Poll Closed: Case Not Closed

The Fresh Talk poll was a real horse race this week. The question:

Would the industry benefit from a USDA generic promotion order, with mandatory assessments, for fresh produce?

Yes 8 (42%)
No 10 (52%)
Unsure (6%)


TK: So most believe a national generic promotion order would not benefit the industry. However, I would say the case is not yet closed. Could a promotion order be combined with a scheme for food safety oversight? I appreciate the input from those who find the idea less than stellar. Some believe relying on AMS would be a mistake, while others believe the market will provide a solution. Others say that mandatory assessments have been tested in courts and found wanting. Still, the industry needs to grapple with raising the profile of consumer messaging, and a national promotion order could do the trick.