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US: Medfly quarantine affects Santa Monica farmers markets and others
A recent find of a Mediterranean fruit fly in Santa Monica has caused state authorities to declare a quarantine that has started to affect vendors and customers at 10 farmers markets in that city and adjacent areas – just in time for the pre-Thanksgiving rush.Armando Garcia, whose family grows citrus,..... 0 comments

Coupon Offers Savings to Drive Idaho Potato Sales During Holiday Season and Beyond
Idaho Potatoes are the main ingredient in a "Holiday Fixings" multi-partner promotion
This holiday season, consumers can toast to suppertime savings with a multi-partner retail promotion offering coupons on "all the fixings" including America's favorite vegetable, Idaho potatoes. Now through the end of the year, Frontera Wine will feature bottleneck coupons offering $1 off Idaho potatoes,..... 0 comments

Haitians targeted, fired illegally at three Immokalee tomato packing houses, suit claims
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has sued three tomato packing companies in Immokalee, charging that they discriminated against Haitian workers and fired them illegally because of their race.The suit is against Six L’s Packing and two related companies, LFC Agricultural Services Inc. and..... 0 comments

US: Spell says grants sought for sweet potato farmers
Mississippi Commissioner of Agriculture Lester Spell said he is “very familiar with the situation in Vardaman” and hopes to have disaster relief available within the next three-to-four months.Spell was the guest speaker at Saturday’s Sweet Potato Festival Banquet where he was also presented the annual..... 0 comments

US: Potato research project feeds the hungry
Texas AgriLife Research scientists had perfectly good potatoes laying in the field after a field study. Michael Hoy was a Boy Scout looking for an Eagle Scout project.When the two joined forces, they were able to provide more than 5,600 pounds of potatoes — the equivalent of 1,120 commonly purchased 5-pound..... 0 comments

US (CA): Mountain air gives Placer-grown mandarin oranges their marvelous taste
The air carries an extra crispness and a whiff of citrus here, 700 feet above the Valley. Sloping citrus groves line the hillside at Highland Orchard in the heart of Placer County's mandarin country.Mandarins hang like bright orange ornaments in these orchards, but by year's end, the trees will be bare..... 0 comments

US: Arizona Agri-Weekly report
The latest Arizona agriculture update from the National Agricultural Statistics Service’s Phoenix, Ariz., field office:• Field CropsCotton harvesting is 70 percent complete, ahead of last year at 59 percent, and ahead of the five-year average of 65 percent. Cotton conditions remain fair to excellent.The..... 0 comments

Canada: Grape surplus likely smaller than expected
The pile of extra grapes in Ontario is expected to shrink.The Grape Growers of Ontario, which represents 484 growers in the province, had predicted 9,000 tonnes of surplus fruit this fall or about 15% of an estimated 58,000-tonne crop.But some small wineries have bought more grapes than expected in recent..... 0 comments

Most tomatoes grown on a single truss-Graham Tranter sets world record
Farmworker Graham Tranter grew a truss with 304 tomatoes which sets the new world record for the most tomatoes grown on a single truss.Independent witnesses helped confirm the total after it was picked, although Graham points out that a further 20 fruits fell off it before and during picking, so the figure..... 0 comments

Biopack updates United States sustainable product launch
Biopack Environmental Solutions Inc. (OTCBB: BPAC), a leading designer, manufacturer, and supplier of 100% biodegradable packaging products, is pleased to provide the following update on its expansion strategy in the growing United States sustainable packaging market.Biopack America, the Company's recently..... 0 comments

US: Pumpkin shortage could mean empty shelves after Thanksgiving
Heavy rains have pretty much destroyed this year's small harvest, says food giant Nestle, which controls about 85% of the crop for canning. Supermarkets say supplies are tight.Mother Nature may have sneaked off with a sought-after slice of Thanksgiving.Recent heavy rains in the Midwest are putting pumpkin..... 0 comments

US: ScanControl, Inc. CropTrak Software Electronic Timesheet Update Released
ScanControl, Inc. today announced the release of an update to the CropTrak farm management software. New functionality now includes an electronic timesheet system that can be used on mobile computing devices in the field as well as laptop and desktop computers. The CropTrak software already includes a..... 0 comments

US: Quarentines established in Northern San Diego county for Mediterranean fruit fly and Asian citrus psyllid
Two separate quarantines have been established in Northern San Diego County. One for a Mediterranean fruit fly infestation and the other for an Asian citrus psyllid infestation.From October 29-November 1, three Medflies were taken from traps in the Fallbrook area of San Diego County, triggering a quarantine..... 0 comments

US (FA): New UF/IFAS extension program teaches basics of farm business
For many farm families, growing crops or raising livestock is the easy part of the job—what’s hard is handling the business affairs associated with farming.Beginning in January, the Florida Cooperative Extension Service will offer a course on the basics of farm finances and risk management. Called “Annie’s..... 0 comments

