LGS Specialty Sales, a leading importer of citrus, avocados, grapes and persimmons, reinforces its position as a trusted summer citrus supplier for retailers nationwide. Backed by more than 30 years of importing experience and a global network of trusted growers, LGS delivers a dependable supply of premium citrus throughout the summer season.

The Ethical Charter Implementation Program released its second annual industry report, highlighting significant growth in participation and measurable progress in how the fresh produce industry approaches responsible labor practices.

Consalo Family Farms added two experienced procurement professionals to its sourcing team, welcoming Adam Dandrea and Jay Betancourt as procurement managers. These additions further strengthen the company’s procurement capabilities and reinforce its commitment to delivering high-quality produce and dependable year-round programs to customers across North America.

Cool Pak LLC is celebrating 25 years supplying packaging and supplies to the North American produce industry. Incorporated in May of 2001, Cool Pak opened with its first one-pound strawberry clamshell, entering a market dominated by two large suppliers. By providing grower-shippers with a more competitive and agile option, Cool Pak quickly grew into a key supplier for West Coast berry shippers.

California supplies about 90 percent of all U.S.-grown avocados, produced by roughly 3,000 growers. The season runs spring through early fall, with peak volume now through August. Of the 500-plus known avocado varieties, California commercially grows seven, with Hass representing 95 percent of the state’s crop. The Hass variety was first discovered in the 1920s by mail carrier Rudolph Hass.

Market Overview

We are pleased to announce that Matt Capelli has been appointed chief, bureau of inspection and grading for the New Jersey Department of Agriculture. In this role, Capelli manages and coordinates programs, grants and staff across several commodity inspection programs. These programs included food safety initiatives such as the USDA Third Party Audit Program and FDA Food Safety Modernization Act inspection programs for Produce Safety and Animal Feed.