Meet This Week's Featured Local Farm
Heilig Orchards
"For 5 generations, we've embraced both preservation and innovation."
Heilig Orchards was first established as Charles Heilig and Son in 1909 on 93 acres of land with the aim of farming cabbage and peppers. Today, Heilig Orchards consists of over 225 acres devoted primarily to growing peaches. The Heilig family is dedicated to innovation, adopting an Integrated Pest management system, and 100% drip irrigation.
Farm to Table: Vibrant Recipes Using Fresh Produce
Past Featured Farms:
Torrey Farms
“Taking care of our land and resources has allowed us to produce the highest quality products on our land for generations.”
In 1803, John Torry arrived in the town of Bethany, Genesee County, New York in search of better soil in which to launch a family farm operation. Four generations later, Torrey Farms Inc. operates over 15,000 acres, spanning 5 counties in Western New York. Along the way, they developed a deep-seated belief in the value of sustainable farming practices to ensure quality and food safety.
Little Leaf Farms
“Little Leaf Farms is dedicated to transforming the way food is grown, creating a more sustainable and resilient food system that benefits both people and the planet.”
From their high-tech hydroponic greenhouses in McAdoo, PA and Devens, MA, Little Leaf Farms produces sustainably grown, pesticide-free local lettuce year-round. It is harvested and delivered to ShopRite in about a day, making it the freshest and crispiest lettuce available. Every step of the process, from the planting of the seeds to the package itself is designed to limit the impact on our planet.
Frank Donio Farms
“Our family works hard to bring the best of our farm to your table, and we’re proud to be a part of your meals and memories.”
From founder Frank Donio’s idea to provide fresh, locally grown produce, daily, to the growing urban markets of New York and Philadelphia, sprung 4 generations of farmers instilled with a desire to grow great produce, improve people’s lives, and give back to the community.
Turek Farms
“We take pride in everything we grow, from the moment we put the seed in the ground, until we load the product on a truck.”
Turek Farms was founded during the Great Depression on 40 acres of land in King Ferry, NY when Andrew Turek left Detroit. There, in the Finger Lakes region of Upstate New York, the alluvial soils and lake-moderated microclimate created ideal conditions for a number of vegetables. Today, four generations later, Turek Farms harvests nearly 4,000 acres of fresh produce.
Macrie Brothers Blueberry Farm
“We are a proud third-generation family farm, everyone in the Macrie family is actively involved in its operations, carrying forward a legacy of dedication and innovation.”
Located in Hammonton, NJ, the “Blueberry Capital of the World”, the Macrie Brothers Blueberry Farm sits on some 800 acres, while standing on family tradition. Established by their father in 1953 as a 26-acre farm, today the 3 brothers produce 5 million pounds of blueberries per year.
Heilig Orchards
“For 5 generations, we’ve embraced both preservation and innovation.”
Heilig Orchards was first established as Charles Heilig and Son in 1909 on 93 acres of land with the aim of farming cabbage and peppers. Today, Heilig Orchards consists of over 225 acres devoted primarily to growing peaches. The Heilig family is dedicated to innovation, adopting an Integrated Pest management system, and 100% drip irrigation.
Minkus Family Farms Inc.
“We are committed to locally-sourced, sustainable farming.”
Minkus Family Farms Inc is situated on over 1,500 acres of farmland in the famous Black Dirt Region of Southern Orange County, NY. Minkus yellow and red onions are planted, grown, harvested and transported from the farm direct to ShopRite, along with sweet and white onions, with the highest level of food safety in the industry.
ZRH FArms
“The satisfaction I get out of seeing a crop to completion is second to none.”
2025’s Outstanding Young Farmer, Zach Heiken, is the first-generation owner/operator of namesake ZRH Farms in Pedricktown, NJ. ZRH provides ShopRite with asparagus, peppers, cucumbers, squash, and more.
Pero Family Farms
“We are leading innovators in the industry, bringing over 100 years of commitment and integrity to store shelves across the country.”
In 1908 Peter Pero, a Sicilian-born immigrant, planted the seed that would grow into the fully integrated farming operation it is today. Over 100-plus years of operations, this 5th generation family of farmers has been at the forefront of innovation, expanding their operations to become one of the largest organic vegetable growers in the country.
Green Empire Farms
“We grow year-round, including during the winter months, using high pressure sodium lights, hot water to heat the greenhouse, and an energy screen.”
The addition of our new, industry-leading greenhouse in Oneida, NY brings Mastronardi Produce’s internal greenhouse network to seven locations. Family-owned since 1954, Mastronardi is the largest vertically integrated producer of flavorful greenhouse fruits and vegetables.