National Pecan Federation Walks the Hill
While Washington, D.C., is where work is being done on behalf of the U.S. pecan industry’s advocacy efforts, the results touch pecan farms and operations across the country. A part of that work was this year’s National Pecan Federation (NPF) annual Washington, D.C. fly-in. The annual event is meant to enhance and complement the work...
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APPB B2B Marketing Effort Drives Pecan Product Innovations
To help drive long-term demand for the industry, the marketing program is conducting a pilot program targeting product development teams to prove that pecans are on trend and in demand and to urge them to consider pecans in new food and beverage innovations. Through partnerships with top trendspotting groups that product developers turn to for...
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The Ins and Outs of the APC’s Voluntary Quality Assurance Program
Retailers’, buyers’, and consumers’ preferences are constantly evolving. These pressures come domestically and internationally as each country sets its own rules and regulations. Regarding international regulations, many countries—including Australia, Canada, and the European Union—have food safety and quality mandates for imported products. One recent example of international regulations can be seen in the EU Commission’s...
Read moreWhat’s to Come, What’s Been Done for Pecan Marketing
The American Pecan Promotion Board (APPB) just finished a multi-pronged holiday marketing push. The holiday push for 2022 featured a Pecan Pizza Pie. This truly nutty pie included a savory buttermilk pizza crust, a thick bourbon-infused tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, fennel-dusted pepperoni-flavored pecan halves, and a spicy balsamic pecan pie glaze. As of early December...
Read moreAmerican Pecan Promotion Board 2022 Updates
Upcoming Marketing Campaign The American Pecan Promotion Board is deploying a marketing strategy starting this holiday season that is sure to cut through the usual holiday clutter. Competition for media attention is fierce during the holidays. The APPB intentionally shifted from health and snacking—which gets limited media coverage during the holiday season—to grab headlines with...
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The American Pecan Council—Update and What’s to Come
Quick Update on Marketing The American Pecan Council continues to invest USDA Market Access Program funds in China and Germany. The APC International Committee recently concluded a research project that outlined ways of better developing India as a pecan-consuming nation. The APC hopes to align itself with a marketing representative in India to begin retail...
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Federal Register Notice Pecans Grown in Multiple States; Request for Extension and Revision of a Currently Approved Information Collection
USDA has published a notice for public comment regarding the extension and revision of a currently approved reporting form. In the notice, it refers to 14 forms in the OMB package. This includes two ballot forms for committee nominations, two grower and sheller nomination forms, two background and acceptance statements forms for growers and shellers...
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Getting to Know Consumers & Understanding Maximum Residue Limits
The American Pecan Council has received several questions relating to maximum residue limits and good products to be used on pecans. With harvest season well on its way, it is an excellent time to review what consumers are demanding and what responsibilities the industry has on product quality for its customers. Consumer preferences are changing,...
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International Experts Recommend Nuts and Dried Fruits as Part of a Healthy Diet
From October 20-21, 2022, the world’s leading researchers gathered for NUTS 2022 to discuss the current and future of health research on nuts and dried fruits. NUTS 2022 was a historic gathering of the brightest minds in the field of nutrition research on nuts and dried fruits. Twenty-five researchers and professors from universities in Europe,...
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The Importance of the APC and APPB Working Together
The American Pecan Council (APC), approved in 2016, and the American Pecan Promotion Board (APPB), approved in 2021, are very similar programs. They both utilize industry assessments for marketing and research purposes. They are both mandated programs regulated by the Agricultural Marketing Service of the USDA. And they are both voted on by growers. However,...
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Marketing pecans in the health professional space
Over the past few years, marketing to health professionals has been a top priority for the American Pecan Council. We have identified these passionate and educated individuals as a key segment of our target audience to educate and get the word out about the impressive nutrition benefits of America’s Native Supernut. In the era of...
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The August 2022 Crop Corner
The Crop Corner provides seasonal updates throughout the industry and continues in Pecan South’s August 2022 magazine. The Crop Corner will take a break after this issue as The Pecan Newsletter returns on September 9, 2022. The Pecan Newsletter is a weekly harvest and market newsletter published from mid-September through January. Read a sample of...
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The July 2022 Crop Corner
The 2022 crop is approaching nut fill, and growers across the country continue to support their trees as best they can, even while battling drought, pests, and extreme temperatures. Here’s a quick update on the state of the crop from region to region for July. Southeast: In the Southeast, growers report a decent crop, depending...
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QAP, Council Member elections, and revised Standards— oh my!
We are halfway through 2022, and it has already been such a busy year for the pecan industry. Some recent developments have included finalizing the drafted voluntary Quality Assurance Program (QAP) and opening the comment period for the revised U.S. pecan industry inshell and shelled meat standards. On top of that, voting for the American...
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Pecan successes in grocery and retail
This month, we highlight three major successes for the American pecan industry with data pulled from Information Resources, Inc. (IRI). You may be wondering, “What is IRI data?” IRI is retail-based scanner data collected from a large sample of grocery stores across the United States. Through our subscription purchase of this data, we are provided...
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USDA supports APC’s export activities in big way
The American Pecan Council (APC) has seen a growth in export activities and funding in the last three years as the U.S. pecan industry’s unified efforts bear fruit. APC has been working hand in hand with USDA to create an international marketing strategy to further develop consumer-focused marketing efforts in China and Germany. Thanks to...
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The May 2022 Crop Corner
The Crop Corner provides seasonal updates for readers on pecans throughout the industry and continues in Pecan South’s May 2022 magazine. Created and published by Pecan South editors, The Pecan Newsletter provides weekly harvest and market updates from September through January by compiling reports from growers and market information from reliable sources worldwide. The Crop...
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Next steps for voluntary Quality Assurance Program
BACKGROUND OF THE PROGRAM This year is certainly moving full speed ahead with the dawn of Q2 upon us. U.S. agriculture is in a pivotal and transformative era, leading the food and agriculture supply chain to find new ways of building resilience to combat impacts on food supply. The onset of the pandemic accelerated fundamental...
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American Pecans’ marketing milestones
2017 was a monumental year for the American Pecan industry. Uniting to support the passage of a Federal Marketing Order, we commenced our first large-scale, domestic marketing effort. Our collective endeavor to increase domestic demand has produced impressive results; in fact, our integrated marketing efforts—which began with Weber Shandwick less than five years ago—have resulted...
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Looking ahead at APC’s 2022 activities
In the pecan referendum, 63 percent of voting pecan producers, who represented 71 percent of the volume of pecans produced by those voting, were in favor of continuing the program. This can largely be attributed to the industry’s successes in the FMO’s first five years. These wins include: Accelerated demand for pecans, with 36 percent...
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Pecan Growth for 2020-2021 Crop Year
Every year, the American Pecan Council, as the Federal Marketing Order (FMO) for the U.S. pecan industry, creates a marketing policy statement that includes recaps and projections for the upcoming fiscal year. These marketing policy statements are approved each year during the August Council meeting in preparation for the pecan industry’s new fiscal year beginning...
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National Pecan Federation update on agricultural climate policies
USDA Announces Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry Partnership Initiative On Sept. 29, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced they are considering using the $30 billion Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) next year to pay for large-scale pilot programs to scale up farm and forestry practices that help mitigate climate change. “Our work will be voluntary and incentive-based,” Agriculture Secretary Tom...
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A Peek into the Pecan Powerhouses Network
In our last article, we shared the various marketing activations we’ve engaged in this past year to reach the eyes and minds of a crucial audience—health professionals and registered dieticians. These individuals educate and engage with consumers as experts in health, nutrition, and wellness; they advise people on what to eat. So, by reaching them,...
