For the week ending March 1, 2025
Asparagus supplies remain strong on both coasts, including larger sizes. In addition to 11 lb cases, 28 lb options are now available.
Markets continue to strengthen across all sizes. While there was initial relief on smaller sizes, prices are rising again as Mexico reduces harvests to drive higher returns. The size structure remains unchanged, with 60ct and smaller sizes most prevalent, while 48ct and larger command premium pricing. California’s season has started slowly due to tight supplies from Mexico and efforts to capitalize on higher prices, but production is expected to ramp up significantly by late February to early March.
Green bell pepper supplies remain strong. Colored bell peppers, however, remain somewhat tight. Canada is expected to enter the market by the end of March, which will help increase volume and ease supply constraints.
Post-holiday demand has eased, but some regions are still falling short of harvest projections. California is recovering from last week’s rain, while Central Mexico and Baja are now crossing steady supplies after recent delays. Florida’s production is increasing in the short term, but an approaching cold front with rain could temporarily slow output again.
Markets are firming up, with a preference for Mexican product due to better quality. Chile continues to export steadily, though volumes are gradually declining. A slight availability gap may occur in the coming weeks.
Markets remain firm for product from Central Mexico and Baja, with supply remaining tight. Shippers anticipate further price increases next week as limited availability continues.
The market remains steady, with moderate supplies and limited demand. Shipments continue primarily from Central Mexico through McAllen and Laredo, Texas. West Coast production is expected to ramp up by mid-April, weather permitting.
Broccoli quality remains strong, with only occasional yellowing and brown bead. Warmer weather is improving sizing, and the market is expected to stay steady through the weekend.
Supplies remain strong across all regions. While there may be occasional bruising and some minor texture issues, overall quality is excellent. The market is expected to stay steady heading into the next week.
Domestic production has shifted to Oxnard, with volume gradually increasing. Despite recent heavy rain, quality remains strong, though some insect injury has been observed.
Markets remain steady, with peak sizing at 115ct and smaller. District 3 (CA Desert/AZ) has concluded, while District 1 (San Joaquin Valley) is now the primary growing region, steadily increasing volume each week.
The market remains stable with manifest volumes peaking on smaller sizes. Quality is high, and crossings through South Texas continue to be strong for now. Offshore fruit is available in both New Jersey and Miami.
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 72ct and 88ct, with markets showing slight strength on 113ct and 138ct as fruit sizing follows expectations. Brix levels around 13. Valencia oranges are expected to begin arriving in late May to early June.
Pineapple supply will remain tight, with improvements expected in the coming month, and peak volumes anticipated by May. Flexibility in sizing will be necessary to balance supply and demand. Costa Rican pineapples remain the primary source. Large crownless pineapples are in high demand, and lower yields are expected due to rain until mid-April, which will likely continue to impact availability and pricing in the short term.
The market is stable, maintaining adequate levels. Florida will remain light until spring crops start in the coming month. Production from Sinaloa is moderate, with excellent quality.
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.
Yuma will have strong production of this commodity throughout the week, with shippers adjusting for volume-type orders, so please be prepared. Average weights are ranging from 41-44 pounds. With warm morning and evening temperatures in Yuma, the growth pattern will accelerate. Expect robust supplies all week.
Warm weather in the growing regions has led to strong supplies of green and red leaf, as well as romaine, with excellent availability of romaine hearts. Expect good weights on all leaf items.
The quality of tender leaf items like arugula, spinach, and cilantro continues to improve, with minimal issues such as mildew, discoloration, and tip burn. Expect both quality and supply to keep improving in the coming days.
Supplies are expected to remain abundant this week and next, with the market staying steady.
Cantaloupe prices remain high due to ongoing offshore growing conditions and supply chain challenges. However, the spring crop (third rotation) from Guatemala is nearing harvest and is expected to bring some relief, with prices likely normalizing closer to contract levels. Growing conditions in Guatemala and Honduras have improved and should remain favorable for cantaloupe production.
Nogales honeydews from Mexico are currently available, with the market peaking on larger sizes.
Due to reduced acreage in Mexico, Nogales watermelons are expected to see steady demand for the remainder of the season. Offshore watermelons are in strong supply and are helping to meet demand during gaps in Mexican watermelon availability.
The quality of storage crops is currently excellent, with a strong supply of red and yellow onions from Western Idaho. However, upcoming storms across the country may cause some transportation disruptions, with cold weather expected in Oregon, Idaho, Oklahoma, and New Mexico this week. Growers are closely monitoring these conditions, hoping for minimal impact on upcoming crops. Mexican onions are also available in Texas.
Markets for zucchini remain soft, with availability in Nogales and Florida. The yellow variety is significantly tighter, as the crop is running 7-10 days behind schedule. Until the crop catches up, expect continued limited supplies of yellow.
Prices are at their lowest across most items, with promotable volumes available, particularly from Florida. Availability is strong in Nogales, McAllen, and Florida.
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