Coachella, CA-based Prime Time International continues to build its asparagus program as it adds volume in several districts and also added an asparagus specialist based in Florida.

It should be an interesting year for Peruvian asparagus imports into the United States as there are several challenges affecting volume that will alter the deal depending on how they play out. At least that was the view of Walter Yager, CEO of Alpine Fresh Inc., a company he co-founded almost 35 years ago.

“Overall, there is less acreage — that should mean less products, but it might not impact the fresh market,” he said.

Southern Specialties continues to increase its asparagus footprint as it is expecting a significant increase in volume over the next year from its multiple sources of origin.

Rising costs, logistics issues and a challenging ROI situation may reduce total Peruvian asparagus imports to the United States, but Square One Farms President Tim Ryan still expects ample supplies to handle fall and holiday promotions.

On the heels of a new report issued by the Bureau of Labor Statistics showing that the overall cost of groceries rose by 13.5 percent in the last year, Lidl US is introducing rotating price cuts on more than 100 items in all of its 170-plus stores.

What is a better cause than helping families gather around the table and be a part of the magic that happens during family mealtime? Studies show extensive nutrition, social, and mental benefits associated with family meals which create a stronger and healthier family bond.  In support of the Food Marketing Institutes National Family Meals Month, Pure Flavor joined the industry-wide movement this month to raise awareness of the benefits of frequent family meals.