7/7/21

by Leave a Comment

Conventional Items
Lettuce
Most shippers continue to struggle with less than full capacity labor force but with moderate demand markets remain relatively steady returning from the 4th of July Holiday. Growers are still trimming damage from heat related issues a couple weeks ago resulting in a range of color and texture but overall quality has been good.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine and Romaine Hearts  Romaine supplies continue to be moderate which matches demand as East Coast local production continues to supplement industry supplies.  Diminished labor force has sporadically hampered Romaine Heart production with variable pricing from shipper to shipper. . Quality issues are mostly being trimmed at field level.
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  Demand on Leaf settled back as eastern Homegrown supplies have improved .  Expect markets to remain at deflated current levels through the end of the month.
Celery
Pricing has seemed to stabilize at current trading levels in both Santa Maria and Salinas. Both areas are trading at pretty close to the same pricing. Most shippers are heavy to size 24 and that is the size they are willing to make some deals on. They are remaining firm on pricing on the 30 and 36 size.
Artichokes
Heirloom and Original varieties from Central Coast production areas have finished for the season with the predominantly larger sized Thornless varieties available
Broccoli
Steady availability out of both Santa Maria and Salinas. Harvest of short cut crowns still remains on the lighter side in Santa Maria. Overall quality is nice with a good green color and tight domes.
Cauliflower
Good supplies available out of both Santa Maria and Salinas. Size 9’s remain the most limited out of both locations. Quality has been nice with good sizing, weight and nice white domes.
Brussels Sprouts
Production from Mexico is nearing the end as supplies from Northern California production areas improve slightly. Supplies are expected to remain at current levels through July with demand steady at current pricing levels.
Green Onions
Mexico production remains steady although reduced Summer plantings are expected to lighten supplies moving forward.  Quality has shown improvement in the last few days
Strawberries
Demand is weak after the holiday and markets are mixed. Warmer weather forecast for the weekend may bring on more supplies, but customers may see more quality issues upon arrival, especially with older-crop fruit. Santa Maria, California is forecast for mostly sunny skies with highs in the 70s and lows in the 50s. Salinas/Watsonville, California is forecast for areas of low clouds, then sunny skies for Wednesday through Friday, becoming mostly sunny for the weekend. Highs are forecast in the 70s, increasing to 80s Thursday and Friday and then decreasing to the 70s for the weekend with lows in the 50s. Santa Maria, California fruit has bruising, soft shoulders, overripe and dry or discolored calyx. Average counts are 20 to 22.
Blackberries
Supplies continue to increase as California comes into volume, North Carolina starts, and Guatemala pushes volume to the U.S.   Good promotional volume over the next 3 weeks!
Raspberries
Good supplies on organic, but conventional supplies are still light this week; very good quality!
Blueberries
North Carolina is nearly done, with New Jersey and California winding down. Oregon is going; but with the heat this past week, waiting on more information on the effect on the crop. Michigan/British Columbia are to ramp up by the end of the week. Regional blueberries are past peak and winding down.
Stone Fruit
Lighter volume on yellow peaches but production remains steady. Yellow Nectarines Some new varieties of yellow nectarines have started this week and there should be steady supplies. Red Plums will be light for the next couple of days until the new varieties ramp up. There should be good volume by the end of the week. Black Plum production is ramping up and there will be availability through the week. Overall stone fruit quality has been very nice with very few problems to report.
Grapes
Good supplies out of Nogales and Coachella are helping with the slow start in the California central valley . Mexico is winding down quickly but still have good supplies of red seedless available. Green seedless are mostly finished in the south. Central valley conventional grapes beginning to trickle in. Volume in the Central Valley will start picking up over the next two weeks as the overall crop hits better production numbers.
Citrus
Oranges – Summer navels are still available, although sizing has been mostly 88 & larger. The valencia crop is on the larger side peaking 88-72-113, then 138. This market has firmed up as the businesses are starting to open up. Small sizes (113/138s) will be extremely limited for the rest of the season. Chilean navels will start arriving on the West Coast shortly and will peak on 56/64/72s.
Lemons – Lemons are in a demand exceeds supply situation. The crop was damaged this winter due to heavy winds, scarring the fruit. There is very little fancy grade available. This market will continue to rise. California is still importing offshore product to keep up with high demand, although the fruit is mostly small sizes. This is leaving larger sizes much harder to come by with such high demand. Some product is coming out of district 2, but mostly choice fruit.
Limes – Demand has been lighter this week. We will likely continue to see quality issues as a result of steady rains over the past few weeks. Sizing is peaking on 200 and 175 count fruit. Markets have eased up post holiday and demand will likely be light for the next 10 days.
Dry Onions
New Mexico is back into protection over the weekend and then it rained again. Harvest will be curtailed somewhat because the onions have to spend more time in the dryers. There is more rain in the forecast and spotty showers because of the humidity. Tough deal. This is what New Mexico didn’t experience last year, but can be normal in most years. California is getting into more solid varieties and will start to make good arrivals in most cases. Those
that machine harvest are still hit and miss, while folks that hand harvest will continue to have better arrival’s Trucks are still the problem. If this were a normal truck supply this onion market, in California, would be $10 to $12 range…not this year; The freight rates are at least $3 to $4 higher and are not likely to change in the short term,
Asparagus
The “Grass” market remains tight in Mexico trans shipping out of California. $32-$35 for 11/1’s seems to be the market on standards, and waxes and wanes in that range. Peru has the volume and is in charge on the eastern markets.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   Supplies remain moderate matching demand on Broccoli and Cauliflower . Quality remains good for now but growers are still assessing damage on younger plants . Additionally insect pressure has begun to escalate.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with steady demand. Quality remains good from the Northern production areas with an occasional sporadic shortage among growers.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to be strong. Most growers have been reaching for supplies . Continue to plan ahead to get full coverage. Damaged tops are expected from the heat.
Potato and Onions . New crop Production has begun from Southern California production areas as prices have moderated.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Currently prices on Romaine and Hearts remain a value for now but excessive heat will likely affect quality.  Green and Red leaf  supplies remain affordable as well for now.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Strong demand throughout the entire Citrus category due to strong retail sales and revived foodservice activity. California lemon crop is tightening with limited domestic production especially on Fancy grade. Mexico is expected to resume later next month. Lime quality has shown improvement but remains inconsistent as well as supplies,  Valencia’s from Mexico have begun to expand availability. Grapefruit supplies have begun to slow .
OG Melons
California / Mexico :  Temperatures have moderated somewhat with Cantaloupe , Honeydews, Galias and mini Watermelon production improving. Demand remains good with current pricing  Supplies are likely to remain moderate for a couple weeks . Drought conditions throughout the state, especially the Central Valley, will impact supplies as we get deeper into the Summer months especially if temperatures again surge past 100 .
OG Grapes
Green & Red :  Supplies of BOTH Red and Green varieties have improved as the market Transitions to Bakersfield . Prices have slowly adjusted and are likely to settle at current levels given the water and labor situation throughout the state.
OG Stone Fruit
California  :  Stone fruit season has started with improving supplies as temperatures moderate in the Central Valley . Apricot , Nectarines, Peaches and Plums are all available. Quality remains excellent on all varieties .

