JBT Corp., Chicago, partnered with SmartWash Solutions, Salinas, Calif., to start a new European alliance developed to bring an innovative combination of science, technology and engineering to fresh-cut produce processors in Europe.

StixFresh, Kirkland, Wash., developed a new way of helping reduce carbon footprint and foster more responsible stewardship.

A study produced by Nielsen, Chicago, reveals a 20% increase in sustainable product sales since 2014.

About half of online shoppers plan to purchase grocery items more often in the coming year, according to a study released by the Retail Feedback Group (RFG), Lake Success, N.Y.

Fresh food container demand in the United States is projected to increase 3.7% per year to $1.1 billion in 2022, according to “Food Containers in the US, 11th Edition,” a new study from The Freedonia Group, Cleveland, Ohio.

Scientists at Florida International University (FIU), Miami, Fla., found a quick and reliable way to test the freshness of fruit in the grocer’s produce section.

In support of the produce industry’s efforts to drive demand for more fresh produce, the Produce Marketing Association, Newark, Del., announced a strategic alliance with the Entertainment Resource & Marketing Association (ERMA), a Santa Monica, Calif.-based association of entertainment marketing professionals, to bring fresh produce center stage through television shows, movies and online entertainment.

Belgium-based Greenyard Foods merged with Univeg, a Belgium-based supplier of fresh produce, and Peatinvest N.V., a holding company headquartered in Belgium, to create a global leader in fruit and vegetables.

Brazil’s Cutrale-Safra Group acquired Chiquita Brands International Inc., New York, and all outstanding common shares of Chiquita for $14.50 per share in cash.