Author Archive
South Texas is shipping its sweet 1015 onions in good volume, according to the South Texas Onion Committe of Mission, TX.
With ongoing loadings expected from the Rio Grande Valley through early-June and the Uvalde region continuing supply into mid-July, retailers still have significant opportunities to promote Texas sweet onions during key summer selling periods, such as with Fourth of July promotions. This availability allows retailers to keep Texas-grown sweet onions on the shelf during some of the highest-traffic grilling holidays of the year.
***
he South Texas Onion Committee (STOC) was founded in 1961 through Federal Marketing Order No. 959 to support and oversee the South Texas onion industry. Representing growers and shippers across 35 counties in South Texas, STOC works to maintain quality standards, support research and promotion efforts, and strengthen market opportunities for Texas-grown onions. The committee is dedicated to increasing awareness and demand for the TX1015 Sweet Onion as the first domestically grown sweet onion of the season.
Michigan asparagus loadings got underway this season in time for the May 10 Mother’s Day observance, which is considered a normal start.
The Michigan Asparagus Committee reports a good quality crop, with shipments lasting about six weeks, or the last half of June.
While the season began with the weather resembling a roller coast ride, in the end cooler temperatures and adequate rains contributed to quality being quite good.
Last year, the Great Lakes State produced approximately 23,590 tons of asparagus, according to data from the USDA. Traditionally, about 60 percent of the crop is sold fresh, and the remaining 40 percent is processed into products such as canned, frozen, or pickled.
Michigan remains the leading asparagus-producing state in the US, with more than 90 farm families involved in production.
The California table grape industry is navigating a period of contraction, according to the latest data from the US Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS).
The report reveals a continued downward trend in total planted area, totaling 118,000 acres in 2025, a slight 1.7 percent decrease from the previous year.
Notably, while bearing acreage remained steady at 115,000 acres, non-bearing acreage, which generally represents future production, saw a 40 percent drop.
Released at the end of April, the survey was conducted in partnership with the California Department of Food and Agriculture and the California Table Grape Commission.
A closer look at the 2025 data shows a slight but consistent decline from the 125,000 total acres recorded in 2023, underscoring a tightening of the state’s table grape footprint.
The sharp reduction in non-bearing acreage, which fell from 5,000 acres in 2024 to just 3,000 in 2025, suggests a cautious approach to new plantings among California growers, though the USDA doesn’t provide an interpretation of this number in particular.
Despite the overall reduction, Flame Seedless remains the state’s leading table grape variety with a total of 10,506 planted acres, a slight dip from the 10,547 acres reported in 2024.
Other dominant traditional varieties also experienced marginal declines compared to the previous year, but remained steady overall. Autumn King went from 6,338 to 6,312 acres, while Scarlet Royal reached 6,047 acres, down from 6,056. Red Globe decreased slightly to 5,205 acres from 5,255, and Crimson Seedless remained nearly flat at 4,692 acres.
While many well-established varieties saw reductions, a few newer or proprietary varieties showed resilience or modest growth, consolidating the shift toward green cultivars over reds. Sweet Globe acreage increased slightly to 1,748 acres, up from 1,712, while Great Green (also known as Green Envy or Big Green) grew to 1,146 acres from 1,125.
Finally, the consumer-favorite Autumn Crisp kept a steady footprint at 4,154 acres, matching its 2024 total. However, with 448 non-bearing acres, the cultivar was Golden State growers’ main choice for new plantings, reflecting its already widely reported commercial success.
he USDA noted that the data reflect significant vine removals, with over 21,000 acres pulled across all grape types in the past 12 months.
As the industry moves forward, these figures signal a strategic consolidation focused on maintaining existing bearing vines while significantly scaling back on new development.
California apricots got an early start to the season, similar to many other West Coast produce items, according to Bari Produce of Fresno, CA.
The state’s Central Valley started production about 10 days earlier than last year and Bari Produce was already about one-third of the way through it’s crop in early May.
