Fresh News
- Category: Market Report
- Friday, 20 April 2018
- Hits: 32
Its easy to ignore “The sky is falling” warnings when they are inconclusive. The classic folk tale of Henny Penny (Chicken Little) bares recollection when food safety is at stake.
The most recent industry messages regarding romaine lettuce alerts have been frustrating for everyone in the supply chain.
In defense of all stakeholders, no one wants to err on the side of personal illness or worse case scenario, death.
As companies wait for more information from federal agencies on the E. coli O157:H7 outbreak that has been ascribed to chopped romaine only and not a specific supplier, fresh produce industry associations are communicating in a uniform voice about the situation.
United Fresh Produce Association, Produce Marketing Association, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement have worked in concert on communications regarding this recent outbreak.
The most recent industry messages regarding romaine lettuce alerts have been frustrating for everyone in the supply chain.
In defense of all stakeholders, no one wants to err on the side of personal illness or worse case scenario, death.
As companies wait for more information from federal agencies on the E. coli O157:H7 outbreak that has been ascribed to chopped romaine only and not a specific supplier, fresh produce industry associations are communicating in a uniform voice about the situation.
United Fresh Produce Association, Produce Marketing Association, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement have worked in concert on communications regarding this recent outbreak.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 12 April 2018
- Hits: 66
California avocados have arrived! They are generally available from April to September, but for the nearly 5,000 growers in the state, the avocado season is a year-round endeavor.
Farmers walk their avocado groves every month to check on the trees, assess weather affects and grove conditions. They must ensure avocados are on the right track for projected harvests. Each stage in the growth cycle is critical.
Avocados, grown on trees, have a tree growth cycle with six stages: flowering, shoot growth, root growth, fruit set, fruit growth, and harvest.
That’s a lot to watch and care for during each season.
California produces about 90 percent of the nation’s avocado crop. Ninety-five percent of California avocados are the Hass (rhymes with pass) variety.
The Hass variety accounts for about 80 percent of all avocados eaten worldwide. By now, most of us understand that an avocado is actually a fruit.
Farmers walk their avocado groves every month to check on the trees, assess weather affects and grove conditions. They must ensure avocados are on the right track for projected harvests. Each stage in the growth cycle is critical.
Avocados, grown on trees, have a tree growth cycle with six stages: flowering, shoot growth, root growth, fruit set, fruit growth, and harvest.
That’s a lot to watch and care for during each season.
California produces about 90 percent of the nation’s avocado crop. Ninety-five percent of California avocados are the Hass (rhymes with pass) variety.
The Hass variety accounts for about 80 percent of all avocados eaten worldwide. By now, most of us understand that an avocado is actually a fruit.
- Category: Market Report
- Friday, 06 April 2018
- Hits: 78
Nearly six years ago, meal kits companies took the food scene by storm in the United States.
They looked to be the major disruptors in how people choose to procure, prepare and eat food.
As American food culture evolves, what we eat, when we eat and how we eat are all open to personal interpretation.
The crowded space of meal kit companies is facing fierce competition as meal subscribers are selecting from vast options for convenience, value and variety.
Grocery industry “brick and mortar” spending represents about $650 billion, with a “B”, dollars in the U.S. The experience of daily provisions can be frustrating at best with lots of energy devoted to meal planning, grocery shopping and finally preparation.
They looked to be the major disruptors in how people choose to procure, prepare and eat food.
As American food culture evolves, what we eat, when we eat and how we eat are all open to personal interpretation.
The crowded space of meal kit companies is facing fierce competition as meal subscribers are selecting from vast options for convenience, value and variety.
Grocery industry “brick and mortar” spending represents about $650 billion, with a “B”, dollars in the U.S. The experience of daily provisions can be frustrating at best with lots of energy devoted to meal planning, grocery shopping and finally preparation.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 29 March 2018
- Hits: 86
Once the door to Spring is cracked open, watch out. There seems to be no limit of vibrant swaths of color popping up everywhere.
It’s hard to miss the stunning fruit tree blossoming in and around neighborhoods or roadside orchards.
A river walk presents clusters of wild neon poppies and verdant anise in early bloom. Breathe it all in…then exhale slowly.
Awaken the senses with pots of bold color after Easter pastels fade. Perennial bulb plants give us an excuse, as if one is needed, to dig in the garden beds.
Avoid getting dirt on the hands altogether with one quick trip to a grocery store these days. The bevy of new color bowls and potted color bulbs and plants is staggering.
It’s hard to miss the stunning fruit tree blossoming in and around neighborhoods or roadside orchards.
A river walk presents clusters of wild neon poppies and verdant anise in early bloom. Breathe it all in…then exhale slowly.
Awaken the senses with pots of bold color after Easter pastels fade. Perennial bulb plants give us an excuse, as if one is needed, to dig in the garden beds.
Avoid getting dirt on the hands altogether with one quick trip to a grocery store these days. The bevy of new color bowls and potted color bulbs and plants is staggering.
