The Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association is pleased with what it’s seeing from its growers this year, especially its sweet corn.

“Florida has excellent quality this season with plenty of promotable volume for the rest of the spring season,” said Tori Rumenik, director of commodity services and supply chain for the FFVA.

According to various industry reports, the national average for shrink among supermarkets is in the area of 2.7 percent of sales — for all departments. Produce is 16 percent of that total shrink. The produce shrink waste is from 4 to 8 percent of the department sales.

Fresh From Florida brand recognition continues to grow with nearly 1.2 million followers across its social media platforms. The advertising campaign drives consumers to FreshFromFlorida.com to learn what Florida products are in season and explore hundreds of delicious recipes featuring Florida-grown products.

The Giant Co.'s Feeding School Kids initiative, in partnership with its customers, raised more than $1.2 million to address food insecurity throughout local public school districts in the communities it serves.

Harvesting is under way for Alpine Fresh LLC's Sweet Karoline blackberries, and the first shipments crossed from Mexico earlier this month. While the conventional Sweet Karoline blackberry season has already been in motion, the organic program has now begun, promising the same exceptional quality and flavor customers have come to expect.

The organic Sweet Karoline blackberries are marketed under Alpine’s Hippie Organics brand, adding to its vibrant lineup of premium organic produce.

Tyler Price has been elected chairman of the Washington Apple Education Foundation board of directors. Price was elected at the foundation’s annual meeting held April 24 at Central Washington University.