Methyl Bromide Recapture – NZ Environment Protection Authority Release Decision 11/8/21

In April 2019, The New Zealand Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) began considering an application to reassess the proposed recapture requirements (the controls) for Methyl Bromide that were originally due to come into force in 2021.

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Millennials and Generation Z found to be the biggest wasters of food

Research conducted in April shows Millennials and Generation Z are not living up to their credentials as climate change activists with these two groups responsible for the largest amounts of food waste in the country.

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Kiwi Firm Leading Delivery of Home Compostable Fruit Labels

Aotearoa’s leading producer of fruit labels, Jenkins Freshpac Systems, has just been awarded a gold medal in development and creativity for their industrial compostable label.  Now the firm has its eyes firmly set on testing and refining a home compostable fruit label. 

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - June 2021

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New Country of Origin Regulations coming into force on 12th November 2021

As previously communicated, the Government has recently introduced mandatory Country of Origin Labelling for certain foods, including fresh fruit and vegetables as per the following descriptions;

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The Economic Implications of Food Safety Incidents

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - May 2021

Fruit and vegetable consumption and type 2 diabetes prevention

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Ground-Breaking UN Discussion Identifies Pathways To Food Future for Aotearoa

Hosted by United Fresh, the UN Independent Dialogue brought together for the first time experts from across the entire supply chain from production to retail along with tangata whenua representatives and leaders from organisations which support vulnerable communities such as food banks and churches.

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Food Safety & Traceability Update - May 2021

Update on COVID-19, SFFF Traceability, Food Safety Risk Ranking and Recycled Packaging Projects

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The global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - April 2021

Dietary guidelines - are they in line with a sustainable diet?

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Kiwi Experts Leading Global Conversation for UN About Equitable Food Systems

United Fresh, Aotearoa’s pan produce industry organisation, is set to lead a United Nations Independent Dialogue as part of the UN’s global initiative the Food Systems Summit (UNFSS). 

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The global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - March 2021

Nudges & Food Consumption Behaviours

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Produce Industry Launches UN Initiative in New Zealand to Address Hunger and Increase Wellbeing

Aotearoa’s $6 billion fresh produce industry today rolls out a localised UN initiative, as it celebrates the launch of the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables (IYFV).

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Knowledge Officer Update – Blueberries

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United Fresh Becomes Trust Alliance Observer

United Fresh is pleased to advise acceptance of Trust Alliance New Zealand’s offer to act as an observer at Trust Alliance meetings.

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The global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - February 2021

COVID-19 & Food Consumption Behaviours

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Supply Chain and Opportunities for Blueberries in NZ

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Latest FSSRC Report Assesses Any Evidence of Foodborne Transmissions of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)- Feb 2021

The New Zealand Food Safety Science & Research Centre (FSSRC) has produced a further literature review update on the potential relationship between foodborne transmissions and SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19).

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Food Safety & Traceability Update - January 2021

This edition provides an update on the work conducted towards sustainability of the fresh produce sector, as well as highlighting the importance of food safety, Traceability and how to improve them.

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The global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - January 2021

Actions and Interventions to increase F&V Consumption

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Trend Report 2021: Adapting to the new normal

There is no question that the world has changed immensely in the space of just 12 months. The unprecedented scale of the COVID-19 pandemic has touched the lives of every New Zealander and the implications of the national lockdown will be felt for years to come. 

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Global Fresh Produce Opportunities and Events 2021

2021 will be a very active and eventful year for the global fresh produce industry and the United Nations are at the forefront of events that impact upon our industry. 

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The global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - December 2020

Food Consumption and Lifestyle Trends

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NZ’s Horticultural Voice Heard at UN Food Systems Summit

New Zealand produce industry leader and United Fresh Knowledge Officer, Dr Hans Maurer, will help represent global horticulture sector interests in the lead up to United Nation’s Food Systems Summit next year. 

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Free Fruit & Vegetables In Schools More Crucial Than Ever Before

A record 26 million servings of fresh fruit and vegetables will be given to low decile school children next year, with calls to expand the initiative in light of last week’s alarming Poverty Monitor 2020 report.

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Government increases support for New Zealanders to work in seasonal jobs

The Government is offering further financial support for unemployed New Zealanders to take on seasonal work. These new incentives include...

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The global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - November 2020

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Food Safety & Traceability Update - Core Food Safety Issues -November 2020

Within the wider Food Safety landscape, we would like to draw your attention to an emerging risk, related to the behaviour of pathogens, and especially the learning that is occurring on how some pathogens are adapting to different environmental conditions in the open world.

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Food Safety & Traceability Update - COVID-19 -November 2020

This is a topic that is not going to go away in a hurry, like it or not. In its own right, COVID-19 clearly represents a risk to human health, as well as a risk to our economy.

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The global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - October 2020

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Food Safety Risk Framework Project

The objective of the Food Safety Risk Framework project is to provide to industry a science based New Zealand centric framework that identifies the highest food safety risks to the industry and allows effective targeting of research funds and activities.

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The global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - September 2020

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Research Highlights Lack of Female Leadership in the NZ Horticulture Industry

Research commissioned by industry collective Women in Horticulture (WiH) shows significant gender disparity amongst senior roles in New Zealand’s horticulture industry.

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The Product Traceability Initiative (PTI)

Worldwide, produce industry bodies have been increasingly working with GS1 to implement national Traceability guidelines in a coordinated manner that are interoperable and enable rapid reactivity.