Apricot harvesting started around April 15th and following that earlier start, an earlier end to the season is also anticipated for around June 15th.
As for the quality of the fruit, reports are positive, brix levels are exactly where they should be and the fruit tastes sweet, the company notes. The first variety was a bit smaller in size, just due to less time on the tree to get ripe. Better sizing of fruit has arrived as the season progresses.
Ships for Memorial Day is typically a big time for volume.
Meanwhile the company is shipping peaches and nectarines and plums will start by the end of the month.
Total peach production is projected to decline nearly 10 per cent to 480,000 tons, down from 532,000 tons last year.
California produced 320,000 tons of freestone peaches in 2025, with 2026 production estimated at 310,000 tons. Cling peach production is projected at 170,000 tons this year, down from 212,000 tons in 2025.
Most California Pear Growers will continue to have a dependable market for their crop as Pacific Coast Producers (PCP) of Sacramento, CA has announced it plans to maintain canned pear volume following its recent acquisition of Del Monte’s shelf-stable fruit assets.
The development provides some continuity for pear processing volumes that have long been a cornerstone of the industry.
“In recent years, Del Monte had contracted for nearly 40 percent of the pears used in canned products,” said Chris Zanobini, Executive Director of the California Pear Advisory Board. “With the closure of their Modesto facility, maintaining that tonnage in the system was critical. Pacific Coast Producers’ plan to contract a significant portion of that volume, will help keep the industry operating at sustainable levels and provide some certainty for growers heading into the season.”
Approximately two-thirds of California’s pear crop is utilized in processed products such as canned pears and fruit cocktail. While processing capacity in the state has consolidated in recent years, PCP’s expanded role helps ensure a continued outlet for that fruit.
Pacific Coast Producers is an agricultural cooperative owned by 160 family farmers in Northern California. The company operates facilities in California and Oregon and employs more than 4,000 people. Since 1971, PCP has focused on delivering quality fruit products while supporting the long-term viability of its grower-owners and partners.
PCP is expected to contract with both cooperative members and independent growers, providing flexibility and continuity across the industry.
In a recent statement, PCP said: “We are committed to a viable agricultural community in our state. We have increased our purchases of West Coast fruit to ensure a reliable supply for our customers while maintaining the quality consumers expect.”
California pear growers continue to navigate a competitive global market, with imports—particularly from Argentina—remaining a factor. Industry leaders are actively working on trade policy to support fair market conditions.
Approximately 60 pear farming families remain in California today, continuing a long-standing tradition of pear production. The 2026 crop is expected to be early and plentiful, and growers are well positioned to supply both fresh and processed markets.
The Brazilian mango industry is facing a difficult start to the year due to heavy rains in the São Francisco Valley, the country’s primary production region. “Approximately 60% of my harvest was destined for the domestic market due to quality concerns,” stated Ronaldo Araujo, CEO of Sebastião da Manga.
According to Araujo, the rain primarily affected the fruit’s external quality, emphasizing that the issue was not quantity but exportability. “We experienced significant losses because of the rain, leading us to focus on the local market to avoid client problems,” he said. In Brazil, consumers are more tolerant of mangoes with minor imperfections, which helped us temporarily redirect the fruit.
The São Francisco Valley, responsible for 90% of Brazil’s mango exports, has been hit the hardest by the weather.
This development aligns with the decreased availability of Mexican mango in the global market, creating an opportunity for Brazil. “Mexico’s production is lower this year, and anthracnose issues are also affecting supply. That’s why the United States is sourcing produce from Brazil to load in May and June,” Araujo stated. The rising demand in North America might result in higher prices.
Brazil maintains its position as a year-round supplier thanks to its continuous production cycle, unlike other countries with more seasonal supplies, such as Peru or Ecuador. “Brazil is the only country that produces mango 12 months of the year; the others work in windows,” the grower pointed out.
Tommy Atkins and Palmer varieties still dominate Brazilian plantations, with Tommy Atkins being more sensitive to rainfall. “The Palmer mango is a little more resistant,” he added.
