An industry-wide forum will be created to bring better understanding and coordination to challenges associated with the rapidly changing climate in packaging for fresh produce.
The Produce Marketing Association and the United Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Association announced May 18 they had formed a joint committee to discuss the many different packaging options being requested by foodservice and retail customers.
The joint committee will be co-chaired by United Chairman-elect Fred Heptinstall, Chiquita Fresh-North America, and PMS secretary-treasurer Tim York, Markon Cooperative.
The committee will be comprised of 24 appointed broad-based representatives from the industry, consisting of shippers, retailers, foodservice, wholesalers, land brokers, as well as one representative each from the plastic and corrugated packaging industries.
The committee will be the forum for discussion of the impact of packaging on each stage of the produce chain, to make opinions known, and evaluate specific needs and research.