Florida Commissioner’s Spotlight: FRESH! Recipe-Watermelon Fizz

Dan FL Commissioner Report, Florida, Fruits

On this week’s Commissioner’s Spotlight, Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam is joined by Executive Chef Justin Timineri to talk about a sparkling new drink featuring a summertime favorite – Watermelon Fizz. You can follow Florida Commissioner Adam Putnam on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Discover more by visiting FreshFromFlorida.com. Sponsored ContentCIR Agriculture Harvester ProductsNovember 8, 2025Florida Cattle Enhancement Board Plays …

Research on Pests and Beneficial Species Funding from USDA

Dan Field Crops, Forestry, Fruits, Industry News Release, Nursery Crops, Specialty Crops, Vegetables

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) announced 21 grants totaling $7.6 million for research to help manage pests and beneficial species that affect agricultural crops. The funding is made possible through NIFA’s Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) program, authorized by the 2014 Farm Bill. “There continues to be a critical need to …

UF/IFAS’ Crane Honored by Horticultural Society

Dan Education, Florida, Fruits, Industry News Release, Specialty Crops

by Brad Buck, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences As a scientist and tropical fruit Extension specialist, Jonathan Crane has spent most of his adult life trying to help South Florida farmers grow crops in the Sunshine State’s hot, humid weather. In recognition of Crane’s work, the Florida State Horticultural Society has honored the University of Florida Institute …

Southern Region Noncitrus Fruit and Nut

Dan Fruits, Industry News Release, Specialty Crops

Key findings for the Southern Region: Avocados: Florida’s utilized production is down 13 percent from 2015 and the associated value of production is down 7 percent. The Laurel Wilt disease continues to have a negative impact on Florida avocado groves. Blueberries: The value of utilized production for the United States is down 13 percent for 2016. Georgia’s utilized production is …

Achieving ‘Bliss’: Children, Adults Differ in How They Perceive Sweetness of Fruits

Dan Education, Fruits, Research

by Brad Buck, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Most children want their food to taste sweet. So, do you want your child to eat a candy bar or fruit when they have a snack? A team of researchers from the University of Florida and the Monell Chemical Senses Center in Pennsylvania found children and adults differ in …