Here’s a few of the many that made my picks for the 91st CPMA Produce Expo:

Naturipe’s One-Pound Top Seal

When it comes to helping push berry consumption, Naturipe has been one of the lead proponents in pushing the retail one-pint standard to a one-pound one instead. This snazzy Top Seal incorporates that push into the packaging trend gripping produce, and I’m loving it.

Village Farms’ Love Handle Grab n’ Go Bags

Speaking of love, how can you not love a packaging series called Love Handles? Anyone who has followed my picks in the past have seen I’m a sucker for on-the-go convenience, and Village Farms answers that call with this series that showcases its exclusive products, provides ease for the consumer, and could make an aesthetic contribution to the produce department.

Litehouse Food’s Pourable OPA

A moment of disclosure: I can’t have gluten. While this would usually mean that the produce industry is a great niche for me, creamy dressings are usually a halting point. Not with the OPA by Litehouse™ Greek Yogurt line, which added new flavors that are on-trend with today’s demands. Personally, I’d go with the Tzatziki Ranch, but I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t a hard choice.

The Little Potato Company’s Microwave and Oven Ready Kits

Not only are these, again, incredibly convenient, but they were an offering that stood out on the floor because the packaging itself has a clean, crisp feeling that takes preparable foods to the next level.

Twist-Ease’s Click-N-Go Twist Tie Dispenser

If I were to choose an item that took me by surprise, this would be it. Something used every day but not appreciated- what produce department doesn’t have twist-ties?

So innovations in this department is something that struck me. Twist-Ease’s new Click-N-Go boasts the ability for retailers to mitigate/eliminate twist tie spills and cut down on cleanup costs, making for a much better experience on both the consumer and business side.

My first CPMA was Calgary's last, and it was a great one. I’m looking forward to seeing you all in Toronto next year!

CPMA Naturipe Farms Village Farms Litehouse Foods Little Potato Company Twist-Ease