The International Fresh Produce Association shared its initial reaction to the newly published rule on the Requirements for Additional Traceability Records for Certain Foods (Food Traceability Final Rule), which was released Nov. 15 and sets additional traceability recordkeeping requirements for companies that manufacture, process, pack or hold foods included on the Food Traceability List, which includes fresh produce commodities.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture imposed sanctions on three produce businesses for failing to meet contractual obligations to the sellers of produce they purchased and failing to pay reparation awards issued under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act. These sanctions include suspending the businesses’ PACA licenses and barring the principal operators of the businesses from engaging in PACA-licensed business or other activities without approval from USDA.

The following businesses and individuals are currently restricted from operating in the produce industry:

Kevin Holt, CEO of Ahold Delhaize USA, plans to retire and step down from the Ahold Delhaize management board when his term expires at the Annual General Meeting of shareholders on April 12, 2023, at which time the company will nominate JJ Fleeman as member of the Ahold Delhaize management board and CEO of Ahold Delhaize USA. Fleeman’s appointment to the management board is subject to shareholder approval at the AGM. After the AGM, Holt will remain with Ahold Delhaize USA in an advisory capacity until he retires at the end of 2023, to ensure a seamless transition.

California Giant Berry Farms announced the distribution of $43,500 to 10 non-profit organizations throughout the Central Coast via its philanthropic initiative, The California Giant Foundation. The funds are a culmination of the foundation’s fundraising efforts throughout the year — including its Skirt Steak Barbecue, a celebrated community tradition — and office-wide initiatives, spearheaded by an enthusiastic volunteer committee of California Giant employees. 

During the annual meeting of the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas, the association’s president, Lance Jungmeyer, presented the FPAA Member of the Year Award to Matt Mandel from SunFed. The Member of the Year is nominated by FPAA members and is defined as someone who goes above and beyond in working for the betterment of the industry and its membership.

NatureSweet and Instant Brands are combining forces to transform everyday meals and spread more holiday cheer this season. Through select NatureSweet snacking tomato products, Glorys, Comets and Twilights, consumers can enter to win an Instant Pot Duo Plus, a revolutionary multicooker that serves as a pressure cooker, slow cooker and sous vide.