Nonfoods

IRWINDALE, Calif. - In a deal that combines the United States' third- and fourth-largest fresh-cut salad companies, Ready Pac Produce, Inc. and Tanimura & Antle announced they have signed a letter of intent to merge Tanimura & Antle's Salad Time value-added business with Ready Pac.

BRATTLEBORO, Vt. - C&S Wholesale Grocers Inc. was recently recognized for its community involvement work and donations to eradicate hunger.

LOS ANGELES - A man has been indicted on charges that he attempted to extort money from the Ralphs supermarket chain by threatening to place contaminated baby food products on store shelves, authorities announced yesterday, according to AP.

WASHINGTON, D.C. and NEWARK, Del. - The United Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Association (United) and the Produce Marketing Association (PMA) announced today that the two associations will work together, in concert with other produce industry stakeholders, to develop a produce industry food safety initiative that best serves the needs of the industry and the government.

ORLANDO, Fla. - As the severity of a medical condition increases, the likelihood that consumers will choose a generic medication dramatically decreases, says a survey released today at the Medco Health Solutions, Inc. 2004 Drug Trend Symposium.

TORONTO - Food Safe International, Inc. has entered into a letter of intent with DTG Industries, Inc. to create RFID traceability and tracking solutions for perishable fruits and vegetables.

MILWAUKEE - Specialty retailer Trader Joe's, known for its private label organic and gourmet food items, is seeking locations in Milwaukee and Madison, local real estate sources told the Business Journal of Milwaukee.

In the aftermath of Fleming's implosion, a new order of wholesaling has arisen for large national retailers and regional players and co-ops alike.