The United Family announced Darvel Kirby, produce director, will retire effective Feb. 28. Joseph Bunting, who has been with the company for 22 years, will be promoted from produce business manager to assume the role of produce director.

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Agriculture has deregulated "Arctic" brand apples genetically modified to resist the browning process, a decision that may not be popular with apple growers and consumer groups.

The Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service took the action based on a final plant pest risk assessment that found GMO apples are not likely to pose a pest risk and on the results of an environmental assessment that found deregulation is not likely to have a significant effect on the environment, but don’t expect a ringing endorsement from apple growers.

Reggie Griffin, former vice president of produce and floral at The Kroger Co., was elected by the shareholders of Ocean Mist Farms as an outside director.

Retailer buyers should follow three steps to begin the process of assuring produce suppliers are following best food-safety practices, advised Hilary Thesmar, vice president of Food Safety Programs at the Food Marketing Institute, in a Feb. 12 blog.

Nash Produce of Nashville, NC has made a name for itself as a major supplier of premium sweet potatoes over the last few years. Now the company is taking its game to the next level with the introduction of a full line of value-added sweet potato products under its own “Mr. Yam’s” label.