WASHINGTON - On Oct. 3, 2024, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) filed an administrative complaint against Berry People, LLC, of Hollister, Calif., alleging Berry People failed to make full payment promptly in the total amount of $3,519,748.79 to 19 produce sellers for multiple lots of produce purchased, received, and accepted in interstate and foreign commerce, in violation of the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA).

USDA and Berry People have since entered into a Consent Decision and Order finding that Berry People committed repeated and flagrant PACA violations by failing to pay the remaining $1,005,288.56 to multiple produce sellers. The Consent Decision and Order took effect on Aug. 1, 2025.

Pursuant to the PACA, Jerald and Lyndsey Downs, the company’s principals, may not be employed by or affiliated with any PACA licensee until Aug. 1, 2026, and then only with USDA approval and with the posting of a USDA-approved surety bond. All responsibly connected parties, including Jerald Downs, Lyndsey Downs and J&L Downs, LLC, are also ineligible to be licensed under PACA until Aug. 1, 2027, and then only with USDA approval and with the posting of a USDA-approved surety bond.

USDA is required to publish a finding that a business has committed willful, repeated and flagrant PACA violations, and impose restrictions against those principals determined to be responsibly connected to the business during the violation period. 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.

By issuing these penalties, USDA continues to enforce the prompt and full payment for produce while protecting the rights of sellers and buyers in the marketplace. For more information, contact the Investigative Enforcement Branch at (202) 720-6873 or [email protected].

EMMAUS, PA - While some might call a SweeTango® apple “indescribably good,” the truth is that every bite inspires new ways to explain its layered, complex flavor. At this year’s IFPA Global Produce & Floral Show, Oct. 16–18, the brand is helping attendees find the words to describe their unique experience.

SweeTango invites IFPA Global Show attendees to discover their own words by taking a crisp, sweet, and zesty bite at its on-site sampling station.

Located just outside of the entrance of the Anaheim Convention Center’s North Halls, attendees can taste the apple that’s redefining the category. With its explosive crunch, juicy sweetness, and signature tangy finish, SweeTango is one of the most craveable apples available this fall.

Limited Time. High Demand.

Harvested in early fall, each SweeTango season is anticipated by loyal shoppers who look forward to its arrival, year after year.

As one of the most awaited fall specialty items in produce, and with a limited-time window of availability this fall, the opportunity for retailers is to go to market early, build excitement and encourage shoppers to get SweeTango apples while they can.

“For over a decade, retailers and shoppers have been seeking the next Honeycrisp,” said Jennifer Miller, Executive Director of Next Big Thing, in the recent release. “SweeTango delivers that wow factor with a flavor experience shoppers can’t stop talking about, but only if they can get it while it’s here.”

Limited-time availability gives retailers a powerful sales opportunity with a premium apple that’s fresh, limited and worth seeking out. When SweeTango hits shelves, it sparks curiosity and trial while its outstanding flavor drives repeat visits.

Where to Buy SweeTango at IFPA

According to a press release, SweeTango is available through several authorized sales desk partners that also have booths at the IFPA Global Show. This gives buyers multiple opportunities to connect with SweeTango sales representatives and secure programs for the season.

• Stemilt Growers LLC – Booth 2847 (stemilt.com)
• Applewood Fresh Growers – Booth 1897 (applewoodfresh.com)
• Fowler Farms – Booth 3367 (fowlerfarms.com)
• New York Apple Sales – Booth 969 (yesapples.com)

Taste SweeTango at the Global Show

From its explosive crunch to its layered flavor notes of citrus, honey and spice, SweeTango is an experience that’s made to inspire your own personal expression. One bite will get you talking. IFPA Global Show attendees are invited to visit the SweeTango sampling station and taste why this limited-season variety is a proven driver of retail excitement and repeat sales.

Visit the SweeTango sampling station, located outside the North Halls of Anaheim Convention Center during IFPA Global Produce & Floral Show.

For more information, visit SweeTango.com.