“Partners in Quality” Passes GHP Audit
US: John Vena, Inc. Achieves Another “First”
On Tuesday, November 3, 2009 John Vena, Inc. located in The Philadelphia Regional Produce Market, in Philadelphia, PA. achieved another “first”. The company passed a third party audit by the USDA Fresh Products Branch under the GAP/GHP Program, making them the first company in the Philadelphia Market to..... 0 comments

Eurofresh Inc. successfully emerges from bankruptcy
Eurofresh Inc, one of Southern Arizona’s largest employers and the leading year-round producer and marketer of greenhouse tomatoes in the United States, exited Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection today. Eurofresh Inc., DBA Eurofresh Farms, and its subsidiary Eurofresh Produce Ltd., emerged from bankruptcy less..... 0 comments

Loblaw profit rises 20%
Loblaw Cos. reported a higher quarterly profit of $189 million Tuesday despite weaker same-store sales, but Canada's biggest grocery store chain warned its performance would be challenged in the months ahead as retail food prices ease, squeezing its profit margins.Food prices have climbed in recent quarters..... 0 comments

Dillard's swings to 3rd-quarter profit
Retailer Dillard's Inc. on Tuesday reported a third-quarter profit, reversing a year-ago loss, as lower expenses and a tax benefit boosted its bottom line and offset soft sales.The company earned $8 million, or 11 cents per share, compared with a loss of $56 million, or 76 cents per share, a year ago...... 0 comments

GifterGo enables customers to download and instantly use vouchers from an array of local merchants and earn fuelperks! online
Giant Eagle Goes Local With Introduction of Downloadable Online Gift Vouchers for Community Retailers
Giant Eagle has made getting gift vouchers easier than ever with its new GifterGo program.The Pittsburgh-based supermarket retailer has announced the launch of GifterGo, a new online service that enables customers to purchase gift vouchers conveniently from their PC for a wide variety of local and community..... 0 comments

A&P Recognized for Environmental Stewardship
A&P, Montvale, N.J., was awarded the Environmental Stewardship Program of the Year at The 6th Annual Stevie Awards for Women in Business held here.The Stevie Awards for Women in Business is an international competition in 54 categories recognizing the accomplishments of outstanding women executives,..... 0 comments

U.S. lettuce is pricey this week
It's an expensive week for vegetables, and next week will be no cheaper.Romaine has soared in price; one produce marketer said the stores are having to pay $2.50 per head, and the high wholesale price has pushed retail rates into the record class.Other U.S. lettuce varieties are pricey, too. We're lucky to..... 0 comments

Norfolk County : Fruit & Veggie Growers will ask council for support
Norfolk County is about to find out just how dire the situation is for local fruit and vegetable growers. Chair of the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association, Brenda Lammens will be before council Tuesday night to make them aware of the financial situation Ontario's Tender Fruit sector is in...... 0 comments

Canada: Ontario farmers work to integrate ethnic produce alongside traditional Canadian crops
Farmers feed cities.But what happens when many of the people in those cities are immigrants who crave the ethnic foods of their homelands? Recent emphasis on reducing one’s carbon footprint and consuming safe, sustainable local produce has inspired Ontario’s food growers to experiment with crop varieties..... 0 comments

US: Mango sorting with IQA - ready for production
A presentation by Mr. Valery Quenon of Aweta G&P about electronic sorting of Mango will occur at the Outreach Meeting in Mexico with the National Mango Board and EMEX A.C. Jalisco, Mexico, November 24, 2009Development:Reedley, CA., USA. – November 17, 2009 – During the summer of 2009, the Aweta IQA,..... 0 comments

Cameo places first for taste and appearance out of 101 entries
Cameo apples voted tastiest apple by English panel
Cameo apples have been voted Tastiest Apple at the National Fruit Show in the U.K. for the second year in a row. The variety also judged Best Exhibit at the show based on appearance criteria.The competition, judged by a panel of six expert judges who tasted a total of 101 entries for the Tastiest Apple..... 0 comments

California agricultural organizations receive more than $33.7 million
USDA Announces promotional funding to support exports of California grown products
California trade organizations are receiving more than $33.7 million to support the international promotion of food and agriculture products as part of a USDA program. Funding allocated under the Market Access Program and the Foreign Market Development Cooperator Program will help California trade..... 0 comments

The international packaging industry on its journey to the future
The international packaging industry meets tomorrow’s trends. A great deal still remains to be done until the next interpack in 2011. Three main tasks – as became clear at interpack 2008 – will be the continued, relentless fight against product and brand piracy, the further development of “smart” packaging..... 0 comments

120,000 pounds going to food banks, shelters
US: Large potato donation to help local charities
Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin has announced a large donation from the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association. The group is donating more than 120,000 pounds of potatoes.The potatoes will be made available to food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters feeding the hungry.The donation couldn't..... 0 comments

