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Produce Spotlight: Apples — Why Apples Remain a Wholesale Staple Year-Round

Apples — Why Apples Remain a Wholesale Staple Year-Round

Apples are more than just a popular snack; they’re a cornerstone of the produce industry. For restaurants, grocery stores, and foodservice providers, having a reliable source of high-quality apples is essential for meeting customer demand. At E. Armata Inc., located at the Hunts Point Produce Market in The Bronx, NY, we provide fresh apples and a wide range of produce to businesses across the Northeast and mid-Atlantic, ensuring consistent quality and timely delivery year-round.

The Year-Round Appeal of Apples

Apples are uniquely versatile and available in multiple varieties, making them a reliable choice for wholesale buyers. From crisp Gala and Honeycrisp to tart Granny Smith and Fuji, there’s an apple for every taste and culinary application. Their long shelf life compared to other fruits also makes them a practical option for inventory management, reducing waste and maximizing profitability.

Selecting and Sourcing Quality Apples

When purchasing apples wholesale, focus on firmness, color, and overall freshness. Avoid apples with bruises, soft spots, or signs of decay. E. Armata Inc. carefully inspects all apples prior to delivery, guaranteeing that every shipment meets high-quality standards. With our deep relationships with growers and suppliers, we can offer a broad selection of eastern and western apple varieties to suit your business needs.

Storage and Handling Tips

Proper storage is key to maintaining apple quality. Apples should be stored in a cool, humid environment, ideally between 32-40°F. Keeping them away from strong-smelling produce will prevent the absorption of flavors. E. Armata Inc. provides handling advice to help buyers preserve freshness and ensure that their produce consistently meets customer expectations.

Why Choose E. Armata Inc.

Located in the heart of the Hunts Point Produce Market, E. Armata Inc. is proud to serve clients throughout the Northeast and mid-Atlantic. In addition to apples, we offer a full range of berries, tropical fruits, melons, herbs, vegetables, and more. Our commitment to quality, timely delivery, and attentive customer service makes us a trusted partner for wholesale produce buyers.

Conclusion

Apples remain a wholesale staple for good reason; they’re versatile, long-lasting, and in demand year-round. Secure your supply today by placing an order with E. Armata Inc. Explore our full selection or contact us to discuss your wholesale produce needs.

Produce Distributors in the Bronx

Produce-Distributors-in-the-Bronx

Produce Distributors in the Bronx

E. Armata is a family run business, operating for over 100 years as fruit and produce distributors in the Bronx. With a modest start in Manhattan at the Washington Street Market, E. Armata is now one of the largest wholesalers operating as produce distributors in the Bronx and is proud to now be in the 4th generation stage. E. Armata takes great pride in managing the company with integrity and the highest quality product available for all our customers – be they a large retail customer, institutional supplier, or small grocers who visit the produce distributors in the Bronx for quality produce. Over the years, E. Armata has prospered as a leader among produce distributors in the Bronx. Our brand prides itself on having a family tradition of loyalty to customers and partnerships with farmers and growers that span generations.

Meet our team of executives:

Chris Armata:

As the President, Chris Armata oversees the general administration, as well as the trend and focus of the company. He believes in forward thinking and technology, and never sitting still. Chris places a high value on his company’s most significant assets – their integrity, their people, and their experience – along with the simple approach of always looking ahead. These attributes are what Chris feels will continue to propel E. Armata successfully into the future as produce distributors in the Bronx.

Paul Armata:

As Vice President of E. Armata, Inc., Paul Armata handles purchasing and monitors sales for the Western Vegetable Division. Paul also oversees warehouse functions, such as managing the crews, warehouse operations, trucking, and overall sales. As part of this process, he also supervises customer receivables. Paul enjoys interacting with customers and believes that having good customer relations is the key to continued growth. Paul is proud of the family business, its integrity and reputation along with their hardworking employees, and a legacy of being high-quality produce distributors in the Bronx.

