The Center for Produce Safety's advisory board convened June 27 with a key order of business to welcome new board leadership as well as recognize departing board members for their service.

CPS announced that produce industry veteran Stephen Patricio, president of Westside Produce, has assumed the chairmanship of the center’s advisory board, replacing Tim York, president of Markon Cooperative, who held the position since the center was founded in 2007.

Freshway Foods, based in Sidney, OH, announced June 22 the rollout of its new “Snack Takes” personal-size healthy snack line. These on-the-go treats are available in both fruit and vegetable blends and each includes a signature dip for an added punch of fun and flavor.

Douglas Kling, senior vice president, chief sales and marketing officer for Village Farms International Inc., told The Produce News that in addition to its popular existing line, it plans to launch several new varieties that are currently in trial.

The company, headquartered in Eatontown, NJ, is a major North American producer of high-quality greenhouse vegetables, some of which are considered gourmet.

“While we do carry many items that would qualify as specialty, we have found ourselves in many ways avoiding that label for those products,” said Simcha Weinstein, director of marketing for Albert’s Organics headquartered in Santa Cruz, CA. The company is a full-service organic produce wholesale distributor that carries a complete line of fresh organic produce.

“Much like an artist working with clay — he can make an ash tray or create a delicate statue — we feel we provide chefs with the materials they need to create gourmet presentations,” said Charlie Eagle, vice president of business development for Southern Specialties, headquartered in Pompano Beach, FL. “At the same time, we continue to provide our retail customers with the products that enable consumers to serve their families and friends the same gourmet products used in the finest restaurants in the country.”

Demand is high for environmental packaging, and Zuhlke & Associates, which is headquartered in Bangor PA, continues to supply the produce industry with green packaging options.

Kurt Zuhlke Jr., the company’s president and chief executive officer, said that the company also will meet and exceed customer expectations when it comes to customization.

According to Mr. Zuhlke, 99 percent of all containers manufactured are made from recycled materials which have been cleaned and sanitized. The practice helps keep containers from making their way to overburdened landfills.