Author Archive
The California Prune Board (CPB) reports data provided by handlers in September, show an estimated 65,000 short tons of prunes available for the 2025 crop. This compares with 76,413 short tons last year.
This is down about 15 percent from last years volume, which was a little above average.
California prunes have a large brand in Sunsweet of Yuba City, CA, and there are a couple of larger handlers such as Mariani.
The industry’s planting area remains around 36,000 to 38,000 acres, with ongoing replanting focused on replacing older trees with highly productive ones.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
With the Salinas Valley quality ridden lettuce season mercifully ending and Huron approaching it brief fall shipping season, lettuce loadings get underway next week from the desert regions of Arizona and California. Volume is expected to be light through November.
Meanwhile, lettuce shipments from Huron in the San Joaquin Valley continue with good quality product. This area will pretty much be finished by the end of the month.
The Salinas is still shipping limited amounts of lettuce, but beware of widespread quality problems due to disease and mildew and untimely rains.
Oxnard also is loading lettuce in limited volume. Quality is reported good.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863,
An MDPI study found that American 100 percent juice drinkers have a higher Healthy Eating Index (HEI) 2020 score, consume less added sugar, and more total fruit, potassium, calcium and vitamin C.
The research examined the dietary benefits of 100 percent fruit juice and diluted 100 percent juice across diverse socio-demographic data, and found that 100 percent fruit juice consumption is an indicator of healthier diets.
Researchers used two recent cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), which contained more than 10,000 adult dietary patterns, and the data of 4,086 children ages 5–19.
Results showed that 100 percent fruit juice drinkers scored 53 on the HEI, based on the USDA’s Dietary Guidelines for Americans, versus non-drinkers who scored 48. Consumers also had significantly higher HEI 2020 subscores for selected categories, notably total fruit, whole fruit, and whole grains.
However, despite its benefits, only 24 percent of those surveyed consumed any 100 percent juice over the two days of NHANES dietary recalls, and up to 75 percent of people ages 14 to 70 consumed no 100 percent juice at all.
The DGA’s 1-cup limit (8 ounces) was met by the overwhelming majority (94.8 percent) of the population. The half-cup limit (4 ounces) was met by 88% of the population. And 77 percent of young children consumed less than a half cup of 100 percent juice per day.
Practically all older children (94 percent) consumed less than 1 cup of 100% juice per day.
The fruit dietary recommendation is that at least 50 percent of total fruit intake come from whole fruit rather than 100 percent juice. However, the research says there is evidence that 100 percent juice is not displacing whole fruit.
Children ages 13 and younger, and adults over 70, drank more juice than other age groups. Non-Hispanic White groups were less likely to consume 100 percent juice than Black and Hispanic people. Orange juice and apple juice are the two principal 100 percent fruit juices in the U.S. consumer diet.
After three consecutive banner years, Wisconsin cranberry growers are projecting lower volumes for the 2025 season, according to the Wisconsin State Cranberry Association.
Last year alone, the state’s growers harvested a total of 6.01 million barrels of cranberries, one of the highest on record. And since cranberries are perennial plants, growers expected the fruit to produce less, which it did.
According to the USDA, overall US cranberry production is projected to be lower this season, and Wisconsin’s expected output is projected to total 5.3 million barrels, a decrease of around 11 percent from last year.
Wisconsin cranberries are grown by fourth- and fifth generation families.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Guatemala’s Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Food (MAGA) reports the country has shipped over 14 million kg (32 million pounds) of fresh mangoes to the United States in eight months.
The figure is already higher than last year’s export shipments of 30.86 million pounds, and can be attributed to higher supply from Guatemala.
The government agency says it inspected 20.9 million kilograms of fresh mango at authorized packing plants from January to August, of which 71 percent was designated for export to the United States.
n a press release, it said Guatemala’s compliance with the US phytosanitary requirements, which include hydrothermal treatment, reaffirms its cooperation and commitments with U.S. authorities, strengthening the competitiveness of the national agricultural sector.
