Publix To Push Florida Produce

Fresh Florida produce items will take center stage in Publix Super Markets in early spring when they will be featured during in-store “Simple Meals” cooking demonstrations throughout the Southeast, and in Publix Cooking Schools in five cities.
A variety of Florida produce items will be featured at various times from February 1 to May 21, 2010.  Each Florida product will be part of the “Simple Meals” cooking demonstration for three to four days in all Publix stores.  During these demonstrations, recipe brochures will be displayed at the “Simple Meals” kiosk and in the produce department with the featured Florida products.
Additionally, Florida Culinary Ambassador Justin Timineri will host the five Publix Cooking Schools, which will teach participants handling and preparation techniques for the featured Florida products.
“We’re very pleased to again partner with Publix to promote Florida-grown products,” Florida Agriculture Commissioner Charles H. Bronson said.  “This is an exceptional opportunity to highlight Florida’s early-spring harvest of fresh produce.”
Publix and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services have a history of partnering to promote Florida-grown agricultural products.  Previous collaborations have included in-store product demonstrations and advertising displays, distribution of product and recipe brochures, and retail incentive programs.
The Florida spring produce promotion is part of the Department’s ongoing “Fresh from Florida” marketing program which helps promote Florida-grown products to consumers.
“Simple Meals” and the Publix Cooking Schools are components of Publix’s “Aprons” program that helps introduce consumers to products and teaches them easy ways to prepare wholesome and delicious meals.
Cooking and taste-testing demonstrations are conducted at the “Simple Meals” station in every Publix Super Market.  Recipe cards for the featured meal are displayed in each store along with all the ingredients.  The “Simple Meals” associate prepares the recipe, gives out samples to shoppers, and answers questions.  The “Simple Meals” program is a service provided by Publix to help customers save time making meals at home.
The Publix Cooking Schools — which are located in Jacksonville, Tampa, Sarasota, Boca Raton and Atlanta — are designed to help beginners and experienced cooks alike expand their kitchen repertoire.  Shoppers can register to attend the Publix Cooking Schools, which often feature noted chefs, authors and cooking celebrities.