The worse the rap on processed foods, especially processed snacks, the better it is turning out for the nuts and dried fruits categories.

With changing consumer lifestyles, plus a strong demand for clean label and healthier snacks, the nuts and dried fruits segments are getting much more attention from both consumers and retailers. The result is a steady and strong uptick in sales growth, with many industry experts predicting that volume will continue to grow at strong rates for the foreseeable future.

Randy Riley, a prominent figure in the produce industry and co-owner of GoldenSun Insights, has been selected as the exclusive speaker for the 79th annual Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association Convention. This highly anticipated event, which attracts industry leaders, growers, and professionals from around the country, is scheduled to take place, Sept. 25 -27, 2023 in Naples, FL.

dVida Co., located in the heart of Houston, is known for being an agricultural leader that exports and imports fresh, frozen, dehydrated tropical fruits and vegetables from Ecuador.  

dVida’s founders are Ecuadorian families dedicated to agribusiness and have more than 30 years of experience in the agricultural industry. 

This year marks 20 years since Whole Foods Market first attained organic retail certification. To date, the company offers more than 37,000 organic products across its stores and remains the only national retailer to hold this certification.

Wilcox Fresh, a leading grower-shipper of Idaho russet potatoes, is expecting a solid crop this year with volume on par with last season.

Derek Peterson, vice president of sales and operations for the Rexburg, ID-based company, told The Produce News on Aug. 28 that favorable growing conditions this summer are at the root of his optimism for this season’s crop. “The summer growing conditions were ideal,” he said. “It got a little warm in July, but we experienced no significant setbacks.”

The Southeast Produce Council held its Southern Innovations expo in Charlotte, NC, for the first time Sept. 14-16. In the home city of the NASCAR Hall of Fame, SEPC redefined “going green” with its auto racing-themed event, which highlighted the latest innovations within the fresh produce industry, from organics and new product developments to technology and unique brand approaches.