Tim Linden
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Articles by Tim Linden
Seed to Service event attendees donate 1,000 bags of produce to low-income families
Learn about the Monterey, California-area nonprofit Brighter Bites and its mission at OPS and beyond to deliver fresh food to families in need. Organic Produce Summit attendees took time out of the trade show to pack 1,000 bags of local produce for families in need. In conjunction with Brighter Bites, about 50 attendees of the Organic Produce Summit, which was held in July in Monterey, California, put together more than 1,000 bags of fresh produce for underserved communities.
ECIP advances social responsibility through continuous improvement
ECIP advances social responsibility through continuous improvement July 23, 2026 The Ethical Charter Implementation Program, administered by Equitable Food Initiative with generous support from the Walmart Foundation, announces the launch of Engagement 3.0. This Engagement Cycle supports and recognizes alignment with the Ethical Charter on Responsible Labor Practices and introduces new pathways that reward verified action, document continuous improvement, and strengthen collaboration across...
Salad Days spotlights CEA as food safety gains attention
Salad Days spotlights CEA as food safety gains attention July 23, 2026 With food safety and produce sourcing receiving increased attention, Salad Days Produce is introducing more buyers and consumers to the benefits of lettuce grown within a controlled greenhouse environment. Located in Flora, MS, Salad Days Produce grows fresh lettuce year-round using hydroponic production.
Albertsons restructures, shifting to new regional model
Albertsons restructures, shifting to new regional model July 23, 2026 Albertsons Cos. Inc. announced a new regional operating model and the next step in its Merch United merchandising model, two connected changes designed to simplify how the company operates and position teams to respond more quickly to customer needs. “We call it the ACI Edge.
PRO*ACT Crop Update: Lettuce eat through the heat
PRO*ACT Crop Update: Lettuce eat through the heat By Joey Piedimonte July 23, 2026 Summer weather is keeping the Salinas Valley on watch this week. Warm days, higher humidity and long daylight hours are pushing crops along quickly, which is good for supply but harder on quality. Lettuce and leaf markets are sitting near seasonal lows, and with heat across much of the country this is still a great time to keep fresh salads moving.
Wakefern refreshes Wholesome Pantry packaging
Wakefern refreshes Wholesome Pantry packaging July 23, 2026 Wakefern Food Corp. refreshed the look for its Wholesome Pantry Organic and Wholesome Pantry Free-From products, making it easier for customers to shop the brand and quickly spot the quality, ingredients and value they expect.
Organic Produce Show hits another homerun
For the past decade, the Organic Produce Summit, held in July in Monterey, CA, near the nation’s “Salad Bowl,” has proven to be a tremendous draw for sellers, buyers and producers to celebrate organic produce. This year’s event was no exception. OPS has expanded a bit over the years, with this year’s July 14-16 meeting spreading over three days, including grower tours, two days of sessions, several networking events and the traditional one-day trade show featuring more than 200 exhibitors.
Acquisition strengthens JOH's north central presence
Acquisition strengthens JOH's north central presence July 23, 2026 JOH has acquired Fresh Approach Sales & Marketing, a respected Wisconsin-based broker with more than two decades of experience serving clients and customers throughout the upper Midwest. This strategic acquisition further strengthens JOH's north central organization and reinforces the company's continued investment in expanding its presence across key Midwest markets.
Organic Produce Summit shines bright at 10th anniversary
Hear directly from the OPS show floor and its exhibitors on the state of the organic market and the amazing opportunities OPS makes possible. OPS exhibitors are hopeful about the industry's future despite continued economic hurdles. At a Glance Organic Produce Summit is a must-attend event for all players in the organic produce industry. The organic market struggles with U.S. economical factors such as fuel costs and buyer hesitancy.
Dan Barber says taste is the key to organic's future at OPS session
Watch this video to learn about Dan Barber's approach to making organic produce appealing through breeding for taste and highlighting vegetables. Dan Barber is an accomplished chef, a developer of innovative fresh produce items and a passionate supporter of organic produce. He discussed these pursuits, as well as many others, as he served as a keynote speaker at the 10th Organic Produce Summit in Monterey, California.
