NATIONAL DAYBUSINESS

National Produce Misting Day

On National Produce Misting Day, celebrate the art of keeping produce fresh and delicious for everyone to enjoy.

OCT2

Saturday, October 2Every year on October 2

days to go

Roots: Established in 2018 by Corrigan Corporation of America
Vibe: Community-focused and health-conscious.
Also on Oct 2: International Day of Non-Violence · World No Alcohol Day · Body Language Day
Hashtag: #NationalProduceMistingDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Mist your veggies

Spritz your fridge produce with water to keep greens crisp and fresh.

WITH FRIENDS

Thank a grocer

Thank your grocery store's produce team for keeping veggies fresh daily.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Share fresh produce

Bring misted-fresh fruit or veggies for coworkers or classmates to snack on.

Plan ahead

National Produce Misting Day is observed on October 2 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Fri, Oct 2this year

2027Sat, Oct 2

2028Mon, Oct 2

2029Tue, Oct 2

2030Wed, Oct 2

2031Thu, Oct 2

2032Sat, Oct 2

2033Sun, Oct 2

2034Mon, Oct 2

2035Tue, Oct 2

2036Thu, Oct 2

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Fast facts

1979Jack Corrigan patented the first automatic produce misters in 1979.

Unmisted carrots lost over 7% of their weight in 16 hours.

The story

Automatic produce misting dates to 1979, when Jack Corrigan patented the first systems; before that, grocers used soaked burlap sacks. Farmers have long recognized that maintaining the right moisture levels helps to preserve the quality and extend the lifespan of their harvest. National Produce Misting Day, observed on October 2, emphasizes the significance of this often-overlooked method of freshness enhancement. By keeping produce hydrated, consumers can enjoy flavorful and nutritionally rich foods.

Read the full story

In grocery stores across the United States, produce misting systems have become commonplace. These systems work by spraying a fine mist of water, creating a humid environment that prevents wilting and dehydration. This simple yet effective technique can significantly improve the appearance of fruits and vegetables, making them more appealing to shoppers. As consumers increasingly seek out fresh and healthy options, the role of misting in food presentation cannot be overstated.

Beyond aesthetics, misting also plays a crucial role in food safety and sustainability. When produce is kept fresh, it reduces the likelihood of spoilage and waste. According to studies, the USDA estimates that 30 to 40 percent of the U.S. food supply is wasted. By celebrating National Produce Misting Day, we highlight the importance of reducing waste and promoting sustainable practices in our food systems.

As we recognize the benefits of produce misting, it is essential to encourage better practices at home. Simple steps, such as misting fruits and vegetables before storage or during meal prep, can make a significant difference. This day serves as a reminder of the power of freshness and how essential it is to our diets, communities, and the environment.