Good Luck to those on the East Coast in the  wake of Hurricane Sandy. Produce will take backseat to Mother Nature for a  few days but once everything settles , hopefully without any major damage,  it will be  back to business as usual. Most major vegetables are running strong on the  West Coast.  Most shippers have good  quality and improving production on the majority of commodities .  By this time  next week the  next stage of transition will begin as a few shippers will start their Winter migration to the Coachella / Yuma desert area. Starting with Peppers, Iceberg lettuce then mix lettuce and eventually by mid to late November broccoli , cauliflower and the rest of the veg category.  Additionally transition with much of the fruit category is ongoing with Melons and berries already headed south for the winter.  With the current storm on the East Coast likely to finish off  the homegrown produce look for strong demand on the West Coast . Many shippers have expressed concern over the initial quality  from the new growing areas due to weather back in early September , combined with early holiday demand prepare for increased pressure on the markets  to react.

Weather in California/Arizona growing districts has been 10-15 degrees above normal ( 72/45 Coast ,  84/58 Inland desert)  but looks to return to Normal for the foreseeable future with very little precipitation predicted for the  month of November.  Everyone  knows about the weather around the  country and colder than normal temperatures are predicted to stay around for an extended period.

Truck availability remains good with rates  starting to edge down slightly. Fuel prices  are also predicted to go lower which will help rates even further.   As always  advance notice will give you the advantage of best rates and service.

LETTUCE-  Transition to the Central Valley continues with most shippers expected to have abundant supplies as most product is ahead of schedule. The second stage of transition will begin next week with a few growers starting production in their Winter home  in the desert. The early shippers  are the  ones who forewent Central Valley growing deals in favor of extending their Salinas  Valley deal.  Quality has been marginal but should  rebound in the Central Valley this week and should rebound in the desert once harvest gets  past the first few initial fields.  With a wide range in quality from both districts  loading fresh lettuce is top priority.   

BROCCOLI- Supplies of broccoli continue to be steady with crowns only slightly tighter than bunch. Production continues to be slightly ahead of budget adding to the current supply but will  cause a tightening during transition and possibly during the end of the Holiday loading period. This past weekends warm weather will continue to keep supplies ahead of budget. Volume  deals  are available but will become harder to find as we get further into November. Quality is  mostly good  Central Valley production will start up this week which will also help contain prices.   

CAULIFLOWER- Inventories continue to be higher than budgeted  but most shippers are starting to see an early end to their Salinas  growing region and likely impact production during the bulk of the Thanksgiving holiday. Quality remains good.   Most growers  continue to run ahead of schedule increasing the likelihood of tighter supplies by next week. There are no new districts to support demand and local homegrown production is nearing an end .

LEAF ITEMS- Romaine  and  Romaine Hearts demand will likely see a spike this week with Homegrown season coming to a Sandy ending although there continues to be plenty of supplies between Salinas, Santa Maria and the Central Valley. Demand on green and  redleaf will follow closely behind. Quality will continue to be  an issue in most loading locations with seeders and rib discoloration being the most prevalent defects. Quality won’t stabilize until getting past the first week of transition to the desert.

CELERY- Market has strengthened with early Holiday promotions starting as early as next week.  Most shippers don’t have the  labor capacity to handle the volume of orders  needed on a day to day basis without inventorying heavy volume in preparation of Holiday demand. A few  shippers  will continue to offer out volume deals to maintain rotation as their holiday demand comes  into focus.

ASPARAGUS– Production from Mexico continues to be  limited and demand has stayed strong. Quality continues to improve weekly. Supplies look to be on track for Holiday promotions but the market will likely start to get stronger as the early holiday promotions kickoff .

GREEN ONION- Production has leveled off  but demand continues to be weak especially on small size Green Onions. Pricing on medium and large sizes are slightly higher.  The market will likely strengthen by the end of the week

BRUSSELS SPROUTS-  Increased supplies and lighter demand has  prices continuing to  head lower. Although  demand for November promotions will likely prop the market  back up  by early November. Take advantage of good values  while supplies last.

STRAWBERRIES-  Oxnard will be the primary shipping region for eastern quality fruit although warm temperatures have softened even their new Fall crop. Availability for shipping east is Very limited. Continue to expect bruising issues on arrival.   Mexico availability will  start to increase quality offerings but expect the market for top end quality  to be strong through the Holiday’s.  Supplies on Raspberry  is better with improving quality.  Blackberries primarily from Mexico have increased and has led to easing in the market.

Watching the weather around the  country , specifically in the  commercial growing  areas in the Northeast it appears Mother Nature and  Father Time  are giving them a weeks reprieve before Winter Frost sets in which will likely signal an end to the homegrown season. Demand for West Coast veg should start to increase. Many shippers have been offering promotional pricing but with Thanksgiving promotional pulls  starting as early as  November 2nd and usually running for an extended period most shippers  have started  taking a  cautious  approach to additional  promotions for the month of November. A few veg shippers claim they are running ahead of schedule currently which will eventually lead  to availability issues  during the  transition to the desert (11/12-16) but most are confident they will have budgeted volume  through the majority of the Thanksgiving Holiday pull.

