GMO is a common term used by consumers to describe foods that have been created through genetic engineering. While GMOs have been available to consumers since the early 1990s and are a common part of today's food supply, research shows consumers have limited knowledge and understanding about what GMOs are, why they are used, and how they are made.

Vince Forte has more than 30 years of experience in product development, manufacturing, and technology transfer in nutritional ingredients, medical diagnostics and biotechnology.

Bill Lynch has been appointed the interim president of the Specialty Food Association by the SFA’s Board of Directors. Lynch, who has 20 years of experience with the Association, will take over the leadership position as the contract expires for the current president, Phil Kafarakis. Kafarakis will assist Lynch over the coming month to take over leadership duties.

Kate Farms, a plant-based medical nutrition leader, announced Christopher (Casey) Bauer as executive vice president, product and operations. In this newly created position, Bauer will lead an outstanding team and oversee supply management, procurement, manufacturing, distribution and quality in addition to product development and innovation for Kate Farms' rapidly growing business. Bauer will be based at the company's headquarters in Santa Barbara.

The Firmament Group, a provider of tailored debt and equity capital solutions to small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), announced an investment in Citrus Extracts, LLC.

Golden State Foods (GSF), one of the largest diversified suppliers to the foodservice and retail industries, announced the promotion of Chad Buechel to president of KanPak US.

Orgain, creator of the first ready-to-drink organic protein shake and innovator of high-quality and convenient clean nutrition products, announced the six finalists that are in the running to receive a total of $150,000 provided by Orgain's Grants for Greater Good program.

The National Restaurant Association announced the appointment of Tom Bené as the Association’s president & chief executive officer (CEO) and CEO of the Educational Foundation, effective June 1.

The American Egg Board (AEB) announced that, effective in June, Emily Metz will assume the role of president and chief executive officer, leading a strong staff and collaborating with the American egg industry to build demand for US eggs and egg products both domestically and abroad. An agriculture industry veteran and passionate strategist, Metz fills the role vacated by previous CEO Anne Alonzo last month.

Stacy's Rise Project, the grant and mentorship program created by Stacy's Pita Chips to advance female founders, is back for 2020 and committed to helping even more women rise, in more ways than ever before.