Arizona growers and shippers are celebrating the start of harvest season with the 12th Annual Arizona Leafy Greens Month. This event marks the beginning of the winter lettuce season. Arizona is the winter lettuce capital of the U.S., providing fresh, high-quality leafy greens from November to March.
Arizona’s Major Impact on the U.S. Lettuce Supply
Since its first celebration, Arizona farmers have produced over 100 billion servings of lettuce. This averages 9 billion servings each year. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Arizona grows about 25% of the U.S. lettuce supply annually. The leafy greens farming community in Arizona contributes $2 billion to the economy each year.
What’s Growing in Arizona This Season?
Arizona farms are growing and harvesting a wide variety of leafy greens. These include spinach, kale, arugula, spring mix, Swiss chard, and romaine lettuce. These crops will be available throughout the U.S. over the next few months. Teressa Lopez, Administrator of the Arizona LGMA program, explains, “Arizona farms are harvesting a variety of leafy greens. Arizona LGMA food safety audits will start the week of November 18th. These audits will continue regularly through the growing season to ensure the highest standards of safety and quality.”
Celebrating with Outreach and Social Media
This November, the LGMA is partnering with the Yuma Safe Produce Council to celebrate. The two organizations will have a booth at the Yuma Farmer’s Market on Saturday, November 23. Visitors can learn more about Arizona’s leafy greens and meet local farmers.
On social media, Welcome to Arizona will highlight the state’s contributions to the U.S. food supply. Influencers like Jon Dinsmore, a farmer, will share insights on farming practices. Meanwhile, Ramiro Ruiz Jr. (aka Ram628), a harvest machinery mechanic, will offer a behind-the-scenes look at the equipment used in the process. The celebration will also feature contests and giveaways on Instagram and Facebook, giving followers a chance to win exciting prizes.
About Arizona Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement
The LGMA works to protect public health. It promotes and verifies food safety practices on farms. Regular audits are conducted to ensure food safety. The program also provides valuable tools to help the industry improve and maintain high safety standards.
Source: www.arizonaleafygreens.org
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