Weather in California  growing districts , especially the  Central  Coast  will be mostly unsettled  with few  showers in the north with below normal temps  until returning  to normal (72/48)  by the weekend continuing through the first week of November . Weather around the country has the opposite trend with above normal temps this  week  and dropping to below normal by next week with plenty of precipitation in most areas.

Truck availability remains good with rates  starting to edge down slightly. Fuel prices  are also predicted to go lower which will help rates even further.   As always  advance notice will give you the advantage of best rates and service.

LETTUCE-  Transition to the Central Valley continues with most shippers expected to have supplies in both locations throughout the week. There are a few shippers  who do not have a Central Valley operation and choose to stretch their Salinas Valley and Yuma districts. Lettuce from Huron shows irregular size and some  quality issues due to overspray and/or tomato virus and some seeder issues. None of which  is  uncommon for the Central Valley lettuce crop. Better stands and quality are anticipated for next week best, but still limited quality for this week will be  from  Salinas although rain will eventually have a negative impact on quality. The market has gradually firmed up as shippers are still apprehensive about their transitional supplies. Once supplies settle look for the market to ease back possibly by the weekend.  With a wide range in quality from both districts  loading fresh lettuce is top priority.   

BROCCOLI- Supplies of broccoli continue to readily available with crowns only slightly tighter than bunch. Production continues to be slightly ahead of budget adding to the current supply but may cause a tightening during transition.  Warmer weather is  expected later this  week  so  look for supplies to continue to be  strong. Volume  deals  will become  more accessible as the week goes on. Quality is  mostly good  with occasional pin rot due to recent rains. Central Valley production will start up by next week which will also help contain prices.   

CAULIFLOWER- Inventories continue to be higher than budgeted  which  allows  volume  deals to be  readily available . Quality remains good.   Most growers  continue to run ahead of schedule increasing the likelihood of tighter supplies  later next month. There are no new districts to support demand and local homegrown production is nearing an end .

LEAF ITEMS- Romaine  and  Romaine Hearts continue to  be  weak with low pricing. Demand on green and  redleaf is also flat. Wide range in quality . Similar to lettuce but to a lesser extent, a few shippers will  transition their mix lettuce program to the  Central  Valley this week and next.  Similar wide ranging quality issues exist in the Romaine as in Iceberg lettuce. Homegrown supplies  are getting weaker by the  day so increased demand is  expected sooner than later . 

CELERY- Market continues to be weaker with increased volume offerings. Michigan  is winding down production but Oxnard is ahead of schedule as is the current Salinas crop which will add to the oversupply situation. This will likely lead to possible shortages during the Thanksgiving demand but take advantage of deals  now and possibly get a more favorable ad price for the Holiday. Although many shippers have  locked in their Holiday volume which will eventually help firm prices in the  coming weeks.

ASPARAGUS– Production from Mexico continues to be  limited and demand has stayed strong. Quality continues to improve weekly.  Supplies look to be on track for Holiday promotions.

GREEN ONION- Production has leveled off  but demand continues to be weak especially on small size Green Onions. Pricing on medium and large sizes are slightly higher.  There is a  good  chance the  market reacts  upward with local supplies light and possible unsettled weather in Mexico affecting labor combined with better demand by the end of the month.

BRUSSELS SPROUTS-  Increased supplies and lighter demand has  prices continuing to  head lower. Although similar to Celery, demand for November promotions will likely prop the market  back up  by early November. Take advantage of good values  while supplies last.

STRAWBERRIES- Production and quality continue to wind down in Salinas /Watsonville  especially with rain and unsettled weather  scheduled through Wednesday. Oxnard will be the primary shipping region for eastern quality fruit. Mexico availability will also start to increase quality offerings. The market will continue to have a wide range of prices reflecting the quality gap. The market on top end quality will continue to be strong through the Holiday’s.  Supplies on Raspberry and  Blackberries primarily from Mexico will increase and eventually lead to some easing in the market. Production from  Florida is on schedule but is still more than a month away.

GRAPES- The transition into late season varieties has been slow. Color and sugar levels have been inconsistent. Supplies  look to be  inconsistent , especially  on  Reds and  Green.  Globes have had more consistent quality and offerings

As we start winding down another season, business appears  to be steady with ample supplies of most produce items. But historically  demand starts to rise sharply at the end of October while supplies concentrate on the  West Coast. If growers budget enough volume  and Mother Nature  cooperates  markets  generally stabilize after an initial boost  but if weather turns  extreme or even moderately above or below normal  supplies can be  affected causing extreme jumps in the market and extending into the Holiday season. A few shippers are claiming minimally reduced acreage for the upcoming Winter season and the  Farmers Almanac is predicting wetter than normal West Coast and colder than normal East Coast  expect a  few turbulent markets ahead.