- Category: Market Report
- Friday, 23 March 2018
- Hits: 79
The fleshy green spears of asparagus are all at once succulent and tender. They have long been considered a true seasonal delicacy.
This highly prized vegetable arrives with the coming of spring. When the shoots finally break through the soil and reach their peak harvest length, we are ready to enjoy locally grown asparagus.
In California, the first crops may be picked as early as February. The season generally is considered to run from April through May. Like most things in agriculture, Mother Nature is in charge.
In the Midwest and East, the season may extend through June or July.
Under ideal growing conditions, an asparagus spear can shoot up to be eight to ten inches tall in a 24-hour period. Each crown will send spears up for about six to seven weeks during the spring and early summer.
This highly prized vegetable arrives with the coming of spring. When the shoots finally break through the soil and reach their peak harvest length, we are ready to enjoy locally grown asparagus.
In California, the first crops may be picked as early as February. The season generally is considered to run from April through May. Like most things in agriculture, Mother Nature is in charge.
In the Midwest and East, the season may extend through June or July.
Under ideal growing conditions, an asparagus spear can shoot up to be eight to ten inches tall in a 24-hour period. Each crown will send spears up for about six to seven weeks during the spring and early summer.
- Category: Market Report
- Friday, 16 March 2018
- Hits: 110
Kids of all ages have perfected the art and tradition of egg dying for Easter.
From waxy pencils to small tablets of color, not much has changed in the decoration process. Or has it?
The kitchen pantry is a studio of natural ingredients and interesting colors waiting to be used. Common food items, and food waste in some cases, will transform an ordinary hard boiled egg into a beautiful showpiece.
Natural dying elements have long been used in fabrics and paper. Porous eggshells invite color no matter the source.
Red cabbage and beets, brown, red or yellow onion skins contribute to an array of egg color possibilities. So will coffee, tea, and dried spices.
From waxy pencils to small tablets of color, not much has changed in the decoration process. Or has it?
The kitchen pantry is a studio of natural ingredients and interesting colors waiting to be used. Common food items, and food waste in some cases, will transform an ordinary hard boiled egg into a beautiful showpiece.
Natural dying elements have long been used in fabrics and paper. Porous eggshells invite color no matter the source.
Red cabbage and beets, brown, red or yellow onion skins contribute to an array of egg color possibilities. So will coffee, tea, and dried spices.
- Category: Market Report
- Friday, 09 March 2018
- Hits: 114
A 300 mile radius, or less, to define locally grown may not matter much to those that are able to pick straight from a hoop house out back everyday.
That reality doesn’t exists for most fresh produce customers.
For three seasons out of the year, regional growers make it easy for us to scratch our local itch. That fourth season is tougher to rely on for close to home grown.
Living in the mid-west, or other cold belt states, poses real challenges for sourcing fresh produce from inside the USA during winter.
California, Arizona and Florida manage to eek out a fair amount of crop production through the dead of winter. The desert regions (Yuma and Huron) do the heavy lifting for Arizona and California lettuce and wet vegetable production.
That reality doesn’t exists for most fresh produce customers.
For three seasons out of the year, regional growers make it easy for us to scratch our local itch. That fourth season is tougher to rely on for close to home grown.
Living in the mid-west, or other cold belt states, poses real challenges for sourcing fresh produce from inside the USA during winter.
California, Arizona and Florida manage to eek out a fair amount of crop production through the dead of winter. The desert regions (Yuma and Huron) do the heavy lifting for Arizona and California lettuce and wet vegetable production.
- Category: Market Report
- Friday, 02 March 2018
- Hits: 151
Signature dishes are those that proudly represent the best efforts of a restaurant, chef or cook. They reflect a sense of place, ingredients that work well together or reflect a shared food memory.
We know that Aunt Alice’s potato salad will always be served at Sunday supper or at the church picnic. No one can top banana cream pie from XYZ’s famous restaurant.
The dishes we fondly remember may have certain emotional attachments. A young person going fishing with a favorite granddad looks forward to the handmade pocket sandwiches that get packed along for lunch.
Grandmother’s signature falafel pita is wholly embraced partly because it tastes so terrific. The rest of the clamor is due to the circumstances in which it was enjoyed — who it was shared with, the experience in which it was eaten, the excitement of being outdoors, etc.
Signature dishes are consistent. They are largely fail proof due to repetition. By making something over and over again, a person gets to labor over a recipe and then own it. Experimenting with that one special component might put a signature stamp on it.
We know that Aunt Alice’s potato salad will always be served at Sunday supper or at the church picnic. No one can top banana cream pie from XYZ’s famous restaurant.
The dishes we fondly remember may have certain emotional attachments. A young person going fishing with a favorite granddad looks forward to the handmade pocket sandwiches that get packed along for lunch.
Grandmother’s signature falafel pita is wholly embraced partly because it tastes so terrific. The rest of the clamor is due to the circumstances in which it was enjoyed — who it was shared with, the experience in which it was eaten, the excitement of being outdoors, etc.