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United Fresh Sustainable Food & Fibre Futures (SFFF) Draft Traceability Guidelines

Reliable and robust Traceability systems are no longer an optional extra in the produce industry, but a baseline requirement of increasing importance.

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COVID-19 UPDATE - GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES AUCKLAND TO REMAIN AT ALERT LEVEL 3 UNTIL SUNDAY 30TH AUGUST AT 11:59PM

The Prime Minister has announced that Auckland will remain at Alert Level 3 until Sunday 30th August at 11:59pm, as decided at the Cabinet Meeting today

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NZ’s Fruit & Vegetables in Schools Initiative for Vulnerable Children Acknowledged Globally

New Zealand’s most successful and effective school-based nutrition initiative Fruit & Vegetables in Schools (FIS) has been selected for inclusion in a report for the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

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COVID 19 UPDATE - All Businesses need NZ COVID Tracer QR Code Poster & Auckland Border Crossing Info

The Prime Minister announced on Wednesday 12 August that all businesses must display a NZ COVID Tracer QR code from 11:59am on Wednesday 19 August.

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COVID-19 UPDATE - NZ Food Safety Scientific Opinion on Covid-19 transmission through food packaging

To follow is the most up-to-date information from the Ministry for Primary industries on the unlikely transmission of COVID-19 by food or food packaging.

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New Zealand’s $6 billion Produce Industry Aligning and Improving its Traceability Systems

A consultation document seeking the input of New Zealand’s fresh produce industry has been released this month as part of a significant project to assess and improve traceability within the industry.

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Food Waste in Aotearoa – Opportunities & Solutions

With every crisis there is opportunity, during the COVID-19 crisis, surplus food waste was created due to the forced shutdown of plants and normal food supply channels.

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The global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - July/August 2020

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Government Launches Primary Sector Plan to Boost Economic Recovery

The Government has launched a bold plan to boost primary sector export earnings by $44 billion over the next decade, while protecting the environment and growing jobs.

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Have your say - SFF Traceability Project - Industry Consultation on Draft Traceability Guidelines

We have recently developed the Draft Traceability Guidelines that have evolved from the Sustainable Farming Fund Project “Effective Produce Traceability Systems”, managed by United Fresh.

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United Fresh Food Safety Update June 2020 - Research, COVID-19 & Fresh Produce Food Safety Framework

This edition discusses activities and initiatives underway in the food safety and traceability arena over the last year. We examine the increasing collaboration across industry in food safety and a proposed New Zealand Fresh Produce Food Safety Framework Research Project.

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COVID-19 Update – United Fresh Business Guide at ALERT LEVEL 1

Now we have moved into Alert Level 1 everyone can return without restriction to work, school, sports and domestic travel, and you can get together with as many people as you want.

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The global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - June 2020

Fruit & Vegetable Consumption and Cardiovascular Diseases Prevention

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New Consumer Trends Research Available for United Fresh Members - May 2020

United Fresh commissioned research late last year with Nielsen Research looking into Consumer Trends Impacting Fresh Produce.

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Potential for Foodborne Transmission of COVID-19: Literature Review Update - May 2020

The New Zealand Food Safety Science Research Centre (NZFSSRC) have released an update of the potential for foodborne transmission of Covid-19 literature review.

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Ground-Breaking UN Discussion Identifies Pathways To Food Future for Aotearoa

Hosted by United Fresh, the UN Independent Dialogue brought together for the first time experts from across the entire supply chain from production to retail along with tangata whenua representatives and leaders from organisations which support vulnerable communities such as food banks and churches.

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Foodstuffs Donates Hundreds of Food Boxes as Crisis Deepens

Up to 1 million Kiwis Predicted to be Affected in 2020. ‘Kiwis helping kiwis’ is the driving force behind an initiative of more than 700 boxes of fresh produce being donated to families hit by the Covid-19 crisis by one of our country’s largest locally owned and operated companies.

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NZ Food Safety Releases Results for the Food Residues Survey Programme

New Zealand Food Safety, a business unit of the Ministry for Primary Industries, has published the results of its recent Food Residues Survey Programme (FRSP). 

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The global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - April/May 2020

Food Environment and the Impact on Food Consumption

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COVID-19 UPDATE – ALERT LEVEL 3 - Updated Guide & Business Guidelines

Guide to Keeping Our People & Workplaces Well During ALERT LEVEL 3 and Essential Businesses to stay on restricted access during ALERT LEVEL 3

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COVID-19 UPDATE - Government announces what Alert Level 3 will look like

The government shared earlier today the work that has been done on updating the COVID-19 Alert Levels. You will find the updated levels here.
 

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5000 5+ A Day Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Boxes Diverted to Families During Covid-19

Fresh produce deemed for the Fruit and Vegetables in Schools (FIS) initiative is now being diverted to families in need during Covid-19 lockdown.

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NZFSSRC Potential For Foodborne Transmission Of Covid-19 Literature Review Update - April 2020

United Fresh is cooperating with wide range of food industries and organisations to support the New Zealand Food Safety & Science Research Centre literature review update Potential For Foodborne Transmission Of Covid-19.

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COVID19.govt.nz Website Produce Washing Advice Updated

The government website for COVID-19 has been updated with the correct information for consumers around the washing of fresh fruit and vegetables once they get them home. We had asked them to remove their advice of using soapy water last week so it is great to see this has happened.

