Freshfel Europe is asking the EU fresh produce community to support the UN General Assembly’s mission to designate 2021 as the “International Year of Fruits and Vegetables.”
It says this push by the worldwide body offers a unique opportunity to boost consumption and raise awareness on the part the sector in working to achieve high health and sustainability. Freshfel notes that the EU is currently below the World Health Organization’s daily recommended of 400g per day of fresh produce.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has brought health to the forefront of consumers’ minds and we are encouraging all our members to take action during 2021 to highlight the importance of fruits and vegetables as part of a healthy, nutritious, sustainable and delicious diet,” says Philippe Binard, Freshfel Europe General Delegate.
Cherries for Christmas: IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), says it has transported record numbers of Argentinean and Chilean cherries this year that includes special charters from Santiago, Chile, to Heathrow. More than 7 million cherries were shipped to London last week, according to officials.
IAG has transported more than 1,000 tonnes of cherries from Latin America to Spain, the UK and China, compared with 236 tonnes in 2019. And Chile’s 2020/21 cherry crop is expected to increase by 12.1% to 286,000 tonnes. Argentina’s cherry industry also has been growing.
IAG Cargo operates regular services out of Latin America but since the pandemic also offers cargo-only and charter flights, operating reconfigured aircraft to maximise cargo capacity for its customers.
“When it comes to perishables time is critical,” says Rodrigo Casal, Regional Commercial Manager for Latin America at IAG Cargo. “Our specialised advanced cool chain solution, designed exclusively for the transportation of perishable goods, maximises product shelf life, minimises waste, and preserves quality and integrity until it reaches the supermarket and the consumer.”
Nisa gets into season of giving: Nisa’s retailers have backed hundreds of charities and good causes with more than £150,000 during England’s second lockdown period.
Between 5th November and 2nd December, Nisa said its Making a Difference efforts have collected £164,770 for 329 total donations at 212 stores.
Some of the donations have gone to foodbanks, wellbeing charities and even to causes that help promote and serve up healthy and nutritious food.
Nisa says about 20% of donations were made to support learning facilities such as schools and playgroups.
“We’ve seen countless examples of Nisa partners going above and beyond for their local communities this year and demonstrating the value independent retailers provide to the local area,” Kate Carroll, Nisa’s Head of Charity said. “November was one of our biggest ever months for partner donations and we expect the additional support offered by Nisa retailers to their communities to continue throughout the festive period and beyond.”