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2021 recap of APC’s marketing in health and nutrition sphere
Reaching the eyes and minds of health professionals is crucial to gain a competitive advantage in the health and food marketplace. APC contracted with Eat Well Global to help boost pecans in the health and nutrition arena. The strategic goal for APC’s marketing activities through Eat Well Global was “to increase top-of-mind awareness of pecans...
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Around the industry—snapshots of fall meetings
North Carolina pecan growers gather at NCPGA’s Orchard Tour The North Carolina Pecan Growers Association conducted its Fall Orchard Tour on Sept.11, 2021, at Ronnie’s Berry Farm, Angier, North Carolina. This was the first in-person event the association conducted in over two years because of COVID-19, and all were glad to be together. John Taylor,...
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FMO—201
In 2016, after years of dreaming and working to develop a Federal Marketing Order (FMO), our historically divided industry came together and established the American Pecan Council for the common goal of building awareness and demand for American Pecans. In the beginning stages of the FMO, consumer research was conducted and showed pecans lagged tremendously...
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Around the Industry
National Pecan Shellers Association gathers for 2021 Annual Meeting in Denver The National Pecan Shellers Association (NPSA) gathered in Denver, Colorado, for its 2021 Annual Meeting on August 25 and 26 at The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa. This meeting marked the first in-person gathering for NPSA since the start of the pandemic. Attendees visited...
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2021 Crop Estimates
Here are the 2021 crop estimates as predicted at the Texas Pecan Growers Conference, National Pecan Shellers Association annual meeting, and the USDA NASS Crop Production report, which shows utilized production for the 2020 crop. Please note that the USDA released its annual production report for 2020 in May and only publishes data for the...
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American Pecans in China — a growing history
Building on our domestic success From the start of our Federal Marketing Order, the American Pecan Council has been working to grow domestic awareness and support to increase demand for American Pecans, including the official consumer-facing brand, American Pecans, which successfully launched in spring 2018. From our brand launch pop-up shop in New York City...
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Reaching consumers through credentialed wellness professionals
A key audience the American Pecan Council has identified and been pleased to gain inroads into is the world of credentialed health and wellness professionals (registered dietitian nutritionists, physicians, nurses, fitness professionals, etc.). This community of highly engaged and influential individuals is passionate about promoting holistic, healthy living and educating those who look to them...
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The Crop Corner August 2021
The Crop Corner provides seasonal updates for readers on pecans throughout the industry and continues in Pecan South’s August 2021 magazine. The Crop Corner will be taking a break as The Pecan Newsletter starts on September 10, 2021. Created and published by Pecan South editors, The Pecan Newsletter provides weekly harvest and market updates from...
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Around the Industry—Visiting the TPGA 100th Conference
Texas Pecan Growers Association celebrates 100 years at its 2021 Conference and Trade Show Celebrating a century as an organization, the Texas Pecan Growers Association (TPGA) gathered in San Marcos, Texas, on July 18 through 21, 2021, for its 100th annual Conference and Trade Show. Attendees met at the Embassy Suites San Marcos Hotel Spa...
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How pecan-centric consumer research and trends inform our marketing strategy
The American Pecan Council exists to drive awareness and ultimately demand for American Pecans. To successfully raise the bar each year, we must ensure we’re addressing the right people, in the right places, with the most impactful and effective messages. That’s where consumer research comes in. Why Research Matters For marketing dollars to reach the...
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The pecan industry at work
Throughout the year, not just the legislative sessions, the National Pecan Federation and individual pecan industry members are working to shape policy and advocate for the industry. Both groups have worked to build relationships with legislators and tackle topics such as tariffs, trade, research, legislation, among others. Two years ago, the National Pecan Federation (NPF)...
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APC marketing recap for the mid-year
The American Pecan Council had its biannual meeting on April 28 to discuss mid fiscal year updates on activities approved in the 2020-2021 fiscal year budget. The topics of discussion included Grades and Standards, Industry Relations, and Domestic and International Marketing. During the marketing presentation, APC staff provided a recap of the first and second...
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Pecan Federal Marketing Order—the who, what, and why
The American Pecan Council (APC) is the Federal Marketing Order (FMO) for the U.S. pecan industry representing all pecan stakeholders across 15 growing states, from North Carolina to California, with USDA oversight. Industry came together in 2016 to create the pecan Federal Marketing Order to address the want and need to engage in widespread marketing...
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Recap—APC’s first quarter marketing activities and campaign
With the first quarter in the books, APC’s 2020-2021 Fiscal Year marketing activities are off to a strong start. We seek to keep the momentum going in the second quarter and beyond! Consumer Campaign – American Pecans Went Viral! The Super Safe Pecan Debate was American Pecans’ most successful campaign to date, with over 272...
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Third-party study shows the FMO works, importance to industry
In 2016, the American Pecan industry approved a Federal Marketing Order (FMO). The purpose of the marketing order was to implement five critical areas. These included Marketing/Promotion, Research, Grades & Standards, Data & Statistics, and Compliance. The American Pecan Council DOES NOT AND CANNOT DO THE FOLLOWING: set prices, buy/sell product, and set tariffs. Unfortunately,...
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Pecan Market Challenges & Victories in 2020
Over the last few months, the American Pecan Council has received several questions about the pecan market. Specifically, what impact has COVID-19 had on the movement of pecans? What is happening with exports? Where are we in terms of inventory? Is the APC marketing order working? With all the crises in the U.S. and the...
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A Season of Harvest, Thanksgiving, & Optimism
It’s safe to say that 2020 has been a year unlike any other. From the escalation of a global pandemic and its impacts on our businesses and families to a contentious election season and unrest in many cities, this year has been full of the unexpected. It has required new levels of understanding, adaptability, and...
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APC Campaign Calls All Healthy Snackers
COVID-19 has changed consumer behaviors worldwide. Recent data states that 54 percent of consumers are cooking and baking more. There has also been a 39 increase in snack category sales—both healthy and indulgent. Consumers are very concerned with their health. Google searches for immunity boosters like antioxidants, healthy diets like Keto or Mediterranean, and plant-based...
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Industry Takes First Steps to Voluntary Quality Assurance Program
As mentioned in the American Pecan Council’s article featured in last month’s issue of Pecan South, the industry has moved forward with the creation of a voluntary quality assurance program. We will continue to provide readers with more information in upcoming articles as the program is further developed. In this initial article, we discuss the...
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The Pecan Crop Corner: August 2020
A monthly column, The Crop Corner comes in response to popular demand from readers of The Pecan Newsletter and gives updates on the 2020 pecan crop. Created and published by Pecan South editors, The Pecan Newsletter provides weekly harvest and market updates from September through January by compiling reports from growers, as well as price...
Read moreAPC Activities Update: Adapting and Preparing in 2020
Entering into the final stretch of the current crop year, the American Pecan Council updates industry members on its many activities, projects, and industry initiatives. This update on APC activities and ongoing projects include increasing pecan awareness, expanding industry efforts, and releasing accessible and transparent data for all. Marketing Successes – Increasing Pecan Awareness 2019...
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The Pecan Crop Corner: July 2020
A new monthly column, The Crop Corner comes in response to popular demand from readers of The Pecan Newsletter. Created and published by Pecan South editors, The Pecan Newsletter provides weekly harvest and market updates from September through January by compiling reports from growers, as well as price and market information from reliable sources across...
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APC Approves Motion to Support R&P Board During April Call
The American Pecan Council met via conference call on April 22 for its first council meeting of 2020. The Council began the meeting with conducting regular housekeeping: approving the financials and minutes, accepting audited financials from the previous fiscal year, reviewing budget for this year, and approving the use of the same company—Eide Bailly, an...