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United Fresh Urges Kiwis to Eat More Fresh Produce and to Wash It First

New Zealanders can safely purchase fresh fruit and vegetables during COVID-19 and our country’s only pan-produce organisation that represents the entire value-chain, United Fresh, is reminding Kiwis to wash all produce as you normally would by rinsing it under the tap before consuming it.

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COVID-19 Update - MPI Starts Site Visits & Physical Distancing Poster

MPI starting site visits today, Friday 27th March and United Fresh Physical Distancing poster shared.

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MPI answers key COVID-19 questions for fresh fruit and vegetable industry

MPI answers questions about 2m distancing rule, access to protection equipment, workers over 70, independant F&V shops and movement to & from work.

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COVID-19 Update - MPI's Register for Safe Practice and Fruit & Vegetable Shops Closing

As New Zealand moves into National Alert Level 4 in response to COVID-19, the primary industries have been included on the list of essential services and fruit and vegetable stores to close.

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COVID-19 Alert Level 4 and UF Guide to Business Continuity

COVID Alert Level 4 Description & United Fresh Guide to Keeping Our People & Workplaces Well – Continuity Planning for Businesses 

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COVID-19 Alert Level 3

The government has now put New Zealand into Alert Level 3 (and indicated that this will go to Alert Level 4 in 48 hours).

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COVID-19 Alert Level 2 Update – Government Asks Commerce Commission For Flexibility

As we all work together as a nation and industry to contain the outbreak of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) to help protect our people, United Fresh will continue to provide updates for our industry to assist with business continuity.

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COVID-19 Update including New Government Information Platforms

The government has created a website that has everything you need to know about COVID-19 in one place.

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Literature Review - Foodborne Transmission of COVID-19

Our colleagues at the New Zealand Food Safety Science & Research Centre (NZFSSRC) have shared their Literature Review on Foodborne Transmission of COVID-19 for the food industry.

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Food Safety Workshop Hits the Mark

United Fresh and the New Zealand Food Safety Science Research Centre (NZFSSRC) jointly ran a Food Safety workshop in Auckland on 12th March 2020. 

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - March 2020

Food Promotion Research,

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COVID-19 Update for United Fresh Members

We are all very concerned about the potential impact  COVID-19 could have on our businesses. The purpose of this update is to distil the key messages of what we need to consider.

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Child Poverty Stats Reaffirm Importance Of Free Fruit & Vegetables In Schools

https://5adayeducation.org.nz/learningNew Zealand’s most successful and effective school-based nutrition initiative is applauding progress to reduce child poverty and says providing fresh fruit and vegetables is crucial to ensure ongoing success.

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Food Safety Update February 2020 - Food safety Aspects Related to High-Risk Horticulture Crops

This edition discusses food safety aspects related to fresh berryfruit, melons and leafy vegetables. 

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - Jan/Feb 2020

Fruit and Vegetable Consumption and Mental Health

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MPI Announcement - Successful end to fruit fly operation in Auckland

Biosecurity New Zealand has ended its Northcote fruit fly operations and lifted restrictions on the movement of fruit and vegetables on Auckland's North Shore.

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Trend Report 2020: Eat your Way to a Healthy Planet

Between the Australian bushfires, Greta Thunberg and the rise of the conscious millennial consumer, 2020 is set to be a year in which the health of the planet becomes as important as the health of ourselves and our families.

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Workshop - Food Safety & Risk Factors in the New Zealand Fresh Produce Market - 12th March 2020

United Fresh is pleased to present this valuable workshop for members in partnership with the New Zealand Food Safety Science and Research Centre.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - December 2019

Challenges and interventions to increase fruit and vegetable consumption

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Food Safety Update December 2019 - Emerging Food Risks due to Climate Change

Climate Change increasingly affects food production. The changes to temperatures and rainfall patterns from climate change are being predicted to lead to a 2-6% decline crop yields every decade, as droughts, fires, floods, shifting seasons, and increased insect populations impact on our ability to grow crops.

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Science and the Plastics Problem Documentary

The New Zealand Science and Research Centre have recently launched the ‘Science and the Plastics Problem’ documentary.

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Industrial Gases

Currently, United Fresh is working on two aspects of industrial gases and proposed new regulations that will impact the fresh produce industry: refrigerant gases and the fumigant Methyl Bromide.

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Biosecurity Update - December 2019

There are no event related updates at this point in time. At the time of writing, the Northcote Fruit Fly Exclusion Zone remains in place. 

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - November 2019

Childhood Obesity

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United Fresh Signs Biosecurity Business Pledge

United Fresh was one of 50 New Zealand companies to sign up today at the launch event of the first-of-its-kind Biosecurity Business Pledge to protect New Zealand from pests and diseases.

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United Fresh Food Safety Newsletter - October 2019

In this issue we are looking at three articles on climate change and its potential impact on foodborne illness, production and business management.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - October 2019

Recent news on the special supplemental nutrition programme for women, infants and children (WIC)

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United Fresh Members' Meeting Presentations

Our Members' Meeting last month was the largest yet and the presentations are now available in the members’ only section of our website.

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Sustainable Farming Fund (SFF) Traceability Project - Milestone 5 Update

Our SFF Traceability project is looking to assist members and the entire value-chain by providing some understanding on how internal Traceability systems can be improved and external Traceability systems can become more robust and streamlined.

