Learn & Engage
Learn & Engage
The United Fresh Retail-Foodservice Board Presents: Fresh Insights for Foodservice Spring 2021 Trends Webinar
Tuesday, May 11 | 2:00 – 3:00 PM ET
Join the United Fresh Retail-Foodservice Board and Datassential for a closer look at what produce menu items are trending in restaurants, retail, home delivery and beyond.
Moderated by Sarah Grady, Director of Global Strategic Sourcing at McDonald’s and Chair of the Retail-Foodservice Board, this webinar will feature insights and analysis from Mike Kostyo, Trendologist at Datassential, along with time for audience Q & A and interactive discussion. All participants will receive a complimentary copy of the Spring 2021 report.
Sponsored by: Produce Alliance
Registration is complimentary for United Fresh members and $100 for non-members to participate.
Capacitación Virtual De Programas De Verificación De Proveedores Extranjeros (FSVP) En Español
May 17-20, 2021 | 5:00 PM EST
Los cursos de capacitación de los Programas de verificación de proveedores extranjeros (FSVP) son organizados por United Fresh y desarrollados por la Alianza de Controles Preventivos para la Inocuidad Alimentaria (FSPCA). Este curso se llevará a cabo de forma virtual a través de Zoom.
Todas las sesiones de capacitación serán impartidas por instructores líderes de FSVP-FSPCA y al finalizar el curso recibirá un certificado de FSPCA, AFDO e IFPTI. Para recibir un certificado de formación oficial, los asistentes tienen que permanecer y participar durante la duración del curso.
De acuerdo con los requisitos de la FSPCA para este curso virtual, los asistentes TIENEN QUE tener sus cámaras encendidas durante todo el curso y completar una evaluación para recibir el certificado.
Este curso será impartido por Sergio Nieto Montenegro, President, Food Safety Consulting & Training Solutions, LLC, y Juan Silva, Universidad Estatal de Mississippi.
Registration is $695 for United Fresh Members and $895 for non-members.
United Fresh Reimagine Conversations
Month of June
Reimagine Conversations is a month-long, 25-session series delivering a fresh outlook, fresh ideas and fresh connections. The series kicks off June 1 with five tracks of thought-provoking sessions, including both education and group discussions to foster discovery, present new ideas and develop new relationships across all channels of the produce supply chain.
PAST EVENTS
Produce GAPs Harmonized Standard Auditor Training
October 19-22, 2020
Members of the Harmonized Standard Calibration Committee will review the Harmonized Standard, as well as additional items related to the specific audit process and GFSI requirements.
The United Fresh Retail-Foodservice Board Presents: Fresh Facts Q2 2020 Trends Discussion Webinar
October 20, 2020 | 2:00 PM EST
Join the United Fresh Retail-Foodservice Board and Nielsen Fresh for a closer look at key trends for the Top 10 Fruit and Vegetable Commodities for Q2 2020. Moderated by Jeff Cady, Director of Produce and Floral at Tops Friendly Markets, the webinar will feature analysis from Mike Galaburda, Client Director, Nielsen, along with time for audience Q & A and interactive audience discussion with Emily Murracas and Ajit Saxena from Mucci Farms. All participants will receive a complimentary copy of the Q2 2020 report.
2020 Election Forecast With Political Expert Charlie Cook
October 22, 2020 | 3:30 PM EST
With the election just weeks away, United Fresh has teamed up with other food trade associations to bring you an exclusive opportunity to hear from Political Expert Charlie Cook. Charlie’s insights into the upcoming election are a must-attend event. Register by clicking this link.
Navigating Emerging Issues in the Fresh Produce Industry – A Cornell Certificate Program
October 26-30, 2020
United Fresh has teamed up with Cornell University to offer this new certificate course examining emerging issues impacting the fresh produce industry. This five-part series powered by Cornell University External Education/eCornell faculty members will help you understand how to put the puzzle pieces together for your business in this new world.
Cost: $600 Member/ $800 Non-Member
Sponsored by: L&M Companies
Improving Traceability in Produce (Part 1)
October 27, 2020 | 2:00 PM EST
Improving traceability is a critical need for the fresh produce industry. All members of the supply chain must work together to create a fast, seamless traceability chain to minimize health impacts, recalls and losses when something does go wrong. In Part 1 of this two-part webinar, we’ll talk about the goals and objectives of enhanced traceability.