Signature dishes are consistent. They are largely fail proof due to repetition. By making something over and over again, a person gets to labor over a recipe and then own it. Experimenting with that one special component might put a signature stamp on it.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 22 February 2018
- Hits: 168
Every year, leaders in the culinary world bring us new ways to think about food, plan our meals and choose how to eat.
From small plate sharing to home meal kits, variety and discover keep the food industry evolving.
Consumers may not always agree with the changes, but they will at least take a look at what is on trend.
In 2018, healthier eating choices continue to drive products to the front of the food equation. Watch for more protein options and super food ingredients.
Plant based foods have been strong, center plate menu themes for quite some time now. From roasted cauliflower steaks to spicy garbanzo bean cakes, leaning on global cuisines for plant based ingredients boosts their star power.
From small plate sharing to home meal kits, variety and discover keep the food industry evolving.
Consumers may not always agree with the changes, but they will at least take a look at what is on trend.
In 2018, healthier eating choices continue to drive products to the front of the food equation. Watch for more protein options and super food ingredients.
Plant based foods have been strong, center plate menu themes for quite some time now. From roasted cauliflower steaks to spicy garbanzo bean cakes, leaning on global cuisines for plant based ingredients boosts their star power.
- Category: Market Report
- Friday, 16 February 2018
- Hits: 173
Another four to five weeks of winter ahead means there is still plenty of time to enjoy late season citrus fruits.
The increasing demand for mandarins is testament to the perfect gem of a snack or lunch box treat.
Mandarins are known for their sweet flavor and distinctive fragrance. Easy peel skins and bite size segments make mandarins a popular go to pick for citrus fans of all ages.
Lucky that there are late season varieties to grab our attention amidst the crowded space of apples and pears. These juicy fruits can be added to everything from fruit salads to stir fries — jams and preserves to winter cocktails.
One late comer, that is new on the scene at this point in the citrus harvest is the Gold Nugget mandarin. California grown, this seedless, sweet tangerine named after its bright orange, slightly bumpy rind.
This hybrid is a cross between two non-commercial. It was developed by the University of California at Riverside. The Gold Nugget is a great juicer, averaging a 50 percent juice content. The fruit itself has a deep orange color interior flesh with a moderately fine texture. Professional taste panels consider this to be one of the very best flavored citrus’ in the world with a rich, full-bodied taste.
The increasing demand for mandarins is testament to the perfect gem of a snack or lunch box treat.
Mandarins are known for their sweet flavor and distinctive fragrance. Easy peel skins and bite size segments make mandarins a popular go to pick for citrus fans of all ages.
Lucky that there are late season varieties to grab our attention amidst the crowded space of apples and pears. These juicy fruits can be added to everything from fruit salads to stir fries — jams and preserves to winter cocktails.
One late comer, that is new on the scene at this point in the citrus harvest is the Gold Nugget mandarin. California grown, this seedless, sweet tangerine named after its bright orange, slightly bumpy rind.
This hybrid is a cross between two non-commercial. It was developed by the University of California at Riverside. The Gold Nugget is a great juicer, averaging a 50 percent juice content. The fruit itself has a deep orange color interior flesh with a moderately fine texture. Professional taste panels consider this to be one of the very best flavored citrus’ in the world with a rich, full-bodied taste.
- Category: Market Report
- Friday, 09 February 2018
- Hits: 217
The Spring Festival known as Lunar or Chinese New Year officially begins on February 16th and culminate on March second with the Lantern Festival.
Celebrated in a variety of cultures and countries — including China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam — families will gather around a reunion table to honor multiple generations.
Lucky foods are served during the 16-day festival season, especially New Year’s Eve. This most important meal is believed to bring good luck for the coming year. The symbolism of these foods is based on their pronunciations or appearance.
Symbolic foods such as fish (prosperity and surplus), dumplings and spring rolls (wealth) and citrus (health and fullness) are readily shared along with other fine delicacies.
Not only do the dishes themselves matter, but so does the manner of the preparation, the ways of serving and the eating of them. Spring onion pancakes, noodle dishes and Jai (vegetarian stew) are easy to get behind.
Celebrated in a variety of cultures and countries — including China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam — families will gather around a reunion table to honor multiple generations.
Lucky foods are served during the 16-day festival season, especially New Year’s Eve. This most important meal is believed to bring good luck for the coming year. The symbolism of these foods is based on their pronunciations or appearance.
Symbolic foods such as fish (prosperity and surplus), dumplings and spring rolls (wealth) and citrus (health and fullness) are readily shared along with other fine delicacies.
Not only do the dishes themselves matter, but so does the manner of the preparation, the ways of serving and the eating of them. Spring onion pancakes, noodle dishes and Jai (vegetarian stew) are easy to get behind.
- Category: Market Report
- Friday, 02 February 2018
- Hits: 220
Carnival season always culminates on Fat Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent.