6/9/21

by Leave a Comment

Lettuce
Rinse and repeat… Mostly Cool , temperate weather with an occasional blip of warm temperatures continue to keep supplies moderated although demand remains mild. Quality is mostly good although some growers continue to fall behind schedule while most harvest to order and  “jump” overmature fields to maintain bottom line pricing and avoid arrival issues. Some growers have suggested they’ve adjusted their planting schedules heading into the second half of the California season to reduce the amount of acres being disc.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine and Romaine Hearts  Romaine supplies remain heavy with moderate Demand . Diminished labor force continues to hamper Romaine Heart production at times leaving plenty of carton supplies available. Quality remains mostly nice from all areas.
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  Demand on Leaf continues to be sluggish as Eastern local production begins . Quality remains nice from all production areas with increased mildew pressure expected after another cool Foggy week.
Celery
Oxnard production will be winding down over these next 2 weeks. Salinas production has started and supplies are increasing daily. Supplies will likely remain heavy for the coming weeks. Quality reports are showing good condition with occasional seeder reported.
Artichokes
Heirloom and Original varieties from Central Coast production areas have mostly finished with only a few of the smaller sizes as the predominantly larger sized thornless varieties increase availability.
Broccoli
Production remains heavy from all areas.  Prices on Crowns tried to firm late last week but mild demand kept markets deflated. Quality remains very nice as growing conditions remain ideal.
Cauliflower
Supplies remain adequate for current market conditions.  Deals from Santa Maria remain available while some Salinas growers are trying to hold slightly higher levels. Quality from both areas has been ideal .
Brussels Sprouts
Production from Mexico has eased while Northern California production areas remain limited for the next few weeks. Prices have firmed but demand remains steady. Quality issues from Mexico with increasing insect pressure have also reduced availability while limited domestic production has shown improvement.
Green Onions
Mexico production has resumed full capacity with most product loading from the Central Coast. Quality has shown improvement as growers finally get back on schedule.
Strawberries
California fruit has occasional bruising, white shoulders, misshapen, seedy tips, and dry or discolored calyx and discoloration caused by wind damage. Average counts are 16 to 18, occasionally higher and lower.
Raspberries
Supplies are light but improved from last week, as Mexico and California harvests recover from their recent cold snaps. Quality is fair.
Blackberries
Supplies are good, particularly out of the Southeastern U.S and Mexico. California’s harvest has ramped up as expected. Quality is fair.
Blueberries
Seasonal peak production out of California, Georgia and Mexico continues. Quality and pricing are good.
Stone Fruit
Apricot Production remains steady on 80/84’s and larger this week. Better supplies expected next week on large sizes. Small sizes are limited. Yellow Peach Volume has been steady and the eating quality so far has been excellent. Yellow Nectarine volume will be steady this week with limited volume on larger fruit. Red Plums will remain light this week and orders are subject to proration. There are no large peaks in volume projected any time soon. Supplies will remain tight through June. Black Plum volume will remain light this week and orders are subject to proration. We are not projecting another big push in volume for another two weeks. Supplies will remain tight through June.
Grapes
The Mexican grape season is in full swing with more varieties become readily available. Warmer weather in the forecast for the coming week will help bring on more fruit. We expect supplies to increase daily, which will help settle markets. Promotional opportunities are now available. Supplies are expected to be heavy in the coming weeks. Quality has significantly improved.
Citrus
Oranges – Stronger markets this week on most sizes. Large sizes are more prevalent , and small sizes are lighter in supply. Quality is still holding strong on late season navels. Small sizes are extremely limited, with little relief in sight for the coming weeks. Valencia volumes are expected to increase, although small sizes will remain a challenge. Overall quality on navels and valencias has been positive.
Lemons – Stronger markets this week on lemons. Most sizes have cleaned up and production has been light. District 2 is producing mostly choice fruit. Fancy fruit is difficult to find. We expect production to remain limited for the remainder of the month until Chilean lemons start in the beginning of August.
Limes – Better demand this week as we head into the summer season. Large limes have been limited. Sizes are peaking on 200-230 sized fruit. Multiple quality issues have been reported, make sure to know what you are getting. Better supplies are expected to start arriving late next week which will help ease pricing.
Cantaloupes
The waiting for the wave of supplies continues, as mini surge in supply after mini surge peters out. Yield problems persist and many growers are starting to think this could be the future of the desert deal. Nogales is done. Off shore has been done and Athena Melons seem to be struggling with poor yields as well. Supplies improved a bit and market adjust somewhat but sill stayed higher than expected. Sizes are peaking on 9s then jbo 9s then 12s. Quality and sugar has been good. Demand has been fair for available fruit. So the waiting continues and the market drifts along. We see no reason for things to change much unless and until the wave of supplies comes ashore. Desert deal has about 3 weeks to go. Kern and Westside are expected to start around the fist of July, or perhaps the last week in June.
Honeydews
As off the offshore deal ended, the market perked up with lighter supplies. Nogales as fair supplies but should be running out soon. Domestic fruit seems to be struggling with yields on dews as they are on cantaloupes. Quality and sugar is okay in Mex and good domestically. Sizes peaking on 5s count with ample 6s count and few jbos. Demand had been just okay as it has for product all year. We look for a steady market on dews next week with deep discounting or long awaited decline when and if production normalizes.
Mix Melons
Hami and Galia melons are primary varieties being harvested. Other varieties scattered and spare. Sizes running pretty standard. Demand has been slow and looks to continue to be with most concentrated on the larger volume items such as lopes and dews due to limited capacity and high freight costs which are forcing buyers to prioritize their buying. We see little change ahead until, perhaps until the Westside starts round 7/10.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   Cooler temperatures have kept supplies moderated matching demand on Broccoli and Cauliflower.  Quality remains good from the Central coast with mostly ideal growing conditions keeping insect pressure limited for now.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with steady demand. Quality remains good from the Northern production areas with an occasional sporadic shortage among growers.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to be strong. Most growers have been reaching for supplies . Continue to plan ahead to get full coverage.
Potato and Onions . New crop Production has begun from Southern California production areas as prices have moderated.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Currently prices on Romaine and Hearts remain a value with mostly ideal weather to start the season Green and Red leaf  supplies remain affordable as well. Overall quality has been good from Northern California production areas.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Good demand throughout the entire Citrus category due to strong retail sales and revived foodservice activity. California lemon crop is tightening with limited domestic production especially on Fancy grade. Mexico is expected to resume later next month. Lime quality has shown improvement but remains inconsistent as well as supplies,  Valencia’s from Mexico have begun to expand availability. Grapefruit supplies have steadied with improved sizing.
OG Melons
California / Mexico :  After a delayed start to the season, High temperatures arrived in the desert impacting Cantaloupe , Honeydews, Galias and especially mini Watermelon production. Demand remains very good with elevated prices.  Supplies are likely to remain moderate with a possible gap in supplies during the transition to Northern California production areas. Additionally we anticipate issues associated with lack of water supplies from Northern California in early July .
OG Stone Fruit
California  :  Stone fruit season has started with improving supplies as temperatures moderate in the Central Valley . Apricot , Nectarines, Peaches and Plums are all available. Initial sizing has started on the small side but is improving daily.
OG Grapes
Green & Red :  Supplies of BOTH Red and Green varieties have improved as the market settles. Demand remains very good with excellent quality from the desert. Reduced pricing remains available for product of Mexico .

5/19/21

by Leave a Comment

Conventional Items
Lettuce
Steady supplies with mild demand continue to result in sluggish markets. Even with a cool, mild Spring and now Summer, exorbitant freight rates, rising fuel costs, and lack of sufficient labor force continue to weigh on the entire produce industry. Quality remains overall good although tiered as some growers fall behind schedule while most continue to cut to order and  “jump” harvest to avoid over-mature lettuce while trying to maintain bottom line pricing. Mostly cool weather has kept supplies moderated with only a couple warm days so far this Spring.
Las Cruces, NM  production continues with excellent quality and substantial freight savings to begin the week.. Inquire with your Produce West representative.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine and Romaine Hearts  Romaine supplies remain heavy with moderate Demand . Diminished labor force continues to hamper Romaine Heart production at times leaving plenty of carton supplies available. Quality remains mostly nice from all areas. .
Las Cruces, NM production continues from Las Cruces with good reviews. on quality and substantial savings on freight.
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  Demand on Leaf continues to be sluggish as Eastern local production begins . Quality remains nice from all production areas with increased mildew pressure expected after a cool Foggy week.
Celery
Pricing tried to move up a little at the beginning of the week and then halted and even a few shippers have come back down slightly. The Oxnard district is finding more seeders in their crops as the season begins to come to an end in that region. This will decrease their yields as the month winds down. Santa Maria is in full production and seeder free at this point and Salinas will start harvest the first week of June.
Artichokes
Heirloom and Original varieties from Central Coast production areas are now peaking on medium sizes.. Markets have eased slightly with availability expected for a couple more weeks in the season. Take advantage of these superior edible varieties before the season ends. Thornless varieties remain available with mostly larger sizes.
Broccoli
Make your offers, plenty of availability and shippers are looking to move product. Good availability in Santa Maria and Salinas. It seems there is a little more availability out of Mexico. Off and on rains have hampered harvest slightly in Mexico but the markets are still at or near the bottom.
Cauliflower
Plenty of cauliflower available. Make offers as shippers are looking to move product.
Brussels Sprouts
Production from Mexico has started to ease while Northern California production areas remain limited for the next month. Prices have firmed but demand remains steady. Quality has been mostly very nice from Mexico with minor insect pressure while limited domestic production has shown improvement.
Green Onions
Mexico production has resumed full capacity with most product loading Now from the Central Coast.  Quality has shown improvement as growers finally get back on schedule.
Strawberries
Time to write your promotional Ads for June. There is a lull in demand before the Memorial holiday.  Santa Maria and Salinas/Watsonville, California growing areas have product available. Most Oxnard shippers are finished for the season or going to the freezer with their product. Santa Maria, California is forecast for sunny skies and breezy in the afternoon, becoming partly cloudy Friday through the weekend. Highs are forecast in the 60s and lows in the 40s. Salinas/Watsonville, California is forecast to be partly sunny, with highs in the 60s and lows in the 40s. Santa Maria, California fruit has occasional bruising, white shoulders, misshapen, seedy tips, and dry or discolored calyx and discoloration caused by wind damage. Average counts are 14 to 16, occasionally higher and lower.
Raspberries
Continued supply/production issues out of Mexico and demand will continue to exceed supply through May.
Blackberries
Supplies/production continue to decline as we near the end of the general Mexico season in early June. Demand was a bit lighter last week and will continue into this week.
Blueberries
Georgia fruit is coming in strong, while market price is declining! Volume hitting! PEAK VOLUMES- PROMOTIONAL OPPORTUNITIES!
Stone Fruit
California stone fruit production will steadily increase this week as the valley harvest numbers grow. Even with production increasing there’s heavy demand and orders could still be allocated. Apricot production has improved this week with a good range of sizes. Yellow peach production is picking up in the central valley. Sizing is currently peaking on a 56. 64’s and smaller are now available in volume fill. Yellow Nectarine production will remain steady but light for the next two weeks. Peak sizing will be in the 72’s and 64’s. Larger fruit will be limited. Red and black plums will start towards the end of next week.
Grapes
Imported Chilean and Peruvian red grapes are winding down quickly. Greens are currently in a gap and we are now in a demand exceeds supply scenario with reds. Mexico and Coachella are off to a slow start and we will be ‘demand exceeds’ for at least another 2 weeks. By the first week of June we should see better supplies on domestic fruit, which will likely help to ease demand. Early quality reports on the Coachella fruit is positive and good quality red and greens are expected for the first half of the summer season.
Citrus
Oranges – Stronger markets this week as inventory diminishes. Valencia oranges have started, although supplies are still light. Sizes are peaking on 56 and 72 count fruit. Light supplies will likely continue into the coming weeks. Navels are still the best option as quality has been holding up well. Sizing is mostly large on navels and small sizes are less available.
Lemons – Stronger markets this week on lemons. Steady supplies continue out of districts 1 and 2, mostly fancy fruit. As temperatures rise we are seeing more quality issues. Markets will continue to strengthen as southern growing regions finish for the season.
Limes – Tight supplies this week on most sizes, especially large limes. Rain in Mexican growing areas, mixed with an uptick in demand has caused markets to hold at currently levels. Some quality defects include blanching and scarring.
Cantaloupes
As offshores come to an end, domestics are kicking in albeit at a much slower pace. Supplies therefore should be diminishing overall but slowly and incrementally increasing in the CA AZ desert. Mexico continues to ship. Overall quality is okay, but the offshore are getting a bit tired and Mexico always seems to carry the legacy stigma of the decades old bacterial outbreak. Domestic supplies are running mostly reg 9 and 12 count with few jbo 9s which are already contractually committed, and few 15s which are being heavily discounted. The bulk of the demand has been mostly contracted at lower than spot market prices. Truck and truck rates have become tight and prohibitive effecting demand. Next week domestic production should pick up with more shippers starting their harvest. The volume will be too late for Memorial day ads. By the first week in June full domestic production will be in force and prices should plunge, especially if trucks remain at tight and high priced as they currently are.
Honeydews
Little has changed here but that could be different in the weeks ahead. Offshore are all but over. Mexico continues to ship at lower prices. Domestics should start to kick in but like the cantaloupes in a very small way at first followed by incremental volume increases on a schedule about a week being cantaloupes. Current supplies are mostly pre committed but not to the degree as cantaloupes. Overall quality is okay. Brix are variable. Sizes peaking on 5s and 6s. with few larger and 8s being heavily discounted. We see a steady market next week, followed by a gradual decline the following week and perhaps a precipitous decline by the second week in June.
Mix
With the exception of Galias, nothing is expected before mid-June at the earliest.
Dry Onions
If I only had a truck!!! This is the time when Onion shippers have to subsidize transportation. The delivered market in Chicago is $12…$6 for the shipper and $6 for the truck. Soon, if trucks don’t start to show up and become more plentiful, it will be $5 for the shipper and $7 for the tuck. The jobbing market
doesn’t seem to be changing until food service gets on its feet. The next big problem is labor. There have been a lot of drivers that went bankrupt during Covid and are now driving for Walmart or Amazon from DC to DC. Until it become very enticing to get these guys back on the long-haul configuration we will be paying more for this vital commodity.
Asparagus
Washington, New Jersey, Canada, Indiana, and of course Michigan to name the states that are production. Of course, we have Mexico and Peru going too. What can possibly go wrong in this scenario? At least these growing are requiring less freight to get to the consumers. Prices, of course are all over the board, so there will need to be some feature ad pricing to move this kind of volume.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   Cooler temperatures have kept supplies moderated matching demand on Broccoli and Cauliflower.  Quality has been good to start the Central coast season with mostly ideal growing conditions.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with steady demand. Quality remains good from the Northern production areas with an occasional sporadic shortage among growers.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to be strong. Most growers have been reaching for supplies . Continue to plan ahead to get full coverage.
Potato and Onions . New crop Production has begun from Southern California production areas with prices expected to moderate over the coming weeks
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Currently prices on Romaine and Hearts remain a value with mostly ideal weather to start the season Green and Red leaf  supplies remain affordable as well. Overall quality has been good from Northern California production areas.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Good demand throughout the entire Citrus category due to strong retail sales and revived foodservice activity. California lemon crop is tightening with limited domestic production. Mexico is expected to resume later this month.  Lime quality has shown improvement but remains inconsistent as well as supplies, The Navel crop is winding down as Valencia’s from Mexico begin to expand availability. Seasonal Variety offerings are winding down. Grapefruit supplies have steadied with improved sizing.
OG Melons
California / Mexico : .  Organic Watermelon , Mini’s , Cantaloupe , Honeydews and Galias are winding down in Mexico and remain slightly behind schedule in the Desert but volume will ramp up quickly in time for Memorial Day. Quality is expected to be excellent through the Summer
OG Stone Fruit
California  :  Stone fruit season has started with improving supplies with relatively cooler than normal temperatures delaying the start. Apricot , Nectarines and Peaches are all available with Plums expected in coming weeks. Initial sizing has started on the small side but should improve as the weather warms.
OG Grapes
Green & Red :  Supplies currently remain mostly from storage Imports through mid May with varied Quality. We expect Domestic season to start slightly late but supplies are expected to improve quickly with excellent quality forecasted to promote all Summer.