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Fresh Produce Safety Centre Seeking Director Nominations

FPSC Ltd is seeking nominations to fill two Board vacancies, one from New Zealand (effective from 27 November 2019).

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Women & Leadership New Zealand (WLNZ) - Scholarship Support

Scholarship Support for Senior, Mid and Early Career Managers in the Farming and Agriculture Sector.

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Latest Consumer Habits Revealed For Fruit & Vegetables

New research shows breakfast could provide the greatest opportunity for our fresh produce industry to convince more Kiwis to consume fruit and vegetables. 

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - September 2019

General Practitioners and Health Promotion

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United Fresh Food Safety Update, September 2019

Welcome to the first edition of our Technical Advisory Group's Food Safety Updates. This update covers the release of MPI's Draft Food Safety Strategy.

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Biosecurity NZ: Fruit fly response in Auckland about to step up again

As we are nearing the end of winter, Biosecurity New Zealand’s fruit fly response in the Northcote area is about to step up again, with the focus on maintaining controls and resuming baiting and more intensive trapping.

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Save The Planet - Eat Your 5+ A Day

With the spotlight on climate change growing hotter by the day, we’re all starting to think about the small things we can do as individuals to save the planet we inhabit.

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Free Fruit & Vegetables In Schools Receives Top Marks From NZ Parents

Kiwi parents and school principals overwhelmingly back the Fruit & Vegetables in Schools (FIS) initiative and new research shows there’s a strong desire for the Government-funded scheme to be expanded.

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Update from MPI on Import Health Standards for fresh fruit and vegetables

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has completed an administrative review of Import Health Standards (IHSs) for fresh fruit and vegetables for human consumption.

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Fruit Fly Update from MPI – No let-up in Biosecurity Response

"It is that continued vigilance that led to the discovery of another single male fruit fly on 15 July in a trap in the current controlled area, 350 metres from where the last was found on 31 May," says Biosecurity New Zealand spokesperson Dr Catherine Duthie.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - July/August 2019

When French Young General Practitioners Commit to Healthy Eating

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FPSC A-NZ 2019 Conference

United Fresh Technical Advisory Group Representative Anne-Marie Arts will be presenting an update on the Sustainable Farming Fund Traceability Project.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - June 2019

The Key Role of General Practitioners in Health Promotion

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Government extends Fruit & Vegetables in Schools Initiative

The Ministry of Health has confirmed the extension of the United Fresh-managed Fruit & Vegetables in Schools initiative now providing over 120,000 servings of fresh fruit and vegetables each school day nationwide.

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Fruit Fly update from MPI, Another Male Fruit Fly Found

Despite the large on the ground efforts, another male fruit fly was found last week in one of the network of fruit fly traps.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - May 2019

Tackling Childhood Obesity, How to Make Childhood Lifestyle Healthier?

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Fruit Fly Update - 28 April 2019

Biosecurity New Zealand has reintroduced controls on the movement of fruit and vegetables in the Auckland suburb of Northcote following the detection of a further Queensland fruit fly.https://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/news-and-resources/media-releases/fruit-fly-in-auckland-situation-update-26-april-2019/?utm_source=notification-emailhttps://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/news-and-resources/media-releases/fruit-fly-in-auckland-situation-update-26-april-2019/?utm_source=notification-email

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - April 2019

Need for food system change to modify consumption

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Diversity in Horticulture

United Fresh is providing funding for the new Women in Horticulture group...

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - March 2019

Cruciferous Vegetables Intake & Health Benefits

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Ministry for Primary Industries Notification Fruit Fly update from MPI Friday 22nd March 2019

Controls on the movement of fruit and vegetables in Devonport and Ōtara have been lifted. The restrictions in place on the movement of fruit and vegetables and the current baiting programme in Controlled Zones in the North Shore suburb of Northcote remain in place.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - February 2019

Diet quality and bone health

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TREND REPORT 2019: The Year of the Rise of Fresh Produce - Part 2

Welcome to Part Two of our United Fresh Trend Report including cannabis and beauty benefits! Global indications show fresh fruit and vegetables at the top of every trend list.

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Biosecurity New Zealand Notification: Two further male Queensland fruit fly have been found in Northcote, bringing the total to 6

One of the new finds is inside the current Zone A and the other is in Zone B.

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MPI Notification: A fourth male Queensland fruit fly has been found in Northcote and another Facialis fruit fly has been found in Ōtara

A fourth male Queensland fruit fly has been found in Northcote and another Facialis fruit fly has been found in Ōtara.

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Biosecurity New Zealand Notification: Third Queensland fruit fly found in Northcote, Auckland

Further biosecurity restrictions on the movement of fruit and vegetables in the Auckland suburb of Northcote are being put in place, following the find of a third Queensland fruit fly in the area.

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Biosecurity New Zealand Notification Fruit Fly – Situation Update 25 February 2019

A second Queensland fruit fly has been found in a surveillance trap in the Auckland suburb of Northcote. The detection was in what is known as Zone A in Northcote and was 113 metres from the original detection there.

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Biosecurity NZ Notification: Otara Update, Second Fruit Fly Found - 22/2/19

A second Facialis fruit fly has been found in a surveillance trap in the Auckland suburb of Ōtara, just 70 metres from the first detection earlier in the week.

