Produce

Taylor Farms Retail is proud to announce an 80,000 square foot expansion of its cut vegetable facility in Monterey County, CA. The expansion will more than double capacity of the existing facility, bringing the plant to 135,000 square feet on 21 acres. The expansion is scheduled to be completed in early April, 2014. …

The U.S. Department of Agriculture, after reviewing comments from members of the blueberry industry, has approved the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) request for an assessment rate increase to $18 per ton.  The announcement was made in the September 30, 2013 edition of the Federal Register. The increase will take effect beginning January 1, 2014. …

Birko, which provides antimicrobial process aids and sanitation chemistry to the produce industry, is now a Produce Marketing Association Gold Circle Contributor. …

Tops Markets Produce has teamed with the National Mango Board to boost consumption of Fresh Mangos.  All followers of the Tops Produce Twitter page received direct emails offering slicing instructions, and a coupon off the purchase of a fresh mango.  “Mangos are flavorful, healthy, and nutritious, but they can be a little intimidating.  Social Media is a great way to offer tips, and actively engage the new digital consumer,” said Steve Wright, Director of Produce. …

FirstFruits Marketing, in an effort to increase awareness with consumers, invited bloggers from across the country to tour Broetje Orchards, home of Opal® apple, on September 27 and 28. Bloggers came for a day and a half tour for the chance to learn first-hand about growing, harvesting and packing apples as well as providing an opportunity to meet the inspirational people behind the apple company. …