The sector is optimistic that exports will recover in the second half of the year, supported by higher-quality fruit and more favorable weather. “We expect quality to be very good for export,” Araujo stated.
Rosy Red Valencias, an exciting new citrus variety native to California’s Central Valley, will be available at Bee Sweet Citrus of Fowler, CA later this spring.
Discovered in 2009 by Bee Sweet Citrus grower Nancy Lange, this variety is an excellent choice for customers seeking unique produce to enhance their summer selection.
“The Rosy Red is truly unique. As the only Valencia orange with beautifully tinted juice, it boasts a vibrant rosy blush and a striking coral-colored flesh,” said Bee Sweet Citrus grower Nancy Lange. “Its beautiful pigmentation comes from lycopene, a carotenoid known for its nutritional benefits. With its delicious flavor and healthful qualities, Rosy Reds are sure to delight consumers.”
Similar to Bee Sweet’s Royal Red oranges and Cara Cara Navel oranges, Rosy Red Valencias feature a unique coral-colored interior and a blushed rind.
Their blush is most pronounced during the summer months, and harvest runs from May through August. Their sweet flavor makes them perfect for fresh eating, while their abundant juice content is excellent for juicing.
“Rosy Reds were first discovered as a spontaneous variation on a single limb of a Valencia tree. We’re grateful that Nancy not only noticed the emergence of Rosy Reds, but also led its development and production,” stated Bee Sweet Citrus Sales Representative Joe Berberian. “We’re proud to include Rosy Reds in our citrus line-up and hope our customers enjoy their unique flavor while they’re in season.”
Rosy Red Valencias are available in both bag and bulk options. The packaging has been thoughtfully created to highlight the variety’s unique qualities and is sure to draw attention in the produce aisle.
Initial projections for the Northwest cherry 2026 season have been revised downward, but not that much.
Early-season estimates predicted between 22 and 23 million boxes have been adjusted to 21.5 million boxes.
This represents a roughly seven percent reduction from initial projections. This is due to the natural and highly expected agronomic stress on cherry trees after 2025’s bumper season; and on the other, there was freeze damage.
Low temperatures hit Washington’s Yakima Valley and parts of Oregon during the first half of April, which cut volume projections for early varieties, such as Rainier, Yellow cherry, or Early Robbins. For example, Chelan, whose yield usually sits at six tons per acre, is projected to decrease to between three and four tons per acre.
The shipping season is expected to start at the end of May, with a light harvest before volumes ramp up significantly during the first week of June.
By the end of that first week of June, volumes would ramp up pretty hard and be available into August with heavier volumes. The peak shipping season is projected to fall between June 15 and July 20.
CMI Orchards of Wenatchee, WA reports similar information to the Northwest Cherry Association and is looking forward to a crop with good quality.
Baloian Farms of Fresno, CA began harvesting its California Flat Sweet Red Onions in early May, marking the start of what the company anticipates to be a strong domestic season.
The program features Baloian’s Italian Flat Sweet Red Onion, grown from an exclusive heirloom seed cultivated for more than three generations. Known for its high Brix sweetness, distinctive flat shape, and strong shelf appeal, the item continues to gain traction among retailers seeking differentiated, high-flavor onion offerings.
“As consumers continue to look for more flavor-forward produce options, our Flat Sweet Reds deliver both taste and visual appeal,” said Reiley Johnstone at Baloian Farms. “We’re seeing increased interest from retailers looking to elevate their onion category with unique items that drive repeat purchases.”
Harvest will begin in Fresno, with promotable volumes expected throughout the May through October window. Baloian Farms offers a range of pack options and supports retail ad planning and seasonal programs.
The California season comes at a time when demand for premium and specialty onions continues to grow, particularly among shoppers seeking sweeter, versatile varieties for both fresh and culinary use.
