ATLANTA -- The boards of directors of the Produce Marketing Association and the United Fresh Produce Association voted within the last 10 days to continue discussions that could lead to a merger of the two associations.

Responding to an inquiry from The Produce News, the co-chairmen of the two associations’ joint task force confirmed that two meetings have been held to discuss how the organizations can work together, and those meetings will continue.

WATSONVILLE, CA -- In support of the Oct. 24 Food Day event, which is being organized by the Center for Science in the Public Interest, U.S. fruit and vegetable farmers are encouraging the media to give them a call, according to an Oct. 14 press release.

Because most people don't get out to visit farms, the Alliance for Food & Farming is encouraging reporters who cover food, health and environmental issues to "meet a real farmer who grows real food for real people," and then introduce these farmers to readers, viewers and listeners.

ATLANTA -- Five companies were named as the produce industry's best packaging innovators by the Produce Marketing Association, receiving the association's fifth annual PMA Impact Award: Excellence in Packaging.

The winners were announced by Mike O'Brien, vice president of produce and floral at Schnuck Markets Inc. at Saturday's general session during PMA's 2011 Fresh Summit International Convention & Exposition. The award recognizes companies that lead the way with exceptional produce and floral packaging, and demonstrate originality.

Blue Book Members will soon have convenient access to select content provided by Chain Store Guide via Blue Book Online Services.

Specifically, six data elements from on top supermarket chainstores and wholesale grocers from Chain Store Guide will be available on BBOS via the company details and Business Report. Members will find the additional information makes it even easier to thoroughly research these supply chain partners.

The 2011-12 Produce Marketing Association board of directors took office during the association's 2011 Fresh Summit International Convention & Exposition in Atlanta. Chairman of the Board Rich Dachman, vice president of produce at Sysco Corp., based in Houston, was joined by three other officers and 29 directors.