With greater emphasis and importance placed on sustainability efforts from organic growers and the grocery community, industry leaders will examine how the organic fresh produce industry is addressing the obstacles, opportunities, and the future of sustainability in the third Organic Produce Summit 2022 educational session.

The 50-minute ed session, “Sustainability Through the Supply Chain: What’s Working and What’s Not?,” will explore how fresh produce companies and retailers are working to transparently address environmental, social, and economic concerns throughout the life cycle of fresh produce items. Moderated by Michael Castagnetto, President of CHR Robinson, panelists for the session include Daniella Velazquez de Leon, general manager of Organics Unlimited; Shawn Peery, national vice president of produce for Albertsons Companies; and Monica Wyant, produce business manager for Meijer.

Panelists Daniella Velazquez de Leon (Organics Unlimited), Shawn Peery (Albertsons Companies), and Monica Wyant (Meijer)

“The organic fresh fruit and vegetable industry is in a unique position to make the global food system healthier for both people and planet. As we continue to move toward greater circular business models, which reuse waste streams, develop efficient renewable resources, and minimize environmental and social impacts, the case for greater emphasis and measuring of sustainability efforts has never been stronger,” said Castagnetto. “Now is the time to discuss the opportunities and challenges on issues relating to water, food waste, packaging, social equality, and economic concerns across the supply chain that will impact the food system in the coming years.”

Moderator Michael Castagnetto, President, CHR Robinson

OPS 2022 is a two-day event specifically designed to bring together organic fresh produce growers, shippers, and processors with retail and buying organizations from across North America. The sixth annual event will be held July 13-14 at the Monterey Conference Center in Monterey, CA.

In addition to the educational session on sustainability, other sessions slated for OPS 2022 will explore at the growing importance of Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA), regenerative agriculture, branded vs. private label organic offerings, and organic fresh produce sales data and consumer purchasing behavior. OPS 2022 will also include two keynote presentations, a selection of field tours for qualified retailers and buyers, a gala opening night reception, and a sold-out trade show floor featuring over 150 producers and processors of organic fresh produce from across North America and the globe.

More information will be made available in the coming weeks as the event’s program becomes finalized. Registration to attend OPS 2022 is available at www.organicproducesummit.com.