The U.S. Department of Agriculture has imposed sanctions on Riba Foods Inc. The company, operating from Texas, failed to make prompt payment to seven produce sellers in the amount of $948,577 for produce that it purchased, received and accepted in interstate and foreign commerce from October 2022 to May 2023, in violation of the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act. 

While many California-grown citrus varieties are nearing the end of their season, the Bee Sweet Citrus team reports that Rosy Red Valencia oranges will be available through June, and Star Ruby grapefruit and will be available through August.

From June 1, 2026, Mariska Zeeman will join Plants & Flowers Foundation Holland as managing director on a permanent basis. Zeeman has served as interim director since November 2025, following the departure of Yvonne Watzdorf.

As we close out May and move into June, several high-volume items are still working through supply gaps. Some markets are getting help from lighter school demand, but weather, disease pressure and seasonal transitions continue to limit availability on key commodities. The biggest areas to watch this week are lettuce, lemons, potatoes and avocados.

EV Produce International, a specialist in year-round, high-quality Mexican limes and chayote, has launched a new brand called FAMILIME to coincide with its peak lime availability from May to July and its connection to family. Packs are now available in supermarkets nationwide.

Aimed at helping its products stand out in retail produce departments, the FAMILIME brand is inviting, bold and fun, boasting distinctive colorful pink packaging. 

The New England Produce Council hosted a successful TopGolf networking event Wednesday, May 13, sponsored by Grimmway Farms, Suja, Taylor Farms/Earthbound, Bard Valley and Marzetti.