Canada: Fruit grower wins award, again
An Okanagan apple grower has been picked not once, but twice, as the best in his field.Okanagan Centre's Marc Van Roechoudt has won an award for his Ambrosia apples at the Royal Winter Agricultural Fair in Toronto.The 74-year-old has also received the good orchard management and quality fruit award at the..... 0 comments

US: Jamba Juice invites customers to feel good and fill up for free with California Flatbreads giveaway on November 17
As a part of its Fall 'Feel Good Campaign', Jamba Juice announced today that it will be filling customers up for free tomorrow with a California Flatbread giveaway at participating Jamba Juice locations. From 2-5PM, Jamba's recently launched California Flatbreads(TM) will be available to the first 150..... 0 comments

Los Alamos to play key role in four geothermal projects funded by ARRA
US: New funding will stimulate alternative energy research
Initiatives to provide geothermal heating or power at the Pueblo of Jemez and the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology campus are receiving Los Alamos National Laboratory assistance, thanks to recent American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA) funding.The Laboratory recently received notice that..... 0 comments

US: Gibson grows veggies to be a better person
Hollywood actor Mel Gibson says he is always looking to improve himself and insists the best suggestion he ever received was to take up gardening.The ''Braveheart'' actor - who recently became a father for the eighth time when girlfriend Oksana Grigorieva gave birth to daughter Lucia Anne - says the best..... 0 comments

US: Pistachio growers receive $500K subsidy
Pistachio growers are getting $500,000 from the federal government for an industry re-building campaign.The subsidy is being channeled through the Fresno-based Western Pistachio Association (WPA) for a "re-building effort in light of the recent, nationwide voluntary recall of pistachios due to potential..... 0 comments

Los Angeles elementary students and families honored during game
Chilean avocados score big with Chivas Ayso night
The Chilean Avocado Importers Association (CAIA) celebrated the world of soccer on October 10 during its American Youth Soccer Association (AYSO) Night with Club Deportivo Chivas USA at the Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif. During the festivities, CAIA entertained importers of Chilean avocados and Southern..... 0 comments

CMI introduces new pear display for the holidays
CMI - one of Washington State’s largest grower/shipper of premium quality conventional and organic apples, pears and cherries, introduces new Interactive Pear Display in time for the Holiday pear displays.With bright graphics and an interactive Pear, Wine and Cheese spin wheel, customers will get up close..... 0 comments

Freska Produce International roll out new web page
Freska Produce International a leading importer/exporter of Mangos located in Oxnard, CA has rolled out a new web page packed full of new information regarding its existing programs. Freska Produce also its Celebrating its 5th anniversary of inception in 2004. Since then they have grown the company and..... 0 comments

US: Terrorism and bananas
Protestors will be ready to greet investors next week as Chiquita holds its annual stockholders meeting in downtown Cincinnati.Two human rights groups — 8th Day Center for Justice and Witness for Peace — will demonstrate in an effort to hold Chiquita executives accountable for company payments made to..... 0 comments

Reservoir levels are healthy but wet winter not forecast
US: Drought losses top $19 million
For the second year in a row, Mother Nature has dealt a heavy blow to agricultural producers in the Lower Rio Grande Valley, according to an economist with Texas AgriLife Extension Service in Weslaco.“Last year it was Hurricane Dolly that helped rack up losses of just over $25 million,” said Dr. Luis Ribera...... 0 comments

U.S. economy: sales rebound from year’s biggest drop
Retail sales in the U.S. rebounded more than forecast as demand for autos climbed, and a regional gauge of manufacturing showed expansion for a fourth month, easing concern the recovery will cool after government incentives end.Purchases increased 1.4 percent in October after a 2.3 percent drop in September..... 0 comments

Skinny Nutritional announces availability of water product in Bermuda
Skinny Nutritional has announced that Skinny Water is now available in all parishes of Bermuda through Global Distribution Group.The Skinny Water lineup features six flavors, including Acai Grape Blueberry (Hi-Energy), Raspberry Pomegranate (Crave Control), Goji Fruit Punch (Shape), Lemonade Passionfruit..... 0 comments

US: Police: 911 caller made up potato attack
Police in Florida said they arrested a man who called 911 and falsely reported a man was "smashing potatoes" over a woman's head.Largo police said Robert Turley, 51, called 911 three times Tuesday night, first saying a man armed with a knife was chasing a woman and then about 45 minutes later claiming the..... 0 comments

US: Railex, coast to coast service
Railex a logistical company providing expedited non-stop rail service, operating in the US and Eastern Canada. Railex offers many services including a five day transit time from coast to coast, guaranteed arrivals and departures on a weekly schedule. The company currently has four weekly departures from..... 0 comments

