Overview of Organic Fresh Produce Ingredients Added to OPS 2018 Program

The sixth and final educational session at Organic Produce Summit 2018 will focus on the growing organic ingredient industry and the opportunities for producers and retailers to capitalize on new consumer products.  “Organic Ingredients---Creating New Opportunities in Fresh Produce” will feature leaders from global organic fresh produce ingredient supply chain companies discussing the evolution and expansion of the multi-billion dollar organic ingredient category.

The Organic Produce Summit is a two-day event specifically designed to bring together organic fresh produce growers, shippers and processors with retailer and buying organizations from across North America.  Over 1,200 attendees will meet July 11-12 in Monterey, CA to exchange ideas, information and insight of the organic fresh produce industry.    

Moderated by Chad Hagen, vice president of consumer products group at SunOpta, a leading global organic food company specializing in sourcing and processing of certified organic food products, the educational session will feature a panel of leading industry experts offering information and insight on the role of organic fresh produce in creating new items for consumers.

Chad Hagen, vice president of consumer products group at SunOpta

Panelists include Lisa McNeece, vice president of industrial sales for Grimmway Farms; Joost Hamelink, sustainability and marketing for Tradin Organic; and Bryan Jaynes, vice president of product management and marketing and for Taylor Farms.

Lisa McNeece, vice president of industrial sales for Grimmway Farms

Joost Hamelink, sustainability and marketing for Tradin Organic

Bryan Jaynes, vice president of product management and marketing and for Taylor Farms

“The growing demand for organic food, coupled with healthy eating trends and a preference for premium organic products, is driving the growth of the organic ingredient sector, and organic products being merchandised in the produce section is leading the charge in the development of new items,” Hagen said.  “The educational session is an outstanding opportunities for OPS attendees to learn more about the opportunities and global reach of organic ingredients.”

The organic ingredient educational session rounds out an outstanding line-up of educational sessions focused exclusively on the multi-billion dollar organic fresh produce industry.   In addition, a series of keynote presentations featuring Geoff White, President of Own Brands, and a Retailer Roundtable including three of the nation’s largest and most progressive retailers, highlight the third annual OPS.

Other educational sessions at OPS 2018 include:

OPS 2018 also includes a selection of field tours for retailers and buyers; a gala opening night reception and a trade show featuring 130 producers and processors of organic fresh produce from across North America and the globe.

Limited registration is still available to attend OPS 2018.  For more information, visit www.organicproducesummit.com