Produce Pete facts for kids

Peter Napolitano (February 23, 1945 – January 26, 2026) was widely known as Produce Pete. He was an American grocer, chef, and a friendly face on television. Many people knew him from his weekly segments. These segments taught viewers about fruits and vegetables. They appeared on WNBC in New York City for 33 years. He also shared his tips on WCAU in Philadelphia. Produce Pete also appeared in commercials for the Pathmark supermarket chain.

Produce Pete: Your Guide to Fresh Foods

Early Life and Family Business

Peter Napolitano grew up in an Italian-American family. His hometown was Englewood, New Jersey. When he was just 8 years old, in 1953, he started working. He helped sell fresh fruits and vegetables. This was at his family's neighborhood farmer's market.

In 1970, Peter took over the family business. He ran it as a seasonal shop. He often sold special items for upcoming holidays. In 1997, he passed the business to his son, Peter Charles Napolitano. The family market, Napolitano Produce, closed in 2006. It had served the Bergen County, New Jersey community for 53 years.

Peter met his wife, Bette, when he was 16 years old. Bette was 14 at the time. They married in 1967. Peter and Bette had two children and seven grandchildren. Bette often joined Peter on his TV segments.

A Career in Produce and Television

Produce Pete became a familiar face on television. Since the late 1980s, he hosted many TV segments. These shows focused on fresh produce, food, and healthy eating. He shared his best tips. These tips helped people pick, buy, and cook fruits and vegetables.

He also wrote several books. His book Produce Pete's Farmacopeia (1994) was republished in 2001. It was full of helpful advice. Later, he wrote They Call Me Produce Pete (2023). He also co-authored In the Kitchen with Bette & Produce Pete (2024).

In 2000, he worked as a buyer for S. Katzman Produce. This was at the busy Hunts Point Market in the Bronx, New York. He also taught cooking classes. These classes were held at big stores like Macy's and Bloomingdale's. Produce Pete lived in North Haledon, New Jersey.

Remembering Produce Pete

Peter Napolitano, known to many as Produce Pete, passed away. He died on January 26, 2026. He will be remembered for his passion for fresh food. He taught countless people about healthy eating and enjoying nature's bounty.