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Fruit Fly Industry Meeting 26/2/19 - MPI to Provide Clarity

Ministry for Primary Industries will be presenting on the three recent fruit fly findings and will be providing clarity to industry on the protocols required when transporting fresh fruit and vegetables in and through the Controlled Areas.

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Biosecurity New Zealand Notification: Queensland fruit fly detected in new area on Auckland's North Shore 21/2/19

Surveillance activity in Auckland will be stepped up following the discovery of a second Queensland fruit fly on the North Shore.

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Biosecurity New Zealand Notification: New species of fruit fly found in Otara, Auckland Under Investigation 19/2/2019

A second type of fruit fly, (Bactrocera facialis - the "facialis fruit fly") has been found in a surveillance trap in the Auckland suburb of Otara.

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TREND REPORT 2019: The Year of the Rise of Fresh Produce - Part 1

Whether you’re growing it, selling it or just eating it, fresh produce in New Zealand is a core staple in every household. With great growing conditions and an innovative, versatile industry, we’re lucky to have access to some of the tastiest fruit and vegetables on the planet.

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MPI Notification: Auckland fruit fly find under investigation 15/2/19

Biosecurity New Zealand is investigating a find of a single male Queensland fruit fly in a surveillance trap in the Auckland suburb of Devonport.

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New 5+ A Day Television Advertising Schedule February and March 2019

We are excited to let our members and supporters know that our advertising begins for the New Year this Sunday on Television One and Two encouraging all Kiwis to eat more fresh fruit and vegetables.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - January 2019

Food Nutrition Quality and Environmental Impact

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - December 2018

The 8th EGEA Conference - Nutrition and Health: from Science to Practice

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Listeria Information Update - November 2018

Following our attendance at the PMA-ANZ Fresh Produce Safety Conference we have produced a document to share the new findings on Listeria. 

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Sustainable Farming Fund - Literature Review - PowerPoint

We have created a PowerPoint presentation to simplify the findings of the Literature Review and to enable organisations to share this with their team.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - November 2018

Cardio Vascular Health, Fruit and Segetable Consumption & The Power of EU Policy to Promote Both

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Biosecurity 2025 Implementation Plan Launched Today 13/11/18

United Fresh was pleased to be part of the Biosecurity New Zealand Forum in Auckland today where the  Biosecurity 2025 Implementation Plan was launched by the Biosecurity 2025 Steering Group.

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United Fresh seeks Growers’ help for Traceability Survey

As you are aware, United Fresh was awarded a Sustainable Farming Fund project in June 2018, which is entitled “Effective Fresh Produce Traceability Systems” (Project 405482).

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - October 2018

Recent News on the WIC Prgramme

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News from Horticulture New Zealand: Country of Origin Labelling a step closer to law

Horticulture New Zealand is thrilled that mandatory Country of Origin labelling for fruit and vegetables got a step closer today, with the second reading of the Consumers’ Right to Know (Country of Origin of Food) Bill passing in Parliament.

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Major Fresh Produce Traceability Project Underway in New Zealand

In light of the recent shocking Australian strawberry tampering event, the New Zealand produce industry is taking every action possible to reassure customers their safety systems are robust.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - September 2018

Fight Against Obesity

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Sweet Success: Fruit & Vegetables in Schools Providing Positive Impact

New research into the impact of Fruit & Vegetables in Schools (FIS) has found it is the widest-reaching health initiative for low decile schools in New Zealand, vastly improving health and education outcomes for students.

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New Zealand’s Food Story: The Pukekohe Hub - 15 August 2018

Our United Fresh President Jerry Prendergast and General Manager Paula Dudley attended the Horticulture New Zealand launch of a Deloitte report New Zealand’s Food Story – The Pukekohe Hub.

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Crate & Carton Weights - A Common Sense Based Opinion

In order for fruit and vegetables to reach New Zealand shoppers in an acceptable quality and food safety related condition, a number of things need to occur.

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Update Complying with weights and measures August 2018

Our guidelines for complying with weights and measures for the fresh produce value chain has been updated.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - July/August 2018

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United Fresh secures Sustainable Farming Fund for Traceability Project

We are pleased to announce work has begun on a three-year project to investigate traceability within the industry. 

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - June 2018

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - May 2018

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Professional Development - Fresh Produce Recall Workshop - Friday 1st June - Waipuna Hotel & Conference Centre Auckland

 

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - April 2018

Fruit and vegetables to prevent allergy and asthma

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Weights and Measures - Tag Update April 2018

Like consumer goods, fresh produce is subject to Government regulations in the area of weights and measures.

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Biosecurity - TAG Update April 2018

TAG has been working on three activities within the Biosecurity field; The fruit Fly Council, the Government Industry Agreement (GIA) process and the National Biosecurity Competency Network (NBCN).

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Applying for PLU Codes - TAG Update April 2018

Applications for PLU Codes are now managed by United Fresh here in New Zealand, if you require a PLU Code please make contact with TAG Chair, Dr Hans Maurer hmaurer@agrichain-centre.com

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MPI Update: Myrtle rust found in new region - Manawatu

Myrtle rust has been detected in Manawatu for the first time, the Ministry for Primary Industries confirmed today. The fungus was found on a young ramarama (Lophomyrtus) in a planted area off Victoria Esplanade in Palmerston North.

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Investment Opportunities in the New Zealand Cherry Industry March 2018

The Hon David Parker (Minister of Economic Development) has released the Cherry Industry report, as part of three reports released as part of the Food & Beverage Information Project.    