IMMOKALEE, FL - Lipman Family Farms, the nation’s largest open-field tomato grower and a trusted partner across the produce supply chain, will spotlight its expanding fresh-cut program and signature Crimson tomato variety at this year’s International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) Global Produce & Floral Show, Oct. 16–18 in Anaheim, CA. Attendees can connect with the Lipman team at Booth 2861.

This year, Lipman brings its “grower at heart” story to life with an updated booth design that highlights the company’s vertically integrated model. From field growing and greenhouse operations to fresh-cut processing and distribution, Lipman has the mindset of a grower, which is central to its ability to deliver fresh, flavorful produce with consistency and scale.

“We’re excited to show customers how Lipman’s vertical integration delivers on its promise of reliability, freshness, and quality,” said Elyse Lipman, CEO of Lipman Family Farms, in the recent release. “At IFPA, we’ll celebrate our grower identity that leads us to innovative new directions, like our convenient fresh-cut line.”

Lipman’s fresh-cut program will be a display highlight, with expanded product offerings and recipe samples showing how convenience and quality can come together for foodservice and retail partners.

Visitors will also get a close look at their Crimson tomato, a proprietary variety prized for its deep color and intense, juicy flavor. Lipman’s Research & Development department celebrates 22 years of continuous varietal innovation and growth for the Crimson brand.

The booth experience gives buyers and partners a taste of Lipman’s full story: a family-owned, vertically integrated company that grows good from the ground up.

Attendees can explore Lipman’s fresh-cut line and Crimson tomatoes at Booth 2861, Oct. 16-18 in Anaheim at IFPA’s Global Produce & Floral Show, and learn more about the company’s full selection of vertically integrated solutions at LipmanFamilyFarms.com

DALLAS, TX - Avocados From Mexico is renewing its partnership with Susan G. Komen, the world’s leading non-profit breast cancer organization. To mark their fifth year of working together, the pair is turning produce aisles pink again with special displays and bags meant to drive further awareness during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October.

“Our pink bags are meant to bring attention to the cause by standing out in the produce aisle," shared Stephanie Bazan, Senior Vice President of Commercial Strategy and Execution. "Our Don’t Just Check These: Check Yours is all about awareness and encouraging people to take time out of their busy days to learn about such an important issue. We’re incredibly proud to once again be partnering with Susan G. Komen to support the inspirational work they do, as well as help avocado lovers everywhere stay healthy for years to come.”  

According to a press release, the co-branded "Don’t Just Check These: Check Yours” campaign, meant to drive consumer awareness by putting a spotlight on early detection for breast cancer, the most common cancer among women in the U.S., will be available nationwide:

• Throughout National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the brand is investing in women's health by committing up to $100 per patient in select regions—marking the brand’s first year of funding actionable health and self-care steps. For more information, visit Avocadosfrommexico.com/SusanGKomen
• Avocados From Mexico (AFM) will also be donating $100,000 to Susan G. Komen as part of the partnership

With 86 percent of consumers more likely to purchase from purpose-driven companies supporting a cause, this campaign allows the brand to further align with shoppers’ values and priorities. At the same time, it highlights the importance of positive eating patterns: Avocados are a fruit that contributes 6 grams of unsaturated fats and nearly 20 vitamins and minerals, providing a delicious way to lead a healthy lifestyle.

FULLERTON, CA - Veg-Land Inc., a second-generation family-owned business, proudly marks its 50^th anniversary, celebrating a legacy of delivering farm-fresh produce, fostering friendships, and driving innovation in the organic and conventional produce industry. Founded in 1976 by brothers Jim “Big Jim” Matiasevich and John Matiasevich, VegLand has grown from humble beginnings in Watsonville, California, into a powerhouse serving retailers and businesses across North America and beyond.

