POMPANO BEACH, FL - An important and lasting partnership is back, as Breast Cancer Awareness Month begins today. Farm Direct Supply (FDS) has announced the continuation of its partnership with National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF), an organization helping women for over 30 years.

“We are honored to partner with NBCF again, a cause that holds a special place in our hearts and resonates deeply with our valued customers,” expressed Chris Horrell, General Manager, Farm Direct Supply. “Collaborating with NBCF on initiatives like packing Hope Kits, which symbolize care and support for those undergoing breast cancer treatment, reflects our commitment to making a meaningful impact. We are proud to stand alongside NBCF in making a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.”

Transforming its iconic purple packaging, FDS asparagus tags and bands will be updated with a pink co-branded design to honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month for October 2024.

“At NBCF, we strive to ensure that everyone has access to the education, support, and resources they need throughout their breast cancer journey,” shared Mandy O'Neill, Senior Vice President of Development, National Breast Cancer Foundation. “We are deeply grateful for Farm Direct Supply’s ongoing partnership and commitment to expanding and enhancing our vital programs and services. Together, we are making a difference and saving lives.”

As a press release stated, each asparagus tag will feature a QR code directing consumers to a landing page.

This landing page will offer resources on early detection, education, and support for breast cancer patients and families.

As more partnerships and campaigns launch for this formidable cause, ANUK will be here to report.

SANTA CRUZ, CA - In a heartfelt gesture that beautifully bridged the farm-to-table experience, Lakeside Organic Gardens and Charlie Hong Kong created a unique event to emphasize the supplier's indispensable role in the farm-to-table journey.

"This initiative is about more than just food—it’s about creating a moment of joy, creating connection, and demonstrating a profound appreciation in the place where it all begins. We refer to this experience as A Meal in the Field, a heartfelt gesture made possible by the enduring partnership with Charlie Hong Kong. We are deeply grateful for their generosity in initiating this act of respect to honor our essential workers and for the many years of relationships that have helped nourish our community and support our farming," remarked Lakeside Organic Gardens Marketing Manager Drew Clowser.

According to a press release, Lakeside Organic Gardens has supplied the eatery with high-quality organic produce for more than two decades.

The farm's high-quality kale, chard, and other vegetables have been the cornerstone of Charlie Hong Kong's famous organic rice and noodle bowls.

"This meal is an expression of our immense gratitude for the noble work of these essential workers who bring fresh organic produce to our kitchens and community. Without them, we don’t have nourishment," stated Owner Carolyn Rudolph, Charlie Hong Kong.

By bringing its culinary creations to the fields where the ingredients are grown, this particular "Meal in the Field" event honored both farmworkers and foodservice workers.

For updates on how this partnership and others in the industry continue to expand, keep reading AndNowUKnow daily.

ISRAEL - To push the boundaries of freshness, we must turn to great innovators at the foundation of our industry. Breedx, a seed company based in Israel, has spearheaded this effort since its founding in 2017. When seedless sweet peppers emerged on the market, the time was ripe for another company to take on varietal development.

“From the outset, the main focus was to develop specialty vegetables with consumer benefits,” Lior Carmeli, Chief Executive Officer, shared with me. “We implement a new approach to the breeder-grower/shipper-consumer relationship that is quicker, more profitable, and more accessible to all our business partners along the vegetable supply chain.”

With this in mind, Breedx adopted a vertically integrated approach to best address the needs of producers and fresh produce chain partners. To facilitate this, the company is looking for creative solutions to its customer’s specific needs and supporting them through all stages of the crop cycle.

“Over the last three years, Breedx has grown in leaps and bounds to now offer continuity of product presence of sweet and seedless peppers on the supermarket shelves all year round,” Lior added. “This is mainly due to the development of new varieties, tolerant to both hot and cold conditions during fruit set.”

Branded as Pepperito® in Europe, the sweet and seedless snacking pepper from Breedx has established itself as a favorite snack across the continent and is emerging as a sought-after snack in North America.

Breedx’s varieties are grown in Canada, the United States, and Mexico for North American markets, and the present portfolio includes red, orange, and yellow peppers grown from seeds. This gives growers the option to pack an eye-catching, multi-colored assortment.

One notable advantage of collaborating with Breedx is the company's talent for crafting innovative solutions that address customers' unique needs and offering support at every stage of the crop cycle. From planning to marketing, Breedx is there to help its customers maximize the genetic potential of the varieties and achieve high-quality, high-marketable yields.

As Breedx went on to note, consumers are constantly seeking differentiated products that speak to sustainability, health, and cost-efficacy. In the lucky case of Breedx partners, you’ve got a blend of all three.

Looking to connect with Breedx? The company will be at the upcoming International Fresh Produce Association’s (IFPA) Global Produce & Floral Show so connect with them through email to set up a meeting.

AndNowUKnow will continue to cover the latest news regarding innovative products across our industry, so stay tuned.