Tom Crall, category manager of produce at Hy-Vee, died unexpectedly on Sept. 1. Mr. Crall spent the last 34 years with the retailer. 

At this year’s Southeast Produce Council’s Southern Innovations, Bland Farms will spotlight its Premium Sweet Onions alongside the innovations and sustainable practices that continue to shape its leadership in the category.

Pear orchards in the Pacific Northwest are a hum of activity, as the 2025 harvest is officially under way. A relatively mild winter and favorable overall growing conditions have contributed to what USA Pears anticipates will be a bountiful crop, with yields exceeding last year's harvest by an estimated 60 percent.

Mission Produce Inc. will showcase its year-round avocado programs and highlight Mexico’s upcoming supply at Asia Fruit Logistica in Hong Kong, China, Sept. 3-5.  

Natural Grocers is raising awareness of Organic Month with sales on organic products, community education and fundraising efforts with Rodale Institute. Customers can learn more about the organic food movement and save big while trying new organic recipes, 100 percent organic produce and other organic offerings throughout their local store.

Partnership for a Healthier America, the national nonprofit working to create a healthier future through good food for all, announced a new partnership with Brighter Bites, a nonprofit that delivers fresh fruits and vegetables and nutrition education to schools.