US: One doesn’t have to come at the expense of the other, experts say
Agriculture is a naturally sustainable industry, but growers in California are finding it harder to be sustainable in light of food safety guidelines. But the two don’t have to be mutually exclusive, and the Center for Produce Safety at the University of California, Davis, is working with stakeholders to..... 0 comments

US: Lawsuits against Dole by Ivory Coast Plaintiffs dismissed
Dole Food Company, Inc. announced today that the Los Angeles Superior Court has dismissed the seven remaining lawsuits brought by Ivory Coast plaintiffs against Dole and three other companies. Previously, the United States District Court for the Central District of California had dismissed the eighth lawsuit..... 0 comments

US: Jackson county farmers try to revive satsuma industry
It's a little known fact outside of the region, but Jackson County was once known as "the Satsuma Capital of the World." Bad weather wiped out the crop in the 1930s. But a small group of farmers are now trying to revive the industry. Source: wjhg.com 0 comments

US: Local groups harvest apples from restored orchard
The Greenwich Land Trust welcomed Abilis volunteers to harvest apples on the restored Agnew Apple Orchard on Close Road.Throughout the year, Abilis volunteers from the Life Skills program help GLT with membership and outreach mailings. A harvest outing at the Agnew Orchard was one way to thank hard-working..... 0 comments

US: Debate arises on sustainable packaging
A debate simmers between proponents of two kinds of sustainable packaging material.In one corner: Users of compostable materials, those that can be heated after use and converted to a form of fertilizer to be put back into the earth. On the other side: users of oxo-biodegradable plastics, which proponents..... 0 comments

The Power of Fruit(R) introduces New Logo, Packaging Design, Website
The Power of Fruit Inc, maker of the only frozen fruit bars made of only fresh frozen whole fruit and fruit juice with no added sugar, chemicals or preservatives, has introduced a new corporate identity system including a new logo, tagline, packaging design and website, www.poweroffruit.com.The company's new..... 0 comments

New Purfresh Transport Service from Carrier Transicold improves quality and enhances food safety of produce shipments
Carrier Transicold has launched the Purfresh Transport service under an exclusive agreement with Purfresh, Inc., providing the container shipping industry with a cost-effective, chemical-free means to protect produce cargoes from spoilage. Carrier Transicold is a part of Carrier Corp., a business unit of..... 0 comments

US: Crop report
Small grains and other field crops: Alfalfa is getting close to the dormant season.Many growers are trying to cut and bale at least one more time, but a few are already starting to sheep-off fields. Corn silage and sorghum harvest are nearing completion, but continue throughout the county. Winter forage and..... 0 comments

US: Pistachio crops continue expanding
A shake-up in the California pistachio industry is not limited to the machinery that rumbles through orchards and jostles nuts from the trees.It also involves greater attention to food safety and renewed efforts to market pistachios domestically and abroad at a time when exports have grown substantially in..... 0 comments

Canadian currency strengthens as stocks, commodities advance
Canada’s dollar strengthened against its U.S. counterpart for a second day as stocks gained and commodities climbed, boosting investors’ appetite for higher- yielding assets.“There’s been a good rally in stocks, and the U.S. dollar is sticky at these levels,” said Shane Enright, a currency strategist in..... 0 comments

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announces $234 million to promote U.S. Food and Agricultural Exports
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that 70 U.S. trade organizations received more than $234 million in Fiscal Year 2009 to help promote American food and agricultural products overseas. Vilsack made this announcement at the annual convention of the National Association of Farm..... 0 comments

While U.S. economy struggles, china's rises
President Obama visits China at a time when the world's two most powerful economies face very different fortunes.A humbled United States is slowly recovering after sparking the global financial crisis. China, on the other hand, has handled the downturn with ease and appears to be leading the world out of..... 0 comments

US: Suppliers step up marketing efforts
In a down economy, marketing efforts for Chilean produce are becoming more aggressive. Suppliers are pointing to educational programs, cross-promotions and on-the-ground staff to assist retailers.“You have to start to offer a better value to the consumer,” said Brian Bocock, vice president of sales for..... 0 comments

US (AZ): Stopping citrus pest must begin in Yuma County
It is too late to prevent the spread to the Yuma area of an insect that can be deadly to citrus trees, but the hope is that it can be stopped here and controlled.A number of the insects, known as the Asian citrus psyllid, have been found in Yuma, Somerton and San Luis, Ariz. areas. Agriculture officials say..... 0 comments

IFT recommends guidelines for food product tracing
The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) delivered to the Food & Drug Administration a new technical study that recommends guidelines to establish a comprehensive product tracing system to track the movement of food products effectively from farm to point of sale or service. FDA’s Center for Food Safety..... 0 comments

