TAMPA, FL - This year was my first Southern Exposure. The Southeast Produce Council’s annual show, I was assured, is one of the premier events in our industry, and this year's expo did not disappoint. Southern hospitality abounded and hot new produce items were on hand; here are a few that stood out.

J&J Family of Farms Sunny Sweet™ Peppers

With a unique, super-sweet flavor and small seed cavity, these toothsome, field-grown peppers are a perfectly bite-sized snacking option. The latest proprietary variety from J&J launched this past February and has been offering a steady supply of sunshine to eaters ever since.

Apio, Inc Eat Smart TimeSavors™

These new, ready-to-cook, fresh veggie kits are a perfectly nutritious accompaniment to any entrée—and a great standalone snack to boot. Now, fresh-cut, gourmet-sauced, and subtly-topped side dishes are available in only five minutes. It’s the kind of convenience an on-the-go shopper like myself craves, and with flavors like Cauliflower Gratin and Green Bean Sauté, Apio will have shoppers savoring fresh-focused dishes with ease.

Highline Mushrooms Top Seal Packaging

Mushrooms may not have a ton of history holding down retail displays with attractively-packaged products, but Highline Mushrooms’ new Top Seal packaging is primed to turn heads and raise the bar in produce departments across the globe. And for added convenience, the company’s new packaging is available in a customizable, easy-to-use pusher system—for a streamlined display.

Earthbound Farm Organic Riced Vegetables

Seated at the confluence of two of the biggest trends in retail—organic and value-added—Earthbound Farm’s Organic Riced vegetables have everything a retailer needs to drive sales of everyone’s favorite brassicas. Available in Organic Riced Cauliflower, Organic Riced Cauliflower and Broccoli, and Organic Riced Medley, Earthbound Farm’s new organic packs have everything a healthy eater needs to skip steps and enjoy fresh food faster.

Tanimura & Antle Artisan Dew Drop Cabbage

I’m a fan of greens—from the stately chard to the traditionally humble cabbage. And with its Artisan Dew Drop line, Tanimura & Antle is elevating the latter category with a high-graphic pouch bag and a petite, easy-to-serve cabbages. Whether grill-bound in the spring or to be served in a salad, these crisp little cabbages are an ideal addition to the kitchen and the produce aisle.

If you still haven't had your fill of SEPC's Southern Exposure (maybe you’re pining for some sense memory of that Florida weather), don’t fret. AndNowUKnow will continue to bring you coverage throughout the week.

J&J Family of Farms Apio, Inc. Highline MushroomsEarthbound Farm Tanimura & Antle