California farmers battle water challenges amid climate change, difficult regulations
Find out how California farmers are adapting to water challenges even as climate change, state laws and local regulations complicate their efforts. Some California farmers are installing solar farms, right, on land they have taken out of agricultural use. The move gives them more water for crops and extra income. At a Glance California's water crisis forces growers to fallow 240,000 acres yearly, threatening America's largest food supply.
In the Trenches: Put muscle into merchandising California strawberries
In the Trenches: Put muscle into merchandising California strawberries By Ron Pelger June 5, 2026 Spring is here and summer is just ahead. That means California strawberries are on tap. California’s ideal climate produces 90 percent of the nation’s strawberries, yielding 1.8 billion pounds annually, and more organic strawberries are grown in California than anywhere in the world.
U.S. supply chain education important for Peruvian avocados
U.S. supply chain education important for Peruvian avocados By Tim Linden June 5, 2026 As the Peruvian avocado industry enters another season of significant shipments to the U.S. market, a major effort needs to be on supply chain education. At least that is the opinion of Jose Antonio Castro, general manager of Agrokasa, a major agro-exporter of avocados and other Peruvian crops.
Ocean Mist Farms delivers convenience without compromising on freshness or flavor
Ocean Mist Farms delivers convenience without compromising on freshness or flavor June 5, 2026 Today’s consumers continue to express strong interest in cooking with fresh vegetables, but increasingly busy schedules often make that goal difficult to achieve. Between work demands, school activities, commutes and packed family calendars, many consumers are seeking meal solutions that deliver freshness, flavor and nutrition — without requiring time-consuming prep.
USDA restricts seven PACA violators
USDA restricts seven PACA violators June 5, 2026 The U.S. Department of Agriculture has imposed sanctions on seven produce businesses for failing to meet contractual obligations to the sellers of produce they purchased and for failing to pay reparation awards issued under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act. These sanctions include suspending the businesses’ PACA licenses and barring the principal operators from engaging in PACA-licensed business or other activities without USDA approval.
Wegmans’ kicks off campaign to support summer feeding programs
Wegmans’ kicks off campaign to support summer feeding programs June 5, 2026 Wegmans Food Markets kicked off its company-wide Fill the Bus/Fill the Backpack scan campaign to raise money for the company’s 53 Feeding America food bank partners. “Families often turn to local food banks for help during the summer months when students lose access to meals at school,” said Deana Percassi, Wegmans vice president of community engagement and communication.
Brewster Heights files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection
Brewster Heights files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection June 5, 2026 Brewster Heights Packing & Orchards, one of Washington state's largest vertically integrated apple and cherry growing, packing and distribution enterprises, has commenced a voluntary Chapter 11 restructuring process by filing petitions in the United States Bankruptcy Court for Eastern District of Washington.
Jersey Fresh blues are healthy goals!
Jersey Fresh blues are healthy goals! By Joe Atchison III June 5, 2026 New Jersey had a very interesting winter and spring. We had 90 degree days early and then again in April followed by two nights of below freezing temperatures. A few fruit crops were lost entirely to this freeze while others were impacted to a lesser degree. The great news is, New Jersey blueberry producers expect a robust crop of top-quality berries for this year.
Exp. Group sponsorship partnership with Bromley Football Club
Exp. Group sponsorship partnership with Bromley Football Club June 5, 2026 Exp. Group announced its official sponsorship partnership with Bromley Football Club, marking an exciting collaboration between two organizations united by a shared commitment to culture, community, service and quality. The partnership strengthens the growing relationship between Exp.
Dave Masser named chairman of Potatoes USA
Dave Masser named chairman of Potatoes USA June 4, 2026 Dave Masser, president and CEO of Masser Family of Cos. and former Fresh Solutions Network chairman, has been elected by Potatoes USA as chairman. Potatoes USA serves as the national marketing and research organization representing U.S. potato growers and importers, supporting demand-building initiatives, consumer education, nutrition research and industry development.