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Industry Update from Capitol Hill
Federal COVID-19 Relief Actions The U.S. Congress reacted to the COVID-19 pandemic by passing three stimulus bills. Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2020 Families First Coronavirus Response Act Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES) Although the first two COVID-19 stimulus bills included items that impacted pecans as far as nutrition...
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Your Federal Marketing Order at Work
It has been a year and a half since the American Pecan Council hired a permanent executive director with full-time staff. In that time, we have undergone a thorough Strategic Planning process and have implemented numerous programs that benefit the pecan industry as a whole. The industry’s unified labor is coming to fruition. The encouraging...
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Are You in the Know on Industry Projects?
We always seek to keep the industry informed on the numerous projects being conducted by the American Pecan Council at any given time. Now that conference season is underway, we look forward to connecting and providing you with a detailed report in person, but we hope this article serves to give you a snapshot of...
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It’s a Bird…It’s a Plane…It’s the Supernut!
Realizing Resolution Fatigue 2020 is well underway, and like many people, you may have made plans for a healthier year. Resolutions have long been a part of ringing in a new year—pledges to make this year better than the last with improved habits and lifestyle changes. Living a healthier life is often first on the...
Read more2020—An exciting Year Ahead
With the beginning of the American Pecan Council’s (APC) new fiscal year, the industry has several projects moving forward. With the strategic plan in full swing, these projects can be broken down into five specific areas: Marketing; International Marketing; Grades, Standards & Research; Industry Relations; and Unified Industry. 2019 – 2020 promises to be a...
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Social Media–A Tool to Maximize Your Marketing in a Digital Age
As the American Pecan Council continues our mission to drive awareness and demand for pecans nationwide, we know that our journey must adapt to a fast-moving, ever-changing world. Launching any marketing program in the digital age means a careful review of the best tactics to efficiently and effectively stretch assessment dollars. More than anything, this...
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A Year in Review
It may sound cliché, but time has a way of marching right on by when you’re busy having fun. This past year has been full of many firsts. The American Pecan Council (APC) was established in 2016, but like any endeavor built from the ground up, it has taken a couple years to establish a...
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Preparing for coming Fiscal Year, the American Pecan Council holds its last meeting for 2019
The American Pecan Council met on Aug. 21—a day after the second Pecan Congress—for its last meeting this year the Hyatt Regency DFW International Airport in Dallas, Texas. “I don’t want the council or stakeholders to forget why we’re doing this,” APC Chairman Mike Adams said to open the meeting. “This whole effort was begun...
Read moreIndustry groups discuss issues and updates at second Pecan Congress in Dallas
The American Pecan Council gathered with state, regional, and national pecan organizations for the industry’s second Pecan Congress on Aug. 20 at the Hyatt Regency DFW International Airport in Dallas, Texas. Continuing a new annual tradition for the industry, this meeting provides an opportunity for all industry groups to come together, discuss issues, and share...
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How to Enroll in the Market Facilitation Program
Pecans are an eligible specialty crop under the Market Facilitation Program (MFP) administered by USDA’s Farm Service Agency. MFP assists farmers who continue to suffer from damages because of trade retaliation from foreign nations. Pecan producers have until Dec. 6 to enroll in MFP. Pecan producers who have not participated in FSA programs should follow...
Read moreReport from Capitol Hill
The U.S. Congress has finally passed agricultural disaster legislation and President Donald Trump promptly signed the bill into law. The U.S. Department of Agriculture is working to get resources to growers harmed by natural disasters. After being hit hard by Hurricane Michael, pecan growers in the Southeast may benefit from this legislation. The following are...
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APC’s Industry Position Report for May gifts the industry with more reliable information
The American Pecan Council released its Pecan Industry Position Report for May 2019 last night. This report marks the ninth monthly report for the 2018 crop. With each release, the American pecan industry develops a clearer picture of the market’s current state and the movement of pecans throughout the country and around the world. In the...
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APC 101 Series: Marketing Strategy 101
As consumer behavior changes and generations establish their likes and dislikes, industry marketing, education techniques, and technologies must also adapt or be left behind. To understand and thrive in the future market, the industry must understand consumer trends and preferences. Consider the following: traditional TV viewing is down across all major age groups. According to...
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APC 101 Series: Strategic Planning
The pecan industry is at a critical stage. Trade pressures, volatile market prices, and natural disasters have created uncertainty for many during a time when the industry has only just recently unified under the Federal Marketing Order. Under our remit through the FMO and as the largest and broadest organization for the pecan industry, the...
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Elevating the Pecan Nutrition Message in 2019 and Beyond
The 2018 launch of American Pecans, The Original Supernut brand to consumers was rooted in three core traits of pecans—taste, heritage, and nutrition. There’s a reason for this. Our research has shown that today’s consumers, particularly our target audience of Gen X and Y moms, care about providing their families wholesome, tasty meals using locally-sourced...
Read moreU.S. Pecan Growers Council Provides Update on China, Alternative Markets and Funding
The full impact of China’s increase in tariffs on pecans imported from the United States is becoming clearer. For 2017, pecan exports—shelled and inshell—to China reached 29,411 metric tons according to official U.S. Government export statistics. This was an increase of 19 percent over 2016 totals. By comparison, as of October of 2018, the last...
Read moreFMO – 101
Since coming on board as the Executive Director of the American Pecan Council, I have received numerous questions as to the abilities of the Federal Marketing Order (FMO). Simply put, what can the FMO do? What is the function? Are we really a government body or an industry body? Can FMOs really do research, domestic...
Read moreU.S. Pecan Growers Council’s Leadership & Its Mission to Shape the Global Pecan Marketplace
Formed in 2010, the U.S. Pecan Growers Council (USPGC) has supported pecan growers in the United States and continues to position them as leaders in the global marketplace. Since its inception, the organization has brought in more than $5 million in federal funds to grow business in international markets. The USPGC’s mission is to develop...
Read more2018 NPSA Lifetime Achievement Award Winners
Atlanta, Georgia – Sept. 14, 2018 – The National Pecan Shellers Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award is the highest honor the NPSA can bestow upon a member of our association in recognition of an individual’s significant contributions and lasting influence for the pecan industry. It is especially impactful as the association celebrates its 75th Anniversary in...
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A Grower’s Guide to New Advancements in Pecan Production from the Georgia Fall Field Day
Pecan farmers are dealing with a lot right now—increased tariffs from China, new marketing efforts to increase pecan’s domestic presence, fighting off old and new pests, and starting harvest. With all this multitasking, it’s unfathomable to think that farmers have the time to constantly experiment with what works best for growing their crop. So, the...
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Inside the APC’s August Meeting: Council releases industry data, approves budget & discusses funding policy
The American Pecan Council gathered at the Hyatt Regency near the Dallas-Fort Worth Airport on Aug. 20 to discuss marketing updates, research proposals, governance, standardization, and industry relations. The meeting was attended by 25 council members and alternates as well as the APC staff, U.S. Department of Agriculture representatives, and guests. The meeting kicked off...
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Responding to the China Market’s Status, USPGC Searches for Alternatives
Over the course of the last few months, pecan operations in China have become more complex as increased tariffs and new laws come into effect. U.S. pecans’ existing price disadvantage in China became significantly greater on July 6, when China responded to the Trump Administration’s tariff threats by adding another 25 percent to the already...
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The Power of Partnership: Influential Recipe Developers Promote American Pecans
In last month’s issue, we covered the many ways you, as members of the American pecan industry, can use the new American Pecans, The Original Supernut brand—including sharing delicious recipes created through our partnerships with some of the nation’s top food and nutrition influencers. Since well before the consumer-facing campaign officially launched in late April,...