A Family Legacy Rooted in Farming

What began as a bold vision by two brothers to bridge the gap between small family farms and customers’ tables has flourished under the current leadership of Big Jim’s son, Jimmy Matiasevich, alongside his brother Jeff Matiasevich and the rising third generation, Jimmy Jr. The Matiasevich family’s commitment to excellence, honesty, and hard work remains the cornerstone of Veg-Land’s success. “Our family’s passion for farming and dedication to quality has shaped everything we do,” said Jimmy Matiasevich in a press release. “As we celebrate 50 years, we’re driven to reimagine the produce industry for decades to come.”

From Humble Beginnings to Industry Leader

Raised in Watsonville, Jim and John Matiasevich understood the vital role of small, independent growers. In 1976, they founded Veg-Land, Inc., initially providing warehousing and distribution for a national retail chain. A year later, Veg-Land Sales was established, specializing in grower sales from California’s fertile Salinas and Imperial Valleys. In the 1980s, the family launched JBJ Distributing, Inc., to meet the growing demand for organic and specialty produce, cementing their leadership in supplying high-quality organic crops nationwide.

Today, Veg-Land’s three divisions—Veg-Land, Inc., JBJ Distributing, Inc., and Fresh Cut, Inc. deliver comprehensive solutions, from precision warehousing and seamless sourcing to customer-curated fresh-cut processing. These services empower businesses with efficient, cost-effective supply chains and premium, farm-fresh produce.

Transforming the Produce Industry

Veg-Land is more than a supplier—it’s a strategic partner. By minimizing waste, optimizing costs, and streamlining operations, Veg-Land helps businesses of all sizes stay competitive. “We don’t just deliver produce; we deliver results,” said Jimmy Matiasevich. “Our innovative approach ensures our partners receive the freshest fruits and vegetables while reducing shrink, labor, and costs.”

• Veg-Land, Inc.: State-of-the-art warehousing and cold chain mastery ensure produce stays fresh from farm to shelf, with cross-dock services and advanced cooling solutions guaranteeing on-time deliveries.
• JBJ Distributing, Inc.: Expert sourcing and distribution deliver top-quality produce at competitive prices, meeting the highest standards of excellence as growers, packers, and shippers.
• Fresh Cut, Inc.: Custom processing saves time and labor, providing ready-to-use produce tailored to customers’ exact specifications.

A Bright Future Built on Tradition

As Veg-Land celebrates its 50^th anniversary, the Matiasevich family honors its heritage while continuing to embrace innovation. From national retailers to local businesses, Veg-Land remains a trusted partner, delivering transformative solutions that elevate brands and enhance customer experiences. With a century of farming tradition and a forward-thinking vision, VegLand continues to set the standard for excellence in the produce industry.

Visit us at IFPA Global Produce Show—Booth 4197

REEDLEY, CA - The days of Autumnripe’s limited season are ticking down, but as the desirable fruit’s window prepares to close, there is still plenty to celebrate for Mountain View Fruit Sales.

“We are just finishing up the season with our Autumnripe-branded fruit and should expect to have availability till the first part of October,” Krista Beckstead, Director of Marketing, details. “Our Autumnripe fruit gives our retail customers fruit that holds quality and flavor later into the season, extending the window beyond typical harvest periods—we truly save the best for last.”

It is a finale worth celebrating, Krista tells me, as she shares that Mountain View’s stonefruit season began ahead of schedule this year with warm but moderate temperatures.

“Very few stressful weather events allowed for a plentiful harvest with excellent quality fruit this year,” she shares. “We are excited to close out the 2025 stonefruit season with the upcoming IFPA show, to touch base on how it went for each of our customers and discuss possibilities of next year!”

Beyond the orchards, 2025 has been filled with plenty of activity from the grower, including newly refreshed retail bins available to retail customers and newly redesigned boxes that added some extra pizazz.

Along with the updated packaging, Mountain View also launched a refreshed website, featuring a video telling its "grown on family farms" story.

“Come visit booth #1547 and grab one of our customized Mountain View peach energy drinks to add some pep in your step while out on the show floor!” Krista concludes.

I, for one, will certainly be there come October 16–18 at Anaheim, California’s Convention Center.