EVERETT, Mass. — The bounty of fresh produce coming from controlled environment agriculture was on full display at the New England Produce Council's 2024 Produce, Floral and Foodservice Expo, Aug. 19-20, at the Encore Boston Harbor Hotel and Casino.
Second-time NEPC exhibitor Highline Mushrooms showcased its clear packaging that lets its mushrooms shine. The packaging is new as of a year ago, said Paul Williamson, who added that the packaging is also recyclable.
Gen V, a family-owned and -operated greenhouse grower from Quebec, featured its hydroponic and organic lettuce line. “We sell a lot in the U.S.,” said Valérie Terrault, who said the products are available at Whole Foods Market, Market Basket, Big Y and many more.
The company's name is a nod to the next generation, which includes Terrault, who has embraced the family's greenhouse business.
Mucci featured its Savorries strawberry tomatoes on the vine. “Savorries is doing exceptionally well,” said Danny Elias.
The greenhouse grower also spotlighted its Cutecumber one-bite cucumber poppers for healthy snacking.
Mastronardi Produce showcased its Backyard Farms washed, cut and ready-to-eat lettuce that is greenhouse grown in the U.S. The line includes a two-pack of romaine, which is somewhat unique, said Connor Chilvers.
“Not too many people are offering greenhouse-grown romaine like this,” he said.
The NatureSweet team featured its mini sweet peppers, which John Cameron says are ideal for snacking as they are small, sweet and seedless. The company also showcased its organic baby cucumbers and grape tomatoes.
Red Sun Farms' Kyle Moynahan spotlighted the greenhouse grower's Sweetpops, a super sweet bite-sized tomato. “It's a lead item in the snacking tomato category,” he said.
Nature Fresh Farms highlighted its Sweet S'naps vibrantly colored gourmet peppers, which the company says offer a juicy flavor similar to an apple.
“It's one of the sweetest peppers on the market,” said Rich Tiveron.
The greenhouse grower also featured its Ombre Cherry Tomatoes in three colors.
Related: Seen and heard at NEPC Expo 2024 — Part 1
by Jennifer Strailey, Aug 23, 2024