CHICAGO, IL - At this year's United Fresh convention, 45 fresh fruit and vegetable innovations were on display for attendees to admire and vote for the best, but only five could be named as the top winners.
“We’re excited to announce the winners of the 2015 New Product Awards,” said John Toner, United’s Vice President of Convention & Industry Collaboration. “Of the record 45 finalists, the five winners exemplify exceptional ingenuity in fresh produce.”
Did your favorite make the cut? Check out the list of winners below.
Best New Food Safety Solution – GO LUX, Locus Traxx Worldwide
The GO LUX is the first recyclable, low cost, real-time temperature and location-monitoring device for perishables. With this new product, Locus Traxx has added enhanced security. The LUX senses light, alerts you when your products are at risk on the road, and records when doors are opened at the dock.
“This achievement solidifies our dedication to technological advancements in the industry and our passion to deliver the very best technology and service to our customers,” said David Benjamin, Locus Traxx CEO. “Our participation at this year’s United Fresh show was successful thanks to the hard work of the entire Locus Traxx team and we are delighted to accept this recognition.”
Best New Fruit Product – “On-the-Go” Fresh Blueberry Mix, Naturipe Farms, LLC
Naturipe’s new “Ready to Eat” fresh fruit snacks have debuted in two varieties: Mango/Blueberry and Grape/Blueberry. Both combinations feature fun, high-graphic packaging and come in single serve or trio sizes.
Best New Vegetable Product – Flavor Bombs Cherry Tomatoes, Mastronardi Produce/SUNSET®
This multi-award winning tomato is grown with seed exclusively sourced from the south of France.
Best New Packaging – ReadyRipe Watermelon Pouch, Maglio & Company
This gusseted pouch can extend the shelf life of watermelon for up to 11 days versus the shelf life of conventional overwrap and trays. It holds ¼” cut or ½” cut slices of watermelon.
“We’re very excited to have been honored with the United Fresh Innovation Award for Best New Packaging, as this gives us the opportunity to increase exposure of Maglio Companies products through innovative design,” said Joe Delgadillo, Product Innovation Manager at Maglio Companies. “We hope to continue to drive innovation in the category of fresh produce by providing new ways for consumers to enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables with a longer shelf life.”
Best New Packing/Processing Equipment – Watermelon Peeler Chunker, ABL
This innovative system can be used to obtain watermelon chunk/spear directly from the whole fruit.
“New products like these are an essential element of the success of the fresh and fresh-cut produce industry,” said Tom Stenzel, United’s President and CEO. “Our member companies bring foresight about market trends and emerging technologies, and then apply creative ideas to capitalize on those trends, which contributes to the growth and profitability of our entire industry.”
Congratulations to all the winners!