Superfresh blueberry volume projected up 65 percent
Superfresh blueberry volume projected up 65 percent By Asher Campbell June 4, 2026 Superfresh Growers is preparing for a larger Northwest blueberry crop in 2026, with the season expected to begin earlier than usual and volumes significantly above last year. The company anticipates the first shipments from its Norris Farms program around June 8, roughly seven to 10 days ahead of the historical average.
Solid Peruvian avocado crop expected
Solid Peruvian avocado crop expected By Tim Linden June 4, 2026 In late May, ocean liners loaded with Peruvian avocados were steaming toward the United States with significant supplies expected by the end of the month as production moves toward its peak summer shipping months. Double-digit supplies between 10 million and 16 million pounds are anticipated in the marketplace for about a 12-week period stretching from June through August.
Solid but smaller Peruvian avocado crop expected
Solid but smaller Peruvian avocado crop expected By Tim Linden June 4, 2026 In late May, ocean liners loaded with Peruvian avocados were steaming toward the United States with significant supplies expected by the end of the month as production moves toward its peak summer shipping months. Double-digit supplies between 10 million and 16 million pounds are anticipated in the marketplace for about a 12-week period stretching from June through August.
Trendspotting: National brands vs. private label in fresh departments
Trendspotting: National brands vs. private label in fresh departments By Craig Levitt June 4, 2026 It is no breaking news that the biggest differentiator a supermarket has is its fresh departments — especially produce. However, the way customers shop these categories, specifically how it relates to national brand and private label purchases, may be changing.
USDA cites Florida company for PACA violations
USDA cites Florida company for PACA violations June 4, 2026 The U.S. Department of Agriculture has imposed sanctions on National Produce & Farm Products LLC. The company, operating from Florida, failed to make prompt payment to two produce sellers in the amount of $152,035 for produce that it purchased, received and accepted in interstate and foreign commerce from January 2024 to April 2024, in violation of the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act.
CMI kicks off cherry season with optimism, fresh branding
CMI kicks off cherry season with optimism, fresh branding June 4, 2026 Cherry season is shaping up to be one to celebrate, and CMI Orchards is heading into the season with a lineup of programs designed to make summer shine. While the spring brought cooler temperatures during bloom that trimmed production across parts of the Northwest, CMI remains optimistic about the season ahead.
Avocados from Peru celebrates America’s 250th anniversary with sports partnerships, retail programs
With more than 200 million pounds of Peruvian avocados expected to arrive in the United States this summer, Avocados from Peru is launching its most comprehensive marketing campaign ever, combining support for many of the nation's leading retailers with major sports partnerships, consumer sweepstakes, media activations, community outreach programs and patriotic celebrations designed to drive consumer demand throughout the season.
Early California and Mexico grape harvests promise excellent supply through July
Organic table grapes are in strong supply this season with early harvests in California and Mexico. Learn about retail opportunities and promotions. An early grape harvest out of California and Mexico brings good news for Fourth of July promotions. At a Glance Organic grapes are experiencing a much earlier harvest than is typical out of both California and Mexico vineyards. California-based table grapes will make the transition from Coachella to San Joaquin Valley earlier this year.
California farmers battle water challenges amid climate change, difficult regulations
Find out how California farmers are adapting to water challenges even as climate change, state laws and local regulations complicate their efforts. Some California farmers are installing solar farms, right, on land they have taken out of agricultural use. The move gives them more water for crops and extra income. At a Glance California's water crisis forces growers to fallow 240,000 acres yearly, threatening America's largest food supply.
Tariff refund portal opens up with many expectations
“This next week is going to be critical,” he said. “Our clients are anxious and want to get in line as quickly as possible to claim their refunds. But this is not going to be an overnight process. It’s going to take time.” From Fresh Trade Services' perspective, the first order of business is to fully understand the process, including who can file for refund claims in what is being called the first phase by the Trump administration.