Named as "seafarer friend"
Dole recieves award for corporate responsibility
Dole Fresh Fruit Company, a subsidiary of Dole Food Company, Inc., announced that the company was awarded the "Friend of the Seafarer" award by the Wilmington Seamen's Center. The award, handed out during the Annual Banquet event held November 11 at the Port of Wilmington in Delaware, is in recognition..... 0 comments

US: Produce safety training curriculum released
North Carolina Cooperative Extension is helping fruit and vegetable farmers across the state minimize fresh produce safety risks through a comprehensive set of educational tools.The N.C. MarketReady Fresh Produce Safety – Field to Family training curriculum is being distributed to Extension agents throughout..... 0 comments

By Mark Greenberg
Fisher Capespan market report for Week 46
Citrus Update:The 2009 Southern Hemisphere citrus season finally wound down with the last of the late navel oranges clearing out of the market and making way for the start of the domestic California orange and easy peeler season and the Mediterranean clementine season on the east coast. In most respects..... 0 comments

US: Valley kiwi growers hopeful about 2009
California kiwifruit farmers are bouncing back this year after struggling through a bitter frost last season and rising foreign imports.This year's crop is forecast to be about 16% larger than the 2008 crop, and a weak U.S. dollar may slow imports from the chief foreign competitor, Italy."This year we are in..... 0 comments

US: Gulf Citrus Growers plan more area-wide psyllid sprays
Coordinated sprays for the psyllids that spread citrus greening disease have covered most citrus acreage in the Southwest Florida, or Gulf, region. In these reports, Mark ColbertDuda grove manager Mark Colbert, who helps coordinate the sprays, says more are coming soon and tells how the Gulf operation works...... 0 comments

Washington awarded specialty-crop grants
Washington state organizations will receive $2.6 million in federal assistance as they work to expand economic opportunities for specialty crop farmers and develop more efficient farming practices.Grants from the USDA's Specialty Crop Block Grant Program are being administered by the state Department of..... 0 comments

AgriLife Research pathologist to lead the charge
Zebra chip research gets $3.9 million in funding
Texas AgriLife Research plant pathologist Dr. Charlie Rush of Amarillo has watched the concern over zebra chip of potato grow in the past five years, both among researchers and those willing to fund the research.Now Rush is leading a team of 20 researchers and extension specialists in a $3.9 million..... 0 comments

Texas Crop Report
Texas A&M Agrilife Extension regional crop reports for Nov. 10:CENTRAL: Soil moisture across the district was adequate to surplus, and growing conditions remained good. Warmer weather encouraged the growth of wheat and rye. Some farmers were waiting for fields to dry out before planting late-season small..... 0 comments

US: Grapefruit extract may prevent metabolic syndrome
A chemical naturally found in grapefruit may help prevent the physiological changes that produce the condition known as metabolic syndrome, a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes, a new study has found.Metabolic syndrome refers to a cluster of symptoms including high blood..... 0 comments

This year’s crop is average, but it’s good quality
Good year for apples
NOVA SCOTIA apple growers are finishing up their annual harvest and are expecting an average crop, but of good quality."The crop looks good," Dela Erith, executive director of the Nova Scotia Fruit Growers Association, said Monday. "We had good size and good colour on the apples."Wet weather and a poor bloom..... 0 comments

US(WA): Apple growers eyeing big returns
Record shipments of fresh Washington apples this season are raising hopes for better returns for growers over the next year in the face of a slow economy and competition.The industry had shipped 17.6 million boxes of apples from the 2009 crop through Nov. 1, according to industry organizations that track..... 0 comments

New practices could save money, reduce greenhouse emissions
US(OR): Nurseries vie to be climate friendly
Oregon nurseries know they way around greenhouses; now they’re learning about greenhouse gases.“Nurseries have always been ahead of the curve,” says Gary Furr, general manager of J. Frank Schmidt & Son Nurseries in Boring, one of 13 Oregon nurseries to sign on to the Climate Friendly Nurseries project...... 0 comments

Growing Interest in Garlic Varieties
Some use it to repel vampires. Some use it to alleviate everything from heart disease to high blood pressure to cancer. But most just enjoy its pungent flavor. Garlic has been celebrated in folklore, used as a medicine and added to foods for thousands of years. And, while its recent repute has been..... 0 comments

Canadian dollar shows mixed trading against majors
The Canadian dollar showed mixed performance against its major counterparts as oil held steady above $79 a barrel as investors waited for U.S. government oil data for direction.The loonie declined from early Asian session's 3-week high against its U.S. and Japanese counterparts. The loonie also edged down..... 0 comments

US: Costco opens first Manhattan Store, looks at sites
Costco Wholesale Corp., the largest U.S. warehouse club, is opening its first store on Manhattan today and is looking at other sites.“This is a big deal for us,” Joe Portera, an executive vice president and chief operating officer of the eastern and Canadian division, said yesterday in an interview at the..... 0 comments

