The recent merger between Canadian Pacific Railway Limited and Kansas City Southern means there is now a single-line, competitive option for domestic intermodal shipments between Mexico, the U.S. Midwest, and Canada. Rail can now compete with trucks for time-sensitive shipments in high-value perishables.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has announced either pre-harvest or finished product testing as part of its requirements for accepting California-grown romaine lettuce into Canada between September 30 and December 31, 2021.
The Produce Marketing Association has cancelled the in-person event in New Orleans, Louisiana that was scheduled for October 28-30. The city is still reeling from the impacts of Hurricane Ida and now remnants of tropical storm Nicholas.
U.S. Apple is predicting that the 2021-22 crop year will exceed 11.1 billion pounds or 265.4 million bushels. That’s up from a year ago, but 1.3 per cent less than the five-year production average. The Red Delicious apple variety is produced in the largest volume.
The U.S. International Trade Commission has ruled that Mexican raspberries are not a trade threat to the Washington state processed raspberry market. Neither is Canada’s small raspberry sector, concentrated near Abbotsford, British Columbia. The final report contains a chapter of insightful statistical analysis of fresh and frozen markets in Canada.
Washington State has reversed guidance to its fully vaccinated farm workers, releasing them from having to wear a mask or socially distance to work or in congregate housing. Farm groups lobbied for the change.
While USDA forecasts a record $164 billion in ag exports for 2021, none of that increase is expected in fruits or vegetables.
The annual crop and outlook marketing conference of the U.S. Apple Association will take place in person August 19-20 in Chicago.
The latest American investigation into the effects of imports on U.S. seasonal markets is mostly driven by concerns about Mexico’s produce and its effects on Florida and Georgia growers. However, Canada is drawn into the fray, with industry experts testifying virtually on April 8.
Cultivar, a produce company based in Spain, has won first prize in the “Best Convenience Packaging” category of the World Food Innovation Awards. The jury praised the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the paper-based format, while noting the reduction of plastic.
Evan Fraser shares insight on food sovereignty