Weather continues to fluctuate around the country. All of California including the Coast is expected to have a hot offshore flow this week raising temps well above normal  before returning to normal for next week . Long term weather shows a significant drop in temperatures by the 26th of  October through the first few days of November. Coming off a cold weekend around the rest of the country , temps return to normal (although “norms” are dropping a couple degrees per day) until significant cooling returns  November 1st.

Truck availability remains good but rates are stubbornly holding steady. There continues to be  heavy solicitation for business which will keep pressure on rates  to go lower eventually. As always  advance notice will give you the advantage of best rates.

LETTUCE-  Transition to the Central Valley will start this week with some  lettuce shippers having supplies  in both regions .There are a few shippers  who do not have a Central Valley operation and choose to stretch their Salinas Valley and Yuma districts. Early reports  from Huron show irregular size and some  quality issues due to overspray and/or tomato virus. Neither is  uncommon for the initial Central Valley lettuce crop. Best quality for this week will be  from  Salinas  but with warm weather expected throughout the week conditions  could change rapidly. The  market has gradually firmed up as shippers  are apprehensive about their transitional supplies. With a wide range in quality from both districts  loading fresh lettuce is top priority.   

BROCCOLI- After cool weather last week supplies have lightened and most shippers  are firming prices especially on crowns .  Warm weather should help promote growth and the market should stabilize by the end of the week. Occasional volume  deals  are still available on bunch.  Quality is  mostly very good  with occasional pin rot. Central Valley production should start next week which will also help contain pricing.  

CAULIFLOWER- Much like broccoli last weeks  cooler weather should help  slow production temporarily but inventories are high and warmer weather will put further pressure on the  market to remain weak. Volume deals are currently available. Quality remains good.  If enough “Hot” Deals are struck the  market may have a chance to rebound next week as  there are no new districts to support  and local homegrown production is nearing an end.

LEAF ITEMS- Romaine  and  Romaine Hearts continue to  be  weak with lower pricing. Demand on green and  redleaf  is also flat. Wide range in quality . Similar to lettuce but to a lesser extent, a few shippers will  transition their mix lettuce program to the  Central  Valley by next week.  Similar wide ranging quality issues exist in the Romaine as in Iceberg lettuce. Homegrown supplies  are getting weaker by the  day so increased demand is  expected soon than later . 

CELERY- Market continues to be stable with occasional volume offerings .Michigan  is winding down production which will be  offset by start up production in Oxnard.  Many wholesalers amp; retailers have already contracted their Holiday volume which will help shippers firm their pricing in a couple weeks.

ASPARAGUS– Production from Mexico continues to be limited and demand has stayed strong. Quality continues to improve weekly. Supplies look to be on track for Holiday promotions.

GREEN ONION- Production has leveled off  and demand continues to be weak especially on small size Green Onions. Pricing on medium and large sizes are slightly higher.

BRUSSELS SPROUTS-  Increased supplies and lighter demand has  prices headed lower. Although similar to Celery, demand for November promotions will likely prop the market back up  by early November. Take advantage of good values  while supplies last.

STRAWBERRIES- Production and quality continue to wind down  in  Salinas / Watsonville and picking up in Oxnard  and eventually Mexico via McAllen. With the newer districts increased supplies of QUALITY fruit the top end market should stabilize. There continues to be discounts  for West Coast quality fruit . Raspberry prices are slightly higher for the best quality labels. Limited production  continues with strong demand on Blackberries. New districts will also help supplies on Raspberry and  Blackberries.

GRAPES- The market on Green and  Red grapes is stronger as most shippers continue transitioning into their late season varieties. Quality continues to be excellent  due to the  ideal weather throughout the  Summer season in the  Central Valley.

This week marks the  beginning of the transition of Fruits and Vegetables to the central amp; southern parts of the state and Mexico. Peppers and Squash have already transitioned south and melons amp; berries are on a fast track to the southern districts.  A few core veg items  will start the transition to the  Central Valley , iceberg lettuce and romaine , next week. The balance of the veg items will transition over the next 4-6 weeks to the Central Valley and  desert areas. The transition on the West Coast coincides with the decline of the Northeast local growing regions putting greater demand on California and Mexican products. Over the  next 6 weeks advanced planning will be critical to organize transportation and logistics to get the best possible value and quality.

California weather has fluctuated the  past few weeks with record highs last weekend to below normal average through this week. After possible showers Wednesday long term weather looks to be  near normal for the  balance of the  month. Historical averages  for coastal California are high’s of 72 and low’s near 50 degrees.  Inland Valley’s average 82/50. Desert averages 94/68.  Weather around the  country is following a similar pattern with below normal temperatures this week and a return to normal seasonal temperatures for the balance of the month.

