PMA works with National Restaurant Association, Culinary Institute of America to get more produce on the plate

PMA is providing $25,000 support for the NRA's Nutrition Study Group. The group is comprised of foodservice operators, corporate nutritionists, and other executives who will work on issues including nutrition, labeling, and ways to encourage healthy dining decisions.

"We're pleased to be associated with the Produce Marketing Association. In addition to the nutritional value of fresh produce, it also adds taste, color, and texture to the meals our members' patrons demand," remarked Donna Garren, NRA's vice president of health and safety regulatory affairs.

"It is precisely because of this spectrum of value nutrition, taste, color, texture that fresh produce brings to the menu that makes our work together a perfect fit," said PMA foodservice boardmember, Mark Erickson of the CIA.

PMA is a sponsor of the CIA's Flavor, Quality & American Menus event, a hands-on program for chefs to learn new ways of offering fresh produce. Some of the nation's most influential chefs and foodservice industry leaders who plan to attend represent chain restaurants, multi-unit establishments, and high volume operations including hotels, resorts, and large universities.

Additionally, PMA demonstrates its commitment to the industry's future through the Nucci Scholarship for Culinary Innovation. The scholarship program enables seven top CIA students and two faculty members to participate in PMA's 25th Foodservice Conference & Exposition to be held July 14 -16, 2006, in Monterey, California. During the conference, students will meet leaders of the fresh produce industry and will learn from top chefs who will be demonstrating their work with fresh produce. Additionally, several students will assist in chef demos during the conference. NRA senior vice president of research, Hudson Riehle, will be a featured speaker at the conference, billed as "the only event dedicated to fresh produce in foodservice."

"PMA's mission is to get more fresh fruits and vegetables on everyone's plate," said PMA president, Bryan Silbermann. He added, "We are looking forward to working with these respected organizations."

Founded in 1949, the Produce Marketing Association is the leading trade association serving more than 2,100 companies representing all segments of the global produce and floral supply chains. Members rely on PMA year round for the business solutions they need to increase sales and consumption, build strong professional relations, and expand their business opportunities.


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