The global produce industry faces an immense challenge – the need to increase food production with fewer resources while also bolstering consumer confidence in the safety of fresh produce.
In the US, the Produce Marketing Association’s (PMA) members have identified emerging technology as a key to meeting these challenges, feeding the world through innovation. That is why PMA has announced that it is growing the science and technology value area of the association’s new strategic plan with three new offerings: two unique events and a series of year-round technology content.
“The bottom line – these new resources are being put to work to help members operate their businesses more effectively, helping drive profitability and global demand for fresh fruits and vegetables,” said Joe Pezzini, COO, Ocean Mist Farms, and chairman, PMA produce safety, science and technology committee.
The two events are 'Tech Talks', a one-day event in March held just outside of Tampa, Florida featuring networking opportunities combined with quick, thought-provoking presentations, and 'Tech Knowledge', a two-day event scheduled 21-22 May in San Diego providing an opportunity to learn about technologies that are on the two- to five-year horizon and capable of changing the industry.
The content series will address areas such as detection technologies, production input management and data science.
“These new services have been developed in response to feedback we’ve received directly from our members,” said Bob Whitaker, PMA chief science and technology officer. “The resources go beyond broad education or simply providing a technology marketplace. Instead, we’re aiming to connect members to detailed information, translate complex issues, and provide industry context to help them identify and apply forward-thinking technologies to their businesses.”
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