Packaging plays a “huge role” when a producer makes the decision to begin selling it retail, says Andrew Abendshein, president of Houston-based Acre in a Box, a grower of hydroponic lettuce.

Leading fresh produce marketer The Oppenheimer Group is ramping up its commitment to recycling through a new packaging program.

When most people think of the grocery store produce department, they likely picture consumers sniffing and squeezing (maybe tasting) individual fruits and vegetables before putting them in their baskets.