WASHINGTON, DC & IRVINE, CA - The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) issued the following statement in response to the second report released by the White House’s Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission:

“IFPA welcomes the publication of the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission’s second report, which marks an important step in elevating nutrition as a national public health priority. We applaud the Commission’s recognition of the vital role ‘whole, healthy’ foods like fresh produce play in improving health outcomes and reducing healthcare costs. Simply put, you cannot make America healthy again without fruits and vegetables.

“Building on this momentum, IFPA urges policymakers to take bold, practical action. Our evidence-based policy recommendations call for the Department of Health and Human Services to embed produce prescriptions as a covered benefit within federal health programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, and the Department of Veterans Affairs; urge Congress and USDA to expand the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) to all schools and improve fresh produce procurement options in feeding programs; ask FDA to prioritize clear and transparent front-of-pack labeling to help consumers make informed choices; and support all production systems including voluntary, incentive-based regenerative agriculture policies that focus on strengthening soil health, biodiversity and water efficiency while ensuring a sustainable produce supply.

“In the months ahead, IFPA will focus its efforts on both administrative and congressional pathways to make our recommendations a reality. The fresh produce industry stands ready to partner with the Trump administration, lawmakers, and nutrition and agricultural leaders to ensure every American has access to the fruits and vegetables they need for a healthier life.”

In response to the MAHA Commission report released, Western Growers also issued the following statement:

“The Trump Administration’s MAHA Commission finally places a long-overdue emphasis on realigning our national food and nutrition policies to greatly enhance the role of fresh produce,” said Western Growers President and CEO Dave Puglia, in the recent release. “At the same time, the Commission has created a roadmap that cuts regulatory red tape and fosters innovation in much-needed research necessary to protect and strengthen the ability of American growers to provide these fresh fruits, vegetables, and tree nuts. We thank the Administration for this needed disruption to our national food policies and look forward to collaborating with the Administration and the MAHA Commission on making America’s farmers the foundational strength of a healthier population.”

WASHINGTON, DC - Following a near-record peak this summer, import cargo volume at the nation’s major container ports is expected to steadily decline for the remainder of the year amid rising tariffs, according to the Global Port Tracker report released by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

“We have seen the implementation of reciprocal tariffs across the globe, with a number of key trading partners being subjected to tariffs higher than the earlier 10% tariffs,” NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold said in the release. “We also continue to see more and more sectoral tariffs impacting a wider scope of products. Retailers have stocked up as much as they can ahead of tariff increases, but the uncertainty of U.S. trade policy is making it impossible to make the long-term plans that are critical to future business success. These tariffs and disruptions to the supply chain are adding costs that will ultimately lead to higher prices for American consumers.”

While “reciprocal” tariffs on a number of countries took effect in early August, a federal appeals court later ruled against President Donald Trump’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose the tariffs, but left them in place while the ruling is under appeal to the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, Trump delayed an increase in tariffs on China by 90 days to Nov. 10 so trade negotiations could continue. Trump also announced an additional 25% tariff on India that took effect near the end of August, bringing the additional tariff rate to 50%.

“Tariffs have had a significant impact on trade,” Hackett Associates Founder Ben Hackett said. “The trade outlook for the final months of the year is not optimistic.”

U.S. ports covered by Global Port Tracker handled 2.36 million Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units — one 20-foot container or its equivalent — in July, although numbers for New York/New Jersey, Port Everglades, and Miami were estimated because they have not yet reported their data. That was up 20.1% from June as retailers brought in merchandise ahead of tariffs set to take effect in August, and up 1.8% year over year. It would be the second-busiest month on record, topped only by 2.4 million TEU in May 2022.

Ports have not yet reported numbers for August, but Global Port Tracker projected the month at 2.28 million TEU, down 1.7% year over year but higher than that 2.2 million TEU expected before the postponement of China tariffs and the new tariff on India.

September is forecast at 2.12 million TEU, down 6.8% year over year; October at 1.95 million TEU, down 13.2%, and November at 1.74 million TEU, down 19.7%. December is forecast at 1.7 million TEU, down 20.1% year over year for the slowest month since 1.62 million TEU in March 2023.

