WASHINGTON, DC - Based on its commitment to driving fresh produce consumption, the Foundation For Fresh Produce (FFP) has received a Gold Plate Award from the FMI Foundation. The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) organization was recognized for its successful efforts in connecting National Family Meals Month™ and National Fruits & Veggies Month (NFVM), which are both celebrated in September.

“Receiving the Gold Plate Award from the FMI Foundation underscores our commitment to supporting increased produce consumption and how collaboration in our industry is key to breaking through to consumers,” said Katie Calligaro, Director of Marketing and Communications for FFP at IFPA. “Making it easy for both the industry, retail dietitians, and, of course, consumers, with unified messaging that incorporates eating more fruits and vegetables at family meals, is a tactic proved to be successful and that we intend to continue not just September, but all year long.”

The FMI accolade recognizes exceptional initiatives created by food retailers, suppliers, and community collaborators to promote more families sharing meals together at home, a release explained. The Have A Plant® at Family Meals initiative was recognized in the Community Collaborator category and magnified the importance of shared meals, which can be amplified by including fruits and vegetables.

Content from the initiative was shared through various parts of the FFP’s digital ecosystem, including on fruitsandveggies.org, social media channels through Facebook live Cook Alongs, in consumer and influencer newsletters, and through Have A Plant^® Ambassador channels, as well as sharing tools in the NFVM 2023 Toolkit.

Family meals play a pivotal role every day, especially during NFVM, which is why each year’s campaign highlights this key intersection. By encouraging shared meals, it helps improve overall fruit and vegetable consumption and fosters a positive environment that deepens relationships and ultimately improves physical health and mental well-being.

“To continue to spread awareness and amplify this message, the produce industry must continue to support these collaborative initiatives,” says Alex Dinovo, President and Chief Operating Officer of DNO Produce and incoming Chair for FFP. “There is vast opportunity for cross-sector promotions integrating the various components of the plate and reinforcing the significance of a balanced diet. When different sectors unite, their collective efforts can reach diverse audiences, promoting the importance of incorporating fruits and vegetables into every meal.”

Congratulations to the Foundation for Fresh Produce on this award!

Foundation for Fresh Produce