5/12/21

by Leave a Comment

Lettuce
Dog Days of Summer are upon us….Or at least it seems that way. The produce industry is sluggish across the board with no exception to iceberg. Extravagant freight rates, rising fuel costs, lack of sufficient labor force across ALL sectors, pending transition to Fruit season and an overall lack of demand are all contributing factors. Quality remains overall good although tiered as some growers fall behind schedule while most continue to cut to order and  “jump” harvest to avoid overmatured lettuce while trying to maintain bottom line pricing. Mostly cool weather has kept supplies moderated with only a couple overall warm days so far this Spring.
Las Cruces, NM  production continues with excellent quality and substantial freight savings to begin the week.. Inquire with your Produce West representative.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine and Romaine Hearts  Romaine supplies remain heavy with moderate Demand on cartons but slightly better on Hearts. Diminished labor force continues to hamper Romaine Heart production at times leaving plenty of carton supplies available. Quality remains mostly nice from all areas.
Las Cruces, NM production continues from Las Cruces with good reviews. on quality and substantial savings on freight.
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  Demand on Leaf has followed Romaine. Quality remains nice from Northern production areas but demand lags behind.
Celery
We could see a slight price increase over the next week. The Oxnard district is finding more seeders in their crops as the season begins to come to an end in that region. This will decrease their yields as the month winds down. Santa Maria is in full production and seeder free at this point and Salinas will start harvest the first week of June.
Artichokes
Thornless varieties from Central Coast production areas have peaked on larger sizes and are now peaking on medium sizes especially Heirloom and Original varieties. Markets have eased slightly with availability is expected for a couple more weeks. Take advantage of these superior edible varieties before the season ends.
Broccoli
Prices have come down over the last seven days and shippers are looking to move some product, especially crown cuts. Good availability in Santa Maria and Oxnard. Product of Mexico has been somewhat limited which is normal for this time of year. Limited acreage is planted in the Northern part of Guanajuato to protect themselves from the summer rains. Light production is forecasted for the next few weeks
Cauliflower
Plenty of cauliflower available. Make offers as shippers are looking to move product.
Brussels Sprouts
Production from Mexico has peaked while demand has remained steady. Quality has been mostly very nice from Mexico with minor insect pressure while limited domestic production has shown improvement.
Green Onions
Mexico production has resumed full capacity with most product loading now from the Central Coast. Quality has shown improvement as growers finally get back on schedule.
Strawberries
As Mothers day passed, and demand declined, we have seen decent supplies coming to the marketplace. Quality has been good and we have seen a wide range in prices. The weather forecast for next week will be sunny and warm. The ideal conditions will push prices to lower levels.
Raspberries
Supplies remain tight and are expected to remain snug throughout May. Baja and California are forecast better numbers the first week of June.
Blackberries
Quality has been fair to good as all areas are increasing production. Central Mexico, Baja, and central California have all experienced a rise in volume.
Blueberries
Numbers out of California are increasing and are expected to move up over the next few weeks.
Stone Fruit
Chilean peach and nectarine finished for the season, limited availability on Chilean plums, mostly 2LTP. Quality is declining on imports. California tree fruit has started with limited availability, sizes mostly 64 and smaller. Production is slowly increasing on California peaches and nectarines. Get orders in early on domestic fruit as demand exceeds supply. California cherries have started volume will improve next week. Varieties are Tioga Royal and Brooks, mostly 11R and 12R available.
Grapes
Green Seedless are very limited in supply, with most shippers quoting sold out. Red Seedless market is firming up quite a bit and will continue to do so for the duration of the season. There is a wide range of pricing as a result of varying quality industry wide. Mexico has seen some delays in production as they battle poor weather and quality. Tight markets will continue through next week.
Citrus
Oranges – Navel supplies are tightening up, particularly on small sizes and prices are increasing. Valencias will soon be starting, which will take some of the pressure of the dwindling navel supplies. Demand has been slowly increasing and should continue to be strong as we head into summer and restaurants and institutions return to normal capacity. Quality has been very nice overall.
Lemons – Good supplies of fancy lemons this week. Like navels, the majority of the product is coming in fancy and quality will likely continue to be strong for the coming weeks. Demand is picking up and markets have strengthened.
Cantaloupes
Transition is the word for cantaloupes. Offshore is still shipping and will possibly dribble out a few more next week. Mexico will still be shipping some as well. But domestics have started in a small way from Yuma and Brawley and should pick up more volume as more shippers get started next week. This should force imports to stop. Sizes look to start with mostly 9s and 12s but quickly switch to more jumbo 9s as the week progresses. By the week of the 25 the domestic desert deal should be in full swing or close to it. Demand has been lackluster for all produce as the industry as a whole struggles with expensive and tight trucks, which does not look to be letting up soon. Drivers have been hard to find and competing fruits have started shipping from the West Coast, thinning supply. We look for prices to start in the low to mid-teens next week and possibly drop as volume picks up.
Honeydews
Offshores are coming to an end and have been in very light supplies for a couple of weeks. Sizes are peaking on jbo 5s, 5 and 6s , but are trickling down and should be ending next week. Mexico has more than made up for light offshores with copious amounts of regular 5s. 6s and 8s but few if any jbo 5s. Prices have reflected the supply difference with offshore holding up in the low teens but Mexico easing the $5.00- $7.00 range and lower on 8s. Domestic dews will start in a small way next week and pick up steam the following week following the cantaloupe narrative but a week later. Steady pricing most of next week with few off shores, pentyl of Mexican supplies and domestics just scratching the surface at higher prices.
Dry Onions
As the world of food service starts to open, demand is starting to improve. The Northwest is slowly closing down for the season. There are still plenty of shipments, but in the next two week it will dwindle down to nothing and most receivers will have to come to areas that have new crops. I foresee an up
market when that finally hits the mainstream supply and demand picture. By the 4th of July, in most metro areas, all the foodservice should be open and firing on all cylinders and with that we’ll see demand pop…but right now it’s not happening.
Asparagus
We will have California asparagus for the next two weeks. Mexico is shipping
but is all 11/1’s and Michigan is stutter starting due to cold weather.
Washington is going but with limited volume. There will be a lot of local deals
that are going with not enough supply to handle the chain business. When the
foodservice gets going the demand will increase and by then we’ll have Peru
and deep Mexico. Prices on Mexican are in the $16-18 range and demand is a
little wobbly.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   Cooler temperatures have kept supplies moderated matching demand on Broccoli while Cauliflower supplies are starting to improve as prices are expected to adjust,  Quality has been good to start the Central coast season with mostly ideal growing conditions.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with steady demand. Quality remains good from the Northern production areas with an occasional sporadic shortage among growers.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to be strong. Most growers have been reaching for supplies . Continue to plan ahead to get full coverage.
Potato and Onions . New crop Production has begun from Southern California production areas with prices expected to moderate over the coming weeks
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Currently prices on Romaine and Hearts remain a value with mostly ideal weather to start the season green and red leaf  supplies remain affordable as well. Overall quality has been good from Northern California production areas.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Good demand throughout the entire Citrus category due to strong retail sales and revived foodservice activity. California lemon crop is tightening with limited domestic production. Mexico is expected to resume later this month.  Lime quality has shown improvement but remains inconsistent as well as supplies, The Navel crop is winding down as Valencia’s from Mexico begin to expand availability. Seasonal Variety offerings are winding down. Grapefruit supplies have steadied with improved sizing.
OG Melons
California / Mexico : Organic Watermelon , Mini’s , Cantaloupe , Honeydews and Galias remain slightly behind schedule but are expected to start in coming days in the Desert with limited volume but should ramp up in coming weeks.
OG Stone Fruit
Green & Red :  Supplies currently remain mostly from storage Imports through mid May with varied Quality. We expect Domestic season to start slightly late but supplies are expected to improve quickly with excellent quality forecasted to promote all Summer.
OG Grapes
Green & Red :  Supplies currently remain mostly from storage Imports through mid May with varied Quality. We expect Domestic season to start slightly late but supplies are expected to improve quickly with excellent quality forecasted to promote all Summer.

