4/17/24

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
As production areas narrow , supplies have become concentrated with many growers battling quality issues typical of a wet Spring. Forecast call for dry, mild conditions for the next 10 day ( before possible showers next weekend) which should help dry out the crop and improve yields and quality. In the meantime supplies are varied,  overall reduced and shippers are pushing prices sharply higher.  Demand remains modest at retail and wholesale level but processors have been buying acres to supplement their light yields. Additional  production areas including Las Cruces, NM will begin production later next week to provide Quality and Convenient options as homegrown season is right around the corner.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine   Supplies had been improving from Northern California production areas although quality issues from soil borne disease have increased with the recent rains impacting quality. Dry forecast for the next 10 days should eventually improve quality and supply. Prices have stalled at elevated , current levels and could spike if the quality doesn’t improve soon.

Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  Markets have eased to more sustainable levels as production improves. Although not as severe as Romaine , recent quality issues from previous rain and hail should show improvements later next week.
Celery
Prices have firmed as the Desert growing regions are now finished and we come to rely on Oxnard and Santa Maria for the next 6 weeks. This is the time of year that we start to get into seeder issues with the Oxnard product which will affect yields. Stay on top of your needs as we head into May. Salinas will start the first week of June.
Broccoli
Good supplies are forecasted out of Santa Maria and Salinas over the next two weeks. We will start to see more crown quality products available as well. Georgia and Florida also are currently in peak production thus putting even more downward pressure on the California market. Now is the time to start thinking about promotions. Get with your Produce West representative for promotional opportunities starting next week!
Cauliflower
Now that we are transitioned back to Salinas and Santa Maria growers are finding some soil borne disease issues due to the heavy rains over the winter that are affecting yields. This looks to be short lived and they hope to be out of this issue within the next week or so. Until then expect markets to remain high and supplies on the shorter side. These issues are not affecting quality, just yields.
Artichokes
Spring production of the Thornless variety artichokes remains strong with improving quality although The Heirloom / Original variety continues to dominate supplies for the next few weeks with an array of sizes available. Demand remains strong especially for the Original/ Heirloom/ Green Globe variety.
Brussels Sprouts
Strong supplies with improved demand has firmed pricing although promotions will continue to be available through the month of April.
Green Onions
Production has begun to improve although pricing has stalled at current elevated levels as some growers are still dealing with fields impacted by previous storms during planting but quality has improved and we expect supplies to as well to finish off April.
Strawberries
The weather has been quite varied across Watsonville, Salinas, Oxnard, and Santa Maria areas. In Watsonville and Salinas, a hail event significantly impacted production, while Oxnard has been dealing with consistent rain affecting fruit quality and timing. Santa Maria has enjoyed mostly warm and sunny weather, with the anticipated rain clearing up quickly. Fruit quality challenges like misshapen fruit, burnt calyx, spongy tips, water damage, and pinrot are common across these regions. Despite these issues, expectations are to see quality slowly improve even with the recent high cull rates.
Raspberries
The weather has been consistently hot and sunny across all regions, occasionally accompanied by strong winds. Temperatures are hovering in the mid-90s during the day and dropping to the low 60s at night. The forecast for next week suggests a continuation of these hot conditions. The fruit looks promising with a vibrant red color, though there are some lighter shades due to early picking ahead of the heat. Most fruits are of medium size, averaging counts between 40-48 per pack. Despite efforts, there are occasional instances of overripe or crumbled fruit making their way into the packs,
Blackberries
Central Mexico will continue to be the main producing area into early May.  Quality is good, with sizing between the medium to large range, nice sheen, mostly black and with good firmness. Conventional counts are 22-35 and organic counts are 32-45. Due to high temps in the regions, there will be some regression and some softer fruit as the days get hotter. The Santa Maria and Oxnard areas are expected to ramp up their production in early May and expect to be in peak production around the end of June.
Blueberries