Truck availability remains good but recent surges in fuel cost in California  have kept rates elevated  for this time  of year. Although crude oil prices have fallen in recent weeks, troubles  with California refineries  have allowed Gas and Diesel prices  to climb to Historical high’s.  Averaging near $4.75 a gallon and rising.  Although many Independent and  transportation brokers  continue to  solicit business.  Advance notice will help in getting best value available.

LETTUCE-  Increase in production and strong yields  have lead to a softening market.  Currently quality is good in Salinas with occasional mildew and fringe burn but seasonal discoloration issues (russett amp; pink rib) are starting to show on arrivals. Expect some  discoloration issues on arrival especially if the predicted midweek  rain showers materialize.   Loading Fresh  lettuce is  extremely important especially this  time of year. Transition to new growing area in Central California starting next week won’t guarantee better quality but will help give options to choose best lettuce available.  

BROCCOLI- Supplies are increasing as Fall plantings are increased to meet demand but with plenty of homegrown product still available around the country the market has been overall fair .  Quality continues to be excellent. Volume  deals  are available currently but look for supplies to stabilize as the weather starts to cool this week.

CAULIFLOWER- Production and demand appear to have both leveled out.  There are still a few available deals for volume  but cooler weather this week should  strengthen the market. Quality is mostly good with occasional mildew jacket.

LEAF ITEMS- Romaine and Romaine Heart markets continue to be weak with lower pricing available.  Demand on green and red leaf has weakened along with Romaine .  A  wide range of quality is available with issues arising from mildew, fringe burn and prominent rib and discoloration. Shopping for quality is a must especially as offerings from new  production areas start  as early as next week.

CELERY- Market has been stable with occasional volume  offerings.  Quality and sizing are nice, good strong stalks with good color.  Production will start increasing from Salinas as well as Santa Maria and eventually Oxnard  which will be offset by the declining production in Michigan.

ASPARAGUS– Production from Mexico is still light  and demand has stayed strong. Production from Peru has increased and has put downward pressure on the market. Quality is improving weekly and is comparable to imports from Peru.

GREEN ONION- Production continues to increase.  Markets have been reacting downward as supplies have outraced demand especially  on smaller sizes.    Supplies of ALL sizes  should continue to increase throughout the week and level off by next week. Quality has been inconsistent but should improve as supplies increase.

BRUSSELS SPROUTS-  Increased supplies are expected and demand is anticipated to lighten up by the end of the week.  Production should continue to increase , including some local production in the Northeast just underway . This  will put pressure on market which will likely ease before strengthening again by the end of the month for anticipated Holiday demand.

STRAWBERRIES-Salinas / Watsonville area continues to be  the  predominant loading area for volume  but Santa Maria amp; Oxnard have had better quality with their “New” Fall crop.  Production will start to transition south especially with last weekends extreme heat and forecast for possible rain showers on Wednesday  further weakening the  berries  in the North. Pricing has been wide ranging along with quality. Most shippers are discounting their Summer fruit for nearby markets. Shippers  are getting premium prices for strong fruit traveling East . Raspberry  prices are slightly higher for the best quality labels. Limited production  continues strong demand on Blackberries.

GRAPES- The market on Green and  Red grapes is stronger as most shippers  are transitioning into their late season varieties. Quality continues to be  excellent  due to the  ideal weather throughout the  Summer season in the  Central Valley.

Weather around the country has been ideal  especially on the  West Coast where short lived high pressure has caused temperatures to spike in the 90’s but by the weekend temperatures are expected to drop into the 60’s. Similar drops are expected for other parts of the country.   Although sudden spikes in temperatures have temporary negative impact on quality the cooler weather should help offset any long term issues. This may help stretch out some local growing areas but if temps drop too low then it could spell the beginning of the end for the homegrown season.

West Coast day time temperatures are currently hot but long range weather is predicted to drop below normal later this week and continue  below normal through the middle of the month. Current Highs are in the mid 80’s-90’s but will give way to 60′s by the weekend. Inland Valley’s and deserts will also see a drop to below normal after the current warming trend.   Weather around the countries local growing areas also is  predicted to be below normal with low’s of 32 degrees and  below predicted for some of the upper Midwest and Northeast growing areas.

Truck availability remains good but fuel costs  have kept rates elevated  for this time  of year.  Most Independents and  transportation brokers  continue to  solicit business which is  helping ease rates down slowly.  Advance notice will help in getting best value available.

LETTUCE-  Increase in production and strong yields  have lead to a softening market.  Yields  will start to decline as the weather cools  but overall production will continue to climb . Currently quality is good in Salinas with occasional mildew and fringe burn but seasonal discoloration issues (russett amp; pink rib) are starting to show on arrivals.  Loading Fresh  lettuce is  extremely important especially this  time of year.

BROCCOLI- Supplies are increasing as Fall plantings are increased to meet demand but with plenty of homegrown product still available the market has been overall fair .  Quality continues to be excellent. Volume  deals  are available currently but look for supplies to stabilize as the weather starts to  cool by early next week

CAULIFLOWER- Production has  leveled off and the overall market has rebounded. There are still a few available deals but cooler weather should further strengthen the market by the weekend. Quality is mostly good with occasional mildew jacket.

