United Fresh Vice President of Nutrition and Health Dr. Lorelei DiSogra traveled to Montreal, Quebec earlier this week to speak at McGill University's World Platform for Health and Economic Convergence Think Tank 2009, a gathering of policy leaders from around the world. The initiative is designed to build on leading models of more humanitarian and environment-conscious capitalism to promote business, social and health innovation and technology to create sustainable health and wealth for all.

Dr.DiSogra and colleague Robert Pederson of the European Agriculture and Health Consortium in Brussels, Belgium presented Aligning AG Policy with Public Health Policy: Case Studies on the U.S. Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program and E.U School Fruit Schemes.

On Monday, the pair spoke before the Harnessing the Power of Business for Global Health Diplomacy group and in front of the Integrating Health and Agriculture gathering on Tuesday.

"United and the European Agriculture and Health Consortium collaborated during 2007 and 2008 to secure EUR90 million a year from the European Commission to expand school fruit schemes to all 27 EU countries," said Dr. DiSogra. "We believe these programs are a win-win for children's health and the health of the produce industry. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to inspire other countries to engage in similar public policy initiatives."

For more information, please contact Dr. DiSogra at 202-303-3400 ext. 404.