Recent Graduate Leverages Education- And It Pays Off!

Janis McIntosh, a recent graduate of The Certificate of Packaging Science program, celebrates winning the Joe Nucci Award for Product Innovation at the 2017 New York Produce Show and Conference. 

The award was given to her company for “product innovation in service of expanding fresh fruit and vegetable consumption.” The product was developed in response to health-crazed, on-the-go consumers. The snack pack’s well-portioned amounts conveniently combine fruit, cheese, and nuts in one portable package.

Janis shared, “I can honestly say that I applied elements of what I have learned from The Certificate of Packaging Science to this project, particularly in the area of building a timeline and involving all stakeholders in the process. We began shipping 3 weeks ago and the orders are increasing. Thanks again for all your help!”

Janis is a Packaging Manager for Salinas, CA-based Naturipe Farms. She has over 20 years of experience in marketing, primarily in packaging management and new product development. Since 2014, Janis has focused on packaging sustainability introducing and transitioning several products into heat seal technology that reduce the use of plastics up to 40%. Currently, Janis is working on a new Ready-to-Eat berry cup that will be in stores spring of 2018. She graduated from The Packaging School in December of 2017.

You can read the full award announcement by Produce Business’ Jim Prevor on Fresh Fruit Portal. 

It’s always rewarding to see the hard work our students put in pay off. Congratulations, Janis!