Sunrise Kiwi of Gridley, CA is one of the first kiwifruit growers in California, which was introduced to the state in the 1960s. The company reports 98 percent of the kiwifruit consumed in the US comes from California growers.
Although the fruit’s quality benefited from the great weather, the company notes California’s northern and central growers project a harvest decrease of about 10 percent this season compared with last year.
The reason for the projected decline isn’t known for sure, but it could be related to the excessive heat last year during growing season. That might have had an impact on bud development.
Kiwi is available to north American consumers not only because of California production, but imports coming from New Zealand and Chile.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Pacific Produce of Miami, FL has been importing asparagus for over 20 years, beginning with its own production from Peru in 2002.
First grown by its closely affiliated grower Agrokasa, the company has expanded its imported asparagus program, working with additional growers in both Peru and Mexico.
Pacific Produce notes this has allowed the company to become a year-round supplier continuously for the past 23 years. In a recent announcement the company revealed its Peruvian grower, Agrokasa, is making a return with a new investment of 600 hectares of asparagus in Pisco, Peru.”
The new planting are scheduled to begin in 2026. Agrokasa’s Pisco project encompasses 5,930 acres where the company is already cultivating avocados, blueberries and grapes.
Imported asparagus is a popular commodity in the United States, and Agrokasa’s project will help reverse the declining trend. Agrokasa began producing, exporting and marketing asparagus in 1997. In 2007, it set a record, exporting 2.4 million boxes from 3,682 acres, which represented 13 percent of Peru’s asparagus industry that year.
When its new acreage is in full production, it will once again rival those numbers and maintain its position as one of Peru’s top asparagus producers. For its part, Pacific Produce also remains committed to the commodity and is continually looking for opportunities to increase its asparagus program with its many growers.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
The acquisition of SpartanNash Co. has been completed by C&S Wholesale Grocers LLC.
The combined company employs more than 30,000 team members and operates almost 60 complementary distribution centers covering the U.S. It serves close to 10,000 independent retail locations, as well as military commissaries and exchanges, with more than 200 corporate-run grocery stores, according to a news release.
“The combination of these two great companies creates a platform for future success. As ONE, we bring the best team in the industry to provide advanced solutions to ensure braggingly happy customers and feed our communities for generations to come,” says Eric Winn, CEO of C&S Wholesale Grocers.
The industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace, the company says in the release, “and both our customers and our own businesses must evolve at or ahead of that pace, to compete effectively and win. The integration of two industry-leading companies will drive an even better service experience for chain, independent and military customers across the nation, with the right products at the right prices to support tailored assortments.”
SpartanNash President and CEO Tony Sarsam, who will now serve as an adviser for a transitionary period with the combined company, says, “We are grateful to our associates, customers and partners who have supported us throughout this process. Our combined capabilities will create meaningful new opportunities for our people, customers and shoppers as we continue to deliver the ingredients for a better life.”
“Our goal is to build a company that will redefine our industry and drive future growth for the next phase of our collective legacy as the best food solutions company in the industry,” says Rick Cohen, executive chairman.
Creekside Organics of Bakersfield, CA, a grower-shipper representing family farms across California, is celebrating the arrival of citrus season with earlier start dates and expanded programs.
The company is also proud to announce the debut of the first certified organic Dulce mandarins in the U.S, sold under their Fruit World label.
The season has already begun with organic California lemons out of the D3 growing region, harvested about four weeks earlier than last year. Organic grapefruit and sweet limes are kicking off this week, with mandarins following.
Organic navels are on track for early November, and Cara Caras will start in December, expanded by three locks that obtained organic certification this year.
Operational improvements supported Creekside’s growth this season. The Reedley packing facility, previously operated by Eastside Packing, is now leased by Cobblestone Fruit, whose leadership and investment are positioning the site for continued growth. This transition strengthens Creekside’s relationship with the operation and supports the consistency and capacity of its citrus programs. Importantly, customers will not see any changes to Fruit World packs.
