The North Carolina SweetPotato Commission recently launched the Blazin’ Blackstone Giveaway Contest, a summer recipe promotion highlighting delicious new ways to enjoy sweetpotatoes.

The IFPA Foodservice Conference kicked off July 28 in Monterey, CA. Attendees took part in buyer meetings, made new business connections and got together with old friends. After the general session "An Afternoon with Robert Irvine," attendees headed to a networking reception at The Barns and concluded with the Church Brothers Farms' IFPA Ranch Party.

Retail produce departments could be entering a period of unprecedented growth if they seize the opportunity to capitalize on the emerging trend of food as medicine.

Azzule Systems has hired Nicole Stovicek as a sales representative. As a member of the sales team, Stovicek will utilize her knowledge and experience to reach potential clients in the Southwestern United States. Her first priority will be to enhance Azzule and Primus Group’s awareness of the industry’s needs.

Sun World International LLC is adding GrapeCo Australia and RJN Cua Vineyards as licensed grower-marketers in Australia.

This expansion reflects the current market demand for Sun World’s proprietary grape varieties as well as its globally recognized varietal brands. Australia’s strong domestic market and its proximity to Asia makes it a strategically important production region within Sun World’s global supply program.

Tomato and vegetable supplier Lipman Family Farms further expanded its international footprint by closing the deal on a 75-acre greenhouse facility in Jalisco, Mexico.

“The purchase is part of our approach to better secure the supply of tomato and fresh vegetable production and fill in appropriate gaps between seasonal transition periods,” said Darren Micelle, Lipman’s president of value-added services. “We look forward to seeing the impact this purchase will have in supporting both the East and West markets in North America.”