*****
Baloian Farms is a fourth-generation, vertically integrated family farm specializing in providing premium quality produce year-round. We work from the ground up—growing, harvesting, packing, food safety, quality control, cooling, and distribution. We meticulously monitor every step of the process, every day, to maintain our reputation as a world-class grower, shipper, and distributor of fresh vegetables.
Elgin, MN – Honeybear Brands, a leading grower, marketer and developer of premium conventional and organic apples, pears and cherries, is urging retailers to remind shoppers to eat more fiber rich apples, in an effort to help them reduce their risk of certain cancers, including Colon Cancer.
And in addition to cancer protection, emerging research shows fiber can even protect our brains – slowing down symptoms of cognitive decline.
Colon cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in the U.S. and the risk is growing in younger adults – 1 in 5 diagnoses are now occurring in people under 55, and the American Cancer Society is urging regular screenings start at age 45 rather than 50.
But In the US, about 97% of men and 90% of women do not eat enough fiber. The American diet features processed food, and low-fiber, high-fat meals. A high-fiber diet can mitigate risk, providing a preventative measure against colon cancer. Apple peels are packed with fiber thanks to phytochemicals — such as flavonoids and polyphenols — which has been shown to fight certain cancers.
“We know shoppers are looking to make informed choices. They are aware of fiber’s contribution to good gut health, which supports overall health,” said Kristi Harris, Marketing Director, Honeybear Brands. “And with apples, it’s easy to sneak more fiber into our diets. Whether you take an apple with you as an on-the-go snack, slice it up instead of chips for lunch or add to a dish for dinner, apples deliver on taste and health in spades. Plus, they are very affordable.”
About Honeybear Brands
Honeybear Brands is a multi-generational grower, marketer, and innovator of premium conventional and organic apples, pears, and cherries. With operations rooted in the world’s finest growing regions, Honeybear combines sustainable farming practices with state-of-the-art packing facilities strategically located across the U.S. to deliver fresher, faster, and packed-to-order fruit. A robust year-round import program further ensures consistent supply and exceptional quality for retail partners and consumers alike.
Honeybear Brands is a wholly owned subsidiary of Wescott Agri Products.
South Texas is shipping its sweet 1015 onions in good volume, according to the South Texas Onion Committe of Mission, TX.
With ongoing loadings expected from the Rio Grande Valley through early-June and the Uvalde region continuing supply into mid-July, retailers still have significant opportunities to promote Texas sweet onions during key summer selling periods, such as with Fourth of July promotions. This availability allows retailers to keep Texas-grown sweet onions on the shelf during some of the highest-traffic grilling holidays of the year.
***
he South Texas Onion Committee (STOC) was founded in 1961 through Federal Marketing Order No. 959 to support and oversee the South Texas onion industry. Representing growers and shippers across 35 counties in South Texas, STOC works to maintain quality standards, support research and promotion efforts, and strengthen market opportunities for Texas-grown onions. The committee is dedicated to increasing awareness and demand for the TX1015 Sweet Onion as the first domestically grown sweet onion of the season.
Michigan asparagus loadings got underway this season in time for the May 10 Mother’s Day observance, which is considered a normal start.
The Michigan Asparagus Committee reports a good quality crop, with shipments lasting about six weeks, or the last half of June.
While the season began with the weather resembling a roller coast ride, in the end cooler temperatures and adequate rains contributed to quality being quite good.
Last year, the Great Lakes State produced approximately 23,590 tons of asparagus, according to data from the USDA. Traditionally, about 60 percent of the crop is sold fresh, and the remaining 40 percent is processed into products such as canned, frozen, or pickled.
Michigan remains the leading asparagus-producing state in the US, with more than 90 farm families involved in production.
The California table grape industry is navigating a period of contraction, according to the latest data from the US Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS).
The report reveals a continued downward trend in total planted area, totaling 118,000 acres in 2025, a slight 1.7 percent decrease from the previous year.
Notably, while bearing acreage remained steady at 115,000 acres, non-bearing acreage, which generally represents future production, saw a 40 percent drop.
Released at the end of April, the survey was conducted in partnership with the California Department of Food and Agriculture and the California Table Grape Commission.