One highlight of this season is the introduction of Fruit World’s organic Dulce mandarins. Developed by co-CEO Bianca Kaprielian’s father and harvested just before clementines, Dulce mandarins completed their three-year organic transition this year, allowing Creekside to bring them to market as certified organic for the first time.
“This variety is really special to us—sweet, tangy, and the first organic mandarin of the season,” said Kaprielian. “It’s a true celebration of what makes citrus season so exciting.”
Kaprielian also highlighted another family favorite: organic clementines from Sky Ranch, grown in an area known for its mineral-rich soils and unique hillside microclimate. “These mandarins are hands down the best you’ll eat all season,” she said. The mandarins from Sky Ranch will be ready in mid to late November and are not to be missed.
Creekside is building consistency across its organic lemon program with expanded acreage, ensuring a year-round supply for retailers. “Shoppers rely on lemons, so they are a great way to drive repeat sales,” said co-CEO Brenda Haught.
On the specialty side, Cara Cara production is also ramping up thanks to young blocks coming into maturity. This gives retailers more opportunities to promote this consumer favorite, which is known for its bright color and sweet-tangy flavor. Creekside also increased volume on kumquats, Minneolas, and blood oranges. Sweet limes are poised to stand out this season thanks to their unique flavor and versatility in cooking and juicing.
About Creekside Organics, Inc.
Creekside Organics, Inc. is a leading certified organic grower-shipper based in California, sourcing from organic farms across California and Mexico. Offering year-round organic fruit and vegetable programs, Creekside is dedicated to expanding market reach for its growers, preserving family farms, and upholding the highest standards of environmental sustainability. Through a growing family of brands—including Fruit World and Capay Organics—Creekside continues to build a stronger, more resilient future for organic agriculture.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Bolthouse Fresh Foods of Bakersfield, CA, North America’s carrot leader, is proud to announce its operational expansion into the Southeast region of the United States with an additional growing and packing facility in Sparks, Georgia, near Valdosta.
The Sparks facility represents a key milestone in Bolthouse Fresh Foods strategic growth, significantly expanding its agricultural and operational footprint and strengthening its distribution network in the Southeast.
This investment ensures a more efficient supply chain and improves service for customers across the region. Planting is already underway, with the first harvest expected in January—ensuring fresh, high-quality carrots are ready for consumers to enjoy at the start of the year.
“Establishing operations in Sparks, Georgia, marks an exciting chapter for Bolthouse Fresh Foods,” said Timothy Escamilla, Chief Executive Officer. “This investment expands our capacity, strengthens our supply, and elevates how we serve our customers—ensuring we can capture growth, meet rising demand, and drive category growth.”
Escamilla added, “Equally important, we’re excited to support the Sparks community with new job opportunities and local partnerships, creating long-term value for the region while advancing our mission to nourish people with fresh, nutritious food.”
This expansion builds on Bolthouse Fresh Foods’ legacy of delivering fresh, nutritious, and great-tasting carrots. With over 100 years of expertise in distribution efficiency and supply chain excellence, it underscores the company’s commitment to long-term growth and continued leadership in the industry.
About Bolthouse Fresh Foods
Headquartered in the heart of California’s Central Valley, Bolthouse Fresh Foods has been a trusted name in produce since 1915. As one of North America’s largest growers, packers, and distributors of fresh carrots, we serve a full range of eating occasions—from healthy snacking to meal prep staples. With a dedicated team of 1,600 employees across our growing, harvesting, and processing operations, we cultivate and distribute fresh carrots year-round through an integrated network that includes efficient rail shipping to our distribution center in Hodgkins, Illinois. You’ll find Bolthouse Fresh products in major retailers across the U.S. and in foodservice and manufacturing channels nationwide. In 2025, Bolthouse Fresh Foods was recognized by Fast Company as one of North America’s Most Innovative Companies, a testament to our commitment to bringing fresh thinking to the produce aisle.