US: Roundy's settlement boosts Nash Finch profit
Nash Finch Co. said its third-quarter profit nearly tripled, in part because of a gain from settling a lawsuit with Milwaukee-based Roundy’s Supermarkets Inc.Edina-Minn.-based Nash Finch said its earnings included $6.3 million, or 47 cents a share, from a non-cash settlement with Roundy’s Supermarkets that..... 0 comments

US: Wal-Mart posts 3 percent rise in profit for 3Q
Wal-Mart Stores Inc. posted a 3.2 percent increase in third-quarter profit, helped by cost-cutting measures like slashing inventories, and raised its full-year earnings outlook.But sales at its U.S. namesake stores open at least a year slipped, and the company predicted that they could continue to fall..... 0 comments

US(CA): Expect Valley temperatures to get chilly by Friday
Cloudy skies and sprinkles are expected to give way to near-freezing temperatures by Friday.A weak storm front will skirt the northern edge of Tulare County today and may bring a few drops of rain to some isolated spots in the Valley.Scott Borgioli, meteorologist with WeatherAg.com, said most of the..... 0 comments

US: Californian water deal no quick fix for struggling farms
When Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger was promoting a complex legislative package to rebuild California's water system, he often appeared alongside farmers who were unable to cultivate their land amid a third year of drought and federal pumping restrictions.Yet agricultural relief from the bills signed into law by..... 0 comments

US: Shipping numbers promise profits for apple growers
Record shipments of fresh Washington apples this season are raising hopes for better returns for growers over the next year in the face of competition and a slow economy.The industry had shipped 17.6 million boxes of apples from the 2009 crop through Nov. 1, according to industry organizations that track..... 0 comments

US: Grapes reduce blood pressure, research shows
Grapes in the office fruit box can help lower blood pressure and improve heart function, new research has revealed.Scientists examined the effects of red, green and purple grapes on rats that develop high blood pressure when fed a salty diet.After 18 weeks, the rats that ate the grape-enriched diet had lower..... 1 comments

Redesigned Compact Dryer for fresh-cut produce is CE-marked and UL-certified
Key Technology introduces the newly redesigned Compact Dryer for removing moisture from fresh-cut produce after washing. Now CE-marked and UL-certified, the Compact Dryer features new Allen-Bradley controls and a new support frame to ease operation, enhance sanitation, and improve worker safety while..... 0 comments

Intergrow US: Tomatoes to be featured at the New York Wine and Culinary Center
Located along the shores of Canandaigua Lake, the fourth largest of the Finger Lakes in New York State, sits the New York Wine and Culinary Center (Center). Founded by Constellation Brands, Wegmans Food Markets Inc., the Rochester Institute of Technology, and The New York State Wine and Grape Foundation, the..... 0 comments

Web stats help artichoke growers provide seasonal recipes
Fresh artichokes spice up fall meals
Fall is the time to bring out the crock-pot, at least that is what the number of people searching recipes online showed the artichoke growers at Ocean Mist Farms.Ocean Mist Farms, the largest grower of fresh artichokes in the country, has been tracking consumer recipe demand and trends since starting an..... 0 comments

Mucci father and son featured in Farm Credit Canada’s AgriSuccess Journal
With only 50 years in Canada, the Mucci family has effectively made their mark on greenhouse farming. Starting with field farming in 1961, Tony and his brother Gino first rented land before purchasing their first 34 acre farm in 1963. Adapting to market changes, the brothers later turned to greenhouse..... 0 comments

Nutrition Assistance Programs Will Benefit
US: Apple Industry Applauds Fed Plans for $18.6 Million Apple Purchase
The U.S. Apple Association (USApple) today applauded the Obama Administration for its plan to purchase $18.6 million worth of apples in the near future. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack made the announcement this morning at the National Association of Farm Broadcasters annual convention in Kansas City,..... 0 comments

US: AgraQuest selects Osborn & Barr as Marketing Partner
AgraQuest, a leader in the development of biopesticides and low-chemical fungicides and insecticides, has selected Osborn & Barr, America's largest communications agency focused on the agricultural and rural lifestyle marketplace, as its marketing communications partner.AgraQuest, based in Davis, Calif.,..... 0 comments

Dollar recovers earlier losses in light trading
The dollar rebounded from a 15-month low against major rivals in thin trading Wednesday, spurring investors to take profits as an overnight rally in higher-yielding currencies went too far.Sterling was under the most pressure against the dollar among major currencies on the back of comments by the head of..... 0 comments

US retailers set to post first quarterly gains in two years
U.S. retailers, led by sector giant Wal-Mart Stores Inc. (WMT), are expected to post their first increase in quarterly profits in over two years, thanks to easier comparisons, steps to control inventories and improved consumer spending.The improved bottom-line results, after two months of sales increases,..... 0 comments

