1. CCOF Hardship Assistance Grants Now Available
The Bricmont Fund has a long history of giving grants to organic producers recovering from natural disasters like wildfires and floods, unforeseeable life events, and other difficulties that can be challenging to any business. As climate change, the pandemic, and economic instability continue to impact farming communities, the Bricmont Hardship Assistance Fund is part of an important support network helping organic businesses survive uncertain times. Read More
2. Consumers Likely to Keep Buying Sustainable Food Despite Higher Prices
For some shoppers, there's no way in kale they'll stop buying organic. A 10 percent jump in grocery prices in the past year might keep some consumers from reaching for organic carrots or heirloom tomatoes grown without pesticides. But others, especially Gen Zers and millennials concerned about their health and that of the environment, will continue to buy sustainably produced food as long as they can, experts told Insider. Read More
3. Pacific Coast Fruit Spins Off Pacific Coast Trading
Pacific Coast Fruit Co. announced the spinoff of its subsidiary Pacific Coast Trading Co. on April 20. Operating the trading company as an independent business will increase its buying power, help distribute a larger variety of produce from large and small growers, and invest in specialized employees and strategic warehouses, according to the company. Separating the entity allows the trading company to pursue expansion opportunities like growing its workforce and geographical footprint. Read More
4. Growing Demand for Heirloom Tomatoes
Demand is starting to come back again for organic heirloom tomatoes just as the Mexican season is winding down. Alex Madrigal of Covilli Brand Organics based in Nogales, AZ, says his company's organic heirloom tomatoes have approximately three weeks left of production in the Valle de Guadalupe region of Mexico: “Right now there’s a transition period—local supplies haven’t started yet on the West Coast, and we’re winding down in Mexico." Read More
5. Sprouts Farmers Market Releases 2021 ESG Report
Sprouts Farmers Market published its 2021 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Report, highlighting the healthy grocer’s ongoing progress in growing its business sustainably and responsibly. Read More