Viva Fresh Clean Eating Challenge Opens 2026-2027 Applications
August 20, 2026 | 3 min to read
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MISSION, Texas – The Texas International Produce Association (TIPA) is now accepting applications for the 2026-2027 Viva Fresh Clean Eating Challenge, a six-month program designed for produce industry members who are ready to make meaningful, measurable changes in their health. Space is limited, and applicants should be prepared to fully engage in the program from the outset
Since its launch in 2020, 124 participants have taken part in the Clean Eating Challenge, building a community centered on healthier choices, greater accountability and the everyday role fruits and vegetables can play in personal wellness. The Challenge is not a diet or a short-term weight-loss contest. It is a structured opportunity to build sustainable habits, learn from health professionals and peers, and put healthy living into practice over time
This year, the selection process will place an even stronger emphasis on readiness. The Challenge is looking for applicants who are not simply interested in signing up, but who are prepared to invest six months in changing routines, following through on goals and being transparent about their progress. Interviews will take place the week following the Labor Day holiday, and selected participants will begin the program in the fall
Participants will be paired with mentors who will provide encouragement, perspective and accountability throughout the Challenge. Craig Slate will serve as head mentor for the 2026-2027 class
“Healthy living has been a passion of mine because I have seen how consistent choices can change the way we feel, work and show up for the people around us,” said Craig Slate, head mentor for the 2026-2027 Clean Eating Challenge. “I am committed to helping this year’s participants stay focused through the highs and the hard days, build habits they can carry forward, and discover what is possible when they give their health the attention it deserves.”
What selected participants can expect
- A six-month program focused on practical, lasting health and lifestyle changes.
- One-on-one or small-group support from a dedicated mentor, led by head mentor Craig Slate.
- Guidance from an accredited health coach throughout the program.
- Regular check-ins and active participation with mentors and fellow participants.
- Required baseline and progress measures, including bloodwork, intake statistics and progress photos, to document the health journey and help participants evaluate change over time.
- A culminating experience connected to the Viva Fresh Produce Expo on April 9, 2027.
“The strongest results come from people who are ready to do more than express interest – they are ready to participate, be accountable and keep showing up,” said Jen Velasquez, Clean Eating Challenge committee chair and vp of marketing at Full Tilt Marketing. “We want applicants who are prepared to make their health a priority for six months, use the coaching and mentorship available to them, and give themselves a real opportunity to create changes that last well beyond Viva Fresh.”
Applications are open now, and space in the 2026-2027 class is limited. Applicants should be members of the produce industry and be able to clearly articulate why they want to participate, what they hope to change and why they are ready to follow through. Selected participants will also be expected to share their progress and experience during the program and at Viva Fresh
To apply and learn more, visit vivacleaneating.com
About the Viva Fresh Produce Expo
The Viva Fresh Produce Expo was established in 2015 by the Texas International Produce Association (TIPA) to create meaningful networking and educational opportunities for its members while highlighting the importance of the Rio Grande Valley as a trade corridor and production region for fresh, healthy fruits and vegetables available year-round. For more information, visit vivafreshexpo.com
