Donald (Don) John Valpredo, a lifelong champion of agriculture, businessman, founder and impetus behind Bako Sweet’s entry into the sweet potato business, died Oct. 31, while on vacation overseas. Mr. Valpredo was 85.

Ocean Mist Farms has long been a trusted source for premium, fresh produce, and recently introduced its latest innovation: ready-to-cook meal kits designed for consumers seeking quick, healthy and delicious family meals. 

World renowned chef and humanitarian José Andrés once stated at a conference I attended that the most important source of energy on earth is the food that we eat. This profound statement rings true on multiple levels. Food is not just sustenance; it embodies community, economy, health and love. Currently, a transformative movement is reshaping the way our society fuels itself — a shift that is imperative for the survival of our species and the preservation of our planet.

Equitable Food Initiative, the workforce development and certification organization that partners with growers, farmworkers, retailers and consumer groups, recently celebrated the Ethical Charter Implementation Program’s Leadership Circle at an event held on the first night of the Global Produce & Floral Show in Atlanta.

Natural Grocers is promoting the From the Soil Up short film within its Meet Your Farmer series in stores and online. The film shows the powerful role farmers have in healing the land through regenerative agriculture.