US: Maui pineapple ends operations
After suffering severe financial losses, Maui Land & Pineapple Company announces the end of pineapple production on the Valley Isle. “This is very sad news for our community.”For generations of Hawai‘i residents, pineapple has been regarded as a sweet symbol of the fruits of their labor. But for some,..... 0 comments

US: Vegetables provide the best diabetes defense for your baby
Why do pregnant women crave foods? Ask nutritionists this question, and they'll probably tell you that it's the body's way of telling the mother that it's "craving" a particular vitamin or nutrient. While this explanation certainly sounds reasonable, it loses its reasonableness when you consider the fact..... 0 comments

US: Man accused of hiding more than 4,400 pounds of marijuana in watermelon crates
A federal grand jury has indicted a California man accused of smuggling more than 4,400 pounds of marijuana in watermelon crates.On Tuesday morning Pedro Rene Monteagudo, from Hawthorne, Calif., went before U.S. Magistrate Judge Felix Recio to receive formal notice of the indictment, which charges him with..... 0 comments

Hybrid citrus rare outside coastal area
US: Local woman's satsuma trees loaded with fruit
Barbara Goodson might not be a gambler, but the Prattville woman has certainly beaten the odds by growing fruit-bearing satsuma trees in central Alabama.Goodson, who four years ago planted seven trees with hopes that at least one or two would survive, has seen a bumper crop this year. The seven trees have..... 0 comments

Production of fall potatoes in NY at record low
The U.S. Department of Agriculture says production of fall potatoes in New York is estimated at a record low of 4.95 hundredweight. That's 13 percent less than a year ago.Yields are expected to average 300 hundredweight per acre, compared with last year's record high of 320 hundredweight per acre.Acreage for..... 0 comments

Syngenta acquires U.S. lettuce seed companies
Syngenta announced today the signing of agreements to acquire two U.S.-based lettuce seed companies: Synergene Seed & Technology, Inc. and Pybas Vegetable Seed Co., Inc. The acquisitions will establish a significant position for Syngenta in the North American lettuce market and will broaden its lettuce..... 0 comments

US: Triad Strawberry farmer gets "Grower Of Year" award
A Guilford County Strawberry farmer has just added another sweet honor to his name. Kenneth Rudd of Rudd Farm was named "Grower of the Year."Strawberry farmers from around the state attended a NC Strawberry Expo in Durham when Rudd learned of his new title.Every year people can pay and pick their own..... 0 comments

US: “Health benefits and risks of grapefruit and grapefruit juice”
The grapefruit probably originated as a natural hybrid cross between the pomelo, which is the largest (up to a foot in diameter) of the citrus fruits, and a sour or bitter orange, or it may simply have developed as a mutant of the pomelo. In the early 19th century, grapefruits were grown in Jamaica, where..... 0 comments

US: Skinny Nutritional Corporation strengthens distribution network with the addition of Davis Beverage Group
Skinny Nutritional Corp., the maker of Skinny Water and a leader in the zero-calorie enhanced water category, announced today that it has entered into a distribution agreement with Bethlehem-based Davis Beverage Group. Davis Beverage Group currently distributes national brands such as 7 UP, Sunkist, Canada..... 0 comments

Idaho Potato production up 12 percent from 2008
Idaho’s potato production is expected to total 131 million cwt, up 12 percent from last year’s 116 million cwt and 1 percent above the 2007 crop, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service. Planted acres of 320,000 and harvested acres of 319,000 are up 15,000 acres from 2008. Statewide, yield..... 0 comments

US dollar may extend rise from 15-month low on reduced risk demand
The dollar may extend its advance from a 15-month low against the currencies of major U.S. trading partners on speculation waning demand for riskier assets will force investors to exit bets against the greenback.Sterling slid against the dollar yesterday as Fitch Ratings said the U.K.’s credit rating is the..... 0 comments

US: Wal-Mart to lead in retailers' first profit gain in 10 quarters
U.S. retailers, led by sector giant Wal-Mart Stores Inc., are expected to post their first increase in quarterly profits in over two years, thanks to easier comparisons, steps to control inventories and improved consumer spending.The improved bottom-line results, after two months of sales increases, would..... 0 comments

US: Farmers markets post record earnings
The 2009 Delaware farmers market season ended as the most profitable season ever, with 15 markets earning more than $1.1 million, a 40 percent increase over last season. This season kicked off in April and ended in October for participating farmers.“It is refreshing and gratifying to see the growth of..... 0 comments

Canada: Potato harvesters eye disaster relief
Members of P.E.I.'s potato industry are waiting to see how much of this year's crop can be harvested following a long struggle with wet weather and mud.The P.E.I. Potato Board notified the federal government last week that the province would need disaster funding and said farmers in the province could lose..... 0 comments

US: Prison inmates find drugs in fruit donated by police
Inmates at a state prison discovered some illicit produce last week while unpacking a fruit crate in the facility’s kitchen, law enforcement officials said Tuesday.Prisoners working in the mess hall of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice’s Segovia Unit found 25 pounds of marijuana nestled in a crate of..... 0 comments

