At the invitation of the U.S. Navy, Avocados From Peru participated in America’s 250th Anniversary Maritime Celebration, hosting a “Superfood Breakfast” aboard the USS Arlington on July 2.
The breakfast, which took place prior to the International Naval Review 250 in New York Harbor, recognized the service and dedication of the men and women of the U.S. armed forces “while highlighting the role fresh, nutrient dense foods can play in supporting health, wellness and sustained energy,” according to Avocados From Peru, the promotional brand of the Peruvian Avocado Commission, a U.S. nonprofit operating under the Federal Promotion Program for Hass Avocados and overseen by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Sailors and guests enjoyed a breakfast with avocados and smoothies featuring fresh avocados and blueberries from Peru, two of the country’s major agricultural exports.
To fuel and to honor
“This was an extraordinary honor for Avocados From Peru,” said Xavier Equihua, president and CEO of the Peruvian Avocado Commission. “To be invited by the U.S. Navy to participate in the commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary was both a privilege and a meaningful opportunity to recognize the men and women who serve our country.
“It was especially rewarding to see Peru represented not only through our Superfood Breakfast aboard the USS Arlington, but also by the presence of the B.A.P. Unión, one of the world’s largest and most impressive sailing training ships, during Sail250.”
The USS Arlington, a San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock, is named in honor of the victims and first responders at the Pentagon following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. During the event, Capt. Vince Libasci, commanding officer of the USS Arlington, welcomed guests aboard and spoke about the ship’s mission and history.
The celebration also highlighted Peru’s participation in Sail250 through the B.A.P. Unión, which joined tall ships and naval vessels from around the world in one of the largest international maritime gatherings ever held in the United States.
Honored guests included Ambassador Juan Pablo Vegas, Chargé d’Affaires of Peru to the United Nations; Oswaldo Del Aguila, Consul General of Peru in New York; Luke Sears, president of LGS Specialty Sales; and Giuseppi and Mario Lanzone, founders of Peruvian Brothers.
Promotional push for summer
The Superfood Breakfast is one of several initiatives in Avocados From Peru’s summer promotional campaign. It is conducting retail promotions, sports partnerships, culinary events and media initiatives, all designed to increase avocado consumption across the United States.
As Peru’s avocado season reaches its peak, Avocados From Peru continues to promote healthy lifestyles by introducing consumers and foodservice professionals to innovative ways to enjoy fresh avocados “while creating memorable experiences through partnerships that celebrate community, nutrition and wellness,” said the organization, which represents Peruvian avocado growers, exporters and importers.
