WASHINGTON, DC - It’s no secret: foodservice is a booming sector of the produce industry, and as consumer’s obsession with innovative culinary preparations continues to grow, there is no better time to push produce in foodservice.

One way to do that, according to the United Fresh Produce Assocation and partner PRO*ACT, is to honor those creators in foodservice who are showcasing produce best. With the duo’s annual Produce Excellence in Foodservice Awards Program, more than 50 chefs and foodservice operators have been celebrated for their exceptional work in incorporating fresh produce in menu development, proper food safety and handling, engaging in community outreach and building an overall positive dining experience with fresh produce as a centerpiece.

To find out more about this successful program and the 2018 honors, I spoke with PRO*ACT’s Director of Marketing & Brand Development Brian Denton for an exclusive audio interview. To hear it in full, check out the link above, or continue reading for a portion of the interview reel.

“We hear here in our industry that things like the Food Network and Top Chef and all that has also caused people to pine for something more,” Brian tells me when I ask him what has inspired excellent foodservice operators to step their produce games up. “It’s been really good for the industry and its really caused the industry as a whole to have to respond to the need that restaurants are feeling to be creative, not just in how they serve produce, but also how they educate consumers about produce.”

Brian shared that those of us who want to get involved in the program should head to the website and nominate a chef or foodservice operator yourself! Visit United Fresh’s nomination page here, and also be sure to check out some of the winners from years past!

PRO*ACT United Fresh Produce Association