A closer look at the 2025 data shows a slight but consistent decline from the 125,000 total acres recorded in 2023, underscoring a tightening of the state’s table grape footprint.
The sharp reduction in non-bearing acreage, which fell from 5,000 acres in 2024 to just 3,000 in 2025, suggests a cautious approach to new plantings among California growers, though the USDA doesn’t provide an interpretation of this number in particular.
Despite the overall reduction, Flame Seedless remains the state’s leading table grape variety with a total of 10,506 planted acres, a slight dip from the 10,547 acres reported in 2024.
Other dominant traditional varieties also experienced marginal declines compared to the previous year, but remained steady overall. Autumn King went from 6,338 to 6,312 acres, while Scarlet Royal reached 6,047 acres, down from 6,056. Red Globe decreased slightly to 5,205 acres from 5,255, and Crimson Seedless remained nearly flat at 4,692 acres.
While many well-established varieties saw reductions, a few newer or proprietary varieties showed resilience or modest growth, consolidating the shift toward green cultivars over reds. Sweet Globe acreage increased slightly to 1,748 acres, up from 1,712, while Great Green (also known as Green Envy or Big Green) grew to 1,146 acres from 1,125.
Finally, the consumer-favorite Autumn Crisp kept a steady footprint at 4,154 acres, matching its 2024 total. However, with 448 non-bearing acres, the cultivar was Golden State growers’ main choice for new plantings, reflecting its already widely reported commercial success.
he USDA noted that the data reflect significant vine removals, with over 21,000 acres pulled across all grape types in the past 12 months.
As the industry moves forward, these figures signal a strategic consolidation focused on maintaining existing bearing vines while significantly scaling back on new development.
California apricots got an early start to the season, similar to many other West Coast produce items, according to Bari Produce of Fresno, CA.
The state’s Central Valley started production about 10 days earlier than last year and Bari Produce was already about one-third of the way through it’s crop in early May.
Apricot harvesting started around April 15th and following that earlier start, an earlier end to the season is also anticipated for around June 15th.
As for the quality of the fruit, reports are positive, brix levels are exactly where they should be and the fruit tastes sweet, the company notes. The first variety was a bit smaller in size, just due to less time on the tree to get ripe. Better sizing of fruit has arrived as the season progresses.
Ships for Memorial Day is typically a big time for volume.
Meanwhile the company is shipping peaches and nectarines and plums will start by the end of the month.
Total peach production is projected to decline nearly 10 per cent to 480,000 tons, down from 532,000 tons last year.
California produced 320,000 tons of freestone peaches in 2025, with 2026 production estimated at 310,000 tons. Cling peach production is projected at 170,000 tons this year, down from 212,000 tons in 2025.
Most California Pear Growers will continue to have a dependable market for their crop as Pacific Coast Producers (PCP) of Sacramento, CA has announced it plans to maintain canned pear volume following its recent acquisition of Del Monte’s shelf-stable fruit assets.
The development provides some continuity for pear processing volumes that have long been a cornerstone of the industry.
“In recent years, Del Monte had contracted for nearly 40 percent of the pears used in canned products,” said Chris Zanobini, Executive Director of the California Pear Advisory Board. “With the closure of their Modesto facility, maintaining that tonnage in the system was critical. Pacific Coast Producers’ plan to contract a significant portion of that volume, will help keep the industry operating at sustainable levels and provide some certainty for growers heading into the season.”
Approximately two-thirds of California’s pear crop is utilized in processed products such as canned pears and fruit cocktail. While processing capacity in the state has consolidated in recent years, PCP’s expanded role helps ensure a continued outlet for that fruit.
Pacific Coast Producers is an agricultural cooperative owned by 160 family farmers in Northern California. The company operates facilities in California and Oregon and employs more than 4,000 people. Since 1971, PCP has focused on delivering quality fruit products while supporting the long-term viability of its grower-owners and partners.
PCP is expected to contract with both cooperative members and independent growers, providing flexibility and continuity across the industry.