Sponsored by: iFood Decision Sciences
Women in Produce Meet Up
October 27, 2020 | 4:00 PM EST
Women in produce continue to contribute new and diverse perspectives, leadership styles and innovative solutions. Men and women alike are invited to take part in this informal discussion focused on women in the produce industry. Share perspectives and opportunities to continue to elevate women across the supply chain.
Sponsored by: John Greene Logistics Company
Meet Up With Food Safety Professionals Focused on Traceability
October 29, 2020 | 2:00 PM EST
Join fellow food safety professionals for an informal discussion and networking opportunity focused on traceability and how we can better connect the produce supply chain. This meet up is sponsored by Procurant.
Cost: $0 Member/$100 Non-Member
Meet Up With Friends Working To Keep Fresh Fruits and Vegetables in School Meals During COVID-19
October 30, 2020 | 2:00 PM EST
United Fresh invites school nutrition professionals and produce suppliers to participate in a conversation about how we can collaborate to ensure students continue to have fresh fruit and vegetable choices in school meals during COVID-19.
Cost: $0 Member/$100 Non-Member
Meet Up With Produce Marketing Professionals
November 4, 2020 | 2:00 PM EST
Join with your peers to talk about marketing trends and new ways of connecting with consumers and business partners.
Cost: $0 Member/$100 Non-Member
Sponsored by: National Watermelon Promotion Board
Improving Traceability in Produce (Part 2)
November 5, 2020 | 2:00 PM EST
In Part 2 of our traceability webinar, learn about FDA’s new proposed rule for traceability of fresh fruits and vegetables. Once finalized, this new regulation will impose new demands on all sectors of the industry. Learn today what you need to do to be prepared.
Cost: $0 Member/$100 Non-Member
Sponsored by: iFood Decision Sciences
Analyzing the 2020 Election Results
November 10, 2020 | 2:00 PM EST
The results are in! With the 2020 Presidential and Congressional elections decided, join us for an overview of what’s ahead in 2021, and better understand what the results mean for our industry.
Cost: $0 Member/$100 Non-Member
Meet Up With Young Produce Professionals
November 11, 2020 | 2:00 PM EST
New to the produce industry or early in your career? Join this informal discussion to meet with peers who share common career challenges. This is your opportunity to share what you’re learning through these difficult times and hear how others are adapting.
Cost: $0 Member/$100 Non-Member
November 16-20, 2020
United Fresh’s Advanced Produce Sales Training program is designed for seasoned sales professionals to expand your business development skills.
Cost: $1295 Member/$1495 Non-Member
Meet Up With Food Safety Professionals
November 24, 2020 | 2:00 PM EST
Join with your peers in the produce food safety community for an informal discussion and networking opportunity.
Cost: $0 Member/$100 Non-Member
Sponsored by: River Point Farms
Preventive Controls for Qualified Individuals Training
November 30 – December 5, 2020
The Current Good Manufacturing Practice, Hazard Analysis, and Risk-based Preventive Controls for Human Food regulation (referred to as the Preventive Controls for Human Food regulation) is intended to ensure safe manufacturing/processing, packing and holding of food products for human consumption in the United States. The regulation requires that certain activities must be completed by a “preventive controls qualified individual” who has “successfully completed training in the development and application of risk-based preventive controls, or is otherwise qualified through job experience to develop and apply a food safety system.” This course developed by the FSPCA is the “standardized curriculum” recognized by FDA; successfully completing this course is one way to meet the requirements for a “preventive controls qualified individual.”
Cost: $795 Member/$995 Non-Member
Fresh Insights for Foodservice Fall 2020 Webinar
December 2, 2020 | 12:00 PM EST
Join the United Fresh Retail-Foodservice Board and Datassential for a closer look at what produce menu items are trending in restaurants, retail, home delivery and beyond. Moderated by Sarah Grady, U.S. Strategic Supply Chain at McDonald’s and Chair of the Retail-Foodservice Board, this webinar will feature insights and analysis from Mike Kostyo, Trendologist at Datassential, along with time for audience Q & A and interactive discussion. All participants will receive a complimentary copy of the Fall 2020 report.
Cost: $0 Member/$100 Non-Member
Fresh Facts on Retail Q3 2020 Webinar
December 15, 2020 | 12:00 PM EST
Join the United Fresh Retail-Foodservice Board and Nielsen Fresh for a closer look at key trends for the Top 10 Fruit and Vegetable Commodities for Q2 2020. Moderated by Jeff Cady, Director of Produce and Floral at Tops Friendly Markets, the webinar will feature analysis from Mike Galaburda, Client Director, Nielsen, along with time for audience Q & A and interactive audience discussion with Emily Murracas and Ajit Saxena from Mucci Farms. All participants will receive a complimentary copy of the Q2 2020 report.