Several areas are contributing to the over all volume. In Oxnard, the recent colder weather has led to slow ripening and reduced volume production. However, the quality remains consistently good, with most defects sorted out related to color. Peak volume has passed, and a decline in volume is expected as June progresses. Out of the Central Valley, Organic blueberry volumes are starting to pick up, with an expected acceleration in the next few weeks. Despite a slow start due to colder weather, warmer conditions this week are anticipated to boost production. Although there are instances of soft fruit and red backs, Overall, quality is favorable with good size and flavor. The peak for organic volume has been pushed back by a week or two into mid-May, while conventional harvest will commence by the end of April. The Southeast has experienced average temperatures with days in the low 80s and nights in the high 60s. Thunderstorms are expected this weekend. As spring progresses, temperatures are rising, leading to a quick increase in volume, reaching its peak by the end of April. Berries are medium to large in size with excellent quality and flavor. Some packs may have attached stems, blush, and scarring, but overall, quality and production look promising, especially in Georgia, where better volume is expected next week.
Stone Fruit
As imported peach and nectarine season wraps up, imported red and black plums take center stage. California cherries kick off in late April with limited volume, followed by apricots. May sees the arrival of California white and yellow peaches, followed by nectarines. The season peaks with California plums at the end of May.
Grapes
Grape volumes remain below average, leading to a demand exceeding supply scenario on both coasts. This trend is expected to persist throughout the remainder of the season. However, there’s hope on the horizon as we anticipate Mexican Greens to be available by the week of May 13th, followed by Reds the week of the 22nd, providing some relief to the market.
Oranges
The valencia crop is ramping up, and navel supplies are lighter this week. Supplies of 72 count and larger oranges are plentiful, while demand for 88 count and smaller oranges surpasses availability, causing the smaller fruit to firm up. Despite this, fruit quality remains excellent overall, with small fruit particularly tight, indicating a promising season ahead.
Lemons
Ample supplies of Fancy and Choice grades in sizes 115 and larger, while smaller fruit sizes, ranging from 140 to 200, are somewhat limited. Despite this, the overall fruit quality remains very good, contributing to a steady market environment. With a consistent supply of larger sizes and positive quality reports, the market maintains its stability, offering favorable conditions for buyers.
Avocados
Markets have found some stability amidst recent turbulence. However, challenges remain with oversupply in many size categories. Heightened harvest activity raises concerns about market stability and the possibility of oversupply. While uncertainties persist, shippers will be adjusting pricing over the coming weeks to keep product moving. Availability varies across sizes, with some sizes more accessible than others.
Dry Onions
Mexico has fewer loads to sell and there should have been a pop in the price as Texas numbers rise, but because of the Northwest cleaning up most buyers are letting their inventories run down. There is a chance that we’ll have California onions in the next week or so and behind that New Mexico. The bottom hasn’t fallen out completely and the numbers for Jumbo Yellow is still in the teens. Georgia starts with their product this week and that will ad another layer of supply. What a cluster —-.
Asparagus
We’ll probably see a lot of fields pulled this year in Mexico after this disaster of the “supply exceed demand”. T’would be interesting to see the margins the chains were getting on asparagus this year.
Cantaloupes
Offshore supplies next week could be a bit lighter as the biggest importer is finishing their harvest early this year, but overall should remain adequate. Quality is generally good to very good with sizes peaking on jbo and reg 9 count. Mexico is due to start with some but as is well established by now they are generally not well accepted everywhere. Contract demand seems steady, spot market demand is tepid at best. Looks like price will not change much the rest of this week and next.
Honeydew
Offshore supplies have continued to be moderate with good quality and peaking on 5 and 6s count. Demand has been surprisingly good for the past few weeks keeping available offshore supplies snug to tight and prices firm. Mexico has started with decent quality and volume with sizes also peaking in 5 and 6 count. Pricing in Mexico is much less than offshore and discounting. Demand for offshores therefore has abated but with light supplies prices have held. Next week supplies are not expected to change offshore but could increase in Mexico. We look for steady prices off shore the rest of this week with Mexico continuing to discount. Next week we could see lower pricing all around.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Broccoli and Cauliflower supplies have mostly transitioned to Northern California with improving quality. Prices are currently elevated but could begin to level off with improved production.
OG Celery
Production has begun to ease as Mexico and the Desert finish up leaving Oxnard as the sole production area for the next month, likely leading to stronger markets moving forward until Salinas Valley begins harvest in early June.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Multiple production areas continue to offer sufficient options and good supplies but mixed quality.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Production in Northern California has been slow to transition with intermittent rain/hail affecting quality and availability Growers now have been dealing with soil borne disease and bottom rot from wet fields. Dry forecast for the next week should begin to improve overall quality and eventually availability.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit  Strong demand throughout the entire Citrus category due to strong retail sales and revived foodservice activity. Rain in most production areas delayed harvest resulting in much larger fruit sizes and reduced quality.