California avocado season off to slow start, but shipments are rising
See what is on the horizon for California avocado shipments amid organic growth challenges and avocado-friendly holidays on the horizon. With Cinco de Mayo and Mother's Day just around the corner, California avocado shipments are expected to increase. At a Glance Organic avocado shipments are expected to increase in anticipation of Cinco de Mayo and Mother's Day. A combination of lower production in northern counties and high water cost resulted in lower organic avocado volume for 2026.
Newsletter Edition | Produce News
Southern Exposure 2026 was a family affair By Gordon Hochberg, Marilena Osso, John Groh, Craig Levitt, Adam Campbell and Debbie Miller March 2, 2026 The Southeast Produce Council returned to the Orlando World Center Marriott for the 2026 Southern Exposure. Farm and family was the theme and as usual, the Southeast Produce Council did not disappoint. The floor was busy from open to close as show-goers conducted business and fostered relationships.
Richter and Co.: A family of farms for a century
Richter and Co.: A family of farms for a century By Tim Linden March 2, 2026 In early 1926, Moses Richter boarded a train in North Carolina headed for New York City for the purpose of helping Southern peach growers get a fair market price for their crops.
Market Minute: Lettuce showing lower market, softer demand
Market Minute: Lettuce showing lower market, softer demand By Ron Pelger March 2, 2026 The current lettuce market is trending lower as demand has eased, making this an excellent time for consumers to enjoy salads. With lettuce now more promotable, shoppers can take advantage of favorable pricing and good supply. The history of salads made from lettuce dates back as far as 4500 BC in Egypt, where they were originally prepared using a bitter weed.
California Avocado Commission celebrates female growers' impact on the industry
California Avocado Commission celebrates female growers' impact on the industry March 2, 2026 Recognizing the growing impact of women in agriculture worldwide, the United Nations has designated 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer. The resolution, led by the United States and supported by 123 countries, is backed by the California Avocado Commission as part of its ongoing commitment to leadership and sustainability in the produce industry.
Southern Exposure 2026 was a family affair
Southern Exposure 2026 was a family affair By Gordon Hochberg, Marilena Osso, John Groh, Craig Levitt, Adam Campbell and Debbie Miller March 2, 2026 The Southeast Produce Council returned to the Orlando World Center Marriott for the 2026 Southern Exposure. Farm and family was the theme and as usual, the Southeast Produce Council did not disappoint. The floor was busy from open to close as show-goers conducted business and fostered relationships.
Organic vegetable supply shortages for spring transition
Due to weather conditions, there may be an organic vegetable gap in spring. Retailers, get ahead of the shortage with this crop report. Desert organic vegetable production typically lasts through late March, but the growing season will likely end earlier this year. At a Glance California and Arizona desert districts are running ahead of growing schedules, possibly leading to spring shortages.
Innovation amid high cost
Learn what four companies are doing to advance sustainable packaging solutions in the face of cost barriers and supply-chain challenges. With costs on the rise and practicality hurdles, sustainable packaging is an uphill, but worthy battle. At a Glance Per-unit packaging costs are a key barrier as compostable options add significant expense without guaranteed market premiums. Organic produce companies develop plastic-free alternatives such as paper bands, fiber trays and URTHCOR recyclable cartons.
AFM and Rob Riggle unveil Guacamoney Sweepstakes
AFM and Rob Riggle unveil Guacamoney Sweepstakes January 29, 2026 Move aside, analytics and experts — this year, the big game is being foretold by the one man who truly understands the mystical power of guacamole: Avocados From Mexico’s Guac Guru. Played by actor and comedian Rob Riggle, he’s bringing some avo-fueled foresight to football’s biggest night, including three bold predictions about the in-game action. And if he gets them all right? Well, prepare to have your world guac-ed.