The California Prune Board (CPB) reports data provided by handlers in September, show an estimated 65,000 short tons of prunes available for the 2025 crop. This compares with 76,413 short tons last year.
This is down about 15 percent from last years volume, which was a little above average.
California prunes have a large brand in Sunsweet of Yuba City, CA, and there are a couple of larger handlers such as Mariani.
The industry’s planting area remains around 36,000 to 38,000 acres, with ongoing replanting focused on replacing older trees with highly productive ones.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
With the Salinas Valley quality ridden lettuce season mercifully ending and Huron approaching it brief fall shipping season, lettuce loadings get underway next week from the desert regions of Arizona and California. Volume is expected to be light through November.
Meanwhile, lettuce shipments from Huron in the San Joaquin Valley continue with good quality product. This area will pretty much be finished by the end of the month.
The Salinas is still shipping limited amounts of lettuce, but beware of widespread quality problems due to disease and mildew and untimely rains.
Oxnard also is loading lettuce in limited volume. Quality is reported good.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863,
An MDPI study found that American 100 percent juice drinkers have a higher Healthy Eating Index (HEI) 2020 score, consume less added sugar, and more total fruit, potassium, calcium and vitamin C.
The research examined the dietary benefits of 100 percent fruit juice and diluted 100 percent juice across diverse socio-demographic data, and found that 100 percent fruit juice consumption is an indicator of healthier diets.
Researchers used two recent cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), which contained more than 10,000 adult dietary patterns, and the data of 4,086 children ages 5–19.
Results showed that 100 percent fruit juice drinkers scored 53 on the HEI, based on the USDA’s Dietary Guidelines for Americans, versus non-drinkers who scored 48. Consumers also had significantly higher HEI 2020 subscores for selected categories, notably total fruit, whole fruit, and whole grains.
However, despite its benefits, only 24 percent of those surveyed consumed any 100 percent juice over the two days of NHANES dietary recalls, and up to 75 percent of people ages 14 to 70 consumed no 100 percent juice at all.
The DGA’s 1-cup limit (8 ounces) was met by the overwhelming majority (94.8 percent) of the population. The half-cup limit (4 ounces) was met by 88% of the population. And 77 percent of young children consumed less than a half cup of 100 percent juice per day.
Practically all older children (94 percent) consumed less than 1 cup of 100% juice per day.
The fruit dietary recommendation is that at least 50 percent of total fruit intake come from whole fruit rather than 100 percent juice. However, the research says there is evidence that 100 percent juice is not displacing whole fruit.
Children ages 13 and younger, and adults over 70, drank more juice than other age groups. Non-Hispanic White groups were less likely to consume 100 percent juice than Black and Hispanic people. Orange juice and apple juice are the two principal 100 percent fruit juices in the U.S. consumer diet.
After three consecutive banner years, Wisconsin cranberry growers are projecting lower volumes for the 2025 season, according to the Wisconsin State Cranberry Association.
Last year alone, the state’s growers harvested a total of 6.01 million barrels of cranberries, one of the highest on record. And since cranberries are perennial plants, growers expected the fruit to produce less, which it did.
According to the USDA, overall US cranberry production is projected to be lower this season, and Wisconsin’s expected output is projected to total 5.3 million barrels, a decrease of around 11 percent from last year.
Wisconsin cranberries are grown by fourth- and fifth generation families.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Guatemala’s Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Food (MAGA) reports the country has shipped over 14 million kg (32 million pounds) of fresh mangoes to the United States in eight months.
The figure is already higher than last year’s export shipments of 30.86 million pounds, and can be attributed to higher supply from Guatemala.
The government agency says it inspected 20.9 million kilograms of fresh mango at authorized packing plants from January to August, of which 71 percent was designated for export to the United States.
n a press release, it said Guatemala’s compliance with the US phytosanitary requirements, which include hydrothermal treatment, reaffirms its cooperation and commitments with U.S. authorities, strengthening the competitiveness of the national agricultural sector.