LEAF ITEMS- Romaine and Romaine Heart markets have peaked and lower pricing is available .  Demand on green and red leaf has weakened along with Romaine .  A  wide range of quality is available especially with current heat spell causing wilting issues  and shopping for quality is a must.

CELERY- Market has been stable with occasional volume  offerings.  Quality and sizing are nice, good strong stalks with good color.  Production will start increasing from Salinas as well as Santa Maria and eventually Oxnard  which will be  offset by the declining production in Michigan.

ASPARAGUS– Production from Mexico is still light  and demand has stayed strong with overall  market  improving daily.  Quality is improving weekly and is comparable to imports from Peru.

GREEN ONION- Production continues to increase.  Markets have been reacting downward as supplies have outraced demand especially  on smaller sizes.    Supplies of ALL sizes  should continue to increase throughout the week and level off by next week. Quality has been inconsistent but should improve as supplies increase.

BRUSSELS SPROUTS-  Increased supplies are expected but have not been enough to offset the strong Fall demand. Demand is expected to lighten up by the end of the week and supplies should continue to increase , including some local production in the Northeast just underway . This  will put pressure on markets which will likely head lower. 

STRAWBERRIES- Fall production  out of Santa Maria is  starting to increase but the  majority of fruit on the market is still from weakening Summer plants. The  current  hot weather will further soften the  fruit and add to the  widening range of prices. Most shippers  selling Summer fruit are correctly pricing theirs to move.   Demand  is very good for top quality fruit but most , if not all, fruit will have issues upon arrival . Continue to expect 20-25% bruising related issues on arrival. Cooler night time temps return by the  end of the week and quality should start to rebound.  Oxnard production will start picking up  and will  help with  available quality .  Raspberry  prices are slightly higher for the best quality labels. Limited production of Blackberries continues to be shipped almost exclusively to the West Coast.

GRAPES- The market on Green and  Red grapes is stronger as most shippers  are transitioning into their late season varieties. Quality continues to be  excellent  due to the  ideal weather throughout the  Summer season in the  Central Valley.

Supplies  of  Western veg have surged with annual increased Fall plantings based on the  anticipation of increased demand from around the  country.  Although the Northeast and  Canada have had severe weather this Summer they are currently experiencing ideal growing conditions.  This may help stretch out the local growing season and delay demand out West  causing a  temporary excess supply situation on many core vegetable items .  This is the ideal time  to take advantage of some  special deals being sporadically offered.  Many  are predicting a healthy Fall vegetable  season  once the  homegrown season concludes.

Long range weather shows West Coast below normal this week with highs in the low 60′s to mid 70′s with night time temps in the low 50’s but warming 8-10 degrees through early next week.  Inland Valley’s are predicted to be near normal.  The desert  has had near  normal weather with highs in the mid 90’s   California along with the rest of the country looks  to get a  taste of Fall by October 6th with temperatures starting to fall below normal . The Northeast could see low temps in the 30′s  by the end of the month.

Truck availability remains good but fuel costs  have kept rates elevated  for this time  of year.  Most Independents and  transportation brokers  continue to  solicit business which will eventually  turn into better rates.  Advance notice will help in getting best value available.

LETTUCE-  Most shippers will start increasing their plantings to account for increased Fall demand.  Yields  will start to decline  but overall production will continue to climb . Currently quality is good in Salinas with occasional mildew and fringe burn but seasonal discoloration issues (russett amp; pink rib) are starting to show on arrivals.  Loading Fresh  lettuce is  extremely important especially this  time of year.  Weights are a  good indication of the  overall health of the  lettuce.  Usually you like to see weights in the  low 40’s  this time  of year.  Although the lettuce will be  slightly softer it should have a better appearance and greater shelf life.

BROCCOLI- Supplies are increasing as Fall plantings  are increased to meet demand but with plenty of homegrown product still available the market will be saturated for the next few weeks until supplies stabilize.  Quality continues to be  excellent. Volume  deals  are available.

CAULIFLOWER- Production continues to surge as Fall plantings  have increased  to offset lower yields and  increased Fall demand . But similar to  broccoli there continues to  be  plenty of production locally and the  overall market has softened temp. Quality is mostly good with occasional mildew jacket. Once supplies  stabilize look for market to firm back up by  next week.

LEAF ITEMS- Romaine and Romaine Heart markets have peaked and lower pricing is available .  Demand on green and red leaf has weakened along with Romaine .  A  wide range of quality is available and shopping for quality is a must.

CELERY- Production appears to be  steady but improved  quality from Michigan has  weakened demand pressure for Salinas and Santa Maria resulting in the market being off slightly.  Quality and sizing are nice, good strong stalks with good color.  Production will continue to be steady from Salinas with most increases coming from Santa Maria and eventually Oxnard.

