The American Sweet Potato Marketing Institute, the U.S. Sweet Potato Council, and the North Carolina Sweet potato Commission including the broader agricultural community mourn the loss of Johnny Barnes, abeloved husband, father, leader, innovator and tireless advocate for North Carolina agriculture. Mr. Barnes, 61, died on July 12, after complications from a recent illness.

The International Fresh Produce Association will convene the foodservice industry’s most influential leaders at The Foodservice Conference, taking place July 31 to August. 1 in Monterey, CA.

As the leading event for fresh produce in foodservice, the conference will gather key decision-makers, innovators and top buyers for a dynamic three day lineup that includes buyer sourcing meetings, the Fresh Ideas Showcase, the Foodservice Expo floor, networking receptions, a general session by Technomic on major health food trends and more.

The National Mango Board announced its partnership with 

Giorgio Fresh continues to innovate with value-added mushroom products designed to spark ideas in home kitchens with the convenience that time-pressed consumers seek.

Registration is now open for the eighth annual Organic Grower Summit, presented by Farm Progress, taking place Dec. 3-4 at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa in Monterey, CA. This premier two-day event connects growers, consultants, inspectors and industry partners to advance organic agriculture through education and collaboration.

Key Highlights of the 2025 Summit:

As the summer progresses, North Bay Produce is anticipating high-quality domestic and imported berry supplies to continue into the fall, with some areas producing abundant yields.

Aaron Hunter, North Bay’s strawberry category manager and sales associate, said berry demand remains steady throughout the season.