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2018 Crop Estimates
Here are the 2018 crop estimates as predicted at the TriState Conference and Texas Pecan Growers Conference this Summer. This was the first year in a long while to break with tradition. Last year was Kyle Brookshier’s last crop estimate; this year newly appointed TPGA president Lalo Medina gave the Texas estimate. At the TriState Conference,...
Read moreThe American Pecan Council—An Important Tool for an Exciting Time
This is an exciting time for the American pecan industry. With the creation of the American Pecan Council (APC) under the Federal Marketing Order, the American pecan industry added a vital tool to their trade. This Federal Marketing Order provides an opportunity to promote the benefits of pecans, educate consumers, conduct vital research, and provide...
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Putting the American Pecans Brand to Work for You
Much has been shared about the new American Pecans, The Original Supernut consumer brand and marketing campaign in recent months. From national and local news placements to social media advertising to the “Good Morning America” segment, the American Pecan Council has been hard at work promoting the nutrition, versatility and rich history of pecans to...
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South Africa—The Pecan Industry’s Next Paradigm Shift?
For over 200 years, pecans have been the best kept secret of American agriculture. With limited supplies and no substitute in various industrial applications, butter pecan ice cream and pecan pie to name just two, there was no need for the pecan industry to market their product. Americans, particularly those living south of the Mason-Dixon...
Read moreUSDA 2018 Noncitrus Fruits & Nuts Report
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has released its annual non-citrus fruits and nuts report today. Pecans are included in this report, and you can see the annual summaries of acreage, yield, production, use, price, and value by state for the 2017 crop. You can review the USDA 2018 report here. Below you can compare the...
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American Pecan Council April Meeting Recap
The American Pecan Council met in Dallas, Texas on April 16 and 17 to conduct business. A total of 25 councilmembers were in attendance. During the meeting, the members voted to fill two open council positions. Adam Harrell of Golden Peanut and Tree Nuts will take on the East Alternate Large Sheller position, while Steve...
Read morePecans in D.C.— Update on the National Pecan Federation
Over the last few months, Congress has been busy finalizing legislation and working to keep the government open. One focus has been the 2018 Farm Bill, which will need to be finalized soon in order to pass in the coming fall. While representatives and staff hurry through the day to day work of bills and...
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New Plantings Out West
WEST TEXAS NEW MEXICO Also out in New Mexico, two equipment companies have built new buildings, hoping to service local pecan producers.
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Around the Industry: the 2018 World Ag Expo
The World Ag Expo returned to Tulare, California on Feb. 13-15 this year to give producers, consumers and ag innovators the chance to meet, network and celebrate the future of agriculture. Presented by the International Agri-Center, this year’s World Ag Expo covered 2.6 million square feet and featured exhibitors with various focuses from safety to...
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American Pecan Council Makes Moves in January Meeting
The American Pecan Council, the operating group for the federal marketing order for pecans, met in Dallas, Texas on Jan. 22 to discuss staff, marketing, financial and operational updates. With 25 council members in attendance, this in-person meeting marks the first in 2018 for the council. In the two-day meeting, the American Pecan Council (APC)...
Read moreUSPGC: “China Lowers Tariff on Pecans”
The Ministry of Finance of the People’s Republic of China announced on Nov. 22 that the tariff on some imported products, including pecans, will be lowered to 7 percent starting on Dec. 1, 2017. This announcement came a month after Kevin Ivey, president of the U.S. Pecan Growers Council, visited with Chinese pecan growers, toured farms...
Read moreNational Pecan Federation Formed in First Step Toward a PAC
Five industry associations have united to support an industry-wide effort to secure representation in Washington, D.C. through a lobbyist and a new potential association—the National Pecan Federation Inc.—in the hopes of creating a political action committee (PAC) for the pecan industry). The National Pecan Federation (NPF) would act in the interest for the entire industry...
Read moreAround the Industry: Weber Shandwick Team Finishes Immersion Tours in the Southeast
As growers rushed into harvest last month, the American Pecan Council’s Weber Shandwick team embarked on its final immersion tour. This time the group visited Georgia. Team members witnessed harvest, learned how pecan production varies in the Southeast, and met with local growers and industry members. MASON PECANS, FORT VALLEY, GEORGIA— An employee at Mason Farms collects...
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Industry Updates & Happenings
HOW IT’S MADE, OCT. 2017— While filming the harvesting process at Sorrells Farms, the film crew worried over the possibility of standing in fire ants and asked the Texans present, multiple times, if they were. It’s safe to say, they escaped unscathed. (Photos by Blair Krebs) HOW IT’S MADE, OCT. 2017— Kinley and...
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Round Two: Weber Shandwick Team Immerses Itself into Central Pecan Region
The APC-hired marketing team from Weber Shandwick followed the meeting with a central region immersion tour on Sept. 14 and 15. The group consisted of ten team members from the Chicago and Dallas offices; these team members work across the APC account in areas such as creatives, issues, and media relations. On this fast and...
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U.S. Senator Ted Cruz Heads Senate Effort to Lower Pecan Tariff in India
U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) is leading the effort for the U.S. pecan industry to lower the pecan tariff rate in India. The U.S. pecan industry has worked to develop the pecan market in India in the face of a significant tariff rate of 36 percent on U.S. pecans. This rate is much higher than...
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American Pecan Council Meeting Produces New Policies, New Tasks and More Work
The American Pecan Council (APC) met at the Noble Research Institute (formerly the Noble Foundation) on Sept. 13 in Ardmore Oklahoma. Council members and guests began the day by touring the Noble Research Institute’s greenhouse and labs. In the tour, members saw the latest research on scab as well as some of the pecan trees...
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Promising Nut and Dried Fruit Production Worldwide for 2017-18
July 2017. During the debate sessions held at the latest INC Congress, recently celebrated in Chennai, India, the 2017/18 season world tree nut production (almonds, Amazonia -Brazil- nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, pecans, pine nuts, pistachios, walnuts) has been forecasted at 4.2 million metric tons, up 25 percent from prior 10 years average (data referring...
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Crop Estimates Graph & USDA 2016
The chart above shows Littlepage’s and Brookshier’s estimates from the TriState and TPGA conferences respectively. It also shows the USDA numbers of production in 2016. USDA released its annual production report for 2016 in early July. A number of states have no data reported and are marked with an “NA” instead of a “D” for...
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SIAL China 2017 in Photos
For the fifth year, U.S. Pecans attended the annual SIAL China Food Show in Shanghai, China. (From left to right) Blair Krebs, Matthew Langford from Diamond Foods and Executive Director Janice Dees worked U.S. Pecans’ booth at the show. The group promotes U.S. pecans to Chinese consumers and buyers. A total of eight pecan companies attended...
Read moreADM Golden Peanut and Tree Nuts Facilities Receive Highest BRC Quality Rating
Five of Golden Peanut and Tree Nuts’ facilities received an AA rating—the highest quality and safety rating—from the British Retail Consortium’s Global Standard for Food Safety on June 8. In response to the news, Greg Mills president of Golden Peanut and Tree Nuts said: “Over the last year, as part of our continued focus on...
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American Pecan Council Immerses PR Team in Everything Pecan
It was dubbed “immersion tour” and structured to give a cadre of public relations specialists a feel for multiple facets of the pecan industry. The American Pecan Council brought its newly engaged team from the Weber Shandwick agency to New Mexico and West Texas on June 5 and 6 to introduce them to the world...
Read moreNew Name, Same Services
Earlier this year, the Noble Board of Trustees elected to separate the activities of The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, and that transition began on May 1, 2017. The organization’s research, education and consultation activities will remain with our existing entity but will continue forward with a new name: Noble Research Institute, LLC. The new name...