Grapefruit production is currently strong with some Fancy , Large size fruit available

Lemon  California production remains good although sizing will continue to be imbalanced to larger sizes and choice fruit due to quality issues from the wet Spring. Prices have firmed, especially smaller fruit , with overall crop acres lower for the season.

Lime quality and supplies remain inconsistent with varied prices.

The Navel crop has abruptly finished with Valencia’s still a few weeks away from any volume. Quality remains mostly with Choice , Larger sized fruit with quality issues as a result of the rain and hail.
OG Stone Fruit
Apricots ,  are forecast to start up by the end of the month followed by Peaches , Nectarines and Plums   Growers report no major issues with last weekend weather but continue to monitor weather reports which forecast dry conditions through next week with a chance off showers late next weekend.  So far the bloom has been reported to be strong. Stay tuned for updates .

3/7/24

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
Mostly ideal weather conditions continue to help improve quality although Color, texture and solidity vary widely along with pricing as some growers are able to offer spot deals while others remain firm, depending on location and degree of mildew and epidermal blister required to be removed during harvest. Demand has varied , strong at lower levels but lukewarm at the peak. Warmer temperatures forecast next week could activate increased insect pressure. Expect markets to remain volatile through the month.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine  Production has been limited by quality issues but continued ideal weather could improve quality and yields. Growers are still trimming excess epidermal and mildew but the overall product is improving , especially  Romaine Hearts  as most growers have been trimming epidermal blister and mildew although sometimes exposing pale internal leaves susceptible to discoloration

Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  supplies remain sufficient with higher pricing although demand remains modest. Mild weather should help improve quality although warmer temperatures forecast next week could increase insect pressure.
Celery
Promotional supplies available from all growing regions. Sizing is trending more towards 24 and 30 with some small sizing available. No major changes expected any time soon. Run your offers by us
Broccoli
We could start to see a slight increase in prices as we finish out the week. Supplies out of the Desert regions will begin to decline starting next week. Steady supplies out of Santa Maria and we will start to see a few growers getting started in the Salinas Valley next week.
Cauliflower
The cauliflower market prices are trending downward and will continue to subside as we finish out the week. Quality is very nice out of all growing regions.
Artichokes
Winter production of the thornless variety artichokes remain strong with improving quality.  There is currently an array of sizes available but peaking on larger sizes. The Heirloom / Original variety has begun production in Northern California with minimal frost and excellent quality, sizing and far superior edibility.
Brussels Sprouts
Light Domestic production has moved down the coast to the Oxnard area , while strong overlapping production from Mexico continues to offer promotable supplies . Take advantage of heavy inventories with seasonally low prices on all sizes.
Green Onions
A sustained run of good weather finally has production back on track. Some quality issues remain but currently insect pressure is mild and yields are improving daily . There remains some intermittent delays with the border but overall supplies are expected to be near normal as we kick off March Madness .
Strawberries
The overall volume will continue to increase into next week, due to improved weather out of Oxnard and Central Mexico. In Oxnard, good fruit size, improved quality and many growers harvesting ahead of the forecasted rains are the main reasons for the increase in expected volumes for the next 3 weeks. In Central Mexico, we expect better volumes ahead due to warmer temperatures. Florida recently found themselves culling fruit due to recent heavy rains which mean we can expect better numbers in 2 to 3 weeks.
Raspberries
Central mexico is expecting better availability in the short term due to better weather conditions. Volume is expected to increase week over week throughout the month of March.
Blackberries
Good numbers will continue out of Mexico into April as they head towards their spring peak. Quality has been good in the region and that is expected to continue barring any weather issues
Blueberries
Chilean white and yellow nectarines, peaches, and plums are currently available although in limited quantities. Quality has been strong overall particularly in tray packs. Supplies are expected to slowly improve over the coming weeks as more fruit enters the pipeline and more sizing options become available.
Stone Fruit
At present, Chilean white and yellow nectarines, peaches, and plums are accessible in the market, albeit in restricted quantities attributed to delays caused by rain. Despite these supply challenges, the quality of these fruits, particularly those packaged in tray packs, continues to be commendable. Looking ahead, there is optimism for enhanced availability in the upcoming days as weather conditions stabilize and logistical challenges are addressed, potentially leading to a more consistent flow of these fruits into the market.
Grapes
Supplies are improving on red and green varieties. We expect increased volumes over the coming month. Recent light rain in central and southern regions shouldn’t affect volumes but quality could be affected in the coming weeks as a result. This year’s overall production is expected to be lower than last year, as there is another gap in supply anticipated for mid April.
Oranges
Good supplies of 72-size and larger fruits, while the demand for 88-size and smaller fruit exceeds supply. As a result, pricing is elevated on 88 and smaller sizes. We suggest opting for larger sizes, 72 count and up. Good color and brix reported this week.
Lemons
Strong supplies of and larger fancy and choice lemons available. Limited availability of smaller sizes, ranging from 140 to 200 in size. Quality remains exceptionally high. Similar conditions expected through next week.
Avocados
Avocado supplies and demand are realigning. After a cutback in packing last week in Mexico and harvest interrupting rains in CA, we are seeing the inventories of fruit as a bit more manageable. Timing could work in favor of suppliers as the return of daylight saving is this weekend and that spells longer days and with better weather on its way, more folks eating out and getting together for backyard bbq’s. All of this spells more avocado consumption. Lets see if producers can resist the urge to pack everything they can get their hands on as the prices firm up. 32’s thru 48’s good supplies while 60’s thru 84’s are a bit harder to come by. Rains in CA hopefully slowing down allowing growers here to get into groves as the market improves.
Limes
Lime market continues to be lower than expected. Volume in TX outpacing demand and we are seeing wide range in pricing and quality. We have seen a handful of suppliers get aggressive late last week and this week in an effort to get clean. Between offshore options and what’s coming from Mexico through Texas, there seems to be plenty of fruit to go around. As some fruit has been sitting around for a week or so, the quality is obviously deteriorating on those lots and prices are being slashed to find homes. Probably not a good time to be a pure price shopper. In this case, you get what you pay for. Buyers beware.
Dry Onions
Contracts are holding this market in the place that it’s in right now. The volume of committed onions is keeping shippers from going too fast on cleaning up their ’23 crop. They could all sell out next week if it wasn’t for the contracts. The quality is holding just enough for the receivers to squint their eyes when