Six reasons to visit the 2026 Santa Barbara Orchid Show
Six reasons to visit the 2026 Santa Barbara Orchid Show January 29, 2026 The 78th annual Santa Barbara International Orchid Show will take place March 20–22 at the Earl Warren Showgrounds in Santa Barbara, CA. The celebrated event features an international lineup of growers and elaborate floral displays. This year’s theme, Orchid Escape, invites visitors to explore the vibrant beauty of orchids and their natural habitats, with lush, tropical-inspired displays and cascading blooms.
Organic strawberry yields on the rise
Following a demand-exceeds-supply situation in California, improving weather promises increased organic strawberry volume. Learn about market outlook for 2026. Outlook for organic strawberries in 2026 is good as California winter storms draw to a close. At a Glance Rain disrupts California organic strawberry supplies, but recent dry weather promises Valentine's Day promotable volumes.
Newsletter Edition | Produce News
Wakefern supermarket banners set to host job fairs January 22, 2026 Wakefern Food Corp. supermarket banners ShopRite, Price Rite Marketplace, The Fresh Grocer, Gourmet Garage and Fairway Market are inviting job seekers to explore exciting career opportunities during a series of walk-in hiring fairs on Saturday, Jan. 31.
A taste of summer arrives as South African table grapes reach U.S. shelves
A taste of summer arrives as South African table grapes reach U.S. shelves January 20, 2026 While winter tightens its grip across much of the United States, a taste of summer sunshine is arriving in produce aisles nationwide with the start of the South African table grape season. Early shipments are now reaching U.S. retailers, delivering crisp texture, vibrant color and naturally sweet flavor at a time when fresh, high-quality fruit is especially valued by consumers.
From farm to community: How Sprouts is scaling sustainability
From farm to community: How Sprouts is scaling sustainability By Tim Linden January 19, 2026 Sprouts has built its business around a clear purpose: helping people live and eat better. That same purpose shapes how the retailer approaches sustainability — not as a separate initiative, but as an integral part of how the company operates, grows, and serves its communities.
California Date Commission champions dates
California Date Commission champions dates By Keith Loria January 16, 2026 The California Date Commission is a non-profit organization funded by growers and packers, which supports the industry through marketing, research and government affairs. “The commission represents all growers in the greater Coachella Valley, branded as California Dates,” said Kristy Kneiding, executive director of the California Date Commission.
Fresh Del Monte acquires assets from Del Monte Foods
Fresh Del Monte acquires assets from Del Monte Foods January 15, 2026 Del Monte Foods Corp. has selected three successful bidders in its court-supervised auction process. The company has negotiated asset purchase agreements for substantially all of its assets and business operations as going-concern businesses. The sale transactions are: The sale to Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc.
Continuity of supply drives Divine Flavor
As Nogales, AZ-based Divine Flavor Inc. kicks off its 2025-26 winter vegetable season from Mexico, its main goal is to have a seamless transition from its fall production on the front end and to its spring supply on the back end. In fact, that is the same philosophy that cuts across all of its fruit and vegetable production.
Bernardi worries about produce sales; planning for charity event
While the stock market continues to thrive and investments in AI-centric companies are exploding, longtime produce broker Joe Bernardi believes there is a disconnect between that world and ordinary consumers.
Trucco’s chestnuts are a holiday favorite
For the past 75 years, New York-based Trucco Inc. has leaned into the holiday season with a full line of fresh Italian chestnuts, which are an American holiday favorite. “Our holiday program celebrates a family tradition: Italian chestnuts, a cherished part of our heritage for three generations,” said Yasmin Pacia chief marketing officer for the wholesaler, which is headquartered at the New York City Terminal Market at Hunts Point in the Bronx.
Value-added offerings driving Ocean Mist’s growth
Heading to the 2025 version of New York Produce Show, Ocean Mist Farms has unveiled the rebranding of its Roastables line, which is focusing on a fun way to entice consumers to the value-added offerings by emphasizing their convenience. The bold new packaging and the new promotional campaign touts to consumers the convenience and ease of preparation with on-product messaging such as, Cut the prep, keep the credit. Another tagline urges consumers to Skip the fuss, keep the flavor.
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