The realization by the New York Apple Association that there is an increase in apple consumption by the Hispanic population has spurred a promotional campaign that brings together the association and Pride of New York, a New York state-based program that promotes and supports the sale of agricultural products grown and food products processed within the state.

Peter Gregg, spokesman for the New York Apple Association, said that promotion organizers have met with about 350 independently owned Hispanic retail grocers throughout New York and other areas of the country.

Effective Aug. 28, pink and red tomatoes grown in approved registered production sites in Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama may be shipped to the United States.

Nick Gutierrez, acting administrator of the USDA's Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service, made the announcement Aug. 22 in the Federal Register.

Sundia Corp., maker of watermelon juice and marketer of fresh watermelons, announced that it has expanded distribution into Hong Kong and Canada.

Sundia watermelon juices are now exclusively available at CitySuper Stores in Hong Kong, while nearly a dozen retailers will be selling the juices in Canada by the end of September.

Joseph A. Duda, president and chief executive officer of A. Duda & Sons Inc. in Oviedo, FL, announced the appointment of key executives at two of the corporation's wholly owned subsidiary companies: Duda Farm Fresh Foods Inc. and Duda Products Inc.

Robert P. (Bob) Gray, a 25-year veteran of Duda's fresh operations, has been named chief executive officer of Duda Farm Fresh Foods Inc. Edward D. (Dan) Duda Jr., who has served for 26 years in fresh sales and marketing for the family-owned company, has been promoted to chief operating officer of Duda Farm Fresh Foods Inc.

Four Seasons Produce Inc. in Ephrata, PA, has changed the name of its importing operation from Four Seasons Trading to Fresh Pro Trading Inc. The new name is designed to provide a unique identity to Four Seasons' importing operations while maintaining a focus on its expertise as an experienced importer.