MYRTLE BEACH, SC — Over 200 people attended the Southeast Produce Council's "Get Acquainted Cocktail Reception" Thursday evening, Sept. 26, officially kicking off the council's 2014 fall conference, according to SPC Executive Director Terry Vorhees.

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Brothers Eric and Ryan Jensen each face up to one year in prison and a fine of $250,000 per charge if convicted of six misdemeanor charges of introducing adulterated food into interstate commerce and aiding and abetting.

The brothers, ages 37 and 33 respectively, were the owners and operators of the now-defunct Jensen Farms, a cantaloupe farm directly connected to an outbreak of Listeria that killed 33 people and sickened another 147 people in the United States in 2011.

Product and packaging innovation are at the forefront again this year at the upcoming annual PMA Fresh Summit, and greenhouse grower-marketer Mastronardi Produce Ltd., based in Kingsville, ON, was recently named a finalist in PMA's Impact Award competition for its Top Seal packaging entry.

CHICAGO — “Next year is our 10th year,” Roger Riehm said of the company he owns. “That’s a good milestone for us” at Blue Creek Produce LLC, based in St. Charles, IL.

The longevity reflects “our working relationship with growers in Mexico, and our customer base is growing.” Blue Creek succeeded “from the get-go by providing what the customer wants.”

There is an ongoing need to be creative and serve those evolving needs. What Blue Creek develops to suit demand are tomatoes with customized packs and specialty colors, shapes and sizes.

CHICAGO — Small building blocks can lead to long-term success.        

Steve Chmelovsky Jr., general manager of operations for EveryDay Fresh Produce Inc., located amid the Chicago International Produce Market, said EveryDay enjoys a pretty steady business. The company has a niche in ethnic specialties that doesn’t see a demand waiver like what may exist for traditional produce items.

Del Monte Fresh Produce N.A. Inc., based in Coral Gables, FL, has launched a first-of-its-kind pineapple promotion called "Gold for Gold."

This consumer promotion encourages U.S. and Canadian grocery shoppers to enjoy Del Monte Gold Extra Sweet Pineapples and participate in the sweepstakes for a chance to win 24-carat gold bars and other fun prizes.