The Mushroom Council's inaugural "Swap It or Top It" summer promotion will challenge consumers to transform their typical summer grilling recipes into healthier versions, by adding mushrooms. The contest kicks off June 1 and offers participants a chance to win $5,000.  

"The trend is to blend" Mushroom Council President Bart Minor said in a press release. "Mushrooms and meat are a natural pairing, and this contest will elevate the concept with the consumer while increasing mushroom sales."

Domex Superfresh Growers, based in Yakima, WA, is looking forward to a vintage apricot crop from Washington this season.

The industry is estimating approximately 5,900 tons, which is the second-largest crop in the past 13 years. Weather this growing season for apricots has been excellent, which will result in above-average fruit sizing.

The early success of Tops Markets' new upscale Orchard Fresh banner has executives exploring the possibility of adding more locations.

Frank Curci, president and chief executive officer of Tops Markets, said in published news reports that the retailer could open "a handful" of stores in each of its markets in upstate New York.

As Certified Greenhouse Farmers expands its network of controlled-environment growers of tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers and other greenhouse vegetables, the trade association is partnering with Grupo PM, which will serve as the organization’s marketing arm to Mexican growers.

Fort Worth, TX-based Fresherized Foods, the makers of “Wholly Guacamole,” announced the additions of JIM BLAIR and KIRK TURNER to its sales team.

As retail sales managers, Mr. Blair and Mr. Turner will be responsible for developing and maintaining relationships with retail outlets in order to strengthen the market positions of the company’s “Wholly Guacamole” and “Wholly Salsa” brands.

Matt Curry, president of Curry & Co. in Brooks, OR, said Walla Walla sweet onions are nothing short of extraordinary. “Walla Walla sweet onions are certainly the best-known sweet onion in the Pacific Northwest,” he told The Produce News. “Growers, retailers and consumers are proud of this regional favorite. Walla Walla sweets are also well-known from the West Coast to Chicago and have niche markets throughout the rest of the country. The unique name and sweet flavor always seem to attract consumers from all corners of the U.S.”