People lucky enough to visit New Orleans the week leading up to Mardi Gras will enjoy a feast of foods and signature beverages.
Influence comes largely from Creole and Cajun cuisines. Classic crowd pleasers include gumbo, jambalaya and étouffée.
Location aside, plan a celebration during the days of Carnival. Highlight slow cooked, flavor rich meals that can feed a large table.
Building depth in dishes is easy when it comes to mastering the all powerful Miropoix. Three vegetable basics — carrots, celery and onions comprise this start to many fine dishes.
People lucky enough to visit New Orleans the week leading up to Mardi Gras will enjoy a feast of foods and signature beverages.
Influence comes largely from Creole and Cajun cuisines. Classic crowd pleasers include gumbo, jambalaya and étouffée.
Location aside, plan a celebration during the days of Carnival. Highlight slow cooked, flavor rich meals that can feed a large table.
Building depth in dishes is easy when it comes to mastering the all powerful Miropoix. Three vegetable basics — carrots, celery and onions comprise this start to many fine dishes.
- Category: Market Report
- Friday, 26 January 2018
- Hits: 263
Satisfaction meets fuel when power bowls are introduced to the weekday or evening menu lineup.
These protein-packed, veggie-rich solutions to complete nourishment are as versatile as delicious.
One bowl wonder trends do not seem to be losing any momentum. Given the endless possibilities, its easy to say they are here to stay for awhile.
Weekend warriors, students, athletes, soccer moms and professionals all look to maximize calories and deliver on good taste.
Protein power bowls are a combination of grains, colorful fruits and/or vegetables, a protein and a dressing or topping.
These protein-packed, veggie-rich solutions to complete nourishment are as versatile as delicious.
One bowl wonder trends do not seem to be losing any momentum. Given the endless possibilities, its easy to say they are here to stay for awhile.
Weekend warriors, students, athletes, soccer moms and professionals all look to maximize calories and deliver on good taste.
Protein power bowls are a combination of grains, colorful fruits and/or vegetables, a protein and a dressing or topping.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 18 January 2018
- Hits: 296
Hunkering down to avoid the winter doldrums requires a certain amount of self-awareness. Dreary, cold January days suppress high spirits and kill spunk.
Need a quick boost? Skip the day spa and go straight to the fruit bowl. A shot of sunshine and brightness is just a peel away.
Citrus therapy invigorates the senses and tricks the mind into energized, warmer thoughts.
A simple act of reaching for any type of citrus– orange, mandarin or grapefruit– sets a tone for self care and good health. This choice, above other salty or sweet snack options, reinforces good behavior and new year resolutions.
Breaking open the skin of any easy to peel citrus fruit releases a burst of oil. Aromatic and clean, the fragrance is at once welcoming and familiar.
Need a quick boost? Skip the day spa and go straight to the fruit bowl. A shot of sunshine and brightness is just a peel away.
Citrus therapy invigorates the senses and tricks the mind into energized, warmer thoughts.
A simple act of reaching for any type of citrus– orange, mandarin or grapefruit– sets a tone for self care and good health. This choice, above other salty or sweet snack options, reinforces good behavior and new year resolutions.
Breaking open the skin of any easy to peel citrus fruit releases a burst of oil. Aromatic and clean, the fragrance is at once welcoming and familiar.
- Category: Market Report
- Friday, 12 January 2018
- Hits: 288
Since January holds title to National Oatmeal Month, now is the perfect time to experiment with this favored morning grain.
Oats have long been a part of the world’s diet for hungry humans and their animal counterparts.
The health benefits of oats are well documented. From lowering LDL levels (bad cholesterol) to weight control and heart wise affects, there are many plus ups to enjoying oats.
Traditional thinking puts a bowl of hot oatmeal smack center of the breakfast table. Bright “oats ideas” quick to follow are oatmeal cookies, granola, muffins and breads.
Before we leave the breakfast table and morning routine, it should be noted that healthy oats are right at home incorporated into soups, pilafs, meatballs, entrees and desserts.
Whether one is a Quaker Oats oatmeal eater, or a fan of Bob’s Red Mill steel cut oats, there is a place at the table for all January oats.
Ardent proponents have created cold oats jars that are make ahead ready. These grab and go meals are a time saver for crazy morning routines. These jam jar jewels boast layers of oats, fresh fruits, chopped nuts, seeds (chia or flax) honey or maple syrup, along with yogurt or almond milk. Oat Cuisine– Food carts and trendy breakfast spots from coast to coast are reinventing classic oats.
Unexpected ingredients and creative methods (from brulees to fritters) have made oatmeal hip.
Oats have long been a part of the world’s diet for hungry humans and their animal counterparts.
The health benefits of oats are well documented. From lowering LDL levels (bad cholesterol) to weight control and heart wise affects, there are many plus ups to enjoying oats.
Traditional thinking puts a bowl of hot oatmeal smack center of the breakfast table. Bright “oats ideas” quick to follow are oatmeal cookies, granola, muffins and breads.