From Around the Pecan Industry
NO PRETTIER SIGHT! Georgia photographer Gary Cutrell of Fort Valley captured this beautiful pecan harvest scene in Peach County, Georgia, and was generous enough to share it with Pecan South readers. JIMENUEZ 2017 — The Jimenez, Mexico, Pecan Growers Association hosted its annual conference, known as Jimenuez, in April. The association’s board organizes the...
Read moreAmerican Pecan Council Hires Executive Director
The American Pecan Council announced May 11 that Byron Gossett is its newly hired administrative consultant and acting executive director. The Council convened via conference call on May 8 and voted unanimously to offer the position to Gossett. APC’s Governance Committee voted to recommend Gossett for the position after numerous meetings, personal interviews, and reference...
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Renowned Chefs Gain Pecan Insights at Pecan Chefs Summit
ATLANTA, Georgia — Commercial chefs’ appreciation for the versatility of pecans continues to grow thanks to the National Pecan Shellers Association’s (NPSA) annual Pecan Chefs Summit. The most recent Summit, a series committed to immersing research and development chefs into the world of pecans, convened in April in Birmingham, Alabama. Chefs experienced the flavors, food...
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New Plantings Continue as Common Sight in Georgia
The huge interest in planting pecans in the United States over the past five or so years continues and is easily evident when driving through pecan-growing regions of Georgia. National Pecan Company is one of the entities actively expanding current and new acreage of pecans. National’s director of farming operations Tom Stevenson recently escorted Pecan...
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APC elects at-large members, continues set-up duties
The American Pecan Council convened in Biloxi, Mississippi, on Feb. 23, prior to the Southeastern Pecan Growers Convention and took several more steps toward being fully functional. The remaining two seats on the Council were filled: J.B. Easterlin of Easterlin Pecan Company in Montezuma, Georgia, was elected to the Accumulator seat on the board, while...
Read moreUSDA Implements Certificate Requirement for Organic Products from Mexico
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) and Mexico’s National Service for Animal and Plant Health, Food Safety and Quality (SENASICA) are committed to increasing transparency and strengthening monitoring and enforcement controls for organic products traded between the two countries. One important mechanism for achieving this goal is the use of import certificates....
Read moreHarvest Progressing as Prices Strengthen
Although harvest in the West got a relatively late start, pecan growers were actively gathering their crop in December after cold weather finally descended on western production regions. Prices were surging upwards partially as a result of the late availability and partially because other areas of the country have seen lower-than-expected quality and quantity, resulting...
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INC Says Tree Nut Production to Increase in 2016/17
The International Nut and Dried Fruit Council (INC) has released its latest Global Statistical Review with production trends for almonds, Amazonia (Brazil) nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, pecans, pine nuts, pistachios, walnuts, peanuts, dates, dried apricots, dried figs, prunes, raisins, sultanas and currants for 2016-17. In the 2015/16 season, world tree nut production has been...
Read moreAmerican Pecan Council Goes to Work
The newly elected American Pecan Council convened its first face-to-face meeting Nov. 16-17 at the Houston Airport Marriott. Eight USDA representatives and 9 of the Council’s alternate members participated in the 1.5-day session along with the 15 growers and shellers recently elected to the Council. Last month as Pecan South was sent to print, election...
Read moreIndustry Awaiting Election Results for New Council
As this issue of Pecan South was going to print, the industry was awaiting results of the election for the inaugural American Pecan Council, the industry board that will oversee and administer the new Federal Marketing Order for pecans. An announcement was anticipated before the end of October with the Council’s first meeting to be...
Read moreUSDA Estimates 2016 U.S.Pecan Crop at 263 Million
USDA released its 2016 pecan crop estimate (see next page) on Oct. 12 with the following statement. “Production is forecast at 263 million pounds (utilized, in-shell basis), up 3 percent from 2015. Improved varieties are expected to produce 239 million pounds or 91 percent of the total. The native and seedling varieties are expected to...
Read morePecan Federal Marketing Order Industry Guidance for Collecting Assessments in Year One
Ballots have been mailed and elections are underway to fill the grower and handler seats for the American Pecan Council. Once seated, the Council’s first priority will be to develop a budget and set the assessment rate for the 2016-17 crop year. However, this important planning and budgeting phase is not expected to be complete...
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Pecan Mission to China Addresses Opportunities, Tariff, Supply
A pecan mission was recently made to China to address several important issues affecting the U.S. pecan industry. The trade mission was sponsored and coordinated by the U.S. Pecan Growers Council (USPGC). The mission was a federal MAP (Market Access Program) initiative supported by the U.S. pecan growers. The pecan industry was represented by Randy...
Read moreNext Step for Pecan Marketing Order Underway
As this issue of Pecan South went to press, the next step in implementing the Federal Marketing Order for Pecans had begun — the process to nominate candidates to be seated as the new American Pecan Council. Nomination forms for the grower and sheller seats were posted at USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service website. Sept. 6...
Read moreFlory unveils environmentally friendly harvester
Flory Industries, headquartered in the heart of the California Central Valley, has just released the newest model of their self-propelled nut harvesters: the Flory 8700. The Flory 8700 combines a host of improvements over models released even a decade ago, from computerized in-cab controls to extra-thick safety glass windows. What sets the 8700 apart, however,...
Read moreUSDA Tags 2015 Pecan Crop at 254 Million Pounds
USDA released its final report on production and prices regarding the 2015 pecan crop on July 8 (see chart), stating that the U.S. produced 254.3 million pounds of pecans in 2015, in-shell basis. USDA did not issue a preliminary summary of the 2015 crop in January as has been done in past years. On July...
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U.S. Pecan Growers continue to develop China market
I recently served as the U.S. Pecans Project Manager for the 2016 SIAL China trade show, a component of the 2016 U.S. Pecan Growers Council (USPGC) China Unified Export Strategy (UES). Our objective for the show was to showcase/promote U.S. grown pecans in the China country market, to share information, and improve knowledge on pecan...
Read moreTexas Pecan Board Schedules Election for 3 At-large Slots
The Texas Pecan Board will hold elections in August to elect 3 board members where current members’ terms are expiring. The Board was established in 1998 after pecan growers throughout Texas voted into effect a one-half-cent-per-pound pecan assessment to provide funds for promotion and research. Nine pecan producers serve on the board. Board members whose...
Read moreTDA Initiative Aims to Stop Feral Hogs in Their Tracks
The Texas Department of Agriculture announced recently the 2016 Coordinated Hog Out Management Program (CHOMP), which will run from May 1-31, 2016. The effort is focused on decreasing the feral hog population in Texas, which inflicts an estimated $52 million in agricultural damage each year. “Feral hogs cause hundreds of millions of dollars in damage...
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NPSA Meeting: Attendees Hear Optimistic Presentations
The National Pecan Shellers Association provided an interesting program at its recent Mid Winter meeting in New Orleans, with updates on past and current activities within the industry as well as a look ahead at potential developments. Christopher Snabes of The Acheson Group related the impact of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) on the...
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Marketing Order Vote Underway
Anticipating there would be news to report on the effort to implement a Federal Marketing Order for pecans, American Pecan Board President Mike Adams was featured on two recent regional pecan conference agendas. Speaking at both the Southeastern Pecan Growers conference and the Western Pecan Growers conference, Adams suggested that a “new day is dawning”...
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U.S. Pecans Make Progress in Middle East
After many hours of travel, the U.S. Pecan team landed with cowboy hats in hand and ready to market pecans at the Gulfood Trade Show in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.). Well, only some of us had a cowboy hat, but the team was loaded with information about pecans to share with people from all...
Read moreCentral Texas Shortcourse Provides Chance for Three CEUs
The Central Texas Pecan Shortcourse is set for April 7 at the First United Methodist Church in Goldthwaite. The half-day event offers three CEUs to inviduals with a private pesticide applicator license. Cost for the program is $25 and includes lunch. A RSVP is requested by April 1. Call the Mills County Extension Office at...