While the falling monthly totals are related to tariffs, the year-over-year percentage declines are both because of this year’s early peak season and because imports in late 2024 were elevated by concerns about port strikes.

The first half of 2025 totaled 12.53 million TEU, up 3.6% year over year. The full year is forecast at 24.7 million TEU, down 3.4% from 25.5 million TEU in 2024.

January 2026 is forecast at 1.8 million TEU, down 19.1% year over year.

Global Port Tracker, which is produced for NRF by Hackett Associates, provides historical data and forecasts for the U.S. ports of Los Angeles/Long Beach, Oakland, Seattle and Tacoma on the West Coast; New York/New Jersey, Port of Virginia, Charleston, Savannah, Port Everglades, Miami and Jacksonville on the East Coast, and Houston on the Gulf Coast. The report is free to NRF retail members, and subscription information is available at NRF.com/PortTracker or by calling (202) 783-7971. Subscription information for non-members can be found at www.globalporttracker.com.

As the leading authority and voice for the retail industry, NRF analyzes economic conditions affecting the industry through reports such as Global Port Tracker.

YAKIMA, WA - Proprietary Variety Management (PVM) announced the promotion of Marlisa Garcia from Marketing Coordinator to Marketing Manager.

Garcia joined PVM after earning her B.S. in Business/Marketing from Portland State University and quickly became a key contributor to the Cosmic Crisp® brand and broader PVM marketing initiatives.

In her new role, Garcia will continue to lead social and digital programs, manage content development in partnership with agency teams, oversee packaging design and approvals, and support industry stakeholders both domestically and internationally. She will also expand into media relations and the launch marketing of new PVM brands in the near future.

Garcia’s roots in Washington’s tree fruit industry run deep. A Washington Apple Education Foundation (WAEF) scholarship recipient from Brewster, Washington, she spent summers and school breaks working a variety of roles in the industry—experience that informs her practical, results-driven approach to brand building.

“Watching Marlisa’s growth at PVM has been incredibly rewarding,” said Kathryn Grandy, Chief Marketing Officer, PVM, in the recent release. “She came in with strong fundamentals and, through dedication and curiosity, rapidly expanded her skill set—leading integrated social programs, coordinating complex packaging updates, and strengthening relationships with partners across Washington and international markets. Marlisa embodies PVM’s commitment to thoughtful, high-integrity marketing of our brands, and this promotion reflects the leadership she already brings to our team every day.”

OXNARD, CA - Mission Produce, Inc., a world leader in sourcing, producing, and distributing fresh Hass avocados, reported its financial results for the fiscal third quarter ended July 31, 2025.

Fiscal Third Quarter 2025 Financial Overview:

• Total revenue increased 10% to $357.7 million compared to the same period last year
• Net income of $14.7 million, or $0.21 per diluted share, compared to $12.4 million, or $0.17 per diluted share, for the same period last year
• Adjusted net income of $18.2 million, or $0.26 per diluted share, compared to $16.7 million, or $0.23 per diluted share, for the same period last year
• Adjusted EBITDA increased 3% to $32.6 million, compared to $31.5 million in the same period last year

CEO Message

Steve Barnard, CEO of Mission, stated in the recent report, "This quarter, our commercial team demonstrated its unique ability to effectively program our owned Peruvian production to strategically deliver fruit into multiple global regions, resulting in supply consistency for our consumers and another quarter of strong financial performance. Our vertically integrated model, which combines a year-round sourcing network, owned production, global marketing and distribution capabilities, and value-add services, allows Mission to provide category leadership to drive global consumption. What's particularly encouraging is how our operations have adapted to market volatility — we've now demonstrated our ability to deliver solid results whether facing difficult supply conditions or favorable harvest environments, reflecting the consistency and operational excellence that helps us navigate various headwinds and capitalize on opportunities as they arise. With our strong operational performance and continued focus on working capital management, we generated $34 million of operating cash flow during the third quarter and expect to build on this in the fourth quarter as we sell the balance of our owned-crop inventory."