Cost: $0 Member/$100 Non-Member
Produce Industry Leadership Program Alumni Meet Up
December 15, 2020 | 2:00 PM EST
Join with alumni of the United Fresh Produce Industry Leadership Program for a lively discussion on leadership in the current climate and finding strength in an unpredictable business environment.
Cost: $0 Member/$100 Non-Member
Meet Up With the United Fresh International Community
December 16, 2020 | 12:00 PM EST
The United Fresh international community thrives on connection and collaboration. Join fellow produce leaders from around the globe for an informal discussion focused on global trade, business development and networking.
Cost: $0 Member/$100 Non-Member
United Fresh Membership Opportunity for Food Safety Professionals Webinar
December 17, 2020 | 1:00 PM EST
Food safety is a critical function for any company across the fresh produce supply chain. United Fresh has developed a wide variety of resources and opportunities to specifically meet your food safety business needs. Join this informational webinar to learn about food safety resources United Fresh membership can provide.
This event is free for all.
Preparing for the Storm: A BrandStorm Preview
Wednesday, February 24 | 3:00 PM ET
This year’s marketing forecast is calling for a BrandStorm. Whether your end customer is the produce consumer, or another produce industry business, United Fresh’s BrandStorm should be on your radar. Come learn what you can expect from the industry’s signature marketing event, taking place virtually March 9-11. This preview webinar will explore the topics to be discussed, introduce speakers and their companies and give you a better understand of how you and your marketing team will benefit from attending.
FreshFacts on Retail Q4/2020 Year in Review Trends Discussion Webinar
Sponsored by Mucci Farms
Thursday, February 25 | 2:00 PM ET
Join the United Fresh Retail-Foodservice Board and Nielsen Fresh for a closer look at both Q4 and 2020’s overall key trends for the Top 10 Fruit and Vegetable Commodities for. Moderated by Jeff Cady, Director of Produce and Floral at Tops Friendly Markets, the webinar will feature analysis from Mike Galaburda, Client Director, Nielsen, along with time for audience Q & A and interactive audience discussion with Ajit Saxena from Mucci Farms. All participants will receive a complimentary copy of the Q4/2020 FreshFacts on Retail Year in Review report.
School Foodservice Meet Up: Discussing Fresh Fruit and Vegetables in School Meals During COVID-19
Sponsored by FiveStar Gourmet Foods
Tuesday, March 2 | 2:00 PM ET
United Fresh invites school nutrition professionals and produce suppliers to discuss how K12 foodservice operators are offering fresh fruit and vegetables to students, as part of their various COVID-19 meal distributions. School menu planners will discuss the fresh fruit and vegetables they are currently serving and the types of produce items that are of greatest interest, including new products that highlight variety and cost-conscious packaging solutions. Industry representatives will have the opportunity to share new products and how they are working with school customers to meet current needs, while also learning about the latest challenges impacting school foodservice programs.
BrandStorm
March 9-11
Are you ready for the future of fresh produce marketing? BrandStorm™ – the industry’s signature brand marketing event – will take place virtually this year. The annual gathering of the industry’s top and aspiring marketing experts will explore new strategies and tactics, provide solutions to shared marketing challenges and create camaraderie as we work together to grow fresh produce consumption.
UFPA Harmonized Standard Annual Update Meeting
Wednesday, March 10 | 2:00 – 3:30 PM ET
This meeting of the Harmonized Technical Working Group and other interested stakeholders will include a summary of the past year’s activities and accomplishments, provide updates on certification trends, training, and interpretation questions, and identify priorities for the upcoming year.
A Product’s Journey Into the United States: Understanding Regulatory Requirements
Tuesday, March 16 | 1:00 – 2:30 PM ET
Companies looking to export their products to the United States need to be familiar with a myriad of regulatory requirements. This session will provide an overview of USDA, FDA, and other agency import compliance requirements, including risk assessments, pest and disease, and more.