In a recent statement, PCP said: “We are committed to a viable agricultural community in our state. We have increased our purchases of West Coast fruit to ensure a reliable supply for our customers while maintaining the quality consumers expect.”
California pear growers continue to navigate a competitive global market, with imports—particularly from Argentina—remaining a factor. Industry leaders are actively working on trade policy to support fair market conditions.
Approximately 60 pear farming families remain in California today, continuing a long-standing tradition of pear production. The 2026 crop is expected to be early and plentiful, and growers are well positioned to supply both fresh and processed markets.
The Brazilian mango industry is facing a difficult start to the year due to heavy rains in the São Francisco Valley, the country’s primary production region. “Approximately 60% of my harvest was destined for the domestic market due to quality concerns,” stated Ronaldo Araujo, CEO of Sebastião da Manga.
According to Araujo, the rain primarily affected the fruit’s external quality, emphasizing that the issue was not quantity but exportability. “We experienced significant losses because of the rain, leading us to focus on the local market to avoid client problems,” he said. In Brazil, consumers are more tolerant of mangoes with minor imperfections, which helped us temporarily redirect the fruit.
The São Francisco Valley, responsible for 90% of Brazil’s mango exports, has been hit the hardest by the weather.
This development aligns with the decreased availability of Mexican mango in the global market, creating an opportunity for Brazil. “Mexico’s production is lower this year, and anthracnose issues are also affecting supply. That’s why the United States is sourcing produce from Brazil to load in May and June,” Araujo stated. The rising demand in North America might result in higher prices.
Brazil maintains its position as a year-round supplier thanks to its continuous production cycle, unlike other countries with more seasonal supplies, such as Peru or Ecuador. “Brazil is the only country that produces mango 12 months of the year; the others work in windows,” the grower pointed out.
Tommy Atkins and Palmer varieties still dominate Brazilian plantations, with Tommy Atkins being more sensitive to rainfall. “The Palmer mango is a little more resistant,” he added.
The sector is optimistic that exports will recover in the second half of the year, supported by higher-quality fruit and more favorable weather. “We expect quality to be very good for export,” Araujo stated.
Rosy Red Valencias, an exciting new citrus variety native to California’s Central Valley, will be available at Bee Sweet Citrus of Fowler, CA later this spring.
Discovered in 2009 by Bee Sweet Citrus grower Nancy Lange, this variety is an excellent choice for customers seeking unique produce to enhance their summer selection.
“The Rosy Red is truly unique. As the only Valencia orange with beautifully tinted juice, it boasts a vibrant rosy blush and a striking coral-colored flesh,” said Bee Sweet Citrus grower Nancy Lange. “Its beautiful pigmentation comes from lycopene, a carotenoid known for its nutritional benefits. With its delicious flavor and healthful qualities, Rosy Reds are sure to delight consumers.”
Similar to Bee Sweet’s Royal Red oranges and Cara Cara Navel oranges, Rosy Red Valencias feature a unique coral-colored interior and a blushed rind.
Their blush is most pronounced during the summer months, and harvest runs from May through August. Their sweet flavor makes them perfect for fresh eating, while their abundant juice content is excellent for juicing.
“Rosy Reds were first discovered as a spontaneous variation on a single limb of a Valencia tree. We’re grateful that Nancy not only noticed the emergence of Rosy Reds, but also led its development and production,” stated Bee Sweet Citrus Sales Representative Joe Berberian. “We’re proud to include Rosy Reds in our citrus line-up and hope our customers enjoy their unique flavor while they’re in season.”
Rosy Red Valencias are available in both bag and bulk options. The packaging has been thoughtfully created to highlight the variety’s unique qualities and is sure to draw attention in the produce aisle.
Initial projections for the Northwest cherry 2026 season have been revised downward, but not that much.
Early-season estimates predicted between 22 and 23 million boxes have been adjusted to 21.5 million boxes.
