The beginning of a new school year isn’t just about hitting the books, it’s also an ideal time to emphasize the importance of healthy eating habits for everyone — from students to parents. A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables is key to fueling success in both the classroom and in daily life.

The Southeast Produce Council released its annual What’s New? 2024 consumer research in a sold-out educational session at Southern Innovations. The unique, interactive format combines the presentation of the research results by Anne-Marie Roerink of 210 Analytics with attendees discussing findings with fellow retailers and grower-shippers throughout the session. In addition to consumers’ views of our world, retailers and grower-shippers provided their industry viewpoint, for the full 360 look at innovation in fresh produce.

The sweet potato market is witnessing significant growth, fueled by various factors such as heightened consumer awareness of their health advantages, their culinary versatility and their recognition as a sustainable and budget-friendly food choice.

According to Data Bridge Market Research, the global sweet potato market, valued at $34.98 billion in 2023, is projected to reach approximately $56.17 billion by 2031.

For the past several years, Peruvian asparagus acreage has not been increasing as some growers have switched to other crops. But Alpine Fresh CEO Walter Yager believes that a solid season plus the elimination of the mandatory fumigation requirement on U.S. asparagus imports from Peru could prove to be a renaissance for the commodity.

“For about 50 percent of the year, Peru produces better quality asparagus than Mexico,” he said. “If you eliminate fumigation, Peru will be able to provide better quality for nine months of the year.”

When family-owned paper converting business Paper, Pulp and Film arrives at the International Fresh Produce Association’s Global Produce & Floral trade show next month, it will be unveiling some new boxes and packaging solutions aimed at avocados, mushrooms, plums, apples and other commodities.

The Fresno, CA-based company will occupy booth No. BC1236, and those who stop by will learn about its newest offerings as well as the success it has found with its TrayCycle Box. This standout offering is fully compostable, recyclable and a PFAS-free fiber solution.

One of the last of his generation of Salinas Valley Iceberg lettuce giants, Tom Nunes (T3) died on Aug. 5 at the age of 95 after a stellar career of twice building prosperous and innovative vegetable grower-packer-shipper organizations, and spending his entire life in the industry.