In verbal testimony delivered to the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, International Fresh Produce Association CEO Cathy Burns called on Congress to take bold, evidence-based action to increase Americans’ consumption of U.S.-grown fruits and vegetables — describing it as both a public health imperative and a powerful economic opportunity for American farmers.

The Wholesale Florist & Florist Supplier Association concluded its 2026 Floral Distribution Conference in Miami this week, welcoming more than 520 attendees, over 80 exhibiting suppliers and nearly 50 Floral Xcellence Award entries for three days of business, education and industry connection.

After more than three decades in the fresh produce industry, much of it spent championing mangos and working closely with growers, shippers and retailers, Cindy Swanberg Schwing is preparing to close one chapter and begin another.

Schwing, vice president of marketing/retail sales for Splendid by Porvenir, will step away from the day-to-day pace of the business on March 20 following a career defined by produce marketing, international agriculture and a deep connection to farming that began long before she entered the industry professionally.

Taylor Farms has introduced a new product platform designed to meet the increase in high protein lifestyles. The new line combines fresh vegetables with protein packed dressings, dips and toppings.

"Consumers want more than just fresh — they want functional,” said Bryan Jaynes, senior vice president of product. “As nearly everyone is increasing their protein intake these days, this new product line combines the power of protein and fresh produce to help more people achieve their nutrition goals.”

Kapi Kapi Growers published its first sustainability report, highlighting clear objectives, goals and metrics to further enhance its commitment to environmental, social and governance priorities that support the communities and environments where it operates.

The critical objectives identified in Kapi Kapi’s 2025–30 ESG strategy are based on stakeholder input and diagnostic analysis. Metrics focus on measuring and reducing the company’s impact on water consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, training and learning, and compliance.

Jim McErlean has joined JOH as vice president of produce, North Central.

McErlean brings nearly two decades of experience across the retail and CPG landscape, with a strong track record of building partnerships and driving growth across the Midwest produce market. He began his career at a Chicago-based food brokerage, where he built a strong foundation in retail and CPG sales while developing key relationships across the region.