California just became the first state to sign a bill that bans the distribution of plastic “pre-check out” bags, a victory for environmental groups and Lotus Sustainables, a Carlsbad, CA-based provider of reusable mesh produce bags.

Gov. Gavin Newsom’s recent signing of Senate Bill 1046 will affect all grocery stores in California and eliminate those rolls of plastic bags that are ubiquitous in every produce section. State Sen. Susan Talamantes Eggman (D-Stockton) authored the bill, which passed the legislature on a party-line vote.

Kroger and Albertsons Cos. Inc. have entered into a definitive agreement under which Kroger will acquire all of the outstanding shares of Albertsons common and preferred stock for approximately $24.6 billion, including the assumption of approximately $4.7 billion of Albertsons Cos. net debt.

The transaction is expected to close in early 2024, subject to the receipt of required regulatory clearance and other customary closing conditions, including receipt of clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976.

PHARR, TX — What started as a simple idea in October 2013 to mark the start of the Mexican produce season has blossomed into a full-fledged celebration of one of the most important points of crossing for fresh fruits and vegetables into the United States from Mexico.

On Oct. 6, members of the Rio Grande Valley produce industry joined Pharr International Bridge officials and state and local politicians to commemorate the 10th year of the Start of the Produce Season event held at the Pharr International Bridge, here.

U.S. Customs & Border Protection Office of Field Operations at Eagle Pass Port of Entry recently encountered pumpkins filled with $402,196 in liquid methamphetamine.

“Our frontline CBP officers have seen just about everything and this Tuesday was no exception as they encountered liquid methamphetamine hidden within pumpkins,” said acting Port Director Elizabeth Garduno, Eagle Pass Port of Entry. “They utilized their training, experience, interviewing skills and uncovered a rather novel narcotics smuggling method in the process.”

Sustainability may be seen as an option for some companies but not for Jac. Vandenberg and its Sunrays brand. The company took a huge step forward in its sustainability commitment with its first Peruvian grape grower-partners having achieved Sustainably Grown certification.