ASPARAGUS– Production from Mexico has leveled this week  and demand has stayed strong with overall  market  improving daily.  Quality is improving weekly and is comparable to imports from Peru.

GREEN ONION- Logistical issues  have been resolved and production is on the rise.  Markets have been reacting downward as supplies have outraced demand.   Supplies of ALL sizes  should continue to increase throughout the week and level off by next week. Quality has been inconsistent but should improve as supplies increase.

BRUSSELS SPROUTS- Production has be slow coming out of Central California and pricing has been steadily increasing.  Increased supplies are expected but may not be enough to offset the  strong Fall demand.

STRAWBERRIES- Fall production  out of Santa Maria is  starting to increase but the  majority of fruit on the market is still from weakening Summer plants.  Demand  is very good for top quality fruit but most , if not all, fruit will have issues upon arrival . Continue to expect 20-25% bruising related issues on arrival. Cooler night should help firm fruit but the plants are starting to look tired and most shippers are hesitant to go east with their fruit .  Oxnard will start in a couple weeks and help with  available quality .  Raspberry  prices are slightly higher for the best quality labels. Limited production of Blackberries continues to be shipped almost exclusively to the West Coast.  Driscoll will continue to be the preferred berry for the next  month as F.O.B.’s are continuing to reflect  wide pricing range due to quality.

GRAPES- The market on Green and  Red grapes is stronger as most shippers  are transitioning into their late season varieties. Quality continues to be  excellent  due to the  ideal weather throughout the  Summer season in the  Central Valley.

Produce West

Fall is  officially here this week but no change in weather is predicted for the Western U.S.  As fruit production starts to  slow , veg production  should start increasing slightly.   Weather will  start to have impact on the local homegrown products but other than an occasional  frost warning the recent weather around the country has been ideal for local crops.

Long range weather shows West Coast near normal this week with highs in the mid 60′s to mid 70′s with night time temps in the low 50’s. Possible warming trend predicted for the first week  of  October.  Inland Valley’s are predicted to be near normal.  The desert  has had increased humidity but should remain  near normal temps for the balance of the  month.   The rest of the country is averaging near normal temperatures and precipitation. The  Northeast could see low temps in the 30’s  by the end of the month.

Truck availability remains good.  Most Independents and  transportation brokers  continue to  solicit business which will eventually  turn into better rates although high fuel costs have kept current rates steady.  Advance notice will help in getting best value available.

 LETTUCE- Production continues to be steady with good demand.  Local production continues to be limited. Most shippers have been slowly raising prices and should peak early this  week. Currently quality is good in Salinas with occasional mildew and fringe burn but seasonal discoloration issues (russett amp; pink rib) are lurking.  This will have some impact on supplies but mostly on  arrivals .  Weights have ranged throughout the 40’s.  This  time of year it’s  best to have lower weights  to  help avoid bruising issues on arrival. Shopping for quality will become mandatory as we head into fall.

 BROCCOLI-  Demand for export and value added  along with slightly lower production in Santa Maria helped create strong demand  for broccoli.  The market ended last week very active but supplies  should improve this  week  and values will be available by mid week.  . Quality continues to be  excellent. 

 CAULIFLOWER- Production is steady to slightly heavier than last week. The overall market tone is good currently but anticipating slightly lower pricing throughout the week  Quality is mostly good with occasional mildew jacket.

 LEAF ITEMS- Romaine and Romaine Heart markets have peaked and lower pricing is  expected this week although there is  a WIDE range in  quality .  Common defects include  fringe burn, twist and/ or mildew.  Demand on green and red leaf has weakened along with Romaine .  Shopping for quality is a must.

CELERY-The market continues has been strong.  Fair quality from Michigan continues to put increased demand pressure on Salinas and Santa Maria.  Quality and sizing are nice, good strong stalks with good color.  Production will continue to be on the light side until fall although there has been the occasional volume  deal available mainly originating from Santa Maria.

 ASPARAGUS– Production from Mexico has leveled this  week and demand has stayed steady as the overall market should also be  steady. Quality is improving weekly and is comparable to imports from Peru.  

  GREEN ONION- Market has been active due to a reduction in summer acreage along with damage done from earlier heat.   Market has also been  impacted  with recent rains  and the observance of Mexican Independence Holiday delaying harvesting and logistics.  Supplies  should increase by next week which will eventually lead to lower pricing  as  we head into Fall.

 STRAWBERRIES- Production from Watsonville/Salinas areas continues to decline slightly. Demand  is very good for top quality but most , if not all, fruit will have issues upon arrival . Continue to expect 20-25% bruising related issues on arrival. Cooler night should help firm fruit but the plants are starting to look tired and most shippers are hesitant to go east with their fruit .   Santa Maria shippers have started to harvest their new fall crop of berries and Oxnard will start in a couple weeks.  Raspberry production from Salinas is lighter and prices are slightly higher for the best quality labels. Limited production of Blackberries continues to be shipped almost exclusively to the West Coast.  Driscoll will continue to be the preferred berry for the next  month as F.O.B.’s are already reflecting a wide pricing range.