Read moreNo Preliminary Crop Report; Final Numbers to Come in July
In a Feb. 8 newsletter, Dan Zedan of Nature’s Finest Foods reported some follow-up information on the recent suspension of USDA’s January report for NonCitrus Fruits and Nuts Preliminary Summary. This USDA summary has annually reported on pecan crop production and average prices for the current season. After the suspension of this report was brought...
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Texas Pecan Shortcourse 2016
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension conducted its annual Pecan Shortcourse, Jan.25-28, with one of the largest classes yet. Other photos at TAMU orchard.
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Nutrition Facts Available for Nuts, Dried Fruits
The International Nut Council’s nutrient charts of nuts and dried fruits have been updated according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 28 (2015). The charts are available for 100 gram and 1-ounce portions. Few modifications have been observed compared to the previous year. The only changes in this...
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Pecans Around the Globe
When those associated with the U.S. pecan industry travel abroad, it is fairly common for them to check out retail outlets in other countries to see if pecans are offered for sale. Pecan South’s Blair Krebs traveled in Germany recently and took note of these offerings of in-shell pecans, roasted halves, and pecans in nut mixes....
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Matching Funds Essential for MAP Export Program
Randy Hudson, president of the National Pecan Growers Council, and Bruce Caris, chair of the National Pecan Shellers Association, are asking pecan stakeholders to continue supporting the NPGC’s MAP export initiative with monetary contributions. Hudson said recently, “The international marketing of U.S. pecans through the MAP and U.S. Pecans’ effort has contributed millions of dollars...
Read moreNPSA to Meet March 22-24 in New Orleans
The National Pecan Shellers Association will meet March 22-24 at the Royal Sonesta Hotel in New Orleans for its mid-winter meeting. Current NPSA Chairman Bruce Caris will preside over a NPSA board strategic planning session on March 22. The General Session begins at 8:30 a.m. on March 23. Topics on the agenda that morning include:...
Read moreSection 179 and Year-End Tax Considerations for Farmers
Greetings. We are quickly approaching the end of the year and I thought I would share some tax items you may consider with a short time until the end of the 2015 tax years. One of the best investments that you can make is the investment in time in finding a good CPA that understands...
Read moreNational Pecan Co. Buys Young Shelling Operation
FRISCO, Texas — Nov. 9, 2015 — National Pecan Company has announced the acquisition of Young Pecan Inc. – one of the leading pecan processors with the industry’s largest shelling capacity. The purchase, which includes Young Pecan’s premium brand and state-of-the-art production facilities, is another step toward vertical integration and overall growth for National Pecan....
Read moreHudson Represents U.S. Pecan Industry at China Conference
The U.S. pecan industry was invited to attend and make a special presentation at the 2015 International Conference on Roasted Seeds and Nuts. The invitation was extended by Mr. Chen Xian Bao, President and Chairman of the Specialized Committee for Roasted Seeds and Nuts (SCRSN), Beijing, China. The SCRSN has made significant contributions to the...
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Forry Unveils New Facility for Dehulling
Lincoln Forry of Forry Orchards in Colusa, California was anxiously awaiting completion of his new multi-million dollar dehulling/drying plant in October and hoping to get walnut and pecan processing underway this season. His sophisticated new facility sits beside the older plant, which was kept in operation until the new plant could be started up. Walnut...
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Around the Industry
FAST-PACED RETIREMENT — California pecan grower and sheller Brian Blain retired from the pecan business some time ago and now pursues his exciting hobby of collecting, restoring and racing old cars. Most of his cars are shiny with an “off the charts” wow factor. But even the rustically displayed Model T below is in running...
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Texas Delegation Promotes Pecan Exports
Three Texas pecan growers and a representative of the Texas Pecan Growers Association met up with Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller and TDA’s Carlos Guerrero in Shanghai in August to promote pecan exports to China. “There has long been an international dialogue between Texas and our counterparts across the globe,” Miller said in a statement...
Read moreCold Storage Supplies Continue to Dwindle
The latest Cold Storage report from USDA shows cold storage pecan supplies dropped from 202 million pounds, in-shell basis, to 176 million at the end of July. At the end of July in 2014, that number was 222 million pounds, in-shell basis. Broken down into shelled and in-shell categories, the July 31, 2015 numbers were...
Read moreUSDA Tags 2014 Pecan Crop at 264 Million Pounds
USDA released its final report on production and prices regarding the 2014 pecan crop on July 17 (see chart to the left). This report is slightly lower than the previous report released in January, by just over 1 million pounds. Approximately 6 million pounds of production was shifted from the native/seedling category to the improved...
Read moreMarketing Order Hearings Set in Three Locales
The final dates and venues have been released by the USDA for the public hearings on the Federal Marketing Order for Pecans. The initial hearing for the West Region begins in Las Cruces, New Mexico on July 20 at the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum, 4100 Dripping Springs Rd. The hearings will span...
Read moreMay 31 Cold Storage Reflects On-Going Strong Pecan Consumption
Pecan inventory in cold storage, as of May 31, 2015, has dropped to about 222 million pounds, in-shell basis, according to the latest USDA report released on June 23. That number had been almost 245 million on April 30. At current strong consumption levels, some industry observers predict a low cold-storage carry-in to the next...
Read morePublic Hearings for Federal Marketing Order Expedited—Set for July
The U. S. Department of Agriculture has announced and is proceeding with an expedited schedule for the Federal Marketing Order for Pecans. Based on recent meetings with the American Pecan Board, the proponent group representing the pecan industry, USDA staff has indicated a preference for a schedule that would allow for the Order to be...
Read moreNPSA Provides Updates on Issues Impacting Industry
The National Pecan Shellers Association met for its mid-winter gathering March 10-12 in Savannah, Georgia with an agenda that included updates on several major issues with potential impacts on the pecan industry. Diane Welland of Kellen Communications offered an overview of what to expect when USDA’s 2015 version of its official Dietary Guidelines is released...
Read moreMarketing Order Plans Progressing
Mike Adams, president of the American Pecan Board, reports that the development of the Federal Marketing Order for pecans is progressing. As reported earlier, the American Pecan Board met with USDA staff at DFW airport on Jan. 13-16 to begin the process of composing the order that will be sent to the Secretary of Agriculture...
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China lowers tariff on pecans from 24 to 10 percent
Pecans were among several agricultural commodities that were recently granted lower tariff rates in China. The tariff rate for pecans, inshell and meats, going into China went from 24 percent to 10 percent effective Jan. 1, 2015. The tariff on macadamias went from 24 percent to 19 percent. The impact of this development on the...
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Texas Pecan Show Snapshots
REGIONAL PECAN SHOW — From left, Bill Ree and Monte Nesbitt judge the West Texas Pecan Show in San Angelo in December while County Horticulturist Allison Watkins and grower Chester McCown look on. Top entries from the three regional shows were collected and preserved for more judging next July at the Texas State Pecan Show,...
Read moreChairman-Elect Conaway sets Senior House Agriculture Committee staff
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman K. Michael Conaway (TX-11), who was selected on Nov. 18 to be the next Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, announced the appointment of key senior staff to lead the Committee in the 114th Congress: “A team of seasoned professionals will be at the helm of the Agriculture Committee Staff next...
Read moreU.S. Pecans Participates in SIAL Paris Trade Show
U.S. Pecans was represented at SIAL Paris in France, Oct. 19-24, by project leaders Rosemary Alexander of National Pecan Growers Council and Heather Salopek, Marketing Specialist of U.S. Pecans, Helen Watts of Young Pecan, Drew Haas of San Saba Pecan and Slade Ellis of Ellis Bros. Pecans. The pecan industry was also represented by Green...