Before we leave the breakfast table and morning routine, it should be noted that healthy oats are right at home incorporated into soups, pilafs, meatballs, entrees and desserts.
Whether one is a Quaker Oats oatmeal eater, or a fan of Bob’s Red Mill steel cut oats, there is a place at the table for all January oats.
Ardent proponents have created cold oats jars that are make ahead ready. These grab and go meals are a time saver for crazy morning routines. These jam jar jewels boast layers of oats, fresh fruits, chopped nuts, seeds (chia or flax) honey or maple syrup, along with yogurt or almond milk. Oat Cuisine– Food carts and trendy breakfast spots from coast to coast are reinventing classic oats.
Unexpected ingredients and creative methods (from brulees to fritters) have made oatmeal hip.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 04 January 2018
- Hits: 306
Cold and flu season has arrived with some vengeance. It is shaping up to be an intense couple of months.
Holiday travel and shopping crowds connected the dots on both coasts.
Hard to know which is which? Usually, colds are milder and include a runny or stuffy nose. A cough and sneezing go along with a cold.
The flu is usually more severe and typically comes on suddenly. The flu has a knack for wiping people out for a few days. Fever, body aches, and exhaustion commonly accompany the flu.
Prevention is key. Having a flu shot will minimize the affects of this year’s virus. Proper and frequent hand washing will stave off contaminating germs left on door knobs, phones, utensils and other surfaces.
Holiday travel and shopping crowds connected the dots on both coasts.
Hard to know which is which? Usually, colds are milder and include a runny or stuffy nose. A cough and sneezing go along with a cold.
The flu is usually more severe and typically comes on suddenly. The flu has a knack for wiping people out for a few days. Fever, body aches, and exhaustion commonly accompany the flu.
Prevention is key. Having a flu shot will minimize the affects of this year’s virus. Proper and frequent hand washing will stave off contaminating germs left on door knobs, phones, utensils and other surfaces.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 28 December 2017
- Hits: 425
A new year brings a clean slate with high hopes, dreams and every great possibility.
Optimism abounds as we pack away ornaments and reflect on the passing holiday season.
Resolutions swirl around improved eating habits, exercise and renewed positive behaviors.
Key to commitment is making a routine of the hatched plan. Creative types might be familiar with the “One Hundred Day Challenge”. This could breath life into most new year’s decisions looking to alter regular daily regimens.
Land on one small thing to do for the course of one hundred consecutive days. For artists (and other “creatives”), it means choosing one exercise like writing, sketching, taking photos, drawing, etc. and then doing that task each day. Documenting the daily task is part of the project.
Optimism abounds as we pack away ornaments and reflect on the passing holiday season.
Resolutions swirl around improved eating habits, exercise and renewed positive behaviors.
Key to commitment is making a routine of the hatched plan. Creative types might be familiar with the “One Hundred Day Challenge”. This could breath life into most new year’s decisions looking to alter regular daily regimens.
Land on one small thing to do for the course of one hundred consecutive days. For artists (and other “creatives”), it means choosing one exercise like writing, sketching, taking photos, drawing, etc. and then doing that task each day. Documenting the daily task is part of the project.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 21 December 2017
- Hits: 387
Holiday cheer — as we gather around a beautifully set dinner table– will have a different meaning to every individual.
This last week of the year serves as a vehicle to reflect, rejoice, reminisce and ponder.
Good health or a healthy recovery (from injury, illness or disease) is a blessing with tremendous value.
Important to remember are those friends and family members who have experienced challenges and setbacks over the past twelve months. Not everyone comes to the table with a clear mind, body and spirit.
Invariably, real life changes in 2017 will prompt emotions, anxiety, stress and expectations when it’s time to celebrate with others.
This last week of the year serves as a vehicle to reflect, rejoice, reminisce and ponder.
Good health or a healthy recovery (from injury, illness or disease) is a blessing with tremendous value.
Important to remember are those friends and family members who have experienced challenges and setbacks over the past twelve months. Not everyone comes to the table with a clear mind, body and spirit.
Invariably, real life changes in 2017 will prompt emotions, anxiety, stress and expectations when it’s time to celebrate with others.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 14 December 2017
- Hits: 400
Food historians credit Portugese cooks for the tasty spread we’ve come to know as marmalade.
Originally made of quince (marmelo is the fruit’s Portugese name), the sweet/tart gel like paste is used in desserts, breads and cakes.
Quince are a relatively unusual fruit in that they are rarely, if ever, eaten raw. Making them into a jelly/preserve/compote allows them to be savored well past their season.
In Brazil, most marmelos are boiled, sweetened and then reduced to a thick jelly-like paste called marmelada.
Quince are very tart and tannic, making them almost impossible to eat in their natural state. During cooking, their tannins mellow and change color, giving cooked quince a lovely pink-to-reddish hue.
Originally made of quince (marmelo is the fruit’s Portugese name), the sweet/tart gel like paste is used in desserts, breads and cakes.
