LAKE ALFRED, Fla. — UF/IFAS will host the annual Citrus Packinghouse Day on August 26, a free event featuring workshops and seminars for industry professionals interested in the latest information on interstate and export regulations, food safety regulations, training opportunities, postharvest fruit processing improvements, vendor exhibits and more.
The event will also include presentations of the annual J.T. Leslie Award to a person who has made significant contributions to the industry.
Co-sponsored by Florida Citrus Packers and supported by industry leaders, the event will be held at the UF/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center Ben Hill Griffin Hall in Lake Alfred, Florida. The program returns to an “in-person” event after being presented virtually due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
It will run from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. This year marks the 60th anniversary of the event.
“We are very excited to once again host Packinghouse Day in person after last year’s virtual event”, said Mark Ritenour, professor of citrus postharvest technology at the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Indian River Research and Education Center and coordinator for the event. “The program includes many updates that are important for those working in the industry to know for continued efficient and effective packinghouse operations.”
Morning coffee and donuts (JBT), lunch (DECCO), and door prizes with be provided by sponsors. Participants will also be able to visit with vendors throughout the day.
While participation is FREE, everyone must register beforehand this year! Click here to register from a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone or Android device, or use the following link: https://packinghouseday2021.eventbrite.com
–Ruth Borger, UF/IFAS