John Acompora:

As Treasurer of E. Armata, as well as Managing Director of E. Armata’s Fruit Division, John Acompora, “Ackie,” handles fruit purchasing, oversees fruit sales, and manages all aspects of the Fruit Division. Ackie enjoys cultivating the relationships with customers and grower/shippers, and usually begins his workday around 4 am. Ackie first joined E. Armata’s team of produce distributors in the Bronx in 1978 when Nick Armata hired him to unload trailers. Ackie worked his way up from Unloader to Checker, then Foreman, and eventually Salesman.

Aside from our executives, we have a full team eager to make E. Armata the best of the best. From the gentleman sweeping the floors to our men on the forklifts at E. Armata, we believe that our employees are the backbone of our company. We have employees that have been a part of our team for over thirty years. No matter what your role is, at E. Armata, we all grow together.

We focus on building relationships:

As some of the top produce distributors in the Bronx, E. Armata currently works with 100s of grower/shippers.  We are proud of the strong relationships we have built with these grower/shippers over four generations; relationships that extend past the business table.

We have established trust with everybody involved in the process. From the grower – the first source of our business; to the trucker and the transportation of our products; to our employees – who do an excellent job handling our products and services. For our business to succeed, you can’t have anyone without the other. As one of the largest produce distributors in the Bronx our shipping family is quite extensive. Here are a few of the shippers we’ve added to our family:

  • Alpine Fresh
  • B&W
  • Bengard
  • Berry lovers
  • C&B Farms
  • Del Monte
  • Dole
  • Jim Pandol & Company
  • Kern Ridge
  • Mucci Farms
  • SOL
  • ValVerde vegetable co.
  • & many more!

How can produce distributors in the Bronx help you?

At E. Armata, we don’t just take orders for delivery; we accept a responsibility. As some of the top produce distributors in the Bronx, our sales team follows these steps to help you:

  • We deliver fresh produce daily to efficiently fulfill your replenishment needs.
  • Our modern trucks are temperature controlled to make certain we meet your high-quality standards all year round.
  • We use the latest in technological advancements in order to maximize our shippers delivery schedules to accommodate both your business’s needs and our growing demand.
  • To ensure the safety of our drivers and the communities we serve, we monitor and track the speed of our shipping vehicles.
  • We are committed to meeting all of our new and long-standing customers’ needs.

Check out our produce list:

At E. Armata we have an extensive list of fruit and produce available to our customers. As produce distributors in the Bronx we have one of the most extensive inventories. We’ve break down our produce into the following categories:

  • Berries

    • To provide our customers with the freshest berries, we have regular availability of strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries, all arriving fresh daily. Whether it be a product of USA or imported, we are sure to fulfill our customers’ needs with the best fruit possible coming from top shippers and growers.
  • Eastern Vegetables

    • E. Armata’s Eastern Vegetable department carries a full line of items from Florida up the East Coast through Canada as well as Texas and Mexico. We partner with top growers and shippers to bring to you the highest quality produce available.
  • Fruit

    • The fruit department sources product globally, including but not limited to the United States, New Zealand, Chile and the South Americas, California, Morocco, Spain, and South Africa, Vietnam, China, and Mexico.
  • Herbs

    • Herbs are sourced year-round from the Middle East and South America in order to provide the freshest and most affordable product.
  • Melons

    • E. Armata is proud to be amongst the leading produce distributors in the Bronx of melons on the east coast. Decades of long partnerships with our growers from Central America, Texas, Florida and up the east coast has solidified our ability to best serve our cherished and much appreciate customers.
  • Mushrooms

    • Mushrooms are delivered fresh daily to E. Armata from local growers only a few hours away. We also work with exotic mushroom suppliers, providing a broad range of specialties.
  • Potatoes, Onions, & Carrots

    • The potato and onion department is one of E. Armata’s fastest expanding in the past three years. With the expansion of our warehouse space three years ago, E. Armata has found a home for our growing potato and onion program.
  • Salads

    • At E. Armata the salads are rotated continuously to offer the most extended shelf life, the best quality for our customers.
  • Specialties

    • We currently handle a vast amount of  Specialty Items which are both flown in and trucked daily from around the world and domestically. We source our hothouse items from the following areas: Holland, Canada, Belgium, Spain, Israel and the USA.
  • Tomatoes

    • E. Armata’s tomato department is backed by over 100 years of combined experience in purchasing, selling, and repacking tomatoes, and is regarded as one of the elite tomato produce distributors in the Bronx.
  • Tropicals