Quince are a relatively unusual fruit in that they are rarely, if ever, eaten raw. Making them into a jelly/preserve/compote allows them to be savored well past their season.
In Brazil, most marmelos are boiled, sweetened and then reduced to a thick jelly-like paste called marmelada.
Quince are very tart and tannic, making them almost impossible to eat in their natural state. During cooking, their tannins mellow and change color, giving cooked quince a lovely pink-to-reddish hue.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 07 December 2017
- Hits: 420
December holidays beg for some décor that is fresh and naturally fragrant to combat the assault of plastic, glitter all things artificial.
Yuletide cheer has evolved from past traditions into modern day decorations using evergreens, berries, fruits and lights.
Garlands, wreaths and candles were once the only sure thing when it comes to doorways and mantels.
The significance of a wreath, symbolizing everlasting life, goes back to ancient Greek and Roman times.
A renewed approach to fresh arrangements maintains meaning to the components. Contemporary designs appeal to a much broader consumer base.
Yuletide cheer has evolved from past traditions into modern day decorations using evergreens, berries, fruits and lights.
Garlands, wreaths and candles were once the only sure thing when it comes to doorways and mantels.
The significance of a wreath, symbolizing everlasting life, goes back to ancient Greek and Roman times.
A renewed approach to fresh arrangements maintains meaning to the components. Contemporary designs appeal to a much broader consumer base.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 30 November 2017
- Hits: 449
Marketplace trends are hot topics for discussion when leaning in on the fresh produce business.
Similar to other industries where moving products from “Point A to Point B” is necessary, the factor of transportation is critical to agriculture.
So much is happening in the trucking industry right now, that it is a challenge just to keep up with activity. Conveying the impact of trucking to fresh market stakeholders is another matter altogether.
Technology advancements, new regulatory requirements, driver shortages, increases in freight rates and deteriorating highways are top of mind for all trucking companies and drivers.
Starting on December 18th of this year, the compliance phase of the ELD (Electronic Logging Device) mandate begins as drivers and fleets must start using Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMSCA) approved ELDs in their vehicles.
Similar to other industries where moving products from “Point A to Point B” is necessary, the factor of transportation is critical to agriculture.
So much is happening in the trucking industry right now, that it is a challenge just to keep up with activity. Conveying the impact of trucking to fresh market stakeholders is another matter altogether.
Technology advancements, new regulatory requirements, driver shortages, increases in freight rates and deteriorating highways are top of mind for all trucking companies and drivers.
Starting on December 18th of this year, the compliance phase of the ELD (Electronic Logging Device) mandate begins as drivers and fleets must start using Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMSCA) approved ELDs in their vehicles.
- Category: Market Report
- Friday, 24 November 2017
- Hits: 478
A random surplus of seasonal vegetables may pose a problem worth solving.
Coming out of a flush holiday pantry or working through a fat CSA box, particularly with seemingly incompatible or unusual fresh ingredients, may trip us up at first.
Take a second look at what there is to work with in the kitchen. Fennel, celeriac and buttercup squash…then what?
After a bit of head scratching, turn to an internet search for a blog post spouting the benefits of that peculiar ingredient. A recipe possibility is certain to follow.
A wide spectrum of menu options will be presented. Decide first on which meal solution to tackle. Breakfast, lunch or dinner? Snack or appetizer? That answer will clear a path to the next hurdle.
Cooked or served raw will be the next line to cross. Various cooking methods will produce completely different tastes and textures. Compare a crisp, crunchy carrot to that of one, moist and soft, roasted in a hot oven.
Roasting versus grilling produces different results. Sautéing versus pan fried yields takes it in yet another direction.
The popularity of fresh pickles lends itself to converting some of these more obscure veggies.
Thinly shaved, julienned and whole items brined or soaked with sweet and sour spices make for good snacking and gift giving.
Coming out of a flush holiday pantry or working through a fat CSA box, particularly with seemingly incompatible or unusual fresh ingredients, may trip us up at first.
Take a second look at what there is to work with in the kitchen. Fennel, celeriac and buttercup squash…then what?
After a bit of head scratching, turn to an internet search for a blog post spouting the benefits of that peculiar ingredient. A recipe possibility is certain to follow.
A wide spectrum of menu options will be presented. Decide first on which meal solution to tackle. Breakfast, lunch or dinner? Snack or appetizer? That answer will clear a path to the next hurdle.
Cooked or served raw will be the next line to cross. Various cooking methods will produce completely different tastes and textures. Compare a crisp, crunchy carrot to that of one, moist and soft, roasted in a hot oven.
Roasting versus grilling produces different results. Sautéing versus pan fried yields takes it in yet another direction.
The popularity of fresh pickles lends itself to converting some of these more obscure veggies.
Thinly shaved, julienned and whole items brined or soaked with sweet and sour spices make for good snacking and gift giving.
- Category: Market Report
- Friday, 17 November 2017
- Hits: 482
It could very well be a savory pear tart. Or a carrot soufflé or even a Brussels sprouts Caesar salad with pecans that starts a holiday dispute.
