Organic Produce Summit to address sustainability in the supply chain

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 future of sustainability in the third Organic Produce Summit 2022 educational session.

The 50-minute educational 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 produce for Albertsons Companies and
• Monica Wyant, produce business manager for 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,” said Castagnetto.“As we continue to move toward greater circular business models which re-use 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. 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.”

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, California.

In addition to the educational session on sustainability, other sessions slated for OPS 2022 will look at the growing importance of Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA), regenerative agriculture, branded vs. private label organic offerings, and a data dive of organic fresh produce sales analysis 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.