Top 5 organic news to help you grow #372

1. Enza Zaden's complete spinach portfolio resistant to new fungus

The emergence of this new type of fungus threatens the global spinach industry, making the development of resistance against this strain of fungus an urgent priority. As a member of the IWGP, Enza Zaden identified new isolates using the standard host differential set. Enza Zaden has a complete spinach portfolio resistant to the new type of fungus, Pe:20. Read More

2. Here is your 2024 organic farmer of the year

The Organic Trade Association is once again recognizing individuals for their outstanding leadership, vision and commitment to advancing the organic movement and making a positive difference on their farms, in their communities, our climate and more. Among the 2024 Organic Leadership Award honorees is Organic Farmer of the Year, Larry Santos, Senior Farm Manager for Taylor Farming, grower and supplier of vegetables to Taylor Farms and Earthbound Farm (owned by Taylor Farms). Read More

3. AC Foods debuts regenerative organic-grown blueberries

AC Foods has launched Betterful, a line of regenerative organic-certified blueberries. The berries, grown in California and Oregon and available through September, will be in select Whole Foods, Sprouts, Bi-Rite, NewLeaf, Berkeley Bowl Marketplace and Oliver’s locations. Read More

4. USDA easing producers’ transition to organic production with new programs and partnerships, announces investments to create and expand organic markets  

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced new programs, partnerships, grant awards and an additional $10 million in funding to expand the markets for organic products and help producers transition to organic production. Read More

5. New organic varieties help cucumber and pepper growers to face the future

Bonsagan RZ is a new organic cucumber variety by Rijk Zwaan for high-wire systems. It is a Bon Defense variety, which means that it has high resistance against the cucumber green mottle mosaic virus (CGMMV). In addition, Bonsagan has high resistance against powdery mildew (Px). "Both resistances are important prerequisites for organic growers," explains John, who provides advice and guidance to organic growers in the Netherlands. Read More