United Fresh has opened the nomination period for the 2014 Produce Excellence in Foodservice Awards Program, which honors the foodservice industry’s most innovative produce performers.
The program, sponsored by PRO*ACT, since its launch in 2008, has honored more than 30 different chefs and foodservice operators for their exceptional work in incorporating fresh produce in menu development, proper food safety and handling, engaging in community outreach, and building an overall positive dining experience with fresh produce as a centerpiece.
“Thousands of talented chefs work hard every day to find innovative ways to showcase fresh produce in their menus,” says Tom Stenzel, United Fresh president and CEO.
In 2014, the Business in Industry & Colleges category will be expanded into two separate categories, “Business in Industry” and “Colleges & Universities,” bringing the total number of winning chefs to seven.
Chefs also will be honored in each the following business categories: Casual and Family Dining, Fine Dining Restaurants, Hotels & Healthcare Industry, K-12 Foodservice and Quick Service Restaurants. Winners are selected by a panel of United Fresh member representatives. Nominations must be submitted by February 28; nomination information is available online at http://www.unitedfresh.org/fsa.
“Fresh produce continues to be the rising star of the foodservice sector, and chefs play a critical role in introducing consumers to new produce items,” says Max Yeater, president of PRO*ACT. “We are proud to support this exceptional program and honor leading chefs who are making fresh produce the highlight of their menus.”
The seven winning chefs and their corporate executives receive complimentary airfare, hotel accommodations, and registrations to United Fresh 2014, June 10–13 in Chicago. The winners will be honored at the Produce Celebration Gala, and the chefs will also participate in the education program at United Fresh 2014 to share their views on produce trends in foodservice. PRO*ACT will also make a donation to a charitable organization of each winner’s choice.