5/5/21

by Leave a Comment

Conventional Items
Lettuce
Steady production and pricing with demand bogged down by escalating freight rates due to DOT inspections , lack of drivers and an increase in fruit shipments all contributing factors. Next week is expected to bring some relief but transportation and labor in general will continue to be a significant hurdle to all business models. Quality overall is good although tiered as some growers reach for product while others work from behind schedule. Mostly cool weather has kept supplies moderated with only a couple overall warm days so far this Spring.
Las Cruces, NM  production has started strong with excellent quality and substantial freight savings to begin the week.. Inquire with your Produce West representative.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine and Romaine Hearts  Romaine supplies remain heavy with moderate Demand on cartons but Slightly better on Hearts. Diminished labor force continues to hamper Romaine Heart production at times leaving plenty of carton supplies available. Quality remains mostly nice from all areas.
Las Cruces, NM production continues from Las Cruces with good reviews. on quality and substantial savings on freight.
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  Demand on Leaf has followed Romaine. Quality remains nice from Northern production areas but demand lags behind.
Celery
Extremely high freight rates are not helping this commodity. Customers can not afford to load heavy with celery as the delivered price is unsellable. Hopefully we will see lower freight rates next week. Shippers in Oxnard and Santa Maria are walking past product due to seeders and the market continues to sit at the bottom. Majority of production is out of Santa Maria and Oxnard. Overall quality is good, weights averaging in the mid 50 lb range and good green color.
Artichokes
Thornless varieties from Central Coast production areas have peaked on larger sizes and are now peaking on medium sizes especially Heirloom and Original varieties. Markets have eased slightly and promotional volume is expected for a couple more weeks. Take advantage of these superior edible varieties .
Broccoli
Prices have come down over the last seven days and shippers are looking to move some product, especially crown cuts. Good availability in Santa Maria and Oxnard. Product of Mexico has been somewhat limited which is normal for this time of year. Limited acreage is planted in the Northern part of Guanajuato to protect themselves from the summer rains. Light production is forecasted for the next few weeks
Cauliflower
As predicted the warmer weather we have received over the last few days has brought on the flower. Markets are dropping rapidly and will continue in this manner for the remainder of the week. If you are loading we highly recommend getting some type of price protection
Brussels Sprouts
Production from Mexico has peaked while demand has remained steady. Quality has been mostly very nice from Mexico with minor insect pressure while limited domestic production has shown improvement.
Green Onions
Mexico production has resumed full capacity with most product loading Now from the Central Coast.  Quality has shown improvement as growers finally get back on schedule.
Strawberries
As we move past the Mother’s Day pull, We expect increased availability as we move through the month of May. Promotional pricing will become more readily available. Call Produce West for advance pricing and all your promotional needs!
Raspberries
Supplies remain tight and are expected to continue through May, until California’s harvest fully ramps up.
Blackberries
Supplies have increased and market pricing is lower, as Central Mexico, Baja and Central California production is ramping up. Quality is good.
Blueberries
Florida, Georgia and Mexico’s harvests are returning to normal levels, and California is increasing as well. Pricing is lower and quality is good.
Stone Fruit
Rain and cooler temperatures in the central valley last week slowed overall production, resulting in lighter supplies of large sizes. The weather outlook for this week is for hot temps on Wednesday and then cool down again at the end of the week. With the current weather changes volumes and sizing will continue to be on the smaller side for the coming weeks. Peach and nectarine production be light for the next two weeks, and mostly smaller sizes are available. Plums are still about 3 weeks out from production domestically.
Grapes
Imported grapes have mostly finished for the season. There are still some remaining inventory on reds, but will be completely cleaned up in the coming days. Expect limited supplies for the next two weeks as the imports finish and Mexico starts. Mexico has seen some delays in production as they battle poor weather and quality. There are still supplies of poor quality grapes on the market at discount rates. Early quality reports on Mexican reds and greens are marginal and there will likely be issues on early season fruit. Green grapes will continue to be in light supply through the month of May. Expect elevated markets on both red and green.
Citrus
Oranges – Stronger markets this week as demand increases and inventories clean up. Sizing is increasing with sizes peaking on 56 and 72 count. Quality has been strong, although we will likely see some effects from last week’s rain and temperatures are warming up in the central valley. Small sizes are expected to remain limited for the next few weeks.
Lemons – Stronger markets this as demand heats up. District 1 is still producing good supplies, although quality will start to be a factor as temperatures rise. More choice fruit is now available and we will likely continue to see a decrease in fancy volume as temperatures heat up in the central valley. Strong markets are expected for the near future.
Limes – Rain in production areas is limiting harvests. Large limes are extremely limited, especially on 150 count and larger. Mid sized limes are slightly better in volume and pricing has settled slightly post Cinco de Mayo pull. Demand continues to be strong as more restaurants and institutions open back up.
Cantaloupes
Mexico is winding down and Washington is expecting volume as the weather
starts to turn. Michigan and Indiana will be delayed as they have experienced
colder temps. We will keep you updated on these other regions as the picture
becomes clearer. California is still in the picture and may be the only ones
packing 28/1’s in to mid to high $50’s.
Honeydews
Off shore supplies are very light and could be even more so next week. In the meantime, Mexico has ramped up their production. Quality in both areas is good. Sizes off shore are peaking on 5 count with some jbo 5s and ample 6s. No 8s. Mexico has virtually no Jbo 5s but plenty of 5.6. and 8s. Off shore prices are firm and look to be staying as such. Mexico is discounting a bit to clean up. Next week we look for a steady and firm offshore market and steady quoted but discounting in Mexico. Domestics will not start until third week in May or even the first of June.
Dry Onions
Here we go! California is going on Onions and trucks are not. The Cal market is in the 6-7 $ range and have not started to hit their volume yet. It will become “onion growing” weather this weekend, so we should see some even lower prices. The northwest is still shipping, and so far not a lot of sprouting on
arrivals in the Midwest and east. Transportation is still a problem for all areas.
Asparagus
Mexico is winding down and Washington is expecting volume as the weather
starts to turn. Michigan and Indiana will be delayed as they have experienced
colder temps. We will keep you updated on these other regions as the picture
becomes clearer. California is still in the picture and may be the only ones
packing 28/1’s in to mid to high $50’s.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   Cooler temperatures have kept supplies moderated matching demand on Broccoli while Cauliflower supplies have finally shown improvement this week which should allow for prices to ease.  Quality has been good to start the Central coast season with mostly ideal growing conditions.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with steady demand. Quality remains good from the Northern production areas with an occasional sporadic shortage among growers.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to be strong. Most growers have been reaching for supplies . Continue to plan ahead to get full coverage.
Potato and Onions . New crop Production has begun from Southern California production areas with prices expected to moderate over the coming weeks
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Currently prices on Romaine and Hearts remain a value with mostly ideal weather to start the season . Slightly warmer temperatures the next few days before cool, mild temperatures return next week are expected.  Green and Redleaf  supplies remain affordable as well. Overall quality has been good during the transition North.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Good demand throughout the entire Citrus category due to strong retail sales and revived foodservice activity. California lemon crop is tightening with limited domestic production. Mexico is expected to resume later this month.  Lime quality has shown improvement but remains inconsistent as well as supplies, The Navel crop is winding down as Valencia’s from Mexico begin to expand availability. Seasonal Variety offerings have begun to slow. Grapefruit supplies have steadied with improved sizing.
OG Peppers
California / Mexico :  Green Bell Pepper production in California has finally begun to improve while delayed transition on colored Bells should take another couple weeks before supplies improve.
OG Grapes
Green & Red :  Supplies currently remain mostly from storage Imports through mid May with varied Quality. We expect Domestic season to start slightly late but supplies are expected to improve quickly with excellent quality forecasted to promote all Summer.

