Update as of 11/10/25
We’re currently only issuing product alerts for processed lettuce items, specifically iceberg, romaine, and lettuce leaf fillets. These continue to face limited availability and pricing volatility due to ongoing transition pressures in key growing regions.
The good news? Cabbage, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts have shown solid recovery. Quality and supply are improving week by week, and these items are no longer under alert status.
As always, we’re keeping a close eye on the fields and will keep you updated with any changes. Count on us to keep you stocked and in the know.
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Weather-related disruptions are creating one of the most prolonged and severe periods of produce shortages we’ve seen in recent years. And no, this isn’t just about the Salinas-to-Yuma growing transition.
The current issues stem from unseasonable rainfall, heat, and disease pressure that have significantly damaged crops in key growing regions—including California’s Salinas Valley, northern Mexico, and Arizona. As a result, many staple vegetables are being severely prorated by growers, with some customers receiving only 20 to 40 percent of their normal supply.
Not a Normal Transition Year
It’s easy to assume that a supply dip like this is related to the usual move from Salinas to Yuma. But that transition hasn’t even happened yet. What we’re seeing now is the result of direct crop losses due to:
Excess rain (especially in early-planted fields)
High temperatures following wet conditions
Disease outbreaks like mildew and pest infestations
Early season field damage and limited recovery windows
The transition itself is still expected in mid-to-late November, but we’re already facing what could be a “supply gap” as Salinas winds down earlier than planned.
What Crops Are Most Affected?
The shortages are widespread, but several core items remain under extreme pressure:
Lettuce (Green Leaf, Red Leaf, Boston/Butter, Romaine, Romaine Hearts, Value-Added blends)
Tender Leaf Greens (Spring Mix, Spinach, Arugula, Baby Kale)
Brassicas (Broccoli, Broccoli Crowns, Broccolini, Cauliflower, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage)
Specialty Items (Celery, Artichokes, Sugar Snap Peas, Snow Peas)
Growers are holding to very strict averages and applying significant prorates, sometimes delivering less than half of what’s ordered. In some cases, USDA prices for these items have more than doubled.
When Will This End?
We’re hearing from growers that shortages will likely persist through the end of the month, and the transition to Yuma may not provide instant relief. Many early-planted Yuma fields were impacted by the same weather challenges—meaning the next cycle of crops may also start light.
What We’re Doing
Our supply team is working directly with growers and shippers to stay ahead of changes, secure what product we can, and help customers pivot where needed. We’re committed to:
Clear communication on availability and substitutions
Helping you make smart swaps based on quality and value
Advocating for fairness in prorate allocation wherever possible
What You Can Do
Stay flexible. Be open to substitutions and alternative pack sizes.
Talk to your rep. They can guide you on weekly availability and strategy.
Sign up for SMS updates. We’re sending out alerts as the situation evolves.
Need more details? Have a specific need?
We’re here to help you navigate this, week by week.
Contact your sales rep for personalized support.