FRESNO, CA — “With the combination of an early spring and above-average temperatures, we anticipate outstanding quality and production” for California figs for the 2012 season, Karla Stockli, chief executive officer of the California Fig Advisory Board and the California Fresh Fig Growers Association, said in a written statement to The Produce News May 10.

North American markets can expect to see a new kiwifruit offering from Zespri International this season.

"We have several new varieties that we are working on marketing globally," said Michele Hoard, senior marketing manager for Zespri North America, which is based in Minneapolis, MN. "Specifically, Zespri North America will see our new variety, SunGold, later this season."

The American Heart Association (AHA) has added Georgia pecans to its list of certified heart-healthy foods. After an extensive certification process, packages of Georgia pecan halves and Georgia pecan pieces will now display the Heart-Check mark letting consumers easily identify the products as a healthy and hearty part of their diets.

M. Levin & Co. Inc. occupies four units, H-2 to H-5, at the Philadelphia Wholesale Produce Market. The company moved into the new facility when it opened last June.

“If I were a box of produce, the PWPM is where I’d want to be,” said Mark Levin, chief executive officer.

Tanimura & Antle, based in Salinas, CA, is gearing up for salad season with new packaging and promotions designed to drive sales and meet market demands from trade and consumer audiences.

With the 2012 New Zealand Meyer lemon season about to start, Giumarra Cos. is gearing up promotions to move what it expects to be a strong crop.