In those early years of long-distance produce shipping, freshness was almost unattainable. Without refrigerated trucks or rail cars, fragile fruits and vegetables simply couldn’t survive the trip from growing regions like California to markets in the East. As a result, many delicate produce items never appeared in regional grocery stores because they broke down long before they could reach the shelf. Fresh raspberries were one of those items.

The Organic Produce Summit comes at an important time for Ark Foods as the company exhibits at the show for the first time and continues investing in organic production, expanding acreage and scaling its organic specialty pepper program. Attendees can visit Ark Foods at booth No. 1002 to learn more about its organic Poblanos, Jalapeños and Serranos, as well as the company’s broader approach to building flavorful, high-quality specialty vegetable programs.

Wholesum is bringing a fresh new addition to the organic snacking category with the launch of Lil' Ones organic baby cucumbers, debuting at the Organic Produce Summit in July 2026. The launch combines category-leading innovation, freshness-focused packaging and a brand experience designed to bring more joy to the organic snacking experience.

Customers of Wegmans Food Markets raised a record-breaking $769,300 during the company’s two-week food drive to support local food banks’ increased summer needs. Known regionally as Fill the Bus or Fill the Backpack, the campaign ran from June 3 to June 17. Customers donated at checkout with 100 percent of the proceeds going to support each store’s local Feeding America food bank partner. Companywide, customers donated $43,000 more than in 2025.

Sam’s Club and Weight Watchers announced a new collaboration to create a more connected, affordable wellness experience. The joint initiative between Sam’s Club and Weight Watchers combines expert guidance and nutrition counseling with access to affordable healthy foods, trusted pharmacy services and ongoing support, making it easier for Sam’s Club members to take meaningful steps toward achieving their wellness goals.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at Pharr International Bridge seized methamphetamine valued at $10.79 million in a single enforcement action. The seizure occurred on July 6 at the Pharr International Bridge when CBP officers referred a commercial tractor trailer hauling a shipment manifested as cabbage for a secondary inspection.