a load comes in a little shabby. Reds remain strong and Whites out of Mexico are staying in Mexico for the most part and the loads that are making it across the border are not cheap…still in the high $50’s and $60’s
Asparagus
Some shippers are curtailing harvest sue to this low demand market. I saw an ad in Scottsdale over the weekend @$2.99 per bunch. That’s a nice return on a $15.00 box of 28/1’s. This writer hopes that the big chains belly up to the bar and help ease this glut of product.
Cantaloupes
As expected both the volume and sizes increased this week. Contractual demand was improving a bit with warming weather in populous areas throughout the country and spot market demand still lagged. Overall quality was good but there was still discounting on fair quality and on sizes that were more abundant. Next week looks like more of the same.
Honeydew
Another week of robust supplies and fairly good to good quality. Sizes were skewing a bit larger but still peaking on 5s with ample supply of other sizes. Mexico production ebbed and sizing there skewed small. Demand changed little. Thus market was a bit lower with deals on fair quality and/or more abundant sizes. This too looks to change little next week.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Broccoli and Cauliflower supplies and prices remain mostly steady with good demand.  Ideal weather in the Desert has improved quality and production.  Warmer Temperatures next week could impact quality.
OG Celery
Production remains mostly steady.  Heavy rains along the coast have slowed production but sufficient supplies in the Desert and Mexico have kept supplies and markets steady.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Multiple production areas continue to offer sufficient options and strong supplies with mostly excellent quality.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Continued ideal weather conditions have helped the crop improve texture and color but some quality issues remain , especially mildew and insect pressure with little room to trim due to already small sizing as growers have been forced to cut ahead to avoid these issues. Romaine has been especially hit hard with a surge of red aphid which burrows deep inside the head.  A few growers have already surrendered their crop in the Desert , awaiting the start of their Northern California production area in coming weeks.

Green leaf and Red leaf  quality and production has benefited from improved weather conditions with improved texture and color although mildew and insect pressure remain , limiting supplies for the balance of the Desert deal.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit  Strong demand throughout the entire Citrus category due to strong retail sales and revived foodservice activity. Rain in most production areas delayed harvest resulting in much larger fruit sizes. Growers have been harvesting heavily in between rains in Northern California .

Grapefruit production is currently strong with mostly Fancy, Large size fruit available

Lemon  California production remains good even with the rains as many growers were able to pick ahead although sizing will continue to be imbalanced with the intermittent harvest delays. Prices have begun to firm, especially smaller fruit , with overall crop acres lower for the season.

Lime quality and supplies remain inconsistent with varied prices.