This represents a roughly seven percent reduction from initial projections. This is due to the natural and highly expected agronomic stress on cherry trees after 2025’s bumper season; and on the other, there was freeze damage.
Low temperatures hit Washington’s Yakima Valley and parts of Oregon during the first half of April, which cut volume projections for early varieties, such as Rainier, Yellow cherry, or Early Robbins. For example, Chelan, whose yield usually sits at six tons per acre, is projected to decrease to between three and four tons per acre.
The shipping season is expected to start at the end of May, with a light harvest before volumes ramp up significantly during the first week of June.
By the end of that first week of June, volumes would ramp up pretty hard and be available into August with heavier volumes. The peak shipping season is projected to fall between June 15 and July 20.
CMI Orchards of Wenatchee, WA reports similar information to the Northwest Cherry Association and is looking forward to a crop with good quality.
Baloian Farms of Fresno, CA began harvesting its California Flat Sweet Red Onions in early May, marking the start of what the company anticipates to be a strong domestic season.
The program features Baloian’s Italian Flat Sweet Red Onion, grown from an exclusive heirloom seed cultivated for more than three generations. Known for its high Brix sweetness, distinctive flat shape, and strong shelf appeal, the item continues to gain traction among retailers seeking differentiated, high-flavor onion offerings.
“As consumers continue to look for more flavor-forward produce options, our Flat Sweet Reds deliver both taste and visual appeal,” said Reiley Johnstone at Baloian Farms. “We’re seeing increased interest from retailers looking to elevate their onion category with unique items that drive repeat purchases.”
Harvest will begin in Fresno, with promotable volumes expected throughout the May through October window. Baloian Farms offers a range of pack options and supports retail ad planning and seasonal programs.
The California season comes at a time when demand for premium and specialty onions continues to grow, particularly among shoppers seeking sweeter, versatile varieties for both fresh and culinary use.
*****
Baloian Farms is a fourth-generation, vertically integrated family farm specializing in providing premium quality produce year-round. We work from the ground up—growing, harvesting, packing, food safety, quality control, cooling, and distribution. We meticulously monitor every step of the process, every day, to maintain our reputation as a world-class grower, shipper, and distributor of fresh vegetables.
Elgin, MN – Honeybear Brands, a leading grower, marketer and developer of premium conventional and organic apples, pears and cherries, is urging retailers to remind shoppers to eat more fiber rich apples, in an effort to help them reduce their risk of certain cancers, including Colon Cancer.
And in addition to cancer protection, emerging research shows fiber can even protect our brains – slowing down symptoms of cognitive decline.
Colon cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in the U.S. and the risk is growing in younger adults – 1 in 5 diagnoses are now occurring in people under 55, and the American Cancer Society is urging regular screenings start at age 45 rather than 50.
But In the US, about 97% of men and 90% of women do not eat enough fiber. The American diet features processed food, and low-fiber, high-fat meals. A high-fiber diet can mitigate risk, providing a preventative measure against colon cancer. Apple peels are packed with fiber thanks to phytochemicals — such as flavonoids and polyphenols — which has been shown to fight certain cancers.
“We know shoppers are looking to make informed choices. They are aware of fiber’s contribution to good gut health, which supports overall health,” said Kristi Harris, Marketing Director, Honeybear Brands. “And with apples, it’s easy to sneak more fiber into our diets. Whether you take an apple with you as an on-the-go snack, slice it up instead of chips for lunch or add to a dish for dinner, apples deliver on taste and health in spades. Plus, they are very affordable.”
About Honeybear Brands
Honeybear Brands is a multi-generational grower, marketer, and innovator of premium conventional and organic apples, pears, and cherries. With operations rooted in the world’s finest growing regions, Honeybear combines sustainable farming practices with state-of-the-art packing facilities strategically located across the U.S. to deliver fresher, faster, and packed-to-order fruit. A robust year-round import program further ensures consistent supply and exceptional quality for retail partners and consumers alike.
Honeybear Brands is a wholly owned subsidiary of Wescott Agri Products.