The sixth Eastern Produce Council Leadership Class topped off its 2024 educational program with an informative agenda of events at the New York Produce Show and Conference in New York City Dec. 10-12, 2024. “The trade show and conference offer an invaluable opportunity for networking and mentoring for the members of our leadership class,” said Susan McAleavey Sarlund, EPC executive director.

The International Fresh Produce Association has released the 2024 Annual Impact Report. The report shares highlights of the association’s work with and on behalf of the industry over the past year.

CEO Cathy Burns praised the IFPA community and leadership for empowering the association to advance the priorities that matter most to the fresh produce and floral industry.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the appointment of 11 members to Potatoes USA’s board of directors. The appointees include nine producer members and one public member, who will serve three-year terms that expire Feb. 28, 2028. One producer member will serve a two-year term that expires on Feb. 28, 2027.
 
The nomination process for board members is conducted annually. Candidates are proposed by the industry and are appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture after a thorough review.
 

NatureSweet donated 3.5 million pounds of fresh produce to food banks throughout North America in 2024, providing vital support to those in need. The donated tomatoes, cucumbers and sweet peppers were distributed to food banks in both the United States and Mexico, providing more than 2.9 million meals.

The New York Apple Association is kicking off the new year by launching its new consumer campaign for 2025, “The Big Flavor: Wellness Never Tasted So Good” with New York state apples. The campaign includes social media content, entertaining videos featuring Bob for Apples from the NYAA 24/7 virtual news desk, apple nutrition from Kelly Springer, registered dietitian and NYAA spokesperson, and a series of healthy recipes and usage ideas for New York apples.