Posted inProduce News, Association News, News, Southeast

SEPC Seeks Nominations For The Unseen Hero Award

The Southeast Produce Council (SEPC) is accepting nominations for The Unseen Hero Award, a special recognition honoring those who work behind the scenes to keep the produce industry moving forward. Whether in growing, shipping, packing, retail or foodservice, these unsung heroes make a lasting impact without seeking the spotlight. Award criteria Nominees should exemplify: Dedication […]

Posted inProduce News, Association News, National, News

IFPA Encourages Science-Based Standards To National Organic Standards Board

The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) has submitted comments to the National Organic Standards Board highlighting priority issues for the organic fresh produce sector. The comments were in response to a feedback request from NOSB’s Spring 2025 Work Agenda. Developed in consultation with the association’s organics committee, the comments emphasize the need for practical, science-based […]

Posted inProduce News, News, Stater Bros. Markets, West

Stater Bros. Markets Expands Partnership With IFCO

Stater Bros. Markets, the largest privately-owned supermarket chain in Southern California, has expanded its long-term partnership with IFCO, a global leader in reusable packaging solutions for fresh food. As part of the multi-year agreement, Stater Bros. will broaden its use of IFCO reusable packaging containers (RPCs) across a wider range of fresh fruits and vegetables. […]

Posted inMerchandising News, Health & Wellness, National, News

HHS, FDA To Phase Out Petroleum-Based Synthetic Dyes

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Food and Drug Administration have announced a series of measures to phase out all petroleum-based synthetic dyes from the nation’s food supply. The FDA is taking the following actions: Establishing a national standard and timeline for the food industry to transition from petrochemical-based synthetic dyes […]

Posted inProduce News, Market Profile, News, Southeast

Florida’s Watermelon Heartland Prepping For Start Of Sweet Season

Florida, particularly Central Florida, is a major watermelon-producing region, providing the sweet summer fruit to grocers across the Southeast and beyond. The Shelby Report of the Southeast recently visited with Lee Wroten, VP of Lakeland, Florida-based Global Produce Sales, to learn more about what makes this growing region special and how this year’s crop is […]

Posted inProduce News, Packaging News, Southeast

Fresh Express Introduces Refreshed Brand Identity, Redesigned Packaging

Orlando, Florida-based Fresh Express is introducing a refreshed brand identity with a modernized logo, redesigned packaging and a focus on fresh quality, taste and health. The updated visual identity will begin appearing on shelves nationwide starting May 9, with additional activations to follow as part of the broader “Express Yourself” campaign, which launched in April. […]