Natural Grocers revealed its eighth annual Top Trends for 2024, including consumers advocating for agricultural systems that are regenerative.

The Honduran Foundation for Social Responsibility awarded the Socially Responsible Company Seal for the second consecutive year to Sol Group, Fyffes melon subsidiary in Honduras, for its commitment to corporate social responsibility and the well-being of its workers and their communities.

Fresh produce industry stakeholders came together to launch the Ethical Charter Implementation Program in early November, which aims to recognize and strengthen engagement around labor practices in the fresh produce industry without additional audits. Six founding buyers — Costco Wholesale, Kroger, McDonald’s USA, Sam’s Club, Target and Walmart — are inviting more than 100 of their suppliers to use the capacity-building platform to strengthen their farm labor management systems.

Kroger has launched a Smart Benefits program that allows participating Medicare Advantage, Medicaid and employer benefits program recipients to receive certain pharmacy, nutrition services and other eligible benefits at The Kroger Co.'s Family of Pharmacies, in addition to purchasing eligible food and over-the-counter health items. The Smart Benefits program is operated and powered by Soda Health, a health tech company .

The International Fresh Produce Association sustainability experts are on the ground this week for the United Nations' climate change conference, COP28 in the United Arab Emirates. The conference, in its 28th year, brings together world leaders and governments, business and non-profit leaders, and academic experts to find concrete sustainability solutions.

Dole has been recognized for its outstanding corporate social responsibility efforts in Costa Rica.