Imported berries seemingly are marching off ships and airplanes and right into consumers' shopping carts.

Andy Gustavson, produce manager for Ben Lomond Market in Ben Lomond, CA, and produce supervisor for sister store Scotts Valley Market in nearby Scotts Valley, CA, told The Produce News Sept. 7 that he "keeps all varieties of berries in stock year round."

Blueberries have "mushroomed into such a big element" no matter where they are from, Mr. Gustavson said. "Blueberries are so international, I don't worry about getting blueberries."

Working on multiple fronts to maintain an elevated profile among both buyers and consumers, the Idaho-Eastern Oregon Onion Committee has an ambitious marketing campaign that involves media, social networking and the world of high tech.

Recently returned from filming a segment of Lifetime Network's "Balancing Act" with show host Danielle Knox, IEOOC Marketing Director Sherise Jones said that the campaign is in full gear, with the first airing of "Farm to Plate" on "The Balancing Act" to have aired Sept. 24 and the second to telecast Oct. 22.

As we keep abreast of the overall business news, there is the constant reminder of the economic challenges we all face.

Spending has slowed, and more than ever consumers are being stingy with their disposable income and are only purchasing necessities.

The National Mango Board has a full plate of marketing initiatives underway, including its ongoing outreach to national magazines, newspapers and online editors.

Those efforts are expected to result in "significant mango buzz throughout the fall and winter months," said Wendy McManus, director of marketing for the National Mango Board.

Produce continues to lead in organic sales according to the Organic Trade Association's 2010 Organic Industry Survey on organic trends. The report included final organic sales figures for 2009.

"The survey was conducted from January 21 through March 3, 2010, and results released in late April," said Barbara Haumann, senior writer and editor for the OTA, headquartered in Greenfield, MA,. “U.S. sales of organic products continue to grow despite the distressed state of the economy. Particularly popular with consumers are organic fruits and vegetables.”

NAPLES, FL — It seemed unthinkable — two solid weeks of freezing weather deep into Florida in the middle of January, right in the opening days of the tomato season.

But in 2010, it happened. Growers lost 80 percent of the crop in the field, young plants expected to bear later in the spring were destroyed, and replants came on too late and brought too little at market.

After a devastating season, Florida tomato growers are hoping that Mother Nature is friendlier in the coming 12 months.