A Zespri-commissioned survey of over 500 participants showed an overwhelming majority (93 percent) want to eat more fruits, but over one-third do not because they simply forget.

Zespri understands that integrating healthier eating choices into daily routines can be challenging. Inspired by pillboxes that remind people to take their medicine and supplements daily, Zespri just launched The Fruit Pillbox, its limited-edition packaging designed to encourage consumers to eat a kiwifruit each day.

Instacart, No Kid Hungry and Mercy Housing announced a partnership to expand access to nutritious food and nutrition education for families living in affordable housing communities located in food deserts, as well as study the health outcomes of such interventions.

Applewood Fresh Growers, an apple shipper, packer, grower and marketer of Michigan apples, was acquired by FirstFruits Farms out of Washington this past December. This new partnership has allowed for continual expansion in logistic capabilities, varietal offerings and team development.

Applewood Fresh Growers announced the addition of its newest team member, Heather Childs as sales manager.

South Mill Champs, a leading North American grower and supplier of fresh mushrooms and functional mushroom foods based in Kennett Square, PA, has entered into a cross-border partnership with Grupo APAL to form a 50-50 Mexican joint venture, Royal Champs S. de R.L. de C.V.

Officials at Matthews Ridgeview Farms view the upcoming Southeast Produce Council’s Southern Exposure show as another chance to teach attendees about the company, its philosophy and how it can help them build sales and revenue.

The Wynne, AR-based operation, well known for its full line of sweet potato product packages, is excited to showcase what it has to offer the industry and see how what they grow meets with the needs of its customers.

Family-owned Wada Farms, one of the nation’s largest suppliers of fresh potatoes, onions and sweet potatoes, is headed to Southeast Produce Council’s Southern Exposure, where it will be showcasing its entire commodity and services portfolio.

“We will have our team down there showing the best of Wada Farms, and we look forward to networking with those in the industry and talking about what programs we have,” said Eric Beck, director of marketing for the Idaho Falls, ID-based company. “SEPC does a great job putting on a show for everyone and it’s a great opportunity to network.”