Showcasing the important contributions of the food industry in the Garden State, the New Jersey Food Council (NJFC) today joined the New Jersey Food Processors Association, the New Jersey Farm Bureau, and the New Jersey Restaurant and Hospitality Association in hosting the fifth annual “From Farm to Fork: The Food Industry in the Garden State Serves You” at the State House in Trenton.
Throughout the day, key legislators and policy makers visited exhibits in the State House halls and taste-tested beverages and snacks from food retailers, including NJFC members Wegman’s Food Markets, Coca-Cola Refreshments USA, Kings Food Markets, Campbell Soup Company and Vitamin Paste as well as farmers, processors and suppliers.
New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture Douglas Fisher kicked off the event in the morning by presenting a proclamation to the groups to recognize the work of the multi-billion-dollar food industry in the Garden State.
Additionally, Assemblyman Vincent Mazzeo (D-Atlantic) presented the four food industry organizations with a resolution in the Assembly Chambers. The resolution, co-sponsored by Senator Jim Whelan (D-Atlantic), paid tribute to the food industry’s numerous contributions to the State of New Jersey.
“From farm to fork, New Jersey’s food industry is essential to the vitality of our economy, our communities and our residents, generating more than $105 billion each year and employing almost 600,000 workers,” said Linda Doherty, President and CEO of the NJFC. “This event is an effective opportunity to showcase the latest food products and trends to New Jersey legislators and Administration officials. It also serves an important reminder of the crucial role we play in the health and wellness of New Jersey’s communities and state economy.”