Ark Foods is growing its organic program after a successful trial in Florida last fall, marking a new step forward for the specialty produce company as it builds out a broader organic offering for retail and foodservice customers.

Known for its focus on distinctive, high-flavor vegetables and specialty peppers, Ark Foods began testing organic production in Florida to evaluate quality, consistency and customer interest. The trial performed strongly, giving the company confidence to expand the program this summer with additional SKUs and new growing locations.

Cayuga County, where Jason Turek grows sweet corn and other vegetables, broke records for rainfall during the first five months of the year.

At mid-June, however, Turek was relieved when his farm, Turek Farms in King Ferry, received about an inch of rain. Starting in late May through mid-June, the county had been dry. Turek farms in upstate New York’s Finger Lakes region, just east of Cayuga Lake, which historically receives enough rain that fields are not irrigated.

For a company that has spent generations serving New York’s produce industry, consistency remains the foundation of success at D’Arrigo New York.

Cheerios are Cheerios. Oreos are Oreos. No matter where you buy them, they are going to taste the same. We all know winning shoppers and shopper loyalty is cultivated in stores’ fresh sections — especially the produce aisle. Just how important are these sections? Pretty darn important, according Logile Inc., a global leader in AI-powered Connected Workforce solutions.

The International Fresh Produce Association announced that Christina Ferreira has joined the organization as vice president, food safety and quality. Ferreira brings more than 13 years of applied research and regulatory experience at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to the role, where she will serve as a trusted scientific resource for IFPA members on microbial hazards, produce safety and quality across the supply chain.

The wait is over for Skylar Rae cherries, which officially returned with nothing short of an exceptional crop. With outstanding quality and flavor, Skylar Rae delivers a firm, crisp bite paired with unmatched sweetness to produce a remarkable cherry eating experience.