    • The constant growth and expansion of cultures in our society call for extra measures to meet the needs and demands of the same. We have added a full line of tropical fruits and vegetables, imported from high-quality growers in Central and South American countries.
  • Western Vegetables

    •  We are fortunate to have relationships with the most respected growers from California, Mexico, and Peru. These alliances have allowed us to source the freshest, most in-season products from all across the Western hemisphere.
  • E. Armata Brands

    •  As produce distributors in the Bronx, we handle Bunch Spinach, Baby Spinach, Spring Mix (mesclun), limes, and Watermelons all packed in our exclusive E. Armata label.

Food Safety at E. Armata:

We take pride in being one of the best produce distributors in the Bronx that provides the highest quality products. Food safety and quality control are important in preventing food-borne illnesses. Our produce distributors in the Bronx are recipients of a 100 percent superior rating through the FDA’s Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP). Our commitment to food safety is evidenced by the practices we’ve implemented. Below are the precautionary steps we take to uphold our high standards:

  • We receive shipments daily

    • This guarantees proper cleanliness and optimizes quality to our customers. All of our quality teams are staffed and managed in-house at E. Armata Inc. and we take pride in offering the freshest produce to our clients.
  • All of our trucks are temperature controlled

    • Our temperature controlled method limits contamination of harmful bacteria and pollution many produce distributors in the Bronx may experience during transport. For example, increased humidity causes increased the risk of spore and fungi production on fruits and vegetables.
  • We keep thorough track of our products

    • By specifically keeping track of all the fresh food products we receive we are able to immediately upload a picture of the produce as soon as they’re delivered onto our iPad tracking system.  This means that we take the extra time to ensure all deliverables are up-to-date in our system to ensure quality.
  • We employ an experienced quality control team

    • Our employees are trained in Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) quality control.  This process consists of seven principles: hazard analysis, identifying critical control points, determining critical limits, monitoring critical points, establishing corrective actions, developing record-keeping procedures, and establishing verification procedures. This ensures we continue to be top-quality produce distributors in the Bronx.
  • Our inspectors are USDA-trained

    • Our inspectors are trained by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service inspection standards, which is a nationally recognized agency that provides the standardization, testing, and grading of all food products sold in the US.

E. Armata and the community:

Our Foundation:

As porduce distributors in the Bronx we’re involved in many charitable organizations. The Louis J. Acompora Memorial Foundation is one we’ve taken a special interest in. The Foundation was started in 2000, after the tragic death of Louis Acompora. On March 25, 2000, in his first high school game, tragedy struck. With his parents on the sidelines, he blocked what appeared to be a routine shot with his chest. He took a few steps and collapsed on the field. The coaches and trainers rushed out, and after realizing Louis was not breathing, they began to administer CPR. The paramedics arrived almost 15 minutes after Louis’ collapse. Unfortunately, it was too late and Louis passed away at the age of 14.

The Louis J. Acompora Memorial Foundation is committed to improving sports safety, with a special focus on placing automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) in all schools and youth athletic organizations. We are dedicated to educating and sharing information on commotio cordisand sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). We support Public Access Defibrillation (PAD) programs and will investigate methods of developing and improving chest protection for all athletes.

Our Website:

At E. Armata, we regularly engage with our customers through our website. As produce distributors in the Bronx we feature plenty of tips our customers can try to stay healthy. Some of our featured articles include:

  • Cauliflower
    • There are many unique ways in which you can prepare cauliflower. Some benefits of  incorporating cauliflower into your diet include decreased inflammation, improved digestion and detoxification, and adding high levels of vitamins to your diet.
  • Eggplant
    • You should be consuming 2-3 cups of vegetables a day, which means your plate should be half- filled with vegetables at every meal. Making sure your body is receiving enough fruits and vegetables is extremely important. Without them, your body can suffer. This is why eggplants are a great healthy addition to your meal.  Eggplants are helpful when it comes to weight loss due to the fact that they’re low in calories and carbohydrates, but still rich in nutrients.