Fiscal Third Quarter 2025 Consolidated Financial Review

• Total revenue for the third quarter of fiscal 2025 increased $33.7 million, or 10% to $357.7 million compared to the same period last year. The increase was primarily driven by the Marketing & Distribution segment, where avocado volume sold increased 10%, partially offset by a decrease in average per-unit avocado sales prices of 5%. Volume and price movements resulted from higher Peruvian avocado production driven by more favorable weather conditions in the current year and greater availability of Mexican fruit due to harvest disruptions in the previous year.
• Gross profit increased $8.1 million or 22% in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 to $45.1 million, while gross profit percentage increased 120 basis points compared to the same period last year, to 12.6% of revenue. The increase was driven by the International Farming segment, where avocado production was significantly higher due to increased yields at our farms.

See the full report here.

FOLSOM, CA - The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) released the official 2025 California Walnut Industry Objective Measurement Report on Wednesday, September 4, 2025. The 2025 California walnut production is forecasted at 710,000 tons (644,101 MT), up 18% from 2024’s production of 603,000 tons (547,032 MT). The forecast is based on 365,000 bearing acres, down 1% from 2024’s estimated bearing acreage of 370,000 acres.

The September 4th announcement from NASS provides the industry with an objective crop volume estimate. Using scientific methodologies, USDA field staff counted, measured, weighed, and evaluated thousands of walnuts from major growing regions in July and August for use in a statistical acreage model to establish the annual walnut crop estimate.

In addition to the updated crop estimate, the California walnut industry is nearing the close-out of the 2024 crop year. Early evaluations are encouraging, suggesting it will be one of the lowest unsold carry-in inventory volumes the industry has seen in years, and much of this inventory will be sold in September and October before the new harvest is ready to ship.

“The estimate of 710,000 tons is in line with what the industry was projecting,” said Robert Verloop, Executive Director and CEO of the California Walnut Board and Commission, in the recent release. “Combined with virtually being sold out of the 2024 crop, the industry is well positioned to start shipping new harvest California walnuts immediately, providing seller and buyer confidence and stable markets.”

“Moreover, walnut quality is exceptional, the result of careful farming, ideal spring and summer conditions, and replenished soil moisture, with a consistent nut set. Growers have been opening walnuts and have commented that the walnut kernels are completely filling the shells and have an exceptionally light color for this time of the year. This crop may exceed the excellent quality we have seen in the last two years. I think international markets will be very pleased.”

Harvest begins in September with early varieties and may extend into early November, harvesting the crop at its peak quality and full development.

The California walnut industry foresees a promising season ahead. The California Walnut Board and Commission continues its focus to build long-term demand and increase sales for California walnuts by implementing programs that drive consumers to eat more walnuts, more often, and in more ways. With a strong commitment to delivering excellent quality, the highest food safety standards, consumer appeal, and a reliable supply, California walnuts are well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of the global market — today and into the future.

WATSONVILLE, CA - Monterey Mushrooms is excited to announce the nationwide expansion of its cutting-edge top seal packaging, following its successful debut at the company’s Madisonville, Texas farm. Building on the positive impacts seen in Texas, Monterey Mushrooms is extending this packaging solution to farms in Loudon, Tennessee, and Morgan Hill, California.

Monterey Mushrooms’ top seal packaging is made from rPET tills, crafted entirely from 100% post-consumer recycled materials. Utilizing NIR (near-infrared) colorant, these containers are recyclable—reinforcing the company’s ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility and reducing its carbon footprint.

Top seal packaging delivers several key benefits for retailers, consumers, and the environment:

• Enhanced on-shelf presentation for a superior shopping experience
• Added protection throughout the supply chain, ensuring mushrooms stay fresh and maintain optimal shelf life
• Reduced mounding above the tray, keeping mushrooms neatly contained and protected
• Improved code date legibility for shoppers and store associates
• Enables merchandising on “pusher” racks for more effective use of multi-deck produce cases
• More consistent label application for a professional look
• Added space to feature engaging graphics and messaging on our packaging, including health claims and nutrition facts

“An extensive study by the Mushroom Council to gauge consumer attitudes and behaviors related to fresh mushrooms found that adding nutrition labeling to mushroom packaging may help increase sales,” said Lindsey Occhipinti, Marketing Manager, in the recent release. "Details about vitamin D have the greatest influence. Mushrooms are packed with a powerful combination of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.” Showcasing these health benefits at the point of purchase is a key opportunity for growth in the mushroom category.

