Seven innovative produce companies were recognized on Wednesday at the United Fresh Show 2018 being held in Chicago this week.

This year’s honorees were selected by show attendees from a total of 36 contestants across seven categories, including best new fruit product, best new packaging and best new indoor growing technology.

“This year’s Innovation Awards winners won from a field of excellent and qualified competitors,” said John Toner, United Fresh’s vice president of convention & industry collaboration.

“The exceptional creativity of these seven winners helped them stand out at United Fresh 2018, the home of fresh produce innovation.” 

Tom Stenzel, president & CEO, said: “The innovation of our member companies shape the entire produce industry and show attendees have the unique opportunity to see that ingenuity up close at United Fresh.

"Congratulations to this year’s winners and thank you to all participants for showcasing your creativity.”  

The 2018 Produce Innovation Awards Winners:

Best New Food Safety Solution: Natures Natural Solutions LLC, Industrial Size Food Freshness Card

Best New Fruit Product: Apeel Sciences, Apeel

Best New Packaging: Mucci Farms, CuteCumber Poppers

Best New Packing/Processing Equipment: Volm Companies, Inc., Volmpack Pouch Bagger

Best New Vegetable Product: Mastronardi Produce / SUNSET, SUNSET Aloha Peppers

Best New Indoor Growing Technology: IUNU, Luna

Best New Field Technology: Food-Origins, Food Origins Data Collection Platform

www.freshfruitportal.com