For several years the Center for Innovative Food Technology (CIFT) has partnered with Bon Appetit Management Company in delivering fresh produce to consumers in the off-season. Companies continue to explore methods in which to provide quality food products, support local growers, and enhance operations. By combining resources, CIFT and Bon Appetit have been able to deliver a solution through IQF (Individually Quick Frozen) processing of local crops. Thousands of pounds of produce have been frozen and integrated into menus of institutions in the winter months. Crops such as strawberries, green beans, corn, apples and more, have been processed. Each year this program provides another market for consideration by growers either currently producing the crops or interested in pursuing new items.
This remains to be the case as the following crops are being considered:
Peas
Green Beans
Brussels Sprouts
Raspberries
Strawberries
Sweet Corn
Edamame
If you would like to learn more about the program and how to pursue this market channel, please contact Paula Ray, small business coordinator, CIFT, at 419-535-6000, ext. 117 or pray@ciftinnovation.org.
Source: Ohio Produce Growers & Marketers Association
