As retailers prepare for consumers to migrate toward online platforms for packaged goods, fresh offerings in the perimeter are playing a key role in attracting shoppers to brick-and-mortar, according to the Q3 2017 edition of the FreshFacts on Retail report, produced by United Fresh Produce Association, Washington, D.C.

This quarter’s report features seasonal category deep dives on berries, avocados and grapes, with a comparison of Q1 2017 vs. Q1 2016 results.

A spotlight on the strength of organic produce showcases purchasing trends and commodities that still have room for expansion in this sector. The report also looks at value-added fruits and vegetables, including a continued feature on the packaged salad category.

In addition, the Q3 2017 report explores how innovation in the produce department is driving consumer demand for alternatives to pasta and rice.

“Health and convenience are both key factors in the rise of new products in the produce department,” says Jeff Oberman, vice president of trade relations and United Fresh’s Retail-Foodservice board liaison. “From kits to veggie noodles, we expect continued growth and expansion of fresh-cut and value-added products, both in private label and branded produce.”

The FreshFacts on Retail report, produced in partnership with Nielsen Fresh, Chicago, and direction from the United Fresh Retail-Foodservice board of directors, measures retail price and sales trends for the Top 10 fruit and vegetable commodities as well as other value-added produce categories. The report is sponsored by Del Monte Fresh Produce, Coral Gables, Fla.