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - March 2018

Fruit and Vegetable Availability at Home

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NSW Food Authority: Listeriosis outbreak linked to rockmelon

The NSW Food Authority is advising consumers who are most vulnerable to Listeria infection such as older persons, and people who have weakened immune systems due to illness or pregnancy, to avoid eating rockmelon after a recent spike in listeriosis cases in elderly people has been linked to the fruit.

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NSW, Australia Listeria Outbreak Update

An outbreak of listeriosis has taken place in New South Wales with an unexpected increase in cases in January and February.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - February 2018

Influence of fruit and vegetable school intervention on children's consumption

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DataBar's move into the Produce Industry

Consumers, retailers, wholesalers, packhouses and growers alike are all familiar with fruit label- the tiny stickers commonly found on oranges, apples, kiwifruit, avocadoes and a myriad of other produce.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - January 2018

Consume fruit and vegetables for your mental health

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - December 2017

Healthy Diet & Cardiovascular disease

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - November 2017

Nutrition and Eye Health

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5+ A Day & Potatoes NZ Partnership

Look out for our television advertising which started on November 1st on TVNZ with our 5+ A Day messages and vision to have all New Zealanders eating more fresh fruit and vegetables every day.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - October 2017

Healthy Diet and Pregnancy

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T&G Global Scoop Ultimate Accolade at Food Awards

The New Zealand Food Awards, in association with Massey University, were held last week and fresh produce shined through.

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Join us on LinkedIn!

United Fresh has launched on LinkedIn, join with members and industry leaders for updates and professional connections

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Welcome to our new members - October 2017

We are pleased to announce three new members: Karaka Park Produce Ltd, Viscount FCC & R C Hari & Sons Ltd

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5+ A Day on TVNZ

The 5+ A Day's television commercial had great pick up in the winter months and will be back on TVNZ during November

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Meet the Executive - Robin Oakley, Grower Representative, Oakley's Premium Fresh Vegetables Ltd.

To see Robin's answers to our Q&A, click below.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - September 2017

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5+ A Day Concerned for Public Wellbeing After Confusing Media Reporting

Recent media reports suggesting consumers require less than five portions of fruit and vegetables each day are misleading, creating confusion with consumers and are not in the interest of public wellbeing says the organisation 5+ A Day.

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United Fresh Puts Bigger Serving Portions on the Table with Latest Nutrition Panel Release

United Fresh has just completed an update of its nutrition information panels (NIPs) for the entire fresh fruit and vegetable sector

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5+ A Day, New Research Proves Kiwis Amongst the Highest Consumers of Fruit and Vegetables Globally

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Technical Advisory Group Update - August 2017

United Fresh Technical Advisory Group members have attended several conferences as reported in this update.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - July/August 2017

Social approaches to promote fruit and vegetable consumption

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United Fresh & the 5+ A Day Charitable Trust Presentations at the Hort NZ Conference

If you are attending the Horticulture New Zealand Conference in Tauranga this week be sure to catch Dr Hans Maurer our United Fresh Knowledge Officer

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MPI Update: Myrtle Rust (MR) Stakeholder Update – 10 July 2017 5:00pm

For the latest update on Myrtle Rust visit here:

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MPI Update: Myrtle Rust (MR) Stakeholder Update – 26 June 2017 5:00pm

For the latest update on Myrtle Rust visit here:

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PREVIEW - New 5+ A Day Television Commercials – Airing from 25th June

They feature our 5+ A Day Ambassadors and everyday Kiwis embracing inclusivity and the fact that eating more fresh fruit and vegetables is a simple action everyone can take to improve their own health.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - June 2017

Food Preferences

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Technical Advisory Group - Update June 2017

As you can see from the banner, our name has changed. We are no longer the Food Safety and Traceability Committee, but the Technical Advisory Group (TAG).

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Meet Your Executive - Anthony Blundell, Vice President

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Register Now – United Fresh AGM & Members' Meeting

Thursday 22nd June 2017 at 3.30pm
Followed by Refreshments & Networking 4:30pm to 7pm

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Synthetic Refrigerant HFC Phase Down is coming – plan now or pay the costs.

If you are making decisions around refrigeration assets you need to know significant change is happening

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - May 2017

The updated healthy nutirion programme for Women, Infants and Children (US) - WIC

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Register Now – United Fresh AGM & Members' Meeting Thursday 22nd June at 3.30pm Auckland

Join the United Fresh Executive and Members for our AGM and Members’ Meeting followed by refreshments, at Mantells on the Water in Auckland.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - April 2017

Barriers to Fruit and Vegetable Consumption

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - March 2017

Fruit and vegetables: still surprising!

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URGENT LeaderBrand salad product recall announcement

On Thursday the 9th of March at 11am, LeaderBrand Produce Ltd. was advised that one of its salad product lines tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes bacteria or ‘Listeria’ as it is more commonly known.

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Save the Date – United Fresh Member’s Meeting – Thursday 22nd June 2017 at 3.30pm

Our member’s meeting will include updates from our President, Food Safety & Traceability Committee, the 5+ A Day Charitable Trust and other relevant industry projects that are currently underway.