This year’s crop is average, but it’s good quality
Canada: Good year for apples
Nova Scotia apple growers are finishing up their annual harvest and are expecting an average crop, but of good quality."The crop looks good," Dela Erith, executive director of the Nova Scotia Fruit Growers Association, said Monday. "We had good size and good colour on the apples."Wet weather and a poor bloom..... 0 comments

US: H1N1 concerns may be spurring orange juice boom
The Florida Department of Citrus has long been pushing the health benefits of a glass of orange juice. As concerns about H1N1 flu have ramped up, it appears people are listening, according to the Scripps TV Station Group.Analysts suggest that retail sales of orange juice have risen over the last six months,..... 0 comments

US: Food-focused public relations firm serves up promotions
Sahlman Williams, the Tampa-based food-focused public relations firm promoted two key associates recently. Jennifer Velasquez has been promoted to account executive from associate account executive, and Meredith Holland has been promoted to associate account executive from account associate. Velasquez works..... 0 comments

U.S. Foodservice advocates for a global approach to food safety
U.S. Foodservice continues to advocate for the development and implementation of internationally recognized accreditation and certification processes to certify suppliers in food safety around the world. Recent presentations given by U.S. Foodservice in partnership with global initiatives like the Global..... 0 comments

Bob Antle recognized for improving conditions for farm workers
Tanimura & Antle patriarch receives community award
Tanimura & Antle’s Co-Chairman of the Board, Bob Antle, received the 2009 Ben Heller Award for Courage and Leadership at the Center for Community Advocacy’s (CCA) 14th Annual Dia de los Muertos Banquet held on November 1st. The event is held on Dia de los Muertos not only to honor current community..... 0 comments

US: Bad weather causes local lettuce shortage
When you're food shopping this week, you may notice a lettuce shortage.Signs are posted at Martin's and Giant food stores warning shoppers that the lettuce and bagged salad mixes that are available may not last as long as usual.They say that's because of cold, rainy weather in California. The good news is,..... 0 comments

US: Florida all orange forecast remains 136.0 million boxes
Traditionally, no changes are made to the forecast in the month of November. The forecast consists of 67.0 million boxes of the late maturing Valencia oranges and 69.0 million boxes of the non-Valencia oranges (early, midseason, Navel, and Temple varieties). For the 2009-2010 season, the number of bearing..... 0 comments

ML Macadamia Orchards, L.P. reports 3rd quarter 2009 earnings
ML Macadamia Orchards, L.P.reported a third quarter net loss of $42,000 or ($0.01) per Class A Unit, on total revenues of $5.7 million, as compared to net income of $886,000 or $0.12 per Class A Unit on $5.8 million in revenues for the same period last year. The lower earnings are the result of a crop..... 0 comments

Weakening dollar sends US crop prices jumping
It was a market of two halves for grains on Monday – America and most of the rest of the world – as the weakening of the dollar to its lowest for 15 month set off a US rally that markets in Europe found difficult to enjoy.The greenback slipped 1% against a basket of currencies to its lowest since August last..... 0 comments

Hort Americas llc. more than just a sales office
After years of planning, the youngest overseas establishment of Horticoop was opened in April this year. Hort Americas llc. located in Euless, Texas, in the so called "greater Dallas-Forth Worth area". Besides this there are support points spread over the whole continent set up for logistics and sales. Hort..... 0 comments

Canada’s dollar climbs most in five months as stocks, oil gain
Canada’s dollar appreciated the most in five months against its U.S. counterpart as the Group of 20 nations agreed to maintain economic stimulus measures, boosting stocks and commodities worldwide.The Canadian dollar, nicknamed the loonie, touched the strongest level in two weeks. The currency, which tends..... 0 comments

Dollar reached 15-month low in wake of G20 meeting
The dollar fell to the lowest level in 15 months against a basked of currencies on Monday after a weekend meeting of Group of 20 policy makers stressed continued economic stimulus, encouraging investors to move into riskier assets such as stocks and away from the dollar.Traders also took heed of an..... 0 comments

UF professor’s hybrid fruit aims to hit supermarket shelves
A successful crossbreed of two citrus fruits has left a sweet taste of accomplishment in the mouths of its inventors.The Sugar Belle is the first crossbred citrus variety that UF is releasing to the public. Bred in late October, the fruit is part Clementine - a small mandarin - and part Minneola - a cross..... 0 comments

US: Citrus Research Referendum Conference call to be Thursday
Grower ballots for the new State Citrus Research Order that would raise additional citrus research funds will be mailed next week. In this report, Southeast AgNet’s Ernie Neff reminds growers and others about Florida Citrus Mutual’s 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 12 toll-free conference call about the referendum, as..... 0 comments