4/29/21

by Leave a Comment

Lettuce
Mostly steady production , demand and pricing with little excitement. Quality overall is good although tiered as some growers reach for product while others work from behind schedule. Labor shortages seem to be weighing on the market, whether harvest , transportation or warehouse. Cool Spring weather continues to keep supplies moderated although a couple of warm days followed by more mild temperatures is forecasted.
Las Cruces, NM  production will begin production this week with excellent quality and freight rates expected to provide Substantial savings. Inquire with your Produce West representative.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine and Romaine Hearts  Romaine supplies remain heavy with moderate Demand on cartons but Slightly better on Hearts. Diminished labor force continues to hamper Romaine Heart production at times leaving plenty of carton supplies available. Quality remains mostly nice from all areas.
Las Cruces, NM production is expected to start next week with top quality and substantial savings on freight.
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston –  Demand on Leaf has followed Romaine. Quality remains nice from Northern production areas.
Celery
No change here, even with some shippers in Oxnard and Santa Maria walking past product due to seeders the market continues to sit at the bottom. Majority of production is out of Santa Maria and Oxnard. Overall quality is good, weights averaging in the mid 50 lb range and good green color.
Artichokes
Thornless varieties from Central Coast production areas are peaking on large sizes with higher prices on smaller sizes, especially Heirloom and Original varieties. Markets should continue steady through April when sizing should even out. Take advantage of these superior edible varieties .
Broccoli
We have seen an uptick in demand and prices as well. Short cut crowns are having better movement and prices have increased by $2.00 or so over the last few days. It does not look like we will see much more of an increase in FOB’s this week. Quality is good shipping out of both Santa Maria and Salinas. The slight purple color that has been an issue over the last few weeks is beginning to disappear as we get out of the first fields that grew during the winter months.
Cauliflower
Demand remains strong as we wait for the plants to start producing some better sizing. There is plenty of cauliflower out there and as we go into some warmer weather starting tomorrow in both the Salinas and Santa Maria areas we should start to see an increase in production. Prices will start to level off and we could even see slightly lower FOB’s early next week.
Brussels Sprouts
Production from Mexico has peaked while demand surged for Spring promotions . Quality has been mostly very nice from Mexico with minor insect pressure while limited domestic production has shown improvement.
Green Onions
Mexico production has resumed full capacity with most product loading Now from the Central Coast.  Quality has shown improvement as growers finally get back on schedule.
Strawberries
Strawberries continue to be extremely tight, expected to continue through Mother’s Day. Lightness of supply is being caused by cooler weather patterns over the last few weeks, against heavy demand. We expect volume to increase over the coming weeks. Central Mexicocon
Raspberries
Supplies remain light, due to previous cold weather working through the Mexican harvest. Pest pressure out of Central Mexico is also complicating at time of harvest conditions. California will ramp up production by mid-to-late May, easing the shortage. Quality has been good.
Blackberries
the majority of volume continues to come from Central Mexico. Supplies remain light, due to previous cold weather working through the Mexican harvest. California will ramp up production by mid-to-late May, easing the shortage. Quality is good.
Blueberries
Florida and Georgia are still light on production due to rain and hail, and Mexico will have a small decrease into May.. California is expected to have better volume by the second week of May. Pricing remains high.
Stone Fruit
Imported plums are still available in very light supply for the next 2 weeks. Yellow peaches and nectarines have started in California. Sizing is mostly 64 count and smaller. Large sizing is mostly going into tray pack. Small sizes are available in mostly volume fill. Apricots will start next week and California plums will start towards the end of May. This week’s stone fruit harvest in the Central Valley was delayed by light rains and crews are waiting for product to dry out. Better volumes on domestic stone fruit are expected as early as next week.
Grapes
Import green seedless grapes are mostly finished for the season. Expect this production gap to continue for the next 3 weeks on green grapes. There are plenty of red seedless available for the next 5 weeks on both coasts. Quality has improved, although still some issues with shatter and brown stem. Mexico and Coachella will not have any volume until May 24th on red and we should have decent volume of greens by the middle of May.
Citrus
Oranges – Stronger markets this week on most sizes, especially 88 count and smaller. We expect this market to continue strengthening until valencias start. Quality has still been very nice with very few issues to report.
Lemons – Good supplies on choice and fancy lemons. Good supplies coming out of district 1. Product has been mostly fancy grade, with some of the product going into choice boxes.
Cantaloupes
Off shore supplies are dwindling a bit but there are still ample amounts of jbo 9.9 and 12 with some 15s. Most are still being sent to Florida POWs, where demand is better with California POEs getting some and with less demand. Quality has been consistent and generally good. Demand has been rather tepid all year except during times of heavy promotions which do not appear to be on tap for next week. Nogales has started and supplies there are increasing. Demand for Mexican lopes is always slower as a seemingly undying legacy of one of the first food born bacteria in produce. Sizes there are peaking on 9s and 12s.  Domestic melons are approaching but start dates keep getting pushed back. At this time there may be a few the second week of May but most production will not start until the third week in May or the first of June; not in time for Memorial Day. Next week the trend of fair on possibly dwindling supplies off shore and increasing supplies in Nogales should continue keeping offshore prices firm and Mexico prices in discount and dealing mode for volume.
Honeydews
Dews have followed the same story line as cantaloupes but about a week ahead. Offshore supplies have dwindled keeping prices from there quite firm. After a long delay, new district Mexican production has increased. Overall demand is tepid so the entire pricing structure has been and will continue to be supply driven. Size in both areas are peaking on 5s and 6s with jbo 5s mostly offshore. Demand does not look to be improving next week. Overall we see offshore pricing remaining steady and firm with some discounting and previous commitments lower, and Mexico prices continuing to adjust downward or discounting.
Dry Onions
Here we go! California is going on Onions and truck are not. There is tremendous competition for flat beds due to the back of at the LA dock. Tariffs or no Tariffs, it doesn’t seem to matter. The goods need to be off loaded and sent on a truck. Texas is winding down and New Mexico won’t start until June first. Northwest wise, we are seeing product available but the hollowed food service is not looking for old product. Once the Northwest pulls the plug, we should see an up tick in demand on western onions.
Asparagus
Obregon, Constitutional are shipping now with the bulk being in Obregon at
this point. Look for the market to switch to 11/1’s and somewhat higher prices.
California is shipping with product being quoted in the low $50’s on 28/1’s.
There should be some ad demand coming for the Mother’s Day pull, but so far
there’s not too much interest. California is still a large factor on the west
Coast…Indiana and Michigan will have started by this time next week if it
doesn’t snow or have freezing rain. Mexico will continue to be the volume deal until Peru starts.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   Cooler temperatures have kept supplies moderated matching demand on Broccoli while Cauliflower supplies continue to sputter pushing prices higher. Quality has been good to start the Central coast season although recent increase in insect pressure has been evident. . After a few warm days , cool mild weather should return to provide perfect conditions for quality .
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with steady demand. Quality remains good from the Northern production areas.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to be strong. Most growers have been reaching for supplies . Continue to plan ahead to get full coverage.
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. New crop Production has begun from Southern California production areas with prices expected to moderate over the coming weeks
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Currently prices on Romaine and Hearts remain a value with mostly ideal weather to start the season . Slightly warmer temperatures the next few days before cool, mild temperatures return next week are expected.  Green and Redleaf  supplies remain affordable as well. Overall quality has been good during the transition North.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Good demand throughout the entire Citrus category due to strong retail sales and revived foodservice activity. California lemon crop continues steady with slightly lighter volumes and escalated prices. Mexico is expected to resume later next month.  Lime quality has shown improvements but remains inconsistent as well as supplies, The Navel crop has begun to slow as Valencia’s from Mexico begin to expand availability. Seasonal Variety offerings will begin to slow as we enter May. Grapefruit supplies have steadied with improved sizing.
OG Peppers
California / Mexico :  Green Bell Pepper transition to California remains delayed due to relatively cool Spring temperatures . Colored Bells have begun the same scenario as the Mexico season winds down.
OG Grapes
Green & Red :  Supplies currently remain mostly from storage Imports through early May with varied Quality. We expect Domestic season to start slightly late but supplies are expected to improve quickly with excellent quality forecasted to promote all Summer.
OG Brussels Sprout
Mexico :  Increasing insect pressure in Mexico has slowed production Prices remain stable but supplies limited

