HLB Tropical Food USA Inc. is using a recent study by the University of Florida to promote the health benefits of papayas. HLB, which is based in Plantation, FL, and is among the bigger U.S. importers of Brazilian papayas, is citing a study published March 9 in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology titled "Aqueous extract of Carica papaya leaves exhibit anti-tumor activity and immunomodulatory effects" to raise the awareness of the fruit's health benefits, specifically the cancer-fighting properties of papaya leaves. A team of researchers led by Nam H. Dang found that the papaya leaf concentrate

Mangos are one of the faster-growing produce categories in America and currently the number one eaten fruit throughout the world. To promote this popular fruit, Freska Produce, based in Oxnard, CA, is making an appearance on Lifetime Channel's morning show "The Balancing Act." The segment, which is scheduled to air April 9 and May 14, features Chef Peter Edwards, who is a representative of Freska and who is also executive chef at Watermark restaurant in Ventura, CA. Chef Edwards offers tricks for knowing when a mango is ripe and methods for proper slicing as well as tasty mango recipes.

WASHINGTON -- Lorri Koster, co-chairman of Mann Packing Co., will be the guest speaker at the United Fresh Produce Association's 2010 reception honoring Women in Produce, Wednesday, April 21, at the Sands Expo & Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV. Held each year in conjunction with the United Fresh annual convention, the Women in Produce reception recognizes all women working in the produce industry, and selects one individual to share her personal experience of service. From nominations submitted by United Fresh members across the industry, each year's speaker is selected by a committee of

In an effort to provide consumers with healthy and nutritious meal alternatives to their everyday favorites, Duda Farm Fresh Foods, based in Oveido, FL, has launched Fresh Family Meal Makeover, a featured page on www.DudaFresh.com showcasing how-to videos for nutritious recipes in recognition of National Nutrition Month. Fresh Family Meal Makeover features Veronica Moister, certified nutritionist, life coach, personal trainer and busy mother of three. After battling her weight, Ms. Moister began to focus her life on nutrition and feeding her family foods that would not only satisfy their

The California Avocado Commission announced two staff additions March 16. Jonathan Dixon, a former research scientist at the New Zealand Avocado Growers' Association & Industry Council Ltd., has been hired as research program director. Dr. Dixon has 30 years of experience in the avocado, horticulture, plant science, plant health and molecular bioscience realms. He has strong research and industry networks in California, South Africa, Spain, Australia and Israel. As research program director, his responsibilities will include research project management, outreach and communications, and

REEDLEY, CA -- Bravante Produce, here, which packs citrus under the "Sunkist" label, has donated 16 tons of fresh Navel oranges to aid relief efforts for victims of the Feb. 27 earthquake in the Concepcion region of Chile. Richard Sullivan, warehouse manager at Bravante Produce, wanted to do something to help the victims of the Chilean earthquake and set about making arrangements for a donation of 16 tons of fresh California Navels to be delivered by sea container to the quake zone. George Bravante, citrus grower and the owner of Bravante Produce, donated the oranges and packing. Mid-Valley