For the week ending February 22, 2025
Asparagus production in Caborca is ramping up, with increased supplies, including 28 lb cases. Mexican volume is expected to remain strong across all sizes, including Jumbo, throughout February.
The market remains steady at elevated levels for 48ct and larger sizes. While there was initial relief on smaller sizes, prices have begun to rise again as Mexico scales back harvests. Size structure remains consistent, with smaller sizes peaking around 60ct, while 48ct and larger continue to command higher prices. California’s harvest has started slowly, primarily due to tight supplies from Mexico. California production is expected to ramp up significantly in late February and early March.
Strong supplies continue from Mexico, though past peak production. In Florida, volume and quality are expected to remain moderate until new spring crops begin in March. Colored bell peppers remain tight, especially yellow and orange, while red peppers are more readily available. Canadian production is set to start in early March.
Strawberry supplies remain tight across all regions, with markets heavily impacted by high Valentine’s Day demand. As the holiday pull subsides, demand is expected to ease heading into the weekend. However, production challenges persist, including logistical issues and adverse weather, particularly rain in California.
Markets are firm for blueberries entering the U.S. from Chile, Baja, and Central Mexico. Limited production has also begun in Central California.
The market remains firm due to delayed transfer trucks from Central Mexico. While production levels are unchanged, logistical challenges persist as Mexican customs officials update computer systems daily, causing disruptions in export documentation. With the process now being handled manually, delays are expected to continue.
The market remains firm due to delayed transfer trucks from Central Mexico. While production levels are stable, logistical challenges persist as Mexican customs officials update computer systems daily, causing disruptions in export documentation.
Broccoli quality remains strong overall, with only occasional yellowing or brown bead. Sizing has improved over the past week, and the market is expected to remain steady heading into the weekend.
Supplies are expected to remain strong across all regions. While there may be occasional bruising and some minor texture issues, overall quality remains good. The market is anticipated to stay steady heading into next week.
Domestic production has shifted to Oxnard, with initial volume slightly below expectations, but it is expected to meet target output in the coming weeks. Recent rain has had minimal impact on quality. Production in Mexico is in full swing.
Markets remain steady overall, with peak sizing on 115ct and smaller. District 3 (CA Desert/AZ) is winding down, with about a week left in the season for loading in the Yuma area. Meanwhile, District 1 (San Joaquin Valley) continues to ramp up, offering strong volumes each week.
Mexico’s new crop is showing improved fruit color and quality, but recent rain has caused some oil spots and breakdowns, leading to a dominance of smaller sizes in the market. Larger sizes are expected to remain limited through March, which, combined with the tight supply, may lead to a stronger market throughout February.
We currently have Rio Star Grapefruits from Texas in inventory. Rio Star is essentially a hybrid variety combining the characteristics of both a Star Ruby and a Rio Red grapefruit, making it even redder and potentially sweeter than either alone; essentially, “Rio Star” is a crossbreed that incorporates the best traits of the Star Ruby and Rio Red varieties. Star Rubies will be available soon.
Peak sizes have shifted to 88ct, with markets leveling out on smaller sizes. There are still great deals available on 88ct and smaller, with Brix levels around 13. Valencia oranges are expected to begin arriving by late May or early June.
Pineapple supply will remain tight until the end of February, with peak volumes expected to arrive in May. Over the next 3-4 weeks, flexibility in sizes will be necessary to balance supply and demand. Costa Rican pineapples are the primary source, with contracted business taking precedence. Large crownless pineapples are in high demand, and rain until mid-April is expected to lower yields. Mexican pineapples are available and offer excellent quality.
Supplies in Florida and Mexico are currently at adequate levels. Production in Florida is expected to improve by mid-March as spring crops come into full swing.
Due to cooler weather and storms, some herb supply remains limited. Fresh tarragon being the most comprised at this time. We continue to look for quality supply and expect no supply restraints once the weather improves.
Warm temperatures in the desert region have led to a surplus of product, and with the Valentine’s pull now over, expect multiple suppliers to ramp up volume-based orders this week. Take advantage of the opportunity to promote as much as possible. Quality remains strong, with weights ranging from 40-44 pounds from various shippers. The only minor concern is slight misshaping of heads, but this is minimal and shouldn’t impact overall quality.
Romaine, along with green and red leaf, is thriving in the desert due to ideal growing temperatures, leading to increased production. Overall quality remains excellent across all leaf varieties, with strong offerings from multiple growers.
Quality of tender leaf items like arugula, spinach, and cilantro is improving. Issues such as mildew, discoloration, and tip burn have been minimal. Expect both quality and supply to continue improving in the coming days. The spring mix and tender leaf items will continue to show some yellowing and discoloration along with weaker texture and lesser shelf life due to the previous cold temps and strong winds.
Kale supplies and quality are excellent this week, and the market is expected to remain steady going into next week.
Cantaloupe prices remain high due to persistent offshore growing conditions and supply chain challenges. However, the spring crop (third rotation) from Guatemala is nearing harvest and expected to help ease supply constraints.
Nogales honeydews from Mexico are currently available, with larger sizes dominating the market.
Due to reduced acreage in Mexico, Nogales watermelons are expected to see stable demand for the remainder of the season. Offshore watermelons are also in strong supply, helping to meet demand during gaps in Mexican watermelon availability.
Currently, storage crops are showing good to excellent quality. There is a strong supply of red and yellow onions from Western Idaho.
Zucchini supplies are plentiful; however, yellow squash is slightly behind in growing areas in FL and MX, with supplies expected to remain tight until next week.
Supplies remain strong on both coasts, although cooler weather in Florida may slightly slow production. Overall quality is excellent.
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