4/21/21

by Leave a Comment

Conventional Items
Lettuce
To start the week, continued overlapping supplies from Huron and Salinas contributed to the overall sluggish market.  Additionally rapid decline in Quality from Huron impacted repeat sales. Some shippers are in a good position with one production area and ahead of harvest but many continue to be behind schedule due to labor shortages or lack of demand. Quality from younger fields has been nice but some older fields have shown many issues on arrival ranging from rib rust , cracked ribs, discoloration and decay. Supplies are expected to be moderate with mostly cool weather forecast through early next week.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine and Romaine Hearts  Romaine supplies remain heavy with moderate Demand on cartons but Slightly better on Hearts. Diminished labor force continues to hamper Romaine Heart production at times leaving plenty of carton supplies available. Quality remains mostly nice from all areas
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  Demand on Leaf has followed Romaine. Quality remains nice from Northern production areas.
Celery
Come and get it! We have not seen prices move in the last month. Majority of production is out of Santa Maria and Oxnard. Overall quality is good, there is some seeder starting to show up in Oxnard, but shippers are walking past most of that product.
Artichokes
Thornless varieties from Central Coast production areas are peaking on large sizes with prices higher on smaller and especially Heirloom and Original varieties. Markets should continue steady through April when sizing should even out. Take advantage of these superior edible varieties .
Broccoli
No change in prices expected for the remainder of this week even though the cauliflower market has taken off. Shippers are looking to move on all cuts and especially crown cuts. Product is available for loading in Santa Maria and Salinas.
Cauliflower
As it is known to do the market has taken off, climbing almost ten dollars over the last 5 days. There are a few shippers that are in a planting gap from the heavy rains over most of California 3 months ago. Couple that with the cooler than normal temperatures we have had this spring and the crop is not growing as fast as normal. The shippers that are currently gapping will have better availability by the end of the week or first part of next week. Market will remain tight for the remainder of this week.
Brussels Sprouts
Production from Mexico has peaked while demand surged for Spring promotions . Quality has been mostly very nice from Mexico with minor insect pressure while limited domestic production has shown improvement
Green Onions
Mexico production has resumed full capacity with most product loading Now from the Central Coast.  We continue to see arrival issues due to Warming temperatures in Mexico.
Strawberries
The California regions will have limited volume through the Mother’s Day pull due to cool weather and the chance of rain over the weekend. The Salinas and Watsonville growing area has begun with limited volume. The Santa Maria continues to move along with steady but limited volume.  California fruit has occasional white shoulders and under-color, misshapen, seedy tips and dry or discolored calyx. Average counts are 14 to 16, occasionally higher and lower. Oxnard, California fruit has occasional white shoulders, misshapen, seedy tips, and wind discoloration. Average counts are 20 to 22, occasionally higher and lower.
Raspberries
Volume will not peak until the 3rd week in May when new growing regions begin. In the short term, demand will continue to exceed supply.
Blackberries
Central Mexico Regions continue to be the main producer, but Product will remain snug until California ramps up in June-July.
Blueberries
The recent estimate out of Florida calls for a  40% crop loss from the bad weather they received a few weeks ago. Georgia is about 2-3 weeks from full production. We will see the trifecta of limited availability, high market pricing, and rain on quality. Mexican blueberry prices will remain a demand-exceeds-supply situation.
Stone Fruit
Import white peach and white nectarines are finished for the season. Import yellow peach and yellow nectarines are available in limited supply. Imported plums will be available for a few more weeks.
California yellow peach and yellow nectarines will likely start this weekend, followed by apricots next week. Sizing will be small to start and mostly tray pack. Domestic plums will start towards the end of May. Early quality reports on California stone fruit are very positive.
Grapes
The last of the imported grapes are arriving this week. Green seedless grape supplies continue to be in extremely tight, as we are still seeing the effects from rain damage from earlier in the year. There are two tiered markets as a result of mixed quality on both red and green grapes. The Mexican season will start later than normal this year and we expect transition gaps between the offshore and Mexican growing season. There will be light supplies and tight markets on both read and green grapes as we head into May.
Citrus
Oranges – Steady demand continues this week. Sharper pricing on all sizes this week as supplies tighten, especially on small sized fruit. Sizing is currently peaking on 56 and 72 count. Expect markets to continue rising as demand increases. Quality has been very nice with very few issues to report.
Lemons – Stronger markets this week. Export numbers have increased, as well as demand from service industry, so we will likely see strong markets into the near future. Large sized lemons will be less available in the coming weeks and we will see higher pricing on 95 and larger fruit at a result. Quality has been strong with very few issues to report.
Limes – Steady demand continues this week on limes. Larger sizes have been limited and sizing is peaking on 200-230 count sizes. With rain in the forecast for growing areas in the coming week, we will likely see some supply gaps over the next 10 days. quality issues such as scarring and blanching are still being regularly reported.
Cantaloupes
Cantaloupes look like they are poised to become quite tight and higher priced. The Honduras and Guatemala are both winding down earlier than expected with the former also experiencing some rain. Also demand for their melons has increased as the Spanish crop is late this year and buyers from Europe are turning to the Caribbean for supplies. Mexico new crop is also a bit late with only a few crossing into the domestic market currently. Demand is increasing a bit with the seasonal changes spring brings and the continuing gradual opening the economy as vaccinations become more common and people are allowed to resume activity. Domestic melons are being pushed to a later and later start time with the earliest any product is expected is May 10t and now volume until a week or two later. Cantaloupes should be higher next week, perhaps much higher.
Honeydews
Dews are already active, higher and tight. The impending supply gap for cantaloupes has already hit on honeydews. Offshore supplies have been reduced to a trickle and the deals there are winding down earlier than expected. Mexico new crop, however, has started and should pick up volume next week. Prices have already gone up and should maintain for next week.
Dry Onions
There are few onion shippers started in the Imperial Valley of California. Quotes are anywhere from $7-8 depending on who you’re talking to. Reds are few and whites are coming from Mexico…loading in Texas and in Yuma. Next week we’ll see the market start to stabilize with more shippers joining the fray. As farmers markets and food service slowing come back the demand will increase; we’ll see if there’s a chance for a profitable spring California deal.
Asparagus
Obregon, Constitutional are shipping now with the bulk being in Obregon at
this point. Look for the market to switch to 11/1’s and somewhat higher prices.
California is shipping with product being quoted in the low $40’s on 28/1’s.
There should be some ad demand coming for the Mothers Day pull, but so far
there’s not too much interest.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   Production has mostly shifted North with cooler temperatures keeping supplies moderated matching demand on Broccoli while Cauliflower supplies have sputtered pushing prices higher. Quality has been good to start the Central coast season . Cool Mild weather should provide perfect conditions for quality .
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with steady demand. Quality remains good from the Northern production areas.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to be strong. Most growers have been reaching for supplies . Continue to plan ahead even further to get full coverage.
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. New crop Production has begun from Southern California production areas with elevated prices to start .
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, iceberg & romaine   Currently prices on Romaine and Hearts remain a value with mostly ideal weather to start the season . Much cooler weather is forecast through the week with possible Rain early next week which could tighten supplies temporarily .
Green and red leaf  supplies remain affordable as well. Overall quality has been good during the transition North.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Good demand throughout the entire Citrus category due to strong retail sales and revived foodservice activity. California Winter lemon crop continues steady with slightly lighter volumes and escalating prices. Lime quality has shown improvements but remains inconsistent. The Navel crop profile remains perfect for retail demand as we are in Peak production. Domestic Valencia’s will begin limited production over the next couple weeks with continued production from Mexico. All seasonal Varieties will continue to remain a terrific value for another week with excellent flavor and sizing profile on Mandarin’s, Cara’s, Satsumas, Minneolas , Nuggets, Pixie, Tango’s and Bloods.  Grapefruit supplies have steadied with improved sizing.
OG Peppers
California / Mexico :  Green Bell Pepper transition to California remains delayed due to relatively cool Spring temperatures . Colored Bells have begun the same scenario as the Mexico season winds down.
OG Grapes
Green & Red :  Supplies currently remain mostly from storage Imports through early May with varied Quality. We expect Domestic season to start slightly late but supplies are expected to improve quickly with excellent quality forecasted to promote all Summer.
OG Brussels Sprout
Mexico :  Increasing insect pressure in Mexico has slowed production Prices remain stable but supplies limited

4/8/21

by Leave a Comment

Conventional Items
Lettuce
Transition continues with abundant supplies currently flooding the market. Quality remains very good in Northern production areas while Yuma has seen Hot temperatures start to erode quality. Prices are mostly depressed while shippers deal with overlapping production this week but expect lighter supplies to help buoy markets later next week.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine and Romaine Hearts  Romaine supplies have increased as many growers overlap production areas while demand remains moderate causing prices to ease. Expected markets to remain flat through next week although diminished labor force could hamper Romaine Heart production. Quality remains mostly nice from all areas with only minor epidermal peel evident .
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  Demand on Leaf has followed Romaine with depressed prices. Quality remains nice from Northern production areas with many arrival issues from wilting leaf from the desert.
Celery
Nothing has changed here, prices are sitting at rock bottom, we are not going to see any change this week. Majority of production is out of Santa Maria and Oxnard. With freight rates the way they are, it’s hard for customers to put an item like celery on the truck and make it profitable. Overall quality is good, nice green color and weights averaging around 55 lbs.
Artichokes
Production of the thornless varieties from most production areas are peaking along with demand pushing open market prices higher especially on the Heirloom and Original varieties. Markets should continue to surge through April. Take advantage of these superior edible varieties.
Broccoli
No change in prices expected for the remainder of this week. Shippers are looking to move on all cuts and especially crown cuts. Run your offers by us loading in Santa Maria and Salinas.
Cauliflower
Much like broccoli the market is at the bottom and shippers are looking to make deals. Run all your offers by us.
Brussels Sprouts
Production from Mexico has peaked while demand surged for Spring promotions . Quality has been mostly very nice from Mexico with minor insect pressure while limited domestic production has shown improvement..
Green Onions
Mexico production slowed over the weekend as crews took the Easter Holiday off.  Supplies are expected to rebound next week . We have seen an increase in arrival issues due to Warming temperatures.
Strawberries
Heavy demand, coupled with light harvests, have severely tightened available supplies. Pricing are very high and quality has been mixed. Volumes are on the decline out of Florida and Mexico and California has not been able to pick up the extra numbers due to less than favorable weather. There have been delays in the maturity of the fruit, thus producing low yields throughout the California regions. This will be the status quo into next week.
Raspberries
Light supplies until the end of April, but fruit is expected to be in better supply beginning next week.
Blackberries
Very light supplies for the majority of shippers this week, but we see increases in numbers in the near future. The week of the 19th should better numbers for the marketplace
Blueberries
Mexico’s season is ramping up, followed by Florida and Georgia. California will begin harvesting in 2 weeks. Quality is good.
Stone Fruit
Red and black plums are still available, although the last of the imports will be arriving next week. There will likely be a transition gap until the domestic starts mid May. domestic Peaches and nectarines will start in 2 weeks. Early reports show good quality and volumes as a result of optimal growing weather. With imports slowing down, we will see market increases on most stone fruit as we await the start of the domestic season.
Grapes – Supplies have improved over the past 10 days and markets are beginning to level off on red and green grapes. Quality continues to be a factor affecting demand, as post rain fruit has issues. We are still in a two tiered market as a result of quality issues. Product is available on both coasts and supplies are expected to remain strong as the last of the offshore vessels arrive over the next 2 weeks. The Mexico growing season is set to start later than normal which will likely result in supply gaps toward the end of April. Expect stronger markets towards the end of April and into May on both red and green varieties.
‌
Citrus
Oranges – Stronger markets this week as demand improves nationwide. Supplies of small sized fruit has diminished substantially and markets are reacting. Good volumes on 56-72 count navels and shippers are looking to move these sizes. USDA programs are still going strong, keeping product moving. Quality remains very nice with very few issues to report. Good color and brix reported.
Lemons – Stronger markets reported this week on lemons as demand improves nationally. Supplies have been strong out of district 1, although district 3 will be finishing over the next 2 weeks. We expect demand to continue improving over the coming weeks as restaurants, institutions and concessions reopen. Quality has been excellent with very few issues to report.
Limes – good weather this week in growing areas and overall quality has improved. Demand has been moderate over the past two weeks and markets have leveled out. Sizing is peaking on 200 – 230 count fruit. Demand is expected to strengthen as we will soon be approaching the summer season.
Cantaloupes
Finally in the last couple of weeks the offshore cantaloupe deal got into full swing. Volume and quality has increased with production peaking on 9s but with ample other sizes available. The difference between now and normal is that little fruit is being shipped to West Coast. Florida and Eastern seaboard ports are receiving most of the product. Retail and contracts continue to be the lion’s share of the demand. However with the increased supplies the spot market prices have come down to affordable levels and with the progressing economic opening up as COVID cases diminish and the vaccine distribution grows, spot market demand has begun to pick up. The market seems to have reached a balance of good production, good quality and ample demand to keep the market steady. This looks to continue for the rest of the off shore deal which should start winding down next month as domestics start in May.
Honeydews
Like cantaloupes, honeydew production and quality has increased. Sizes are peaking on 5 and 6s with some jbo 5s as well. Dews are also being sent mostly to Fla and East Coast POEs. Demand has improved for the same reasons as it has for Honeydews. Mexico has started to export t US again, but is still very light in supplies peaking on 5s and 6s as well with some 8s. However volume is quite light from there. This market as well seems to have found a comfortable balance which should last about another week or until Mexico supplies pick up. Domestics will start in May as well, but probably a week or so later than lopes. We look for a steady market next week.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   Production has mostly shifted North with cooler temperatures keeping supplies moderated matching demand . Quality should start to improve as crews open up fields in the North. Coast production areas
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with steady demand. Quality remains good but with increasing insect pressure. We expect improved quality as we transition to Salinas and Santa
Maria .
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to be strong. Most growers have been reaching for supplies . Continue to plan ahead even further to get partial coverage.
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. New crop Production is expected later this month
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Currently prices on Hearts remain a value but we expect improved Demand to allow growers to push prices higher .  Green and Redleaf  supplies remain affordable as well. Overall quality has been good with some heat related issues from the desert as well as Increased insect pressure.We anticipate improved quality as we transition to cooler Northern California climates.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Improving demand throughout the entire Citrus category due to strong retail sales and revived foodservice activity. California Winter lemon crop continues steady with slightly lighter volumes and elevated pricing. Lime quality remains inconsistently fair. The Navel crop profile remains perfect for retail demand as we are in Peak production. Domestic Valencia’s will begin limited production over the next couple weeks with continued production from Mexico.  Mandarins continue to offer a terrific value with excellent flavor and sizing profile providing a great item for retail promotions as well as Specialty varieties Cara’s , Satsumas, Minneolas , Tango’s and Bloods.  Grapefruit remains limited to mostly smaller sizes still being impacted from Texas freeze last month.
OG Peppers
California / Mexico :  Lighter supplies of Green Bells has resulted in higher prices with the late transition to the Coachella Valley.
Temperatures are just now getting back to normal after a coolish Spring.  Good supplies of Colored Bells remain although expect the same scenario to play out in coming weeks.
OG Asparagus
Mexico :  Supplies have stabilized as demand surged for The Easter Holiday allowing growers to pull their prices off the floor . Transition has also contributed to substantially higher pricing on limited domestic Grass.
OG Brussels Sprout
Mexico :  Increasing insect pressure in Mexico has slowed production Prices remain stable but supplies limited

