Fresh Picks & Sustainability Tips: April 2024
Email Newsletter: April 4, 2024
I have no doubt that if you’re reading this email you share in our passion and enthusiasm for sustainability in the fresh produce industry.
That’s why we’re launching this email newsletter. Each month we’ll share some of the most exciting things happening in produce and sustainability, helping you stay on top of the trends and giving you an inside peek at what we’re working on.
This email is also an open invitation to connect. We’d love to hear about your sustainability efforts, so feel free to hit reply anytime.
Without further ado, here are some interesting things we’re tracking in the fresh produce + sustainability space right now.
Warmest Regards,
Nikki Cossio - Founder & CEO - Measure to Improve
Why do fresh produce growers need an integrated pest management program?
In the produce industry, retailers such as Walmart, Kroger, and Whole Foods are beginning to require produce suppliers to implement IPM practices in their operations.
Walmart was the first U.S. food retailer to adopt a timebound commitment to expand ecological farming methods in its supply chain and is requiring its suppliers to adopt these practices and become third-party certified by 2025. Kroger has adopted a similar policy requiring large-sized growers to achieve third-party certification by 2028 and small growers to become certified by 2030.
As more retailers globally begin to follow suit, it will be important for growers to have a robust IPM program in place and become certified. By doing so, growers can be at the forefront of these efforts and remain competitive in a crowded marketplace rather than being at a competitive disadvantage and needing to catch up down the line.
Sustainability Reporting Made Easier
Filling out Sustainability Surveys from retailers like Walmart, Costco, and Kroger doesn’t have to be a chore!
We love helping produce growers and processors simplify this process. Our team, combined with our innovative software solution, makes data collection, analysis, and reporting more efficient and effective.
Learn more about our Buyer Survey Support services at the link below.
Team Member Highlight
In March of 2017, Kieran joined Measure to Improve as a Sustainability Intern. Seven years later she’s our Director of Sustainability Programs and a foundational member of our team! Please join us in congratulating Kieran on her 7-year anniversary with MTI!
Upcoming Events
April: Measure to Improve’s 10 Year Anniversary!
April 7 - 9: Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference
April 22: Earth Day
May 20: World Bee Day