A seemingly nice surprise and unconventional approach to fruits and vegetables this time of year might sound perfectly rational.
Thanksgiving is a time to gather with friends and family around a table that holds mostly traditional favorite dishes.
The mere thought or suggestion of sneaking in a new take on a familiar salad, side, appetizer or dessert may be grounds for a family fuss.
Chances are good that if the group assembled at your Thanksgiving table has been there year-after-year, the expectation is to serve exactly those same “tried and true” dishes that have been plated before.
A seemingly nice surprise and unconventional approach to fruits and vegetables this time of year might sound perfectly rational.
Thanksgiving is a time to gather with friends and family around a table that holds mostly traditional favorite dishes.
The mere thought or suggestion of sneaking in a new take on a familiar salad, side, appetizer or dessert may be grounds for a family fuss.
Chances are good that if the group assembled at your Thanksgiving table has been there year-after-year, the expectation is to serve exactly those same “tried and true” dishes that have been plated before.
- Category: Market Report
- Friday, 10 November 2017
- Hits: 1208
Soup from scratch is well worth the small effort it takes to make. Likely, the familiar, basic components are already in the pantry.
Why wait for that requisite seasonal cold or flu to settle in? Make soup now as it can be a comfort for the soul and a tonic to the body.
The nutritional values and soothing properties of soup work on multiple levels.
Consuming plenty of liquids is always advised when fighting of allergens or battling antibodies. The broth of soup counts toward flushing out the toxins and hydrating the weary body.
Warm liquids tend to clear the sinus passages. Hot water and hot tea suffice, but hot soup is a welcome change to the daily steam regimen.
Why wait for that requisite seasonal cold or flu to settle in? Make soup now as it can be a comfort for the soul and a tonic to the body.
The nutritional values and soothing properties of soup work on multiple levels.
Consuming plenty of liquids is always advised when fighting of allergens or battling antibodies. The broth of soup counts toward flushing out the toxins and hydrating the weary body.
Warm liquids tend to clear the sinus passages. Hot water and hot tea suffice, but hot soup is a welcome change to the daily steam regimen.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 02 November 2017
- Hits: 505
The calendar page says November so all bets are off. The immediate feel of this new month takes on a more festive and impressive aura.
Maybe we start to pay closer attention to every detail of the plate. Is it possible to have even more colors available when using fresh ingredients this month?
The shift towards apples, pears and citrus is evident as they crowd out peaches and nectarine displays. Hard squashes and root vegetables make their way to menu selections at foodservice venues.
Besides pumpkin everything (food and beverages), there are some easy ways to add drama to the plate. Take Satsuma mandarins, coming on regionally throughout California, are a good start to glamour.
These delightful hand fruits have a zip peel and make the perfect anytime snack. When the individual segments are separated, they brighten up a morning breakfast and do more than decorate a supper dish. They perk up a ho-hum serving right away with a pop of color.
Maybe we start to pay closer attention to every detail of the plate. Is it possible to have even more colors available when using fresh ingredients this month?
The shift towards apples, pears and citrus is evident as they crowd out peaches and nectarine displays. Hard squashes and root vegetables make their way to menu selections at foodservice venues.
Besides pumpkin everything (food and beverages), there are some easy ways to add drama to the plate. Take Satsuma mandarins, coming on regionally throughout California, are a good start to glamour.
These delightful hand fruits have a zip peel and make the perfect anytime snack. When the individual segments are separated, they brighten up a morning breakfast and do more than decorate a supper dish. They perk up a ho-hum serving right away with a pop of color.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 26 October 2017
- Hits: 472
Easily recognized, yams and sweet potatoes are some of those ugly fall and early winter root vegetables that are found on the side of the plate this time of year.
Roasted, stuffed and on occasion, marshmallow topped, the growing popularity of sweet potatoes and yams has pushed their demand to become a year-round thing.
Baby yams and sweet potatoes, available seasonally from August through December, make it easier to enjoy a single-serve sweet gem.
Compared to their larger counterparts, the smaller baby versions allow for a petite, tender variety to dazzle the dish with color and flavor. With an edible skin, the baby size have a significantly faster cooking time.
Well known named varieties, similar to their larger and jumbo cousins include Garnet, Jewel, Japanese and Sweet Potatoes.
Roasted, stuffed and on occasion, marshmallow topped, the growing popularity of sweet potatoes and yams has pushed their demand to become a year-round thing.
Baby yams and sweet potatoes, available seasonally from August through December, make it easier to enjoy a single-serve sweet gem.
Compared to their larger counterparts, the smaller baby versions allow for a petite, tender variety to dazzle the dish with color and flavor. With an edible skin, the baby size have a significantly faster cooking time.
Well known named varieties, similar to their larger and jumbo cousins include Garnet, Jewel, Japanese and Sweet Potatoes.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 19 October 2017
- Hits: 570
Chilly autumn mornings naturally make us yearn to have a little something baked with our preferred wakeup hot beverage.
