PRODUCE MARKET REPORT

OVERVIEW

MARKET REVIEW

Regional Production Highlights - Week of January 31st:

The market for fresh produce is experiencing rising demand, particularly for Valentine's Day, while supply remains tight, especially for strawberries. Key regions like Florida and California face challenges due to weather conditions, impacting production and quality.

PRODUCT AVAILABILITY

Current Strawberry Supply and Demand Challenges

Florida strawberries are facing significant challenges due to mid-30s overnight lows, leading to frost protection measures and canceled harvests.
Production in Florida is sharply reduced, with limited volumes expected for the next few weeks.
Demand for strawberries is outpacing supply, particularly as Valentine's Day approaches.
California's strawberry production is transitioning from fall to spring crops, with quality mostly good but not sufficient to cover Florida's shortfall.

Blueberry and Other Berry Market Status

Blueberry demand remains firm, with Chile replacing Peru in supply.
Central Mexico's blueberry volumes are building but are tightening as the region moves off peak.
Blackberry supplies are steady from Mexico and Baja, with moderate demand.
Raspberry supplies are tighter due to cooler weather and seasonal transitions.

Transportation and Freight Demand Insights

Truck demand along the Mexican border has sharply increased due to weather-related issues in both the US and Mexico.
Slow inbound product flow and limited truck capacity are primary causes of transportation challenges.
Areas like McAllen, Yuma, and Nogales are better serviced with advanced bookings to ensure freight movement.

Weather Impact on Produce Production

Florida is experiencing cold mornings and frost, affecting strawberry production.
California's weather is transitioning with a warming trend expected, but morning lows remain low, impacting crops.
Arizona is seeing a warming trend, but risks of lettuce icing persist due to low temperatures.
Mexico is experiencing cool mornings with frost likely, affecting overall crop yields.

Overview of Fruit and Vegetable Supply

Avocado supplies are good, but smaller sizes dominate the market.
Pineapple market is stabilizing but remains tight, with organic supplies also limited.
Banana supply is stable despite increased demand from schools.
Apple market is escalated, with small sizes in short supply, particularly Gala and Granny Smith varieties.

Vegetable Supply and Quality Overview

Iceberg lettuce production is limited, leading to elevated pricing.
Romaine quality is good, but overall supply is tight.
Green bell pepper supplies have tightened, while color bell pepper supply remains steady.
Broccoli supplies are tightening, pushing prices higher, with further increases expected.

Melon Market Conditions and Trends

Cantaloupe prices are stabilized due to steady demand, while honeydew prices remain high.
Watermelon prices are elevated due to low yields, with Florida and Mexico supplies available.

Organic Produce Availability and Trends

Organic vegetable and fruit supplies are varied, with some items like organic strawberries and blueberries available.
Organic choices include a range of vegetables and fruits, with specific pack sizes listed for each item.

Exotic Produce Offerings and Availability

New exotic items include baby rainbow carrots, baby frisee, and various colored cauliflowers.
Unique fruits like dragon fruit, golden berries, and Meyer lemons are available, with specific pack sizes noted.

Citrus Varieties Overview

Navels are meaty oranges with a thick rind, ideal for fresh eating.
Star Ruby grapefruit is known for its color, flavor, and fragrance, with a bittersweet peel.
Meyer lemons are a hybrid with low acidity, sweet flavor, and fragrant skin.

SEE FULL REPORT HERE

Search