 

Produce West

www.producewest.com

Long range weather shows West Coast near normal this week with highs in the mid 60′s to mid 70’s with night time temps in the low 50’s. Inland Valley’s are predicted to be near normal.  The desert is experiencing their Summer time Monsoon conditions with below average temps and slightly above normal precipitation.   The rest of the country is averaging near normal temperatures and precipitation.   Truck availability remains good especially after a holiday week. Abundant supply should create favorable rates but fuel prices should keep rates from declining to drastically.  Advance notice will help in getting best value available.

 

LETTUCE- Production continues to be steady with good demand. Local production continues to be limited.  Quality is good in Salinas with occasional mildew and fringe burn.   Weights have been mostly in the mid 40′s.

 

BROCCOLI-  Demand for export and value added  along with slightly lower production in Santa Maria  has created an overall increase in the market ,especially crowns .  The market ended last week very active and should continue to be  active all week .  Supplies should improve next week. Quality continues to be  excellent.  Some of the regionally grown broccoli is reporting poor quality  which also has helped increase demand for California broccoli.

 

CAULIFLOWER- Production has slowed a bit while demand is picking up slightly. The overall market tone is good.  Quality is mostly good with occasional mildew jacket.

 

LEAF ITEMS- Romaine and Romaine Heart markets have settled and appear to be stronger for the balance of the  week although there is  a WIDE range in  quality .  Most suffering from fringe burn, twist and/ or mildew.  Demand on green and red leaf has weakened but will follow Romaine as it gets more active. 

CELERY-The market continues to be strong.  Fair quality from Michigan continues to put increased demand pressure on Salinas and Santa Maria.  Quality and sizing are nice, good strong stalks with good color.  Production will continue to be on the light side until fall.

 

ASPARAGUS– Supplies from Mexico have increased and demand has stayed steady as the overall market has adjusted. Quality is improving weekly and is comparable to imports from Peru.  Market should stabilize once production levels.

 

GREEN ONION- Market has been active due to a reduction in summer acreage along with damage done from earlier heat.   Market will tighten further with recent rains in Mexico causing delays in harvesting and logistics. Once the weather cooperates look for market to settle.

 

STRAWBERRIES- Production from Watsonville / Salinas area continues with mostly small-medium fruit with full 95% color. Although overall production is down growers continue to have a hard time finding sufficient labor to strip overripe fruit with some getting in the flats which is causing arrival issues with most labels. Demand is very good for top quality but most, if not all, fruit will have issues upon arrival.    Most shippers are hesitant to go east with their fruit.  Cooler night time temperatures will help firm fruit but continue to expect 20-30% bruising related issues on arrival.  Some Santa Maria shippers have started to harvest their new fall crop of berries and Oxnard will start in another month.  Raspberry production from Salinas has leveled and prices are slightly higher for the best quality labels. Limited production of Blackberries continues to be shipped almost exclusively to the West Coast.  Driscoll will continue to be the preferred berry for the next couple months but expect to see a WIDER gap on quotes as demand shifts toward premium labels.

 

Produce West

www.producewest.com

As we approach the end of August dog days, we start looking towards Labor Day activity. People celebrating the end of summer, kids returning to the classroom, and the start of football season. This means more parties, BBQs and back to school lunches.  It also starts the end of local growing regions and people all over the country will again start looking to the west for their produce needs.  This is the time to lock in those ads and prepare for stronger business.

There have been a few initial recalls in the news lately, but are not having the impact they once had 4 or 5 years ago. Consumers are showing less overall concern and recalls reflect closer monitoring and better quality control. Shippers are doing a good job being proactive when any issues arise.

Long range weather in the Salinas Valley shows a consistent 68-72 degree range; perfect growing temperatures.  Central valley weather will be around 100 degrees, typical for this time of year.

Truck rates continue to settle. There are more trucks available and looking for loads, so we should see the market ease up over the next week, maybe bend a few hundred dollars, but no significant drop because fuel prices have once again spiked over the past 2 weeks.

LETTUCE- Shippers have been hopeful for better markets, but so far things have not responded the way they wanted.  Demand is still off, keeping the market at bay.  They are hoping the romaine shortage will funnel more customers to iceberg, but so far this has not been the case.  Quality is nice, good weights; mild temperatures have produced some nice heads.

BROCCOLI–Quality continues to be excellent.   Market has held steady with production coming out of Salinas and Santa Maria. The market could improve towards the latter end of the week as more demand shifts west.  Don’t hesitate to grab a few extra cases early; things could improve. Still, there is still plenty of local broccoli, especially in the east.

CAULIFLOWER– plentiful supplies currently, shippers are looking to move. The market is reflecting this, and coolers are full.  Run offers by us.  Quality is nice, very few problems to speak of.  Come and get it.