Sunrise Kiwi of Gridley, CA is one of the first kiwifruit growers in California, which was introduced to the state in the 1960s. The company reports 98 percent of the kiwifruit consumed in the US comes from California growers.
Although the fruit’s quality benefited from the great weather, the company notes California’s northern and central growers project a harvest decrease of about 10 percent this season compared with last year.
The reason for the projected decline isn’t known for sure, but it could be related to the excessive heat last year during growing season. That might have had an impact on bud development.
Kiwi is available to north American consumers not only because of California production, but imports coming from New Zealand and Chile.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Pacific Produce of Miami, FL has been importing asparagus for over 20 years, beginning with its own production from Peru in 2002.
First grown by its closely affiliated grower Agrokasa, the company has expanded its imported asparagus program, working with additional growers in both Peru and Mexico.
Pacific Produce notes this has allowed the company to become a year-round supplier continuously for the past 23 years. In a recent announcement the company revealed its Peruvian grower, Agrokasa, is making a return with a new investment of 600 hectares of asparagus in Pisco, Peru.”
The new planting are scheduled to begin in 2026. Agrokasa’s Pisco project encompasses 5,930 acres where the company is already cultivating avocados, blueberries and grapes.
Imported asparagus is a popular commodity in the United States, and Agrokasa’s project will help reverse the declining trend. Agrokasa began producing, exporting and marketing asparagus in 1997. In 2007, it set a record, exporting 2.4 million boxes from 3,682 acres, which represented 13 percent of Peru’s asparagus industry that year.
When its new acreage is in full production, it will once again rival those numbers and maintain its position as one of Peru’s top asparagus producers. For its part, Pacific Produce also remains committed to the commodity and is continually looking for opportunities to increase its asparagus program with its many growers.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
The acquisition of SpartanNash Co. has been completed by C&S Wholesale Grocers LLC.
The combined company employs more than 30,000 team members and operates almost 60 complementary distribution centers covering the U.S. It serves close to 10,000 independent retail locations, as well as military commissaries and exchanges, with more than 200 corporate-run grocery stores, according to a news release.
“The combination of these two great companies creates a platform for future success. As ONE, we bring the best team in the industry to provide advanced solutions to ensure braggingly happy customers and feed our communities for generations to come,” says Eric Winn, CEO of C&S Wholesale Grocers.
The industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace, the company says in the release, “and both our customers and our own businesses must evolve at or ahead of that pace, to compete effectively and win. The integration of two industry-leading companies will drive an even better service experience for chain, independent and military customers across the nation, with the right products at the right prices to support tailored assortments.”
SpartanNash President and CEO Tony Sarsam, who will now serve as an adviser for a transitionary period with the combined company, says, “We are grateful to our associates, customers and partners who have supported us throughout this process. Our combined capabilities will create meaningful new opportunities for our people, customers and shoppers as we continue to deliver the ingredients for a better life.”
“Our goal is to build a company that will redefine our industry and drive future growth for the next phase of our collective legacy as the best food solutions company in the industry,” says Rick Cohen, executive chairman.
Creekside Organics of Bakersfield, CA, a grower-shipper representing family farms across California, is celebrating the arrival of citrus season with earlier start dates and expanded programs.
The company is also proud to announce the debut of the first certified organic Dulce mandarins in the U.S, sold under their Fruit World label.
The season has already begun with organic California lemons out of the D3 growing region, harvested about four weeks earlier than last year. Organic grapefruit and sweet limes are kicking off this week, with mandarins following.
Organic navels are on track for early November, and Cara Caras will start in December, expanded by three locks that obtained organic certification this year.
Operational improvements supported Creekside’s growth this season. The Reedley packing facility, previously operated by Eastside Packing, is now leased by Cobblestone Fruit, whose leadership and investment are positioning the site for continued growth. This transition strengthens Creekside’s relationship with the operation and supports the consistency and capacity of its citrus programs. Importantly, customers will not see any changes to Fruit World packs.
