Tallahassee, Fla. — This year, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Fresh From Florida program celebrates its 30th anniversary. Established in 1990 by the Florida Legislature, the Florida Agricultural Promotional Campaign (FAPC), better known as Fresh from Florida, supports Florida’s farmers, ranchers, fishermen, aquaculturists and horticulturists by helping market Florida-grown products around the world.
“For the past thirty years, Fresh From Florida has built a worldwide brand that’s become a household name, known for farm-fresh, high-quality products,” said Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried. “Fresh From Florida has created $7 billion in revenue for Florida’s hardworking farmers and ranchers, and keeps our state’s more than 300 commodities front-of-mind for consumers. For Florida’s taxpayers, it’s a return on investment like no other. From fresh fruit and vegetables, to seafood and peanuts, Florida’s farmers are the best in the world – and Fresh From Florida helps showcase our world-class products across the globe.”
Through partnerships with retail grocery stores, trade shows, retailers like Subway, and more, Fresh From Florida reaches over 50 million consumers yearly. Food producers that meet standards can use the “Fresh From Florida” logo on product packaging and signage to highlight locally-grown commodities.
Fresh From Florida achieves a $22 return on investment for every $1 invested. The program helps power Florida’s second-largest industry, generating an additional $137 million in cash receipts for Florida’s more than 47,000 farmers and ranchers, and has created $840 million in sales from trade shows since 2013. Annually, the brand contributes 2,300 new jobs and $12.8 million in tax revenue to the state of Florida.
Fresh From Florida has also partnered with up to 70 national retailers in 25 different countries, making Florida one of the top states in agricultural exports. The Department’s 2020-21 budget asks state lawmakers for $10.8 million to fund this vital program.
To learn more about the Fresh From Florida, check out videos and tips, and sign up for email recipes direct from Fresh From Florida’s Chef Justin Timineri, visit the Fresh From Florida page.