LEAF ITEMS–   Romaine has been tight over the past week.  This has affected the romaine heart supply and market, as well. Supply on green and red leaf is not keeping up with demand and markets are stronger here, too.  Heat waves put many local growing areas out of commission and more pressure is being put on the west.  Quality is generally good, some fringe burn from a windier than normal summer but the biggest issue currently is supply.

CELERY– This market is getting stronger.  Michigan supplies are dwindling, putting more pressure on Salinas and Santa Maria.  Quality and sizing is nice, good strong stalks with good color.  Supplies will be light for at least another month and then Oxnard will start up.

STRAWBERRIES–   Still plenty of quality issues. Most shippers are hesitant to go east with their fruit because they are just not making arrivals.  Driscoll are the only berries that are making consistent arrivals, but they are making us pay dearly for that luxury, charging a premium of $4-$5 more than other shippers.  Their quality isn’t all that much better, its just that it says “DRISCOLL” on the carton. Overall, plenty of bruising on berries, completely normal for this time of year and industry wide. Expect arrivals to be 20-30% worth of defects.

Produce West

www.producewest.com

After a  short warming period,  Long range weather shows  West Coast cooling to near normal with highs in the mid 60’s to mid 80’s but continued  above normal temperatures for the inland valley’s and  deserts. The  rest of the country finally gets a reprieve from the Hot , Dry weather with an extended forecast of seasonal precipitation and  below normal temperatures.

Freight rates have adjusted and for now are holding steady for most of the country. Preferred rates are still available for mid week, advanced notice loading. Climbing diesel prices, especially on West Coast may affect rates in the short term but with more equipment available heading into the Fall  rates  should start to ease.

 

LETTUCE- Production continues to be steady  with good demand. Local production continues to be limited.  Quality is ranging from ok to good in Salinas with occasional mildew and fringe burn.   Weights have been mostly in the mid 40′s.  Market appears to be stable with potential upside due to limited local production.

 

BROCCOLI–Market continues to show some upside especially for the next 10 days with most  demand coming from the Midwest and West Coast with continued sporadic contribution from the  East . Production coming out of Salinas and Santa Maria with quality continuing to be excellent . Most volume discounts  will originate from Santa Maria.

 

CAULIFLOWER– A recent surge in production has market adjusting  with a wide range in quotes.  Production  should stabilize by mid week leaving fewer 9’s  available and erratic supplies of 12’s . Some customers are taking  advantage of the deals which will lead to stabilizing the overall market.  Local production should cap any extreme upside.  Quality continues to be good with occasional black spotting reported.

 

LEAF ITEMS–    Production continues to be moderate and demand has been very good. Markets will continue to see surges of demand even with East Coast quality improved but still fair.   Quality issues also in California have limited volume and have kept markets  active.  Romaine Hearts continue to be strong everywhere while carton Romaine is not far behind.  Continued fringe burn and now  internal burn issues are widespread.  You may even see demand for carton Romaine surpass  Hearts due to shippers actively “stripping” down problem leaves  from their carton Romaine.  

BRUSSELS SPROUTS- Production out of Mexico is winding down with some worm damage being reported. While production has increased out of Central California with an array of sizes from  small to  Jumbo’s .  With unsettled quality the market has dropped considerably.  Most shippers  are trying to find the appropriate level to get the  market jump started.  Once quality returns most retailers will jump back in for the nouveau  veg item and the market will stabilize.

CELERY– Production has leveled and the market seems to have settled.  Quality from Michigan  and subsequent demand from the  East will dictate market direction . Currently quality from Michigan is  reported as fair at best but improving.  Quality on California celery continues to be good with few quality issues to report. Similar to Cauliflower look for a narrowing in market prices with possible upside.

STRAWBERRIES–   Slowing Summer production and smaller fruit has limited  production causing an increasingly active market and higher prices .  Quality ranges from fair to good with ALL fruit showing some signs of bruising  and fair quality showing some decay at shipping point.  Even with the best, expect some bruising on arrival.  Demand continues to be  strong and shippers  are limiting shipments to their best customers with fewest problems.    Raspberry amp; Blackberry production also peaked from Salinas/ Santa Maria, with a wide range in quality. Most production being shipped to nearby markets. Quality won’t likely improve until the Fall crop starts around the first week of September.

ASPARAGUS – With minimal production from  Mexico and sporadic shipments from Peru supplies are limited and the  market is substantially higher than the previous week.  Quality has been good although occasional aging issues  due to the  distribution cycle from  East Coast to West Coast BACK to East Coast.  

ARTICHOKES- Lighter Summer supplies have led to a boost in the market on all sizes.  Quality has been excellent. Market should  remain  active for the  duration of the month.

WESTSIDE MELONS-Cantaloupe production has peaked from the Westside  with Honeydews  starting to increase volume. Most shippers having taken on a considerable amount of promotions  between now and the  Labor Day Holiday  which will result in an active market and higher pricing.