The West is finally catching a bit of a break weather-wise. Cooler nights and drier afternoons have helped ease some insect pressure and dry out fields that were hammered by nearly 1.5 inches of rain earlier this month. That said, the impact of those storms is still being felt across the board. Lighter weights, increased trimming and quality concerns continue to affect many row crops as the Salinas season nears its end.

 With a few weeks left in the domestic melon season, Westside Produce/Classic Fruit is reflecting on another successful harvest across its California and Arizona growing regions as they prepare for their offshore operations. The company reports a strong finish for cantaloupes and honeydews, supported by steady demand and dedicated retail, foodservice and fresh-cut partners across the country.

The International Fresh Produce Association will celebrate the season of fall flavors and festive traditions by participating in Halloween at the White House. This annual tradition welcomes thousands of children and families to trick-or-treat on the South Lawn. 

Drought conditions in Mexico’s main avocado-growing region in Michoacan that have hampered fruit size and volume the past couple of years eased this past summer, giving La Bonanza a positive outlook for the season ahead.

Grubhub and Instacart are teaming up to bring a wider selection of grocers to Grubhub’s customers. Through this new partnership, Grubhub customers can order from Instacart’s network of more than a thousand national, regional and local grocery retailers directly through Grubhub’s app and website.

Dole Food Co. announced a groundbreaking new partnership with Minecraft, the world’s most popular video game, to inspire healthier lifestyles through interactive play, education and fruit-fueled fun.

Launching this month, the multi-phase global campaign marks the first time Dole will debut a marketing initiative simultaneously across North America and Europe. At the heart of this partnership is the shared vision of enabling all generations to be healthier.