One highlight of this season is the introduction of Fruit World’s organic Dulce mandarins. Developed by co-CEO Bianca Kaprielian’s father and harvested just before clementines, Dulce mandarins completed their three-year organic transition this year, allowing Creekside to bring them to market as certified organic for the first time.
“This variety is really special to us—sweet, tangy, and the first organic mandarin of the season,” said Kaprielian. “It’s a true celebration of what makes citrus season so exciting.”
Kaprielian also highlighted another family favorite: organic clementines from Sky Ranch, grown in an area known for its mineral-rich soils and unique hillside microclimate. “These mandarins are hands down the best you’ll eat all season,” she said. The mandarins from Sky Ranch will be ready in mid to late November and are not to be missed.
Creekside is building consistency across its organic lemon program with expanded acreage, ensuring a year-round supply for retailers. “Shoppers rely on lemons, so they are a great way to drive repeat sales,” said co-CEO Brenda Haught.
On the specialty side, Cara Cara production is also ramping up thanks to young blocks coming into maturity. This gives retailers more opportunities to promote this consumer favorite, which is known for its bright color and sweet-tangy flavor. Creekside also increased volume on kumquats, Minneolas, and blood oranges. Sweet limes are poised to stand out this season thanks to their unique flavor and versatility in cooking and juicing.
About Creekside Organics, Inc.
Creekside Organics, Inc. is a leading certified organic grower-shipper based in California, sourcing from organic farms across California and Mexico. Offering year-round organic fruit and vegetable programs, Creekside is dedicated to expanding market reach for its growers, preserving family farms, and upholding the highest standards of environmental sustainability. Through a growing family of brands—including Fruit World and Capay Organics—Creekside continues to build a stronger, more resilient future for organic agriculture.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Bolthouse Fresh Foods of Bakersfield, CA, North America’s carrot leader, is proud to announce its operational expansion into the Southeast region of the United States with an additional growing and packing facility in Sparks, Georgia, near Valdosta.
The Sparks facility represents a key milestone in Bolthouse Fresh Foods strategic growth, significantly expanding its agricultural and operational footprint and strengthening its distribution network in the Southeast.
This investment ensures a more efficient supply chain and improves service for customers across the region. Planting is already underway, with the first harvest expected in January—ensuring fresh, high-quality carrots are ready for consumers to enjoy at the start of the year.
“Establishing operations in Sparks, Georgia, marks an exciting chapter for Bolthouse Fresh Foods,” said Timothy Escamilla, Chief Executive Officer. “This investment expands our capacity, strengthens our supply, and elevates how we serve our customers—ensuring we can capture growth, meet rising demand, and drive category growth.”
Escamilla added, “Equally important, we’re excited to support the Sparks community with new job opportunities and local partnerships, creating long-term value for the region while advancing our mission to nourish people with fresh, nutritious food.”
This expansion builds on Bolthouse Fresh Foods’ legacy of delivering fresh, nutritious, and great-tasting carrots. With over 100 years of expertise in distribution efficiency and supply chain excellence, it underscores the company’s commitment to long-term growth and continued leadership in the industry.
About Bolthouse Fresh Foods
Headquartered in the heart of California’s Central Valley, Bolthouse Fresh Foods has been a trusted name in produce since 1915. As one of North America’s largest growers, packers, and distributors of fresh carrots, we serve a full range of eating occasions—from healthy snacking to meal prep staples. With a dedicated team of 1,600 employees across our growing, harvesting, and processing operations, we cultivate and distribute fresh carrots year-round through an integrated network that includes efficient rail shipping to our distribution center in Hodgkins, Illinois. You’ll find Bolthouse Fresh products in major retailers across the U.S. and in foodservice and manufacturing channels nationwide. In 2025, Bolthouse Fresh Foods was recognized by Fast Company as one of North America’s Most Innovative Companies, a testament to our commitment to bringing fresh thinking to the produce aisle.