For the week ending February 15, 2025
Driscoll’s Long-Stemmed Strawberries: 4/1lb. Item#18853
Petite Mustard Red Frill: Nothing adds a splash of vibrant color and a little spicy kick like mustard-the lacey texture of this petite frill brings will add a touch of romance to any dish. 4oz. Item#17066
Micro Amaranth: Delicate and mild in flavor, Micro Amaranth Red offers a restrained taste of beets and toasted nuts, complemented by its vibrant pink color. 3oz. Item# 14101
Micro Bulls Blood: Deep purplish and red leaves bring a bright color to the plate as well as a nutty, earthy, and beet-like flavor. 4oz. Item#10916
Micro Sorrel Red Vein: Studded with deep red veins and stems, Micro Red Veined Sorrel’s flavor is similar to mild lettuce and crisp apple-like. 4oz. Item#14223
Micro Celebration Mix: Micro Celebration Mix is a premier blend of our favorite Microgreens and Edible Flowers. Created with chefs in mind, this mix has it all! A stunning array of vibrantly colored Microgreens including cool, light & rich, dark greens, ignited with warm shades of red and an extra spark of color from our blossoms. 3oz. Item #17657
Micro Rainbow Mix: Vibrantly colored Microgreens including cool, light & rich, dark greens, ignited with warm, bright shades of red. 4oz. Item# 15081-LOCAL-Blue Mitten Farm-MI
Pea Tendril: You’ll appreciate the mildly sweet, earthy flavor of our fresh pea tendrils, flavoring that is true to raw pea grown fresh on the farm. The pea tendril texture is incredibly tender and buttery. Item#10626-LOCAL-Blue Mitten Farm-MI
Contact your DelBene Sales Representative today for more information.
There remains plenty of uncertainty regarding the potential tariffs on Canada and Mexico that have been placed on a 30-day pause by the Trump administration until the end of February. Given the numerous fruits and vegetables that may be impacted by these potential tariffs, we remain concerned as negotiations continue. We communicate with our partners daily and will pass on any information as it is available.
Temperatures have returned to seasonal averages in Northern Mexico and the Southwestern desert regions following weeks of cold temperatures across the region. In early January hurricane-force winds sparked extensive wildfires in Southern California and Northern Baja that severely impacted herb production from these regions. The strong winds and extended cold temperatures have reduced supplies of some herbs, especially fresh tarragon. Upcoming availability will depend on how quickly these crops recover in the warming temperatures expected next week.
Asparagus supplies are steadily improving on both coasts, with Mexico now producing Jumbo sizes along with all other grades. Expect the market to adjust lower in the coming weeks.
Markets remain steady at high levels for 48ct and larger sizes, while 60ct and 70ct are starting to see some relief. The size structure is consistent, with 60ct and smaller peaking, and 48ct and larger commanding higher prices. California has begun its season lightly, primarily due to tight fruit supply from Mexico and the drive to capture higher prices. The California season is expected to ramp up in late February/early March.
Bell peppers are abundant in both western and eastern regions, thanks to warmer temperatures in Sinaloa, Mexico, and Florida. Colored bell peppers are also in good supply, with steady markets heading into the weekend.
Strawberry production continues to recover from cool temperatures and adverse weather in California and Baja, MX, while Central Mexico has also felt the impact of cooler conditions. However, improvements are expected by the end of the week as the effects of last weekend’s Mexican holiday and short-term labor shortages due to protests subside. Florida is gradually warming up but is struggling to keep up with heavy Valentine’s Day demand. Availability should improve next week as demand eases.
Product continues to arrive from Chile and Central Mexico, while Baja, Mexico has started light harvesting, crossing through Otay Mesa and San Diego. With the Peruvian season winding down, markets are firming up. However, better production is expected from Mexico in the coming weeks as temperatures gradually rise in key growing regions.
Production remains highly limited due to cold temperatures in the growing regions, creating a demand-exceeding supply situation.
Supplies remain tight from Central Mexico, impacted by cold temperatures and last Monday’s Mexican National holiday, which slowed production early in the week. However, improved volumes are expected later this week.
Broccoli supplies remain steady as warmer temperatures in Yuma support production. Expect the market to hold firm with consistent quality heading into next week.
Supplies are improving with warmer weather, while the market remains steady across all regions. Expect stable conditions to continue into next week.
Domestic production has shifted to Oxnard, while improved yields in Northern Mexico have strengthened volume in the category. Quality remains high, though some elongated stems/cores have been observed in Mexican product.
Markets remain steady across the board. District 3 (CA Desert/AZ) is performing well and will continue through February. Meanwhile, District 1 (San Joaquin Valley) has started off light but is expected to ramp up in the coming weeks.
Market volatility is expected to persist into February, with upcoming harvests producing smaller limes and a significant decrease in larger-sized limes.
Star Rubies are available, with the peak size being 56ct and smaller, and are being shipped from both Riverside and the San Joaquin Valley.
Peak sizes remain at 138ct/113ct, but are trending towards larger sizes. Prices are rising for smaller oranges, and as the season progresses, we expect the peak sizing to shift to 113ct/88ct. Brix levels are currently in the 13 range.
The pineapple market is currently experiencing strong demand for Costa Rican pineapples, with contracted business remaining a top priority. Due to lower yields caused by heavier rainfall, pineapples are expected to be limited until mid-April. Crownless pineapples remain a key focus but are more difficult to find.
Supplies remain tight as growers have moved past a recent peak in production from a few weeks ago. Volume is not expected to rise significantly again until California begins in April/May. Florida production remains light but steady.
Due to cooler weather and storms, some herb supply remains limited. Fesh tarragon being the most comprised at this time. We continue to look for quality supply and expect no supply restraints once the weather improves.
This market started the week with lighter availability, but overall, it’s becoming more active. Moderate production is expected throughout the week, with favorable weather conditions supporting stronger supply next week. Weights are expected to range from 39-44 pounds. While some misshapen heads and slight outer leaf discoloration are still being seen, overall quality remains above average with multiple shippers.
Steady supplies of romaine and green and red leaf are expected from Yuma this week, with butter lettuce remaining limited. Some blister and peel have been observed upon arrival, but overall, quality continues to be above average. Shippers are passing on acreage where damage occurred, and romaine heart production is stronger this week.
Arugula is currently the most limited tender leaf item, with cooler temperatures recently slowing growth and impacting quality, leading to lower production. However, with warmer temperatures expected over the weekend, arugula supplies are anticipated to slowly improve.
Processed kale supplies in Yuma remain limited due to slower growth and quality issues from recent cooler temperatures. However, supplies are expected to improve next week as warmer weather takes effect.
Offshore melons are still experiencing a demand-exceeds-supply situation. While yields are improving, availability remains limited. Port delays continue to affect fruit arrival times, making market availability unpredictable. Quality issues may arise due to extended time on the water. Triggered pricing remains in effect but is starting to ease. Additionally, Mexican cantaloupes from Nogales are extremely limited.
The honeydew market is beginning to normalize as more fruit becomes available. Increased production from Mexico and Honduras is helping to boost supply.
Inventories are building in the Nogales and Florida regions. Demand remains light, but crossings have improved, helping to stabilize the market.
Green squash is abundant in both California and Florida, while yellow squash is experiencing slightly lower volume. However, it is expected to catch up to zucchini production levels within the next week or two.
Tomatoes remain steady from both Mexico and Florida, with good promotable volumes available. The quality of the fresh fruit continues to be excellent.
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