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New Nutrition Information Panels for Fresh Fruit and Vegetables

United Fresh in partnership with The New Zealand Institute of Plant & Food Research are currently updating all fresh fruit and vegetable Nutrition Information Panels (NIPs)

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Reminder: New Food Safety Law and Templates for Businesses to Manage Food Safety

The Food Act is a new law for Food Safety, which came into effect on 1st March 2016.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - February 2017

Perfect timing for a national fruit and vegetable nutrition policy

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Fruit in Schools reaches record numbers for 2017

More than 104,000 students are benefitting from the successful Fruit in Schools initiative as a new term kicks off in 2017. 

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IFPS Launches Mobile App for PLU Codes

Auckland, New Zealand – With over 1,400 price look-up codes (PLUs) now in use around the globe, the International Federation for Produce Standards (IFPS) has launched a user-friendly app

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New Workplace Research – Workers & Employers Benefit from 5+ A Day!

Media Release – Fresh fruit and vegetables add to workplace wellness

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - January 2017

Diet quality in the early years

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - December 2016

Food Labeling

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Minister of Health Media Release: Fruit in Schools reaches record number of kids

Health Minister Jonathan Coleman says this year's expansion of the successful Fruit in Schools initiative to a record 547 schools has had a positive impact.

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United Fresh Biosecurity Activity Update – November 2016

The Biosecurity space is getting busy!

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - October 2016

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Reminder: There's Still Time to Register!

United Fresh Fruit Fly Emergency Response Workshop

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Heart Foundation Announces Tick Retirement

United Fresh management met with the Heart Foundations’ Tick management team last week and were advised that the Tick will be retired to make way for the Governments 5-Star rating.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - October 2016

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United Fresh Fruit Fly Emergency Response Workshop

During the last 12 months United Fresh has worked with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) on developing a document template suitable for all wholesale markets, retail produce distribution centres and produce merchants receiving fruit and vegetables into their premises for redistribution to retail outlets, branches, members or directly to the consumer.

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New President Marks Quarter-Century Milestone for United Fresh New Zealand

Leadership and collaboration are vital to keep New Zealand’s horticulture industry blooming, says the new president of the country’s only pan-produce organisation.  

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United Fresh Food Safety & Traceability Update - September 2016

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - September 2016

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programme in USA & Healthy Eating

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A Note from Hastings District Council for Local Businesses

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Important Notice for Horticulture businesses (growers, packhouses, distributors) from the Ministry for Primary Industries

Health officials in Havelock North have issued a boil water notice for Council water supply.

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What do babies, boobs and broccoli have in common?

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United Fresh Food Safety & Traceability Update - July 2016

In May 2016 the United Fresh Food Safety & Traceability Committee submitted a “Strategic Assessment in the New Zealand Domestic Fresh Produce Industry”

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Health Minister, Jonathan Coleman says "More kids benefiting from Fruit in Schools"

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - July/August 2016

Eating healthier in US restaurants.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - June 2016

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MPI invites United Fresh members to Food Act Event at Fieldays Wednesday 15th June

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United Fresh AGM Tops Off Record Year & Celebrates 25 Years of Service

Our United Fresh AGM & Members meeting held in Auckland on Thursday 12th May 2016 was well received by around 80 of our members who attended the event.

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5+ A Day announces Julia & Libby as new brand ambassadors

The 5+ A Day Charitable Trust is pleased to announce a new brand ambassador partnership with health and wellbeing bloggers, Julia & Libby.

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New Research: 5+ A Day most used resource across New Zealand

New research by the University of Auckland has found that the 5+ A Day resource is the most used across New Zealand’s early childhood education centres.

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5+ A Day helps fuel Football Ferns on the road to the world stage

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United Fresh AGM & Members Meeting 2016

Our United Fresh AGM & Members meeting held in Auckland on Thursday 12th May 2016 was well received by around 80 of our members

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - May 2016

Health Benefits of Fruit and Vegetable Consumption

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Where fresh fruit and vegetables stand with the Health Star Rating System

Following our engagement with the Health Star Rating (HSR) development team when the system launched, we have had further communications

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Branding Approval Centre – LIVE

Approval of using the 5+ A Day and Tick logos has been streamlined with our new Branding Approval Centre.

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Final Call for Registrations - AGM and Members Meeting

If you haven’t registered for the United Fresh AGM and Members Meeting please do so here.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - April 2016

Food Taxes & Subsidies

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United Fresh Members Meeting and AGM - Diary Note - Thursday 12th May at 3:30pm

Please join us for our United Fresh Members Meeting and AGM.

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Get off the farm and on your bike

Try your hand at cycling, running or walking this month.

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Check out how United Fresh is working for you

This report is a snapshot of some highlights for our organisation and our members as we work through 2016

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - March 2016

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The fruit & Veg Newsletter - WIC, The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (US)

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MPI Media Release - No further Tau flies found and restrictions now lifted

MPI Surveillance Manager Brendan Gould says two weeks of trapping, fruit sampling and testing have passed and no further Tau flies have been found.

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New Food Act Takes Effect Next Month – Are you ready?

New Food Act and Guidelines for Fresh Produce Food Safety

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MPI Update - Tau Fly Detection 2016 - Monday 1 February 2016

No further Tau Flies have been detected. The total remains as 1 male Tau Fly detected.

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MPI Update - Tau Fly Detection 2016 - Monday 25 January 2016

No further Tau Flies have been detected. The total remains as 1 male Tau Fly detected.

