Target Stores Start Offering Fresh Produce

Paula Niño

​If you've been to Target in North Miami in the past week or two, you may have noticed something different: fresh foods. Bananas, apples, pineapple, meat, salad mixes and other fresh foods now hold a prominent spot in the food section of the store under a sign that reads "fresh grocery."

The addition is part of an initiative by Target to add an expanded assortment of food, including fresh food inside its merchandise stores, said Target spokesman Joshua Thomas. While the company has been offering more food over the years, customers -- known as guests in Target-speak -- wanted more.

​"Our guests had told us that we hadn't gone far enough," said Thomas. "They wanted more groceries so they could maximize their trip to their Target store."

Target rolled out the fresh food section in five Florida stores in 2009. Eight more were rolled out in April, including North Miami and Hialeah, and four others, including Dadeland, Bird Road and Miami Lakes, are scheduled for July.

It's definitely convenient if you need something basic and don't want to take a trip to Publix or if you're at Target shopping already. On my recent trip to Target for some home items, I left with pita pockets, pre-made chicken salad and a salad mix, which turned into lunch. You won't find specialty items but your staples are covered.