Aside from offering some healthy advice, we feature plenty of recipes involving our fruit and produce selection. As produce distributors in the Bronx we take pride in the large variety of products we have to offer. Here are some healthy recipes we’ve selected to feature on our website:

  • Honey-Mustard Chicken and Apples
  • Raw Berry Tart with Coconut Cream
  • Zucchini Herb Casserole
  • Eggplant wraps
  • & many others!
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Produce Spotlight: Mushrooms

Mushrooms are a cornerstone of the fresh produce industry, valued for their versatility, nutritional benefits, and year-round demand. From retail shelves to restaurant kitchens, high-quality mushrooms are a critical ingredient on menus across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. At E. Armata Inc., a trusted produce distributor located at the Hunts Point Produce Market in the Bronx, NY, we proudly supply premium mushrooms alongside a full line of fresh fruits and vegetables to meet the needs of today’s demanding markets.

Why Mushrooms Are a Must-Have Produce Item

Mushrooms offer a unique combination of flavor, texture, and health benefits, making them a staple for chefs, retailers, and foodservice operators.

Nutritional Value and Consumer Demand

Mushrooms are low in calories, fat-free, and rich in B vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals like selenium and potassium. As consumers increasingly seek nutritious, plant-forward foods, mushroom sales continue to grow across retail and foodservice sectors.

Versatility Across Culinary Applications

From classic white button mushrooms to cremini and portobello varieties, mushrooms are used in soups, salads, sauces, and plant-based alternatives. Their umami flavor enhances dishes without added sodium, making them popular in both traditional and health-conscious menus.

Reliable Mushroom Distribution from E. Armata Inc.

As a full-service produce distributor, E. Armata Inc. sources and delivers fresh, high-quality mushrooms with consistency and care.

Strategic Location at Hunts Point Produce Market

Operating out of the Hunts Point Produce Market in the Bronx, E. Armata Inc. is positioned at the heart of the Northeast’s largest wholesale produce hub. This allows for efficient sourcing, rapid turnover, and dependable delivery throughout the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions.

Comprehensive Produce Offering

In addition to mushrooms, E. Armata Inc. distributes berries, eastern and western vegetables, herbs, melons, potatoes, onions, carrots, tomatoes, tropical fruits, and more, making us a one-stop solution for wholesale produce needs.

Quality, Freshness, and Service You Can Trust

Our commitment to quality control, strong grower relationships, and timely logistics ensures that every mushroom shipment meets high industry standards. Whether you’re supplying restaurants, retailers, or institutions, E. Armata Inc. delivers produce you can rely on.

Conclusion: Partner with E. Armata Inc. for Fresh Mushrooms

When it comes to dependable mushroom distribution, E. Armata Inc. stands out as a trusted partner. Conveniently located at Hunts Point and servicing the broader Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, we’re ready to support your business with fresh, premium produce.

Contact E. Armata Inc. today to place your order or learn how we can work together.

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January Produce Spotlight: Onions

A Kitchen Essential Delivered Fresh by E. Armata Inc.

No kitchen, commercial, or home can function without onions. Their flavor, versatility, and long shelf life make them one of the most in-demand vegetables year-round. As a trusted produce distributor located at the Hunts Point Produce Market in the Bronx, NY, E. Armata Inc. supplies premium onions to retailers, foodservice professionals, wholesalers, and distributors across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic.

From hearty winter soups to fresh salads and global cuisine, onions remain a foundational ingredient that elevates nearly every dish.

Why Onions Are a Produce Powerhouse

Year-Round Availability & Reliability

Onions store exceptionally well and retain their quality year-round, making them a dependable staple for restaurants, supermarkets, and food manufacturers. As part of its extensive line of potatoes, onions, carrots, and western vegetables, E. Armata Inc. ensures a consistent supply and freshness.

Packed with Nutrition

Onions are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and beneficial plant compounds. Their natural properties support immune health, an added benefit during the winter season when produce-driven nutrition becomes even more important.

Highly Versatile for Every Menu

Whether used raw, caramelized, pickled, or roasted, onions enhance flavor in countless recipes. They pair seamlessly with other produce categories offered by E. Armata, including mushrooms, tomatoes, herbs, carrots, and tropical items.

Onion Varieties Popular with Retailers & Foodservice Buyers

Yellow Onions

Ideal for cooking, these onions offer a balanced, savory flavor and excellent storage potential.

