United Fresh Honors Del Monte Fresh With Advocate Award

United Fresh Produce Association honored Del Monte Fresh Produce as Produce Industry Advocate of the Year at last week’s Washington Public Policy Conference. A long-time leader in the public policy arena, Del Monte Fresh Produce serves on United Fresh’s Nutrition and Health Council, Food Safety and Technology Council and Fresh-Cut Processor Board.

“Del Monte Fresh Produce is proud to be the recipient of the United Fresh Produce Industry Advocate of the Year Award,” said Dave Russell, Del Monte Fresh Produce VP of sales and national accounts. “Our continuing commitment to United Fresh and its efforts to keep our nations’ leaders and government focused on the major policy issues impacting our industry is a reaffirmation of the positive returns to our company and all other industry stakeholders. We would like to encourage all members of United to increase their participation and play an active role in advocating for our industry. The results are worth the effort.”

In presenting the award, Tom Stenzel, United Fresh president and CEO, described the instrumental role Del Monte Fresh Produce plays in advocating for public policies that support the produce industry, as well as supporting initiatives that create healthier school environments, including Let’s Move Salad Bars to Schools. “They’ve donated more than 20 salad bars to schools, and are a leader in bringing fresh vending machines to schools, even when those vending machines carry other company’s product,” said Stenzel.

The United Fresh Produce Industry Advocate of the Year Award pays special recognition to one United Fresh member each year that serves as an advocate for the entire produce industry. Honorees are leading companies and associations that make an impact and drive the industry forward.

Past award winners include:

• 2012 – Four Seasons Family of Companies
• 2011 – National Watermelon Association/Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association
• 2010 – CH Robinson
• 2009 – Pro*Act, LLC
• 2008 – Walter P. Rawl & Sons
• 2007 – New York Apple Association, Inc.
• 2006 – Sunkist Growers, Inc.
• 2005 – L & M Companies
• 2004 – Produce for Better Health Foundation
• 2003 – Tanimura & Antle
• 2002 – Capital City Fruit Company, Inc.