While New Jersey is called The Garden State, few people across the country and even those who live in the state, would think that it is the home to a thriving agricultural community.

Even though New Jersey is most often thought of as an urban or suburban region, sandwiched between New York City and Philadelphia, two of the nation’s top five largest metropolitan areas, the state produces more than 100 different varieties of  produce products, from asparagus and eggplant to sweet corn and, of course, Jersey tomatoes.

Ali Dandrea’s produce career is forging ahead with the confidence of a veteran many years her senior. She unabashedly credits her late father for leading the way and still helping her as she employs the lessons she learned from him.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers assigned to the Otay Mesa Cargo Facility seized $38 million worth of methamphetamine within a shipment of kale. CBP officers extracted 268 packages concealed within the shipment of kale.

The narcotics were tested and identified as methamphetamine with a total weight of 5,788.41 pounds.

With 14 percent menu penetration in 2022 (up from 8 percent in 2012), there is plenty of room to continue to grow the presence of America’s favorite melon on U.S. menus, and that is a goal of the National Watermelon Promotion Board.

The program’s ultimate goal is to increase watermelon on menus, according to Megan McKenna, senior director of marketing and foodservice for the NWPB.

The New Jersey Department of Agriculture leverages agency and FDA funding to promote farm food safety principles and good agricultural practices through implementation of focused education and outreach programs. The NJDA also maintains inspection programs to ensure that USDA, FDA and Jersey Fresh standards are met or exceeded. Our many roles include oversight and guidance in all areas of agricultural production.

The release of the report "U.S. Floral Gifting Market - Industry Outlook & Forecast 2023-2028" has been announced. Consumers seek unique and personalized arrangements for their loved ones instead of standard bouquets. This trend has led to the growth of florists who offer customizable and unique arrangements. One of the main reasons for this trend is the desire for a more meaningful and thoughtful gift.