Red Onions

Preferred for salads, fresh dishes, and grilling, thanks to their vibrant color and mild bite.

White Onions

Crisp and clean-tasting, white onions are frequently used in Mexican and Southwestern cuisines.

All varieties are sourced, inspected, and distributed with E. Armata’s commitment to quality and freshness.

Why Source Your Onions from E. Armata Inc.?

With decades of expertise in produce distribution, E. Armata Inc. has earned a strong reputation for reliability, transparency, and outstanding customer service. Their prime location at the Hunts Point Produce Market enables fast, efficient delivery to partners throughout the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic.

In addition to onions, clients benefit from access to a full range of fresh products, including berries, herbs, mushrooms, tomatoes, melons, tropical fruit, eastern vegetables, and western vegetables.

Partner with E. Armata Inc. for Your Onion Supply Needs

If you’re ready to source premium onions for your store, restaurant, or distribution chain, E. Armata Inc. is here to help.

Contact us today to place an order or learn more about our seasonal availability and delivery options.

Fresh fruit supplier near nyc

The Ultimate Guide to Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits are nature’s vibrant gems, packed with flavor, nutrition, and versatility. From the tangy burst of a ripe orange to the zesty kick of a lemon, these fruits have captivated taste buds worldwide for centuries. Our fresh fruit supplier near NYC at E. Armata will delve deep into the world of citrus, exploring their varieties, health benefits, culinary uses, and more. Continue reading below! 

Exploring Citrus Diversity

  • Oranges: Oranges reign supreme in the citrus kingdom, revered for their juicy sweetness and rich vitamin C content. From the bold flavor of Valencia oranges to the bright acidity of Seville oranges, each variety offers a unique taste profile suited for various culinary endeavors. Whether enjoyed fresh, squeezed into a refreshing juice, or incorporated into savory dishes, oranges add a burst of sunshine to any recipe.
  • Lemons: Lemons, with their vibrant yellow hue and tart flavor, are indispensable in both sweet and savory cooking. Bursting with citric acid and essential oils, lemons lend their bright essence to marinades, dressings, desserts, and cocktails. From classic lemonade to tangy lemon curd, lemons’ versatility knows no bounds, making them a staple in kitchens worldwide.
  • Limes: Limes offer a refreshing twist with their distinctive acidity and floral aroma. From the Persian lime’s juicy flesh to the smaller, seedier Key lime, each variety brings its unique characteristics to the table. Whether used to elevate the flavor of seafood, brighten up cocktails, or add zing to desserts, limes are an essential ingredient in cuisines spanning the globe.
  • Grapefruits: Their bittersweet flavor profile offers an irresistible combination of tartness and sweetness. Available in red, pink, and white varieties, grapefruits range from mildly acidic to boldly tangy, catering to a variety of taste preferences. Whether enjoyed fresh, broiled with a sprinkle of sugar, or juiced for a refreshing beverage, grapefruits add flavor and nutrition to any meal.
  • Tangerines and Mandarins: Tangerines and mandarins, with their easy-to-peel skins and sweet flesh, are beloved for their convenience and irresistible flavor. From the seedless Clementine to the fragrant Satsuma, these miniature delights are perfect for snacking, salads, and desserts. Whether eaten fresh, tossed into a fruit salad, or segmented for a lunchbox treat, tangerines and mandarins offer a burst of citrusy goodness in every bite.

Health Benefits of Citrus Fruits

  • Immune Boosting Vitamin C – Citrus fruits are renowned for their high vitamin C content, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function and helps defend against infections. Regular consumption of citrus fruits may reduce the risk of colds, flu, and other respiratory ailments, keeping you healthy and vibrant year-round.
  • Heart Health Support – The abundance of flavonoids, potassium, and fiber in citrus fruits may contribute to heart health by lowering blood pressure, reducing cholesterol levels, and improving overall cardiovascular function. Incorporating citrus fruits into a balanced diet may help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, promoting long-term well-being.
  • Digestive Aid – The soluble fiber found in citrus fruits, such as pectin, can aid digestion by promoting healthy bowel movements and preventing constipation. Additionally, the natural enzymes and acids in citrus fruits may stimulate digestive juices, enhancing nutrient absorption and supporting gut health.
  • Skin Rejuvenation – The vitamin C and antioxidants in citrus fruits play a vital role in skin health, promoting collagen production, reducing inflammation, and protecting against UV damage. Regular consumption of citrus fruits may help maintain youthful, radiant skin, combating signs of aging and promoting overall skin health.

