It is a great time to be in the apple business.

Just ask officials at Crunch Time Apple Growers, the Lockport, NY-based cooperative with nearly 140 growers located throughout New York state. “There is a lot of innovation in the apple category right now,” said Jessica Wells, executive director of the cooperative. “Growers and marketers are focused on producing high quality apples with better taste, more juice and lots of crunch, which also look great.”

The International Fresh Produce Association’s government relations team has welcomed Mica Hider as the director of political affairs and action. Hider fills a critical role for the association by leading political advocacy and action among elected officials, IFPA and its members.   

NatureSweet says it has added a little more joy into the healthy snacking category. This August, NatureSweet Cherubs To Go snack packs will include a whimsical addition to the top seal of each To Go product by showcasing the beloved rescue pups from PAW Patrol.

The American Floral Endowment announced that its annual fundraiser, R.I.S.E. to Support 2024, has far exceeded its goal, raising over $140,000 to support the floral industry.

Tropical Storm Debby continues to linger off the coast of South Carolina strengthening slightly over the warm water in the Atlantic. This system is expected to move onshore with the center reaching the coast of South Carolina tonight. Debby should then accelerate toward the Northeast on Thursday. This slow-moving system will continue to bring significant rainfall to the Northeast over the next few days as it moves through, exiting the region by Sunday. 

ZAG Technical Services is alerting agriculture businesses to a rise in sophisticated phishing schemes aimed at compromising email accounts and gaining access to sensitive information. As these threats become more prevalent, it is crucial for companies to stay vigilant and adopt best practices to protect themselves.