IQF (Individually Quick Frozen) blueberries are one of the most versatile and sought-after frozen fruits, especially during their peak harvest season in August and September. Sourced from the nutrient-rich soils of Peru, these blueberries are available in a variety of sizes, ranging from a standard 10 mm diameter, with some reaching up to 12 mm. …
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Excitement is building as the Peruvian mango industry prepares for the upcoming Edward mango season, with IQF (Individually Quick Frozen) production scheduled to begin in September. Known for its vibrant orange color, rich flavor, and smooth, fiberless texture, the Edward variety is a premium choice for food brands looking to elevate their mango-based product offerings. …
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If your company produces frozen pizzas, burritos, skillets, pasta, or grain bowls, then you already know: bell peppers aren’t just a garnish—they’re a visual and flavor essential. But sourcing fresh peppers at scale? It’s labor-intensive, waste-prone, and inconsistent. That’s why food manufacturers are increasingly choosing frozen diced bell peppers to streamline production, cut costs, and …
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United States Beets: In Wisconsin, crop sizing continues, with harvest anticipated to begin shortly. Berries: Berry crops across the Pacific Northwest are progressing well, with blueberry harvest already underway in Oregon and Washington—the region’s largest producers. Some mid-season blueberry varieties are ripening ahead of schedule, pointing to a slightly earlier harvest window. Raspberry production is …
Continue reading “U.S. Cherry Season Shines Bright in a Dynamic Global Crop Landscape”
Farmers markets are everywhere this time of year, bursting with fresh produce, local meats, and homemade goods. But while summer shopping feels more casual, food safety still matters. Check Before You Choose Inspect produce carefully—skip anything bruised or moldy. For meats, eggs, or dairy, make sure they’re properly chilled and displayed hygienically. Stay Clean Use …
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has officially approved gardenia blue as a safe color additive for use in food and beverage products. Sourced from the fruit of the Gardenia jasminoides plant, gardenia blue represents a major step forward in the industry’s transition toward natural food colorants. This approval comes after a petition by …
The latest crop update from California and the Pacific Northwest points to a promising season for food manufacturers and processors sourcing frozen fruits and vegetables. Tomatoes This year’s tomato season is progressing well, with healthy early growth and no major disease or water issues reported. Processors are expecting a steady supply of quality tomatoes, with …
Consistent Quality. Operational Efficiency. Smarter Sourcing. In a food industry defined by changing consumer habits, supply chain disruptions, and rising production costs, frozen fruits and vegetables are more than just a convenience—they’re a strategic advantage. Here’s why more food manufacturers, foodservice providers, and restaurant brands are turning to frozen produce to stay ahead: ⸻ 1. …
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Sustainability is no longer a buzzword—it’s a business imperative. According to Grocery Dive, grocers are increasingly recognizing frozen foods as a powerful solution for meeting both consumer demand and environmental goals. For B2B buyers across manufacturing, foodservice, and retail, this shift opens new opportunities to align with evolving priorities around waste reduction, shelf life, and …
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The pea harvest in Washington is over 75% complete, with strong performance across both organic and conventional fields. Yields are solid and quality remains high—good news for food manufacturers and processors preparing for seasonal production. Corn crops in key growing regions like Pasco and Ellensburg are reported healthy, with early field separation improving harvest efficiency. …
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The global wellness economy reached $5.6 trillion in 2023 and is projected to grow to $8.5 trillion by 2027, according to the Global Wellness Institute. For food manufacturers, foodservice operators, and CPG brands, this signals a major opportunity to align with consumers’ increasing demand for clean, nutritious, and convenient products. One of the smartest, most …
The frozen food industry is navigating a period of major regulatory and market change, and the American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI) is leading the charge to safeguard its future. As the regulatory spotlight intensifies around nutrition, food additives, and global trade policies, AFFI is working to ensure frozen food remains recognized as a vital part …
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Fresh might sound ideal—but in today’s food manufacturing and foodservice landscape, frozen fruits and vegetables are proving to be the smarter, more reliable choice. Harvested at peak ripeness and flash-frozen within hours, frozen produce retains its nutrients, vibrant color, and flavor far better than “fresh” items that may spend days in transit and storage before …
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While it’s still summer, cooler days are on the horizon—and that means soup season is just around the corner. From cozy bowls of minestrone to creamy broccoli cheddar and hearty vegetable medleys, fall marks peak demand for warm, nourishing meals. For soup brands and manufacturers, now is the time to prepare—and that starts with ingredients …
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As food and beverage brands continue to explore bold, nutritious ingredients, one lesser-known fruit is quietly gaining traction among industry innovators. Lucuma, also known as the “Gold of the Incas,” is a centuries-old fruit native to the Andean valleys of Peru, Chile, and Ecuador. Today, it’s emerging as a must-have for smoothie and dessert brands …
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In today’s competitive food industry, staying ahead means delivering bold flavor with consistency, convenience, and quality. Enter IQF (Individually Quick Frozen) jalapeños—a high-impact ingredient that’s rapidly gaining traction across foodservice, retail, and manufacturing. Whether you’re developing a zesty new product or upgrading your current lineup, IQF jalapeños offer a spicy edge that delivers—for your business …
It’s summer, and with warmer weather comes a renewed focus on light, nutritious meals—and for many, a commitment to healthier habits. Whether you’re grilling outdoors, prepping a quick lunch, or tossing together a refreshing salad, vegetables take center stage in seasonal eating. But not all veggies are created equal when it comes to weight loss. …
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A recent heat wave in Ontario has given organic leafy greens a strong push in volume and quality. After a delayed start to the season due to cooler spring temperatures, growers across the province are now seeing a surge in growth, particularly in spinach and baby kale. The warm temperatures have helped accelerate plant development, …
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Summer is here, and Tropical Smoothie Café is once again showing us how it’s done—with vibrant, tropical flavor combinations that not only refresh but delight. The brand’s menu is a flavor-packed celebration of summer, headlined by fan-favorites Tropical Dragon Passion Smoothie and Mango Monsoon Smoothie. But it doesn’t stop there. The lineup also features the …
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The Food Safety Consortium, co-hosted by Food Safety Tech and the American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI), is set to take place October 19–21, 2025, in Arlington, Virginia. Now in its 14th year, the conference brings together leaders across food safety, quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and food production to address emerging risks and solutions in today’s …
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