Warming up to lovely muffins, breads, loaf cakes and scones has the power to transform a ho-hum breakfast into a desirable first bite.
Let fall produce guide the menu for savory and sweet oven treats.
Apples and pears, pumpkins and persimmons, sweet potatoes and carrots– these are ample baseline flavors to set the course.
Cranberries and other seasonal jewels like dates and dried fruits (apricots, cherries, raisins, etc.) have a distinctive mouth feel when baked.
Warming up to lovely muffins, breads, loaf cakes and scones has the power to transform a ho-hum breakfast into a desirable first bite.
Let fall produce guide the menu for savory and sweet oven treats.
Apples and pears, pumpkins and persimmons, sweet potatoes and carrots– these are ample baseline flavors to set the course.
Cranberries and other seasonal jewels like dates and dried fruits (apricots, cherries, raisins, etc.) have a distinctive mouth feel when baked.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 12 October 2017
- Hits: 580
If Brussels sprouts, broccoli and cauliflower are not part of the normal veggie lineup, it could be difficult to introduce kohlrabi into the kitchen rotation.
Kohlrabi is the cool kid on the veggie playground that requires a bit of explaining and some understanding.
Part bulb, part bundle of greens, kohlrabi may have an intimidation factor unlike its cruciferous counterparts.
This fall favorite offers a delightful combination of familiar and satisfying tastes. Kohlrabi has the texture of a radish and the sweetness of jicama, with a slight hint of broccoli.
The edible leaves are like a milder version of collard greens. They are quite thick and generally taste best when cooked or steamed. They can also be eaten raw, chopped and in salads.
Kohlrabi is the cool kid on the veggie playground that requires a bit of explaining and some understanding.
Part bulb, part bundle of greens, kohlrabi may have an intimidation factor unlike its cruciferous counterparts.
This fall favorite offers a delightful combination of familiar and satisfying tastes. Kohlrabi has the texture of a radish and the sweetness of jicama, with a slight hint of broccoli.
The edible leaves are like a milder version of collard greens. They are quite thick and generally taste best when cooked or steamed. They can also be eaten raw, chopped and in salads.
- Category: Market Report
- Thursday, 05 October 2017
- Hits: 607
Kabocha, pronounced “kah-BOH-chah”, is a winter squash encased in a dull, deep green, hard, mottled skin that is oftentimes lined with pale, uneven stripes.
There are also some orange skinned cultivars, though the green is the most commonly produced. This time of year, they begin to appear on autumn tablescapes and in earthy fall menu items.
The skin is technically edible if cooked, though most commonly, it is discarded. Round and squat, with a flattened top, it ranges from one to eight pounds. Generally, average weight is two to three pounds.
Inside is a deep yellow orange flesh surrounding a small seed cavity. Cooked, Kabocha offers a finely grained, dry flesh with a buttery and tender texture. Rather sweet, the rich flavor resembles a combination of sweet potato mixed with pumpkin.
In Japan, Kabocha squash was traditionally eaten around the time of the winter solstice with shiruko (adzuki beans) in a sweet soup to boost the immune system and help prevent colds during the winter months.
There are also some orange skinned cultivars, though the green is the most commonly produced. This time of year, they begin to appear on autumn tablescapes and in earthy fall menu items.
The skin is technically edible if cooked, though most commonly, it is discarded. Round and squat, with a flattened top, it ranges from one to eight pounds. Generally, average weight is two to three pounds.
Inside is a deep yellow orange flesh surrounding a small seed cavity. Cooked, Kabocha offers a finely grained, dry flesh with a buttery and tender texture. Rather sweet, the rich flavor resembles a combination of sweet potato mixed with pumpkin.
In Japan, Kabocha squash was traditionally eaten around the time of the winter solstice with shiruko (adzuki beans) in a sweet soup to boost the immune system and help prevent colds during the winter months.
- Category: Market Report
- Friday, 29 September 2017
- Hits: 613
Shaving off several degrees from daytime temperatures makes fall seem more realistic. The thermometer is catching up to the calendar.
We’re on our way. So too is fall décor for planning harvest displays, front porch vignettes and special workplace designs.
Autumn colors generate lots of interest in the DIY home and work decorating ideas.
From tablescapes to landscapes, pumpkins, gourds, wreaths and foliage are ready paint the town red, orange, purple and green.
Sunflowers, mums and wheat shafts combine with ornamental mini corn and garlands of leaves, acorns and mini pumpkins for door hangings and handrail swags.
We’re on our way. So too is fall décor for planning harvest displays, front porch vignettes and special workplace designs.
Autumn colors generate lots of interest in the DIY home and work decorating ideas.
From tablescapes to landscapes, pumpkins, gourds, wreaths and foliage are ready paint the town red, orange, purple and green.
Sunflowers, mums and wheat shafts combine with ornamental mini corn and garlands of leaves, acorns and mini pumpkins for door hangings and handrail swags.
