For the past two years, produce industry members and their representatives have been trying to get the government agencies that report imported produce crossing data from Mexico to go back to the previous more timely reports.

So far, those efforts have not resulted in action so now they are enlisting help from their political representatives and trying to publicize the problem to shine light on what they call government inaction.

SunDate, a distinguished player in the global date industry, has successfully positioned itself as a leading producer and processor of premium dates since its inception. Founded in 1977, the company has emerged as one of the largest suppliers of Medjool and Deglet Noor dates worldwide. The company’s commitment to quality and sustainability has earned it widespread recognition, establishing it as a trusted partner for retailers and consumers alike.

As the holiday season approaches, CMI Orchards highlights Kanzi apples as the top choice for food enthusiasts in baked desserts and holiday treats. According to Rochelle Bohm, CMI’s vice president of marketing, Kanzi consistently wins as the best-tasting apple in blind apple pie taste tests. “Its sweet, intensely tangy flavor and exceptional texture, which remains firm when baked and doesn't become mushy like other apples, sets Kanzi apart from its competitors,” she said.

Chuck Sinks, president of sales and marketing for the Sage Fruit Co., has decided to step back from his current role. Kevin Steiner, who has served as a senior business development manager for Sage, has been promoted to fill Sinks’ role at the beginning of the new year.

The title — president of sales and marketing — will be retired as Sinks steps back in January. While Steiner will take on these same responsibilities, the title of the position will now be president of business development and marketing.

The Kroger Co. Foundation announced the scholarship award recipients and entrepreneurial pitch competition results from its third annual Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Innovation Challenge in collaboration with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. The grants support TMCF's effort to adapt its successful innovation and entrepreneurship model to focus on food insecurity and food waste.

Hillside Gardens Ltd./Hillside Gardens USA Inc. has hired Sean Balog as the new senior account manager for its Canadian branch in Bradford, ON, and as director of sales and marketing for its U.S. branch in Reidsville, GA.