Produce industry headlines: April 23, 2026
Links: retail trends affecting the produce supply chain, restaurants lose market share to retail, a glimmer of hope in fighting HLB, and more.
Good afternoon! It’s Thursday, April 23, 2026, and here’s what’s happening in produce and grocery today.
Links today include retail trends affecting the produce supply chain, restaurants losing market share to retail, Metro’s response to rising fuel prices, a glimmer of hope in fighting HLB, tariff refund tips, and more.
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Top Stories
Retailer Trends Shaping Fresh Fruit Supply Chains
The managing partner of Solum Partners previews his presentation at next week’s conference.
Metro trying to delay impact of fuel cost increases on food prices
Grocer Metro Inc. says the costs associated with high fuel prices have not trickled down to store shelves yet.
Fast-food, fast-casual restaurants losing dining ground to convenience and grocery stores
A consumer sentiment report from Tillster shows loyalty among diners is plummeting, as 45% of consumers say their favorite restaurant has changed in the last year.
An inside look at what’s challenging restaurant chain execs in 2026
Foodservice leaders say among the keys to growth are consistency, quality, reassessment, respect for roots, customer experience, and building strong teams.
A ray of hope in the battle against citrus greening
UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences researchers have found three commercially available insects that eat the eggs of the Asian citrus psyllid, the pest responsible for spreading Huanglongbing (HLB).
Red Alert: What’s Behind the Surge in Tomato Prices
Many factors are creating a “perfect storm” pushing up tomato prices in the U.S.
Tariff refund portal opens up with many expectations
Experts say companies need to fully understand the tariff refund process, including who can file for refund claims in this first phase by the Trump administration.
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What to read next
USDA reorganizes Food Safety and Inspection Service
The reorganization of the Food Safety and Inspection Service will modernize operations and streamline support functions.
USDA reorganizes Research, Education, and Economics Mission Area
The USDA reorganization and restructuring will better align its work to deliver better results for American farmers, ranchers, and producers.
Tomato update: Round availability remains at critically low level
Markon Cooperative reports prices are elevated, and tomato supplies remain extremely tight, as freezes in Mexico keep volumes critically low.
Avocados From Mexico signs new ‘Zero Deforestation Agreement’
APEAM, the nonprofit organization behind the Avocados from Mexico campaign, signed the Zero Deforestation Agreement on April 15, 2026.
Bee Sweet Citrus adds red citrus variety to line-up
Rosy Red Valencias, a new citrus variety native to California’s Central Valley, will be available at Bee Sweet Citrus later this spring.
Baloian Farms projects strong California red onion season
Baloian Farms will begin harvesting its California Flat Sweet Red Onions in early May, marking the start of a strong domestic season.
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