The Kroger Co. is expanding its Our Brands portfolio with the addition of Field & Vine, a fresh produce line grown by U.S. farmers in California, Florida, Georgia, Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oregon and Washington. The brand currently includes blueberries, blackberries, raspberries and strawberries.

The New Jersey Department of Agriculture implements the Produce Safety Rule (PSR) Inspection Program under the jurisdiction of the FDA, using FDA’s program standards.

First Kiss apples will be an early variety primer to the fall season. Available from Midwest facilities in mid-August,  this bright and sassy variety provides a jump start to new fresh crop sales. First Kiss, which debuted in limited supply to a fan base of committed consumers over the past few years, is headed back to retailer shelves in even greater numbers this season.  

Bengard Ranch has hired Ken Silveira as president, effective July 22. He brings 35 years of fresh produce experience to the team.

The American Floral Endowment has always had a strong commitment to uplifting the next generation and sharing with them the many exciting opportunities and paths the floral industry holds. The company knows that financial stress is a huge burden that students face – that’s why it strive to provide for as many students as it can each year through scholarships.

The California fresh pear season has begun harvest in the Sacramento River Delta growing district with the Bartlett and Red Bartlett to start the season. Harvests from the Lake County and Mendocino growing regions of Northern California are set to begin in early to mid-August.