Commissioner Putnam Celebrates Florida vs. Florida State Rivalry in “Fresh From Florida Sunshine Showdown”

Randall Weiseman Ag "Outdoors", Florida, Fruits, General, Industry News Release, Specialty Crops, Vegetables

From the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services:

fresh-from-floridaTALLAHASSEE, Fla.–Two of Florida’s biggest rivals, the Florida State Seminoles and the Florida Gators, are competing on and off the field to highlight Florida’s farmers, ranchers and fishermen. Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam today announced that the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is the official sponsor of the “Fresh From Florida Sunshine Showdown,” which will promote Florida’s abundance of fresh produce and seafood in 13 head-to-head match-ups over 10 sports between the two schools.

“The ‘Fresh From Florida Sunshine Showdown’ represents one of college football’s most storied and passionate rivalries,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam. “Whether you root for the Seminoles or the Gators, I hope you’ll support Florida’s hometown farmers, ranchers and fishermen.”

The department will provide fans with the opportunity to learn about Florida’s $100 billion industry, try “Fresh From Florida” recipes, participate in educational games and more at rivalry games throughout the year between the University of Florida and Florida State University. The “Sunshine Showdown” calendar coincides with the seasonality of “Fresh From Florida” products to ensure access to the freshest ingredients possible.

As part of the initial launch, fans can visit SunShineShowdown.com to register for a chance to win a trip to their team’s bowl game and 2017 season football tickets in the “Fresh From Florida Sunshine Showdown Sweepstakes.” Fans can also represent their team by submitting pictures to the “hashtag battle” and using #UFroots or #FSUroots to track team support. The “Fresh From Florida Sunshine Showdown” taps into one of the most historic rivalries in college sports to not only provide nutritional education to the expansive fan base of these two teams, but to also encourage friendly competition.

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ “Fresh From Florida” program collaborates with Florida farmers to promote Florida’s abundance of fresh seafood and locally-grown produce. The program raises awareness for Florida’s more than 300 commodities and $100 billion impact on the economy.

To find out what Florida crops are in season, browse for more recipes or learn about the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, visit FreshFromFlorida.com.