4/1/21

by Leave a Comment

Conventional Items
Lettuce
We’re right in the middle of transition to Northern California production areas with Yuma expected to continue for a handful of shippers through mid April while some growers stop over in Huron before fully transitioning to Salinas mid April as well. Santa Maria has started and the early shippers in Salinas should start next week. Demand has improved although overlapping production can’t sustain current levels leading to intermittent easing of prices. Quality in Yuma remains good but has shown signs of decline while Santa Maria and Huron have mostly been very nice. Warmer temperatures in Northern California have also contributed to the overall increase in industry volume although forecasts call for a return of Cold temperatures next week which could add volatility to the market along with expected labor shortages for the Easter Holiday weekend.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine and Romaine Hearts  Romaine supplies remain moderate matching demand. Overall mostly exceptional weather in the desert and now in the transitional production areas in the North have allowed for very nice quality with only minor epidermal peel evident . Cooler weather and temporary labor slowdown this weekend could tighten supplies but prices are expected to remain mostly moderate .
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  Demand on Leaf has followed Romaine with prices steady. Quality remains nice from most production areas although some epidermal peel remains visible .
Celery
Nothing has changed here, prices are sitting at rock bottom, we are not going to see any change this week. Majority of production is out of Santa Maria and Oxnard. Overall quality is good, nice green color and weights averaging around 55 lbs.
Artichokes
Production of the thornless varieties from most production areas are peaking with most still showing minor frost damage. Temporary warm up but mostly Cooler weather in Northern California coastal areas has allowed quality to remain very nice especially on the Heirloom and Original varieties. Take advantage of these superior edible varieties although at premium pricing but Well worth it.
Broccoli
Pricing will remain steady going into next week. We are expecting to have more volume by the middle of next week out of Santa Maria and Salinas. The Mexico winter season is winding down, there will be limited volume out of there over the next 6 months.
Cauliflower
Market is steady. There is decent demand but currently production is keeping up with demand allowing prices to remain stable. We do not anticipate much change from the current pricing structure for the remainder of this week.
Brussels Sprouts
Heavy production from Mexico continues while demand surged for the Easter Holiday allowing prices to escalate. Quality has been mostly very nice from Mexico with minor insect pressure while limited domestic production continues to be fair quality.
Green Onions
Mexico production has been steady although we expect a slowdown as Labor shortages are expected for the Easter Holiday . Expect some shortages but pricing should remain mostly steady
Strawberries
Many shippers are oversold in the California growing areas due to Easter demand and scarcity of product. Baja California fruit availability may be affected by labor shortages this week due to the holiday. Santa Maria, California is forecast for sunny skies and warm temperatures, becoming partly cloudy for the weekend. Highs are expected in the 70s, decreasing to the 60s for the weekend, and lows in the 40s. Oxnard, California is forecast for sunny skies, becoming partly cloudy and breezy for the weekend, with highs in the 70s, decreasing to the 60s for the weekend, and lows in the 50s, decreasing to the upper 40s Friday through the weekend. Santa Maria, California and Oxnard, California fruit has good color, occasional white shoulders, soft shoulders, pack bruising, seedy tips, water damage and discoloration and scarring from the wind, with some older-crop fruit showing pin rot and decay. Average counts are 18 to 20, occasionally higher and lower.
Raspberries
Demand exceeding supply continues this week as the impacts from the last few months continue on raspberries as well.
Blackberries
Demand exceeding supply continues this week as the impacts from the last few months continue.
Blueberries
Chile is done. Moving into Florida and Central Mexico where we are on to the domestic season! Volumes are still light out of both regions but will increase in the coming weeks. Expect a market-pricing jump as Chile finishes up this week. Great quality out of both Florida and Mexico.
Stone Fruit
Yellow peach and nectarine supplies continue to grow as more vessels arrive daily on both coasts. More sizing options are now available and pricing has stabilized. Peaches are expected to finish towards the middle of April. White peaches and nectarines are still available but in limited supply as the growing season comes to a close. Red and black plums are available and more product is arriving weekly with more sizing options. Good weather in Chilean growing areas and quality is holding up nicely. Domestic stone fruit is expected to start in early May on apricots, peaches and cherries.
Grapes – Markets are holding strong this week on quality red and green grapes. It remains a two tiered market with plenty of deals on lesser quality product. Better volume on red grapes, although there is poor quality product flooding the market, so be sure you know what you are getting. Green grape supplies are tighter, with a two tiered pricing scenario. Overall markets are expected to remain strong and will likely tighten over the next 10 days. Late season fruit will continue arriving through April. The Mexican growing season will start later than normal, likely resulting in production gaps toward the end of April.
‌
Citrus
Oranges – Steady demand continues this week. Stronger pricing overall as supplies on small sizes have been lighter. We expect higher pricing next week. Supplies are still leaning more fancy than choice. quality reports are still very good, with good color and sugar levels. Product is holding up nicely in storage.
Lemons – Steady markets this week. Market had settled early in the week and has since leveled out. California supplies are keeping up with increased demand from both foodservice and retail. We expect better markets in the coming weeks as we switch districts mid month and restaurant demand picks up. Quality has been strong with very few issues to report.
Limes – Lighter supplies this week. Fewer crossings as a result of Holy Week in Mexico. Also, rain is in the forecast for the end of the week in growing areas. Supplies will tighten as a result. Demand has been steady, but will trend upwards in the coming weeks as higher capacity is now allowed in bars and restaurants. Sizing is peaking on small sizes. Some quality issues have been reported including, but not limited to, oil spotting, blanching and scarring.
Cantaloupes
Little change looks to be in the wind for cantaloupes next week. After the long lasting effects of the hurricanes at the beginning of the season production has returned to full capacity and more consistent quality accords the Caribbean basin. Mexico is still a gap between areas.. Domestic production is not expected to start until early May at the earliest. Sizes are running mostly jbo 9s thru 12 count. Demand has picked up with lower prices and better quality, and the seasons changing. COVID impact continues to improve as well. All in all the market seems to be settled into a comfortable supply – demand balance which looks to be continuing into next week.
Honeydews
Like cantaloupes, honeydew production offshore has picked up to normal levels. At the same time, new crop Mexico is starting up for their spring deal. Demand has improved for the same reasons as cantaloupes. Sizes are peaking on 5s ad 6s with ample Jbo 5s off shore but few jbos in Mex. 8s are available in both areas. Quality is good to very good . Next week little looks to change in Offshore supplies, and Mexico should increase making for a moderately lower market.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   Production in the desert is wrapping up and transitioning back to Northern California . Currently there is some overlap but supplies should remain moderate and pricing steady . Cold weather next week could add volatility. Quality in the desert has started to decline with warmer temperatures and added insect pressure while quality has been nice to start the Northern California season .
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with steady demand.Quality remains strong although insect pressure is increasing in most desert areas.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to be strong. Most growers have been reaching for supplies . Continue to plan ahead even further to get partial coverage.
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. Production continues to be limited to shortage for the next month
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Currently prices on Hearts remain a value but we expect improved Demand to allow growers to push prices higher .  Green and Red leaf  supplies remain affordable as well. Epidermal peel remains visible but light. Overall quality has been nice. Increased insect pressure will impact overall availability
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Improving demand throughout the entire Citrus category due to strong retail sales and revived foodservice activity. California Winter lemon crop continues steady with slightly lighter volumes and elevated pricing. Lime quality remains inconsistently fair. The Navel crop profile remains perfect for retail demand as we are in Peak production. Domestic Valencia’s will begin limited production over the next couple weeks with continued production from Mexico.  Mandarins continue to offer a terrific value with excellent flavor and sizing profile providing a great item for retail promotions as well as Specialty varieties Cara’s , Satsumas, Minneolas , Tango’s and Bloods.  Grapefruit remains limited to mostly smaller sizes still being impacted from Texas freeze last month.
OG Peppers
California / Mexico :  Lighter supplies of Green Bells has resulted in higher prices with transition to the Coachella Valley delayed due to below seasonal temperatures.  Good supplies of Colored Bells remain although expect the same scenario to play out in coming weeks.
OG Asparagus
Mexico :  Supplies have stabilized as demand surges for The Easter Holiday allowing growers to pull their prices off the floor . Transition has also contributed to substantially higher pricing on limited domestic Grass.
OG Brussels Sprout
Mexico :  Increasing insect pressure in Mexico has slowed production Prices remain stable but supplies limited

