Top Chefs Earn Top Honors at United Fresh 2013

Six of the country’s most exciting chefs and foodservice professionals representing an array of culinary styles and backgrounds will be honored this May as part of the United Fresh Produce Excellence in Foodservice Awards Program. Sponsored by PRO*ACT, and now in its sixth year, the program honors chefs and their companies for their innovative and influential use of fresh produce in the culinary arts. The United Fresh Produce Association will formally recognize the six winners at United Fresh 2013, the association’s annual convention and expo in San Diego, May 14-16. “For six years now, we at PRO*ACT continue to be amazed at the creativity, dedication and insight shown by the honorees in this program,” said Max Yeater, PRO*ACT president. “We are so proud to be a sponsor of the Produce Excellence in Foodservice Awards and we thank all of the nominees and all of the chefs who work so hard to increase the consumption of healthy fresh fruits and vegetables.” The six winners were selected from nearly 120 nominations submitted by produce companies and foodservice operations across North America. A panel of produce and foodservice industry leaders reviewed each nominee’s demonstrated incorporation of fresh produce into menu development, use of protocols for correct storage and handling of produce, leadership in produce related community service and special events and recognition by their company and industry peers. The 2013 Produce Excellence in Foodservice Award winners are:

“These winners have made extraordinary dishes that feature fresh fruits and vegetables mainstays on their menus, and for the important role that they play in showcasing our industry, we are proud to honor them,” says Tom Stenzel, United Fresh CEO. “We appreciate their tremendous commitment and recognize PRO*ACT’s generous support in honoring these winners and their positive impact on our nation’s dining habits.” The six winners, along with an executive from their company, will attend United Fresh 2013 in San Diego. All six winners will participate in panel session, Restaurant Flavors and Trends from the Best which will take place on Thursday, May 16 at 2:30 p.m.