, a former Vice President of California Operations at AgReserves, Inc., was raised on a family farm in Utah. There, he cherished his days walking the onion fields alongside friends and co-workers who spoke limited English.
“One of the things [living on a family farm] gave me was the ability to speak Spanish,” he tells me. “One thing I bring to Sun World is the ability to relate to and communicate with all levels of employees. It’s a great way to grow up and I go back as often as I can.”
Dibble is also a former graduate of the Instituto Technológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, where he received his Masters in Marketing. Prior to that, he received his MBA in International Business from the University of San Diego.
With this leadership transition, Sun World is also embarking on an aggressive strategy to strengthen its position as a premier grape breeder, producer, marketer, and licensor. This strategy includes new vineyards to supplement existing owned and leased properties in California’s Coachella and San Joaquin valleys, an expanded variety development program, and an expanded licensing network.
As part of this strategy, Sun World will also be getting out of its pepper and strawberry farming, and citrus packing and marketing interests.
“Sun World has the proprietary varieties that deliver a distinguishable difference in taste and quality,” Dibble said in a press release. “I am excited to lead the Sun World team as we focus our efforts on world-class plant science, exceptional farming practices, and differentiated sales and marketing programs that allow us to be a superior supplier, and to deliver healthy, delicious grapes that delight consumers around the world.”
Stay tuned to AndNowUKnow for more updates on Sun World's expansion.
UNITED STATES – Winter Storm Octavia has covered much of the U.S. South and East Coast with snow and ice, leaving hundreds of thousands of people without power.
Octavia also caused the federal government and local governments in the District of Columbia to close for the first time this winter, according to the Wall Street Journal.
States of emergency have been declared in Kentucky, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, Virginia and Washington D.C. after parts of the South received more than a foot of snow and icy roads caused at least eight traffic deaths.
As of 5:29 pm Eastern time yesterday, the Weather Channel placed snowfall totals at:
- Between 3 – 7 inches for parts of the Northeast
- Between 5 – 18 inches for parts of the South
- Between 8 – 13 inches for parts of the Midwest
Other states, including Georgia, Mississippi and Alabama, reported up to half of inch of ice yesterday as well as snow totals.
According to FlightAware, more than 1,800 flights were cancelled yesterday at airports from Nashville, Tennessee to the nation’s capital yesterday as a result of the storm.
Temperatures across the eastern half of the United States have been well below average. Eric Horst, Director of the Weather Information Center at Millersville University in central Pennsylvania, stated that his community set three new records for low temperatures on Monday.
An even colder blast of Arctic air is forecast to come through the Midwest, Southwest, Atlantic states and Northeast today, sending temperatures even lower through Friday, according to KTLA.
The National Weather Service issued a forecast that said short snow squalls might appear on today, bringing even more snow along with the below freezing temperatures.
Keep it tuned to AndNowUKnow for the latest on this developing weather system.
WASHINGTON D.C. - Democratic Senators Barbara Boxer and Richard Blumenthal, as well as Democratic Congressman Peter DeFazio have reunited in order to reintroduce the Genetically Engineered Food Right-to-Know Act. If passed, the bill would put into place legal requirements for the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) to have all genetically modified foods labeled.
“Consumers have a right to know what is in the foods they eat and parents have a right to know what they are feeding their families,” Senator Boxer said, according to a press release. “This legislation will direct the Food and Drug Administration to require clear information for food that has been genetically engineered.”
The FDA currently does not have any requirements or legal obligations to identify genetically modified foods, having declared back in 1992 that as the foods were not “materially different” - defined by the statement as something that could be recognized by consumer sight, smell, or taste - from conventionally grown produce, it was not a necessary differential.
“This measure is about the right to know,” Senator Blumenthal said. “Consumers demand disclosure and truth-telling about food, and they're right."
The political lineup for the bill’s reintroduction is the same as it was back in 2013 with one well-known exception; Owner of Craft Restaurants and Co-Founder of Food Policy Action Tom Colicchio.
“The public wants more information about the food they are buying and how it’s grown,” Colicchio said, according to the release. “I applaud Sen. Boxer and Rep. DeFazio for their leadership, and urge their colleagues to join them and stand up for the 93 percent of Americans who want to know if their food has been genetically modified.”
Collichio refers to statistics provided by the reports with which the bill was proposed, stating that of the Americans polled more than 90 percent supported the labeling of any foods that had been genetically engineered. According to the release, many consumers are surprised this is not already done, especially while 64 other countries already do so.
“We cannot continue to keep Americans in the dark about the food they eat,” Congressman DeFazio said in the release. “More than sixty other countries make it easy for consumers to choose. Why should the U.S. be any different? If food manufacturers stand by their product and the technology they use to make it, they should have no problem disclosing that information to consumers.”
This is far from the only labeling law under consideration, and has only just been reintroduced this month. Stay tuned as ANUK follows this developing story.
TAMPA, FL - Food banks around America will have a little more to smile about this coming year. IFCO is joining the Growing Forward™ with Feeding America® campaign, a year-round cause marketing campaign focus on helping to end hunger in America.
The campaign launched at the beginning of 2015, and primarily uses donations of fresh fruits and vegetables to stock local Feeding America food banks nationwide. IFCO supports food banks around the world through donations of reusable plastic containers (RPCs) and financial support.
As part of the new partnership, IFCO will donate 10,000 RPCs this year to various Feeding America member food banks. These donations provide food banks with the necessary tools to sustain a consistent, safe supply of fresh produce while ensuring that the fruits and vegetables distributed among the Feeding America network are received in the best quality possible, according to a press release.
“IFCO is heavily involved with food banks around the world, donating RPCs to help protect the fresh foods donated by our supplier partners and others. We currently donate RPCs on the local level in North America, but the Growing Forward campaign offers our company an opportunity to focus and expand our efforts,” said Daniel Walsh, President of IFCO North America.
The partnership will be announced at this month’s annual IFCO function in Southern California. Melissa McDill, Campaign Coordinator for Growing Forward, will be in attendance to speak more on the cause. McDill says, “IFCO is a leader in our industry and we’re excited to be working together in the fight against hunger.”
For more information on the Growing Forward™ with Feeding America® campaign, including how to get involved, please visit the trade-focused site, as well as the new consumer-facing site.