Co-hosted Webinar: How To Leverage Nutrition and Eating Trends To Drive Produce Sales
Wednesday, March 17 | 2:00 – 3:00 PM ET
Even before COVID made good general health and resistance to illness even more important, consumers have been paying more attention to the wellness benefits derived from the foods they eat. Few foods are as synonymous with health as fresh produce, making fruits and vegetables essential for good nutrition. This webinar, hosted by the National Grocers Association and United Fresh Produce Association, will explore the latest trends in fresh produce and how grocery retailers can leverage consumers’ desire to be healthy to grow basket rings.
Speakers:
- Mike Roberts, Director of Produce Operations, Harps Food Stores
- Greg Kurkjian, Executive Vice President, The Castellini Co.
- Miriam Wolk, VP Member Services, United Fresh Produce Association
Understanding Produce Import Logistics Best Practices
Thursday, March 18 | 1:00 – 2:30 PM ET
Whether your products are entering the United States by land, sea or air, it’s important to understand the process of what happens when your product arrives at the U.S. border. Join this interactive session focused on best practices for successfully moving imported product through the supply chain.
Registration is $100 for United Fresh members and $150 for non-members to participate.
Food Safety Meet-Up
Sponsored by Highland Ag
Friday, March 19 | 2:00 PM ET
What factors should be considered when assessing a supplier’s food safety risk? Is a 3rd party audit enough? How do you rank the risk of certain products and suppliers? How do you manage this when time, financial, or other types of resources are limited? Join your peers in the produce food safety community for an informal networking to discuss these challenges and identify the types of tools and resources that would help assess risk. This meet-up is sponsored by Highland Ag. Solutions.
Food Safety Requirements for the US: What Growers Need to Know
Tuesday, March 23 | 1:00 – 2:30 PM ET
Produce sold and consumed in the United States must meet US food safety regulatory requirements and customer expectations, regardless of where it was grown or processed. This session will provide an overview of the main food safety rules that apply to produce, including when companies need to register with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), how to determine if they need to follow the Produce Safety Rule or the Preventive Controls Rule, and a brief summary of each. It will also give insight into the food safety regulatory requirements that affect produce importers—and the consequences through the supply chain, including current and proposed traceability requirements. Finally, the session will contrast regulatory inspections and penalties with 3rd party audits and describe customer requirements beyond regulations.
Introduction to Export Regulatory Policy
Thursday, March 25 | 1:00 – 2:30 PM ET
Before you export, you need to determine whether your product, technology, or service might need an export license. Learn first-hand from experienced U.S. Government officials about export control policies, regulations and procedures.
Developing New Markets & Expanding Export Access for US Products
Tuesday, March 30 | 1:00 – 2:30 PM ET
In a fast-paced global environment, exporters need to be aware of everchanging international regulations. Learn from experts on how to increase your access to existing markets, as well as initiate business in emerging markets.
Women in Produce: Overcoming the She-Cession Together
Tuesday, March 30 | 2:00 – 3:30 PM ET
Prior to the pandemic, women made up the majority of the U.S. workforce. When the pandemic abruptly disrupted travel, leisure, and life as we knew it, women’s careers were disproportionally impacted. Come together for a discussion about the she-cession we’re experiencing, and what we can do to overcome new obstacles. The latter half of the session is set aside for attendees to engage with each other in 1:1 meetings. Each 5-minute meeting with be curated by United Fresh. Be part of the solution by joining the discussion! This opportunity is limited to 50 participants.
Market Trends: Canada, United Kingdom, and Japan
Thursday, April 1 | 1:00 – 2:30 PM ET
Hear from Agricultural Attachés and Market Specialists of the United States in Canada, Japan, and UK, key export markets, while they provide the audience with data and trends on produce consumption in their countries and what they foresee in the future.
Registration is $100 for United Fresh members and $200 for non-members to participate.
International Meet Up
Thursday, April 1 | 4:00 – 5:00 PM ET
Join fellow produce leaders from around the globe for an informal discussion focused on global trade, business development and networking.
Optimizing Produce Quality & Shelf Life: Approaches and Experiences
April 20, 2021 | 2:00 PM EST
While produce safety issues make headlines, issues related to produce quality require daily effort. Given the perishability of many produce items, opportunities to extend shelf life are highly desirable. In this webinar, you’ll learn about the factors that affect shelf life, and the tools available to optimize product quality. In addition to gaining an overview of the technical aspects, you’ll also hear the approaches that produce companies took to solve specific issues.
Sponsored by: Ecolab
For more information on these programs, contact Amanda Griffin, Vice President, Education & Program Management, at 202.303.3412.