The U.S. Department of Agriculture has filed an administrative complaint against National Fruit Product Co. Inc. for alleged violations of the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act. The company, operating from Virginia allegedly failed to make payment promptly to two produce sellers in the amount of $353,349 from September through December 2022. National Fruit Product Co. Inc. will have an opportunity to request a hearing. Should USDA find that the company committed repeated and flagrant violations, it would be barred from the produce industry as a licensee for three years, or two years with

Warmer weather is here with those nice hot summer nights ahead. This is the time to clean up those grills and fire them up. Besides grilling steaks and ribs, there are also some fresh vegetables that will roast very well. Grilled veggies are the perfect summer treat, especially around a gathering of family and friends. Zucchini squash, asparagus, sweet corn, mushrooms and eggplant are only a few fresh vegetables suitable for the grill. Most items are in moderate demand with a steady market right now. Asparagus season is here, and the local supplies are ready for harvesting. Broccoli should be

Whole Foods Market launched Beyond the Board, a new podcast storytelling series that spotlights different guests — from founders of major brands to up-and-coming suppliers as well as community leaders and policy makers — all working to nourish people and the planet. The premiere episode features Whole Foods Market CEO Jason Buechel in conversation with Cloud23 founder Brooklyn Peltz Beckham. “Beyond the Board offers listeners a behind-the-scenes look at how purpose-driven businesses are built, letting them hear directly from changemakers shaping the future of food and wellness,” Buechel said.

Altar Produce, a global leader in the production and marketing of premium vegetables, announced a significant expansion in its specialty vegetable offerings, reinforcing its long-term commitment to innovation, quality and customer-driven solutions. As part of this initiative, Altar Produce, based in Calexico, CA, is announcing an expansion of its year-round green onion program, designed to meet the rising global demand with consistent supply, scalable volume and tailored presentations. With operations rooted in strategic growing regions, the program ensures continuous availability and optimal

The International Fresh Produce Association's Retail Conference delivered a day of compelling insights, real-world strategy and hands-on collaboration — anchored by renowned retail expert and Retail Rules! author Kevin Coupe, who served as emcee. Alongside IFPA’s Joe Watson, Coupe helped set the tone with a deep dive into the state of retail, highlighting shifts in consumer behavior, supply chain dynamics and the broader implications for the fresh produce sector. Timely discussions examined the early policy moves of the new administration and their ripple effects across the industry, while