“By using black rPET tills with NIR colorant, we ensure our packages remain part of a circular economy while maintaining the unbeatable freshness and quality our customers expect,” Occhipinti added.

This national rollout reflects Monterey Mushrooms’ dedication to innovation, customer satisfaction, and environmental stewardship.

DELTA, CANADA - As interest in how food is grown continues to rise, WINDSET FARMS® has partnered with Koppert Biological Systems to launch an engaging digital campaign that takes consumers behind the scenes of greenhouse production. Together, they are educating viewers on sustainable greenhouse growing practices, with a focus on the beneficial insects utilized in Windset’s Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program.

By featuring the expertise of Windset’s IPM Lead, Tammy, alongside Koppert’s Technical Consultant, Jordan, the campaign brought complex biological systems to life in educational and approachable videos shared on social media platforms.

“Our customers want to know more than ever about sustainability and how their food is grown,” said Randi Church, Marketing Manager at Windset Farms, in the recent release. “Our partnership with Koppert shares how science and nature work together to produce delicious, high-quality greenhouse vegetables.”

The series premiered in late August, with the posts achieving top ranks for engagement and view rate for the month, reflecting our communities' eagerness to learn more. Included was an introduction episode, followed by three episodes, each focusing on a beneficial insect used in Windset’s IPM program:

• The Role of Bumblebees in Tomato Crops: Showcasing Bombus impatiens, bumblebees that are used to pollinate tomato flowers, ensuring consistent fruit development. View here.
• The Role of Predatory Mites in Pepper Crops: Introducing Phytoseiulus persimilis, a beneficial mite employed to control spider mite populations, and Koppert’s innovative IPM Scouting Software that shares insight with Windset’s IPM team. View here.
• The Role of Parasitic Wasps in Cucumber Crops: Highlighting Aphidius colemani, a parasitic wasp with a unique and effective way of controlling aphids. View here.

By blending storytelling with scientific insight, Windset Farms and Koppert invite consumers into the world of sustainable greenhouse growing while demonstrating how natural solutions protect crops and reduce environmental impact.

The whole series is available to watch on both Instagram accounts: @windsetfarms and @koppertus.

LOS ANGELES, CA - Wonderful® Pistachios is bringing a layer of indulgence to its fan-favorite snack lineup with the introduction of two products: Chocolate Sea Salt and Chocolate Toffee. With these launches, Wonderful Pistachios marks its debut in the confectionary category without straying from its commitment to premium quality products and innovation.

Chocolate Sea Salt and Chocolate Toffee pistachios deliver protein with a sweet punch and dark chocolate antioxidant goodness, offering consumers better-for-you ingredients when sweet cravings strike. Both products feature Wonderful Pistachios’ signature California-grown roasted pistachios, thinly dipped in rich dark chocolate made with 50% cacao, delivering a crave-worthy combination of salty and sweet that offers an indulgent twist on the brand’s award-winning portfolio.

“Consumers are increasingly looking for snacks that hit the sweet spot, literally and nutritionally,” said Diana Salsa, vice president of marketing for Wonderful Pistachios, in the recent release. “With Chocolate Sea Salt and Chocolate Toffee, we’re giving snackers the best of both worlds: The crisp crunch of pistachios paired with a bite-sized amount of dark chocolate decadence. We’re excited to introduce a treat that delivers indulgence without compromise.”

Designed for those who want to treat themselves while still making mindful choices, this new offering is a smart snack that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Wonderful Pistachios No Shells Chocolate Sea Salt and Chocolate Toffee will be available in resealable four-ounce bags, launching first at Walmart stores this fall and online at Walmart.com.

Most recently, Wonderful Pistachios has experienced tremendous growth by adding bold and savory varieties to its roster that tap into today’s viral flavor trends. The launch of Chocolate Sea Salt and Chocolate Toffee marks the first time Wonderful Pistachios is creating an entirely new snacking category for itself. With this first step into chocolate, Wonderful Pistachios is expanding beyond traditional nut snacks and opening a whole new chapter for the brand.

For more information visit WonderfulPistachios.com, or Get Crackin’ with @wonderfulpistachios on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.