NEW YORK - Fast food giant McDonald's launched its new premium Fruit & Walnut Salad May 4 at its Times Square location on 42nd Street and Broadway, here. The product is expected to be added to its menus in restaurants across the country in line with the company's national advertising campaign scheduled to begin on May 10.

CHICAGO - AgroFresh announced May 1 that SmartFresh is now available for fresh bananas.

SmartFresh quality bananas maintain their bright yellow color and fresh pulp longer before developing brown spots, according to the company. Retailers are able to merchandise at a higher color stage than previously possible, and gain a minimum of two additional selling days with SmartFresh quality bananas without increasing shrink.

Mr. Precht, former Perishables Group account manager for the Cameo Apple Marketing Association, moved into a full-time position with CAMA as its new marketing program director in what he termed a "transition" made in late April.

"North American retailers can expect to have ad volume of South African clementines in late June, along with a variety of package options," said Tom Cowan, South African citrus manager for DNE World Fruit Sales Inc. in Fort Pierce, FL. "Throughout this summer, retailers can expect new varieties and new packaging to highlight the upcoming South African import season.

CHICAGO - A panel of consumers raised a few eyebrows with candid opinions about what drives their produce purchasing decisions during a Retail Marketing session held April 30, here, at the United Produce Show.

The session was facilitated by the Perishables Group and moderated by Steve Lutz, executive vice president of the organization.

The obesity problem in the United States has been grossly overplayed, according to a group of unidentified restaurateurs and food manufacturers.