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Report from FHC Trade Show: China market beginning to show interest in nutmeats
The National Pecan Growers Council continued its export promotions Nov. 12-14 at the FHC (Food and Hospitality China) show in Shanghai. The following report was written by NPGC’s Heather Salopek. The U.S. Pecans 18-square-meter booth was located in Hall 7 of the USA pavilion at the Shanghai New International Expo Center in Shanghai, China. The...
Read moreAmerican Pecan Board provides update on marketing order effort
The American Pecan Board (APB) was established in May 2013 as an organization to represent all segments of the pecan industry, including those whose livelihood involved the growing, handling, processing and marketing of pecans. After consultation with USDA in Washington, the APB decided, in December of last year, to go before the industry and propose...
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Marketing order sessions continue
USDA Under Secretary of Marketing and Regulatory Programs Edward Avalos recently told an audience of pecan growers gathered in New Mexico that insisting on always doing things the way your fathers did them is not a path to success. “Nothing ever stays the same. If you want to be successful, you must change. It is...
Read moreCold storage carry-in totals 171 million lbs.
The latest USDA cold storage report was released on Oct. 22 and indicated that 171 million pounds of pecans, in-shell basis, were in cold storage at the end of September 2014. This number is used by the industry as the carry-in supply for the 2014/2015 season. The cold storage number at the end of August...
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NPGC sponsors pecan nutrition seminars in China
The National Pecan Growers Council sponsored a multi-city seminar series on the nutritional and clinical value of pecans in the human diet in China. The program was a FAS/MAP initiative funded by U.S. pecan grower contributions. Dr. Ronald B. Pegg, Associate Professor of Food Science, University of Georgia, and Dr. Randy Hudson, Vice President of...
Read moreNPGC considers export strategies for 2015
The Oversight Committee of the National Pecan Growers Council (NPGC) met on Oct. 13 in Dallas to prioritize marketing plans for 2015. National Pecan Growers Council is receiving Market Access Program funding from USDA to promote pecans in export markets. NPGC received slightly over $500,000 in MAP funds in 2014 and will be notified in...
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American Pecan Board hosts USDA delegation
The American Pecan Board, a relatively new organization, is currently in the process of staging regional meetings across the pecan belt to inform and receive feedback on a potential federal marketing order for pecans. The board is recommending that the industry establish such a plan. There are many details to be worked out, according to...
Read moreCold storage pecans total 264 million lbs.
According to USDA’s latest cold storage report, there were approximately 264 million pounds of pecans, on an inshell basis, in cold storage at the end of June. That number is reached by converting the 55.624 million pounds of meats to an inshell number and then adding that number to the actual inshell number which is 137.696...
Read moreTexas Pecan Board schedules election for 3 at-large slots
The Texas Pecan Board will hold elections in August to elect 3 board members where current members’ terms are expiring. The Board was established in 1998 after pecan growers throughout Texas voted into effect a one-half-cent-per-pound pecan assessment to provide funds for promotion and research. Nine pecan producers serve on the board. Board members whose...
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U.S. Pecans probes European market at Alimentaria
In an effort to enhance pecan exports to Europe, the National Pecan Growers Council participated in the Alimentaria Trade Show in Barcelona, Spain for the first time in April. Those volunteers who represented U.S. Pecans at this show included Helen Watts of Young Pecan Co., Rett Salopek of 6U Farms in Las Cruces, New Mexico,...
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U.S. Pecans showcased at Gulfood show in Dubai
The National Pecan Growers Council sent a team to represent U.S. Pecans at the Gulf Food Show in Dubai, United Arab Emirates at the end of February. The team included Drew Haas from San Saba Pecan Company, Scott Hudson from Hudson Pecan Company and Blair Krebs, Texas Pecan Growers Association and a project leader for...
Read moreNPSA revisits 2013 crop: estimates 223 million pounds
When the National Pecan Shellers Association met in Nashville at the end of March, members discussed the 2013 crop and compiled a revised assessment of this past season’s production. NPSA recapped the 2013 U.S. pecan crop at 222.95 million pounds. The state-by-state breakdown was as follows: Alabama 3.00 mil. lbs. Arizona 21.00 mil. lbs. Arkansas...
Read moreGeorgia Pecan Commission Exhibits at Nutrition and Dietitian Conference
The Georgia Pecan Commission exhibited at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ Food and Nutrition Conference and Expo (FNCE) in Houston, Texas, Oct. 19-21, 2013. Advisory board members/spokespersons registered dietitian Carolyn O’Neil, Dr. Ron Pegg and registered dietitian Densie Webb made appearances in the Georgia Pecans booth to answer nutritional questions and spread the “antioxiNUT”...
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SIAL Middle East Trip Report
The National Pecan Growers Council participated in SIAL Middle East for the first time Nov. 24-26, utilizing a booth featuring U.S. Pecans. The participating team consisted of Cindy Wise, Bruce Caris, Executive Vice President of Green Valley Pecan Co, and Vickie Mabry, Executive Director of the National Pecan Shellers Assn. The trade show was held...
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Georgia Pecans visits the Big Apple
In advance of Georgia Pecan Month and the upcoming harvest season, celebrity chef and cookbook author Hugh Acheson joined a Georgia Pecan Commission representative in New York City to conduct desk-side editorial meetings with key editors of consumer, food and health magazines. Acheson is the chef and partner of three restaurants, Five and Ten, and...
Read moreFDA releases new tool to help prevent intentional food contamination
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has released a new tool to help bolster the food industry’s defense measures against an act of intentional food contamination. The Food Defense Plan Builder is a comprehensive, easy-to-use software program designed to help owners and operators of food facilities — ranging from primary production and manufacturing to retail...
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U.S. Pecans effort probes ingredient market in China
The National Pecan Growers Council participated in the Food Ingredients China trade show for the first time, March 26-28, 2013, in Shanghai, China. Cindy Wise of Texas Pecan Growers Association served as team leader for this project and was assisted by Ellen Burkett of Priester Pecan Company. This is only the second year that this...
Read moreU.S. Pecans launches 2013 promotions at Fruit Logistica
The U.S. Pecans program continues to promote pecans around the world, helped in part by MAP (Market Access Program) funds and incredible industry support. Through the program a team member and an industry representative attended the Fruit Logistic trade show in Berlin, Germany on February 6 – 8. Sean Hayes from The Green Valley Pecan...
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U.S. Pecans advances presence in European market
The National Pecan Growers Council participated in SIAL Paris 2012, a trade show billed as the world’s largest food industry exhibition, Oct. 21-25. The Paris, France event boasted 140,000 visitors from more than 200 countries; 6,000 exhibitors from 106 countries; 19 product sectors; and 1,500 journalists from 45 countries. This event is held every two...
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U.S.Pecans probes Indian market at Mumbai trade show
Bruce Caris of Green Valley Pecan Company, Sahuarita, Arizona and James Ditmore of New Mexico Department of Agriculture represented U.S. Pecans at the Annapoorna World Food of India trade show in Mumbai, India on Sept. 25-28, 2012. The trade show and visits to the local retail nut market and wholesale nut markets provided some unique...
Read moreCurrent harvest started early, progressing rapidly
Harvest has moved along at a fairly rapid clip this season after an early start in much of the country. A few Texas growers actually gathered their first ‘Pawnees’ during the last week of August, which they noted was their earliest ever harvest. Most other areas of the country are also reporting early crop maturity....
Read moreCropland 18% of U.S. total
The USDA Economic Research Service recently reported, “The United States has a total land area of nearly 2.3 billion acres. In 2007, the major land uses were forestland at 30%; grassland pasture and rangeland at 27%; cropland 18%; special uses (primarily parks and wildlife areas) 14%; miscellaneous uses (like tundra or swamps) 9%; and urban...