3/3/21

by Leave a Comment

Conventional Items
Lettuce
Steading production with demand slowly being revived is allowing shippers to pull the market off the floor. Some more than others but overall pricing is on the rise. With less than a month left in the desert production season , Cooler overnight temperatures have eased pressure on growers to force production.  Quality remains mostly nice with some varying weights , color and solidity. Expect continued variance with some renewed epidermal peel as well. With CV-19 restrictions slowly lifting we anticipate demand to continue to push markets higher.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine and Romaine Hearts  Romaine supplies continue to be strong with improving demand Especially on Hearts . Warm days but Cooler overnight temperatures allowed growers to slow production, while demand catches up. Quality on Hearts will remain varied with many still heavy and pale but we expect more color to return depending on the severity of the epidermal blister incurred this week. Limited labor will still constrain production as CV-19 continues to spike ALL around southern border crossings. Growers have been leaving behind substantial acreage and are beyond anxious to push prices into the black . .
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  Demand on Leaf has been sluggish but should improve as Romaine improves. Quality remains nice from most production areas although some epidermal peel remains visible .
Celery
Nothing too exciting to talk about when it comes to this commodity. The market has not really done anything up or down over the last two weeks and it looks as though nothing is going to change for the remainder of this week. There is availability out of Santa Maria, Oxnard and Yuma. The most aggressive pricing is coming out of Oxnard. Overall quality is good, nice green color and weights averaging around 55 lbs.
Artichokes
Production of the thornless varieties from most production areas have begun to peak with most showing only mild frost damage. Cooler weather in Northern California coastal areas will allow quality to remain solid. Heirloom and Original varieties will begin to ramp up next week.  Take advantage of these superior edible varieties although at Premium pricing. but Well worth it.
Broccoli
Cooler growing temperatures in the Yuma Valley combined with curtailed harvest in Mexico has slowed the broccoli output. Prices have gradually risen over the last 7 days and we expect to see this gradual increase continue as we finish out the week. Also keep in mind that the Mexican winter program for the most part finishes by the end of March so we will start to see lighter volume as we move through the month. We will start to see increase harvest in the next week or so out of both Santa Maria and Salinas if you are able to load in one of these areas.
Cauliflower
Demand has picked up as has pricing over the last 7 days. Markets are expected to remain at these levels through the end of the week. Santa Maria has lighter than normal volume for this week and there are a few shippers in the Salinas Valley that will start in a very light way next week.
Brussels Sprouts
Heavy production from Mexico continues with mostly depressed prices. Quality has been mostly very nice. We anticipate the market to improve heading into the spring promotional season .
Green Onions
Mexico production has fully returned and the market has eased. Expect a slight surge in demand for Easter but pricing should remain steady.
Strawberries
We are forecast for better yield out of Oxnard and Florida this week and next.  Mexico volumes will decrease due to less-than-favorable markets for their growers. Call Produce for the latest Easter Promo Pricing
Raspberries
Demand exceeds supply. Mexico continues to be impacted by the freeze damage in January, followed by cold temps this past week. Supplies are expected to remain low until new districts in March. Another freeze happened over the weekend, so the issues within raspberries will continue well into March.
Blackberries
Demand exceeds supply. The freeze in Mexico a few weeks ago is driving up the market on blackberries as there is less production. New districts will start producing mid-March.
Blueberries
Supply exceeds demand. Late vessels are lining up along with on-time vessels to the U.S., so we are seeing a late-season glut of imported blueberries hit both coasts. Along with Central Mexico starting to pick up production as well, the blueberry market has done an about-face for at least another two weeks, and then supplies will drop off very quickly.
Stone Fruit
White peaches and nectarines are in good supply this week. Yellow peaches and nectarine supplies are still tight, although supplies have slightly improved this week. More red and black plums are arriving on the west coast, and there is a better selection of sizing of plums now available. Multiple vessels are expected to arrive on the west coast next week which will consists of red and black plums, white peaches and nectarines and yellow peaches. Markets are settling as more product arrives. Supplies will continue improving throughout the month of march.
Grapes
Markets continue to strengthen on both coasts this week, a trend that will likely remain as we deal with the aftermath of heavy rains last month in South America. We are currently in a demand exceeds supply situation on green seedless grapes. The market is now into the $30 and strengthening. Green seedless supplies will be extremely light for the next 6 weeks. This situation will definitely put more pressure on red grapes as buyers will be forced to switch over. Vessel delays are further contributing to light supplies of both red and green grapes. Shippers are holding onto inventories to ride out light volumes expected for the coming months.
Citrus
Oranges – Steady markets this week on most sizes. sizes are peaking on 72 and 88 count fruit. Tighter supplies of small sizes this week, a trend that is likely to continue for the next few weeks. USDA box programs carry on, keeping pricing and markets steady. Quality has been excellent with very few issues to report industry wide. Fancy grade remains the majority of the product available.
Lemons – Good supplies this week on most sizes of lemons. Product is currently available in both district 1 and district 3 production areas. Markets are expected to strengthen in the coming weeks as restaurants and institutions slowly reopen nationwide. There will likely be better demand for large sizes moving forward . Quality has been very nice out of both districts.
Limes – Steady demand for limes this week. Rain in the forecast for the coming days in production areas. Lighter volume expected for next week. currently sizing is peaking on 175 and 200 count fruit. Small sizes will likely be tight in the weeks to come. Some quality issues include light color and oil spots.
Cantaloupes
Little has changed. Supplies and quality of offshore melons is moderate at best and looks to remain so as damages from the Hurricane at the start of the season continues to sew its damage. This does not look to change for the rest of the deal. Mexico is still pretty much all staying in country as it is there gap time between fall and spring deals. Demand has slowed as recent winter storms and lack of tropical travel has kept its grip on disinterest. Weather has warmed a bit across the country but now come the rains. COVID seems to be finally easing, so demand could begin to improve next week. Sizing running mostly jbo 9,9 and 12s and most product still being shipped to FLA POE to cut travel time. This all adds up to dull trading for at least the first part of the week and steady and dull market with a chance of better markets developing by the second half of next week.
Honeydews
Market on honeydews has improved somewhat with less discounting of offshore product but still discounting fair quality whack is prevalent. Mexico is gapping and sizes there are running mostly 8 count. Offshore sizes are peaking on 5 and 6s with some jbo 5s. Demand has been moderate but could improve by mid-week next week due improving weather and COVID conditions around the country. Look for a firm and steady to possibly moderately higher market next week.
Dry Onions
Mexico is crossing White Jumbo onions Nogales and McAllen. There are very few yellow crossing at this point but will start in heavier in the next few days. Right now, Jumbo’s would be $10 25# Reds at $9. Transportation continues to be a problem everywhere. The Texas crop was depleted on the average of 20-30% . The rumors are that a lot of growers will go to insurance and never harvest anything. Northwestern crop is trying to get their Jumbo market up to $6 with some success…the medium market remains tight because of the USDA Farms to Families program. New Mexico was not nearly affected by the winter blast that went through Texas and the crop on early reports seems to be okay.
Asparagus
We are seeing ad requests for Asparagus rolling in at the $20 to $26 level. These are great prices for the consumer and maybe with the foodservice opening more restaurants will be putting grass on the menu. But right now, the market is still in the supply exceeds demand and very weak.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   Mostly ideal weather conditions in the desert has pushed production well ahead of schedule as we approach the transition back to Northern California production areas. This is leading to lighter supplies in the desert. As a result prices are escalating. Demand has been improved and will only allow prices to go higher. Quality remains very nice with little insect pressure. currently although with anticipate issues when the desert high temps return.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with improving demand with previous Cold weather hampering Southern production areas
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to spike. Most growers have been reaching for supplies . Continue to plan ahead even further to get partial coverage.
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. Production continues to be limited to shortage.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Currently prices on Hearts remain a value but we expect improved Demand to allow growers to push prices higher .  Green and Redleaf  supplies remain affordable as well Epidermal peel remains visible but light. Overall quality has been nice.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit  Demand continues to be strong throughout the entire Citrus category due to strong retail sales. California Winter lemon crop continues steady with slightly lighter volumes and elevated pricing.  Lime quality remains inconsistently fair. The Navel crop profile remains perfect for retail demand as we are in Peak production. Mandarins continue to offer a terrific value with excellent flavor and sizing profile providing a great item for retail promotions as well as Specialty varieties Cara’s , Satsumas, Minneolas , Tango’s and Bloods.
OG Peppers
California / Mexico :  Improved supplies of all Colored Bells as the weather has improved .in the West
OG Asparagus
Mexico :  Surging supplies on the Mexican crop is leading to good values on Asparagus . We anticipate markets to start escalating soon on improving demand
OG Brussels Sprout
Mexico :  New Crop from Mexico has started with good  Supplies and quality to match. Expect availability through early Spring. before insect pressure increases.