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MPI Notification of a Tau Fly Detection - Manurewa, South Auckland

MPI will be establishing a Controlled Area this afternoon in Manurewa, South Auckland as a result of a single Tau fly detection.

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School food options to increase vegetable consumption

School food options to increase vegetable consumption.

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$1.2m extra to expand Fruit & Vegetables in Schools

Health Minister Jonathan Coleman says the Fruit in Schools programme will be expanded to include an extra 77 schools, benefiting an additional 13,000 students.

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MPI Update - Strain in fifth Hepatitis A case confirmed - 14 December 2015

Results from testing have now confirmed that the fifth person, who recently contracted Hepatitis A, as reported last week, has the same strain of the virus as the other four people who fell sick with Hepatitis in late October and early November this year.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - Bioactive components in F&V

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New development in MPI’s berry investigation - 9 December 2015

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MPI Announces Auckland Fruit Fly 2015 Response Closure

With your support, the Queensland fruit fly is no longer residing in Auckland.

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Queensland Fruit Fly December Update

General Situation remains unchanged since the November update.

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Ministry for Primary Industries Increase Surveillance of Imported Frozen Berry Products

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has released a media statement today regarding imported frozen berries and four reported cases of Hepatitis A.

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United Fresh Food Safety & Traceability Update

October and November have been busy for the United Fresh Food Safety & Traceability Committee.

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Are you ready to #GETITIN with 5+ A Day?

The 5+ A Day Charitable Trust is about to raise consumption and the roof with its all new adult 5+ A Day Challenge this coming February.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - Healthy Eating

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Taste of Auckland

It was great to see our members showcasing their fresh produce at last weekend’s Taste of Auckland event at Western Springs.

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Last chance to register Biosecurity, Food Safety & Traceability Workshop – Tues 17th November

If you haven’t already registered for next Tuesday members’ workshop (being held in partnership with MPI) you will need to do so today

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Strategic Review Meeting

The United Fresh Executive, along with invited guests recently took part in a Strategic Review meeting.

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Queensland Fruit Fly November Update

General Situation remains unchanged since the October update. No additional fruit flies have been detected since the last report.

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Register for our United Fresh Biosecurity, Food Safety & Traceability Workshop – 17/11/2015

We are pleased to present our Biosecurity, Food Safety & Traceability and Food Law Workshop in partnership with the Ministry for Primary Industries.

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The Global Fruit & Veg Newsletter - Food regulation and F&V promotion in Brazil - October 2015

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Biosecurity, Food Safety & Traceability Workshop

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Yersinia Pseudotuberculosis - Reviewing the Impact

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MPI Launches Online Tool for Food Businesses

Food Safety Minister Jo Goodhew launched an online tool today that will help food businesses discover how they will be affected by the new Food Act 2014, which comes into force in March next year.

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Plant & Food Research joins United Fresh New Zealand Incorporated

One of New Zealand’s largest scientific research organisations, Plant & Food Research, has joined United Fresh. UF General Manager, Paula Dudley, says the organisation is looking forward to continuing its work with the highly regarded scientific institute.

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Lesser Known Fruit and Vegetable Benefits

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Strawberry Traceability Pilot 2016

This project focuses on the external traceability challenges arising in the domestic fresh market strawberry supply chain, as the fruit passes from grower to retailer. United Fresh is working with GS1 New Zealand in this pilot project.

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Teenage Chefs Highlight 5+ A Day in Culinary Challenge 2015

The 5+ A Day Charitable Trust were proud sponsors of the National Secondary Schools Culinary Challenge (NSSCC) this year and congratulate Burnside High School for taking out the grand prize and scholarship.

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Food Law Update

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Food Safety, Food Security & Your Business Planning

United Fresh partnered with Horticulture New Zealand to present a 90 minute breakout session on Food Safety, Food Security and Your Business Planning at the HortNZ 2015 Conference this year.

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The EGEA 2015 Statement

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Fresh Produce Safety Conference, Sydney August 2015

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International Organisations Form New Global Network

The International Fruit and Vegetable Alliance (IFAVA) and the International Alliance of Associations and Movements 5 a day (AIAM5), have announced they are joining forces to form the new Global Network for the Promotion of Fruit and Vegetable Consumption.

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Re-assignment of Price Look-up Codes

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United Fresh Members Move Swiftly to Withdraw Mexican Grapes from Sale

The precautionary measure of withdrawing Mexican grapes from sale has been taken by many retail outlets due to the discovery of Black Widow spiders among the shipment.

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How to Keep New Zealand’s Horticulture Industry Blooming

Horticultural production in this country is flourishing with the latest figures showing the sector has topped the $7 billion mark for the first time. The figures were published in the April edition of Fresh Facts and showed in the year ended June 2014, the sector reached $7.16 billion in production, up from $6.7 billion the year before.

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New Research Shows Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Help Kids to Grow and Thrive

New research shows the Fruit In Schools programme, managed by United Fresh, is having a positive impact on children and nutrition. Although named Fruit in Schools, the programme includes fresh New Zealand vegetables as well.

An independent evaluation has found Fruit In Schools is highly valued by principals and is well aligned with international evidence on how to improve nutrition and reduce obesity in children.

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United Fresh Takes the Lead in Food Safety and Traceability

For over two decades United Fresh has worked on behalf of the New Zealand produce industry on Food Safety, Traceability and Industry Standards. To further strengthen this framework and safeguard food safety, we recently established the Food Safety and Traceability Committee.

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