Read moreINC NREF Recaps Recent Accomplishments
The pecan industry has been contributing $50,000 per year for a number of years to the International Tree Nut Council’s Nutrition Research and Education Foundation. This is the minimum amount that the foundation requires from any nut industry that wishes to be included in the foundations efforts. The nuts currently participating are almonds, brazil nuts,...
Read moreNew Mexico State University Expands Pecan Research as Region Expands Production
Pecans, like people, are moving to the Southwest. According to the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service, New Mexico and Arizona accounted for a mere 4 percent of U.S. pecan production in the mid-1970s. As a result of steady growth in production, the percentage had blossomed to more than 28 percent a third of a century...
Read moreU.S. Pecans on Hand for Sial China Trade Show
The U.S. Pecans effort to promote the export of pecans was focused on China May 18-20 when 4 representatives manned a booth at the large annual SIAL China trade show in Shanghai. Cindy Wise of the Texas Pecan Growers Association, Bob Whaley of Whaley Pecan Co. in Alabama, grower Mike Spradling of Oklahoma and grower/sheller...
Read moreTexas Pecan IPM Team Wins Superior Service Award
COLLEGE STATION – The Texas AgriLife Extension Service’s Pecan Integrated Pest Management team has been awarded the Superior Service Award. The nine-member team was recognized for “their work in developing and implementing a program that has culminated in a computerized information delivery system to provide real-time information to pecan growers throughout Texas and other pecan...
Read moreBASF Offers Savings on Headline Fungicide
RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC, April 21, 2011 – Growers who use Headline® fungicide may qualify to save $50 per gallon on purchases through BASF authorized retailers made by Aug. 15. “Headline fungicide is a smart, strategic investment for growers, and the Headline Advantage offer means it pays even more to plan ahead,” said Jason Ward,...
Read moreU.S. Pecans Team Probes Canadian Market
A team of U.S. pecan industry representatives headed north to Toronto, Ontario, Canada, on Jan. 23 to carry out a whirlwind two-day agenda that included meetings with six influential Canadian nut buyers. This “outbound trade mission” was the first official activity for the newly launched promotional effort dubbed U.S. Pecans, which is being funded in...
Read moreThanking the Commissioner
THANKING THE COMMISSIONER — The Georgia Pecan Commodity Commission honored retiring Georgia Ag Commissioner Tommy Irvin, center, for 42 years in his position, making him the longest serving ag commissioner ever, according to commission president Duke Lane, right. Lane, along with Chop Evans, left, presented Irvin with this pecan wood plaque made by grower and commission...
Read morePecan Industry Sees Record High Grower, Meat Prices
Demand for pecans has been at an all-time high this season with U.S. growers enjoying record high prices for in-shell product. Export demand from China has continued to be a significant factor in the pecan market in 2010. Growers have been paid over $5.00, point basis, for large top-quality pecans in recent weeks — that...
Read moreWith Help of MAP Funding , Pecan Industry Launching International Promotions
Riding the crest of recent export demand for pecans, the U.S. pecan industry has united to pursue and be granted $200,000 in Market Access Program (MAP) funds from USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service. The funding will be utilized in 2011 to promote pecans in several foreign markets including China, India, Europe and Dubai. Additionally, the...
Read moreIndustry to Establish Research and Extension Priorities
Research and Extension programs on pecans need your direction and support. A planning conference has been scheduled for Feb. 13-15, 2011 at the Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, Ardmore, Oklahoma. Industry representatives have been invited to establish research and Extension priorities in a) production, b) processing and distribution, and c) consumer and retail markets. The industry...
Read moreKing Ranch Acquires Southwest Nut
King Ranch Inc. announced on Oct. 6 that it has acquired the name and substantially all of the assets of Southwest Nut Co. The newly acquired assets include a pecan processing and shelling plant and related equipment in Fabens, Texas and substantially all of the equipment in a second plant located in Juarez, Mexico. Robert...
Read moreNPSA Elects Board Members at Annual Meet
The National Pecan Shellers Association re-elected three members and elected three others to serve on the Board of Directors during the NPSA Annual Meeting Sept. 16-18 in Memphis, Tennessee. Jerry Fogle of Golden Kernel Pecan Co., Terri Lynn Schuck of Terri Lynn Inc. and Larry Willson of Sunnyland Farms Inc. were re-elected to new two-year...
Read moreIndustry ‘Guesstimates’ Suggest Hefty “Off-Year” Crop Potential
If Kenneth Pape’s crop forecast, offered at the recent Texas Pecan Growers conference in San Marcos, proves true, the 2010 “off-year” pecan crop would be as big as 2009’s “on-year” total. Pape predicted a 292-million-pound total for U.S. production this coming harvest season. That set off a lively debate between Pape and fellow prognosticator Ben...
Read morePecans Provide Neurological Protection
Lowell, MA – Eating about a handful of pecans each day may play a role in protecting the nervous system, according to a new animal study published in the current issue of Current Topics in Nutraceutical Research. The study, conducted at the Center for Cellular Neurobiology at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, suggests adding pecans to your...
Read moreUSDA Summarizes ’09 Pecan Crop; Average Grower Price Increases
Even though the 2009 pecan crop was 100 million pounds larger than the 2008 crop, according to USDA, the average price paid to the grower went up by three cents per in-shell pound. Most industry sources attribute this to the strong demand from the Chinese export market for pecans. The strong prices were limited to...
Read moreShellers Recap ’09 Crop, Hear Good Nutritional News
The National Pecan Shellers Association gathered for its Mid-Winter Meeting, Feb. 18-20, in New Orleans just as the city was winding down from a two-week celebration encompassing Mardi Gras and a Super Bowl victory for the Saints. However, some of the shellers were not feeling very victorious about their 2009 pecan-buying season as export markets...
Read moreGrowers Who Plan Can Save On Headline Purchase From Basf
RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC, February 17, 201—Growers using Headline® fungicide may be eligible to receive $75 per gallon back on purchases from authorized BASF retailers made by May 15, 2010. “Growers always want to get the most out of every acre,” said Reed Barrett, Market Manager for BASF. “In these economic times, it’s also important to...
Read moreOne Observer Says, “Be Careful What You Wish For!”
Change is inevitable. As General Eric Shinseki, Chief of Staff, U.S. Army once noted, “If you don’t like change, you’re going to like irrelevance even less.” During the last century, the pecan industry has experienced a number of changes — the change from hand to mechanical cracking, the grafting of better-yielding varieties, the introduction of...
Read moreNow In The Spotlight: Keeping Pecans Safe And Wholesome
Recent outbreaks of foodborne illness involving peanuts and pistachios have put a spotlight on issues related to food safety and nut crops. The general consensus among food safety experts prior to these outbreaks was that nuts, especially tree nuts, are relatively unlikely to harbor bacterial pathogens, mainly because of their low moisture content. But as...
Read moreHazelnuts Recalled Due To Salmonella; No Illness Reported
NEWBURG, Ore., Dec. 18 (UPI)—Willamette Filbert Growers of Newberg, Oregon, has recalled nearly 30,000 pounds of shelled hazelnuts because of a risk of salmonella, federal officials said. Salmonella was found in a production lot at the facility where the nuts were shelled, the U.S Food and Drug Administration said in a release Friday. No illnesses...
Read moreRoyalty Pecan Farm Launches New Welcome Center
The distance from the old to the new is not far—only about 100 yards or so—but visitors to Royalty Pecan Farm this fall surely think they’ve arrived at a completely different place. And they have, in some ways. The new Welcome Center at Royalty Pecan Farm officially opened on Oct. 1, a beautiful new building...
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