Culinary Uses of Citrus Fruits

Flavorful Enhancements

Citrus fruits from our fresh fruit supplier near NYC add depth and complexity to both sweet and savory dishes, enhancing flavors with their tangy acidity and aromatic oils. From marinades and dressings to sauces and desserts, citrus fruits elevate the taste profile of countless recipes, balancing richness, brightness, and depth of flavor.

Versatile Ingredients

The versatility of citrus fruits knows no bounds, as they can be used in a myriad of culinary applications. Whether sliced, juiced, zested, or candied, citrus fruits lend themselves to a wide range of cooking techniques, from grilling and roasting to poaching and preserving. Their ability to complement a variety of ingredients and cuisines makes citrus fruits an indispensable component of any kitchen.

Refreshing Beverages

Citrus fruits shine in the realm of beverages, from classic cocktails and mocktails to revitalizing infused waters and teas. Whether muddled into a refreshing mojito, squeezed into a tangy margarita, or steeped into a soothing herbal infusion, citrus fruits add zest and vitality to any drink, tantalizing the taste buds and quenching thirst with their vibrant flavors.

Contact Our Fresh Fruit Supplier Near NYC

In conclusion, citrus fruits are nature’s zesty treasures, offering a myriad of flavors, health benefits, and culinary possibilities. From the juicy sweetness of oranges to the tart tanginess of lemons, each variety brings its own unique charm to the table, enriching our lives with their vibrant essence. Whether enjoyed fresh, squeezed, or incorporated into recipes, citrus fruits continue to captivate and inspire, reminding us of the beauty and abundance of the natural world. Contact E. Armata Inc. to learn more and place an order with our fresh fruit supplier near NYC. 

Hunts Point Market

How Can Local Businesses Contribute To Sustainable Sourcing

As global awareness of environmental issues grows, consumers value responsible and eco-friendly business practices more. Local businesses have a unique opportunity to impact sustainable produce sourcing substantially, fostering positive change in their communities and beyond. E. Armata Inc. is proud to be a part of the Hunts Point Market, and our continued relationships with growers and shippers have helped us contribute to sustainable produce sourcing. Continue reading to learn more! 

How Local Businesses Contribute To Sustainable Sourcing

Our operation at the Hunts Point Market strives to continuously improve our facility to benefit our customers, growers, and shippers. There are several ways that local businesses can contribute to sustainability, including:

  • Embracing Local Agriculture Partnerships – Collaborating with local farmers and agricultural producers is pivotal for local businesses looking to contribute to sustainable produce sourcing. Businesses can significantly reduce their carbon footprint by sourcing fresh produce locally by forming partnerships with nearby farms, thereby decreasing transportation emissions. This supports local economies and ensures that produce is harvested at its peak freshness, reducing the need for preservatives and extensive packaging.
  • Prioritizing Organic and Regenerative Farming Practices – Opting for organic and regenerative farming practices when sourcing produce can significantly contribute to sustainability efforts. Organic farming eliminates the use of harmful chemicals, promoting healthier ecosystems and reducing soil and water pollution. Regenerative farming takes it a step further by focusing on restoring and enhancing soil health, which can help sequester carbon and mitigate climate change.
  • Investing in Green Packaging Alternatives – Packaging plays a crucial role in the sustainability of produce sourcing. Local businesses can make a positive impact by opting for eco-friendly packaging materials that are biodegradable, recyclable, or reusable. Minimizing the use of plastic and other non-biodegradable materials can help reduce waste and its adverse effects on the environment.

Contact Us

Local businesses significantly influence sustainable produce sourcing by embracing innovative strategies and fostering partnerships within their communities. Through these efforts, they enhance their brand image and play an integral role in shaping a sustainable global food system. If you want to learn more about our operation at the Hunts Point Market, contact E. Armata Inc. today!