The Navel crop has been strong although the fruit has substantially increased size resulting in shortages of medium and smaller sizes while deals are readily available on Large Fancy and Choice fruit. Steady Rains have yet to severely impact quality , although occasional soft spots have been reported.

2/1/24

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
Supply and demand returned to normal following last week’s rain interruption. Quality remains varied especially as epidermal blister advances. Prices also began to peak with day to day deals readily available. That could all change on the eve of an evolving weather pattern. Just as the industry was stabilizing from last week’s storm , Rain is forecast in the desert almost daily starting tomorrow through next week. Although plenty of product is mature and ready now, steady rains will lead to harvest delays as well as enhance and accelerate epidermal discoloration . Check in daily as the market is expected to be volatile.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine  Harvest crews have resumed mostly full production as fields began to dry out over the weekend . Pricing peaked but quality continues to decline as epidermal blister and discoloration advance. Now again with rain in the forecast through much of next week , expect availability , pricing and quality to all be impacted.

Romaine Hearts  will be especially volatile with rain in the forecast crews will likely be unable to get into wet fields.  Although once the rain passes , Hearts will be the preferred pack as growers will need to trim down the Romaine to deliver a clean product.

Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  supplies are expected to be impacted by upcoming rains for the balance of the week. Once shippers are able to return to fields expect an increase in epidermal blister and peel .
Celery
Rain is slowing production this week. Promotional supplies available from all growing regions. Sizing is trending more towards 24 and 30 with some small sizing available. Crews are working to leave any issues behind in the field, although there are some fusarium concerns showing up in the Oxnard district. At this point it is minor and not affecting yields. 
Broccoli
Most shippers will have good supplies for the next ten days. Rain in the Santa Maria district could dampen harvest there over the next seven days but all other areas should have ample production to keep up with the demand. There are no quality effects to report at this time, except for the occasional mechanical damage. Heavy volume is coming out of Central Mexico as well loading in the Texas Valley. Some pretty good deals on crowns can be had there, reach out to your Produce West representative for the best opportunities.
Cauliflower
Steady supplies are forecasted going into next week. Much like broccoli we will most likely see harvest hiccups in the Santa Maria Valley due to rains but the Desert growing regions will have sufficient supplies to keep up with demand. Sizing is heavy to 12’s with some 9’s and 16’s available.
Artichokes
Winter production of the thorn less variety artichokes are still dealing with frost burn . Additional rain in the forecast could delay harvest in most locations .  There is currently an array of sizes available with discounted quotes on frost kissed varieties.
Brussels Sprouts
Domestic production from Northern California is likely to finish up this week as Winter storms are forecast for the next week. Overlapping production from Mexico has saturated the market currently with Quality from the Mexico crop trumping domestic supplies moving forward
Green Onions
The rollercoaster of production is about to take another turn as forecast calls for rain starting tomorrow through much of next week which will again impact supplies and quality as crews could likely be unable to get into fields The market has already begun to firm in anticipation of shortages moving forward
Strawberries
California Light supplies due to limited harvesting caused by recent rains and the forecast for rain later this week and early next week. Orders for the Valentine’s Day pull may also be impacted by the rain forecast for next week. There will be increased demand due to the Valentine’s Day holiday. The fruit out California and Baja have bruising, fair color, white shoulder, and misshapen, with occasional weather related defects such as mold, pin rot, and limited shelf life. Mostly smaller sizing.  Central Mexico has fair supplies, fair quality, occasional mold and bruising from previous rains.  Florida continues with light production, with fairly good quality.
Raspberries
While blackberries have ramped up quickly, raspberries are still slow to come on.  Baja production is increasing quickly, but CMEX still continues to struggle.
Blackberries
With normal temperatures, Mexico blackberry production has increased very quickly for both organic and conventional. This is expected through the next few weeks, with the season peak in early March, then a slow decline until a normal ending in June.
Blueberries
The import blueberry market is beginning to see tiered pricing but overall stable production which will continue through mid-February. Afterwards, the market will increase as production out of Chile is expected to decline quickly. Much of this fast decline is due to the overall impact of a strong El Nino season with cold temperatures to start, a flush of production over the past few weeks and into the next few weeks. Florida is very tentatively talking about an early March start time.
Stone Fruit
Availability is improving on Chilean stone fruit, including White Nectarine, Yellow Nectarine, Yellow Peach, and Plums. The next vessel is expected to arrive on early next week. The offshore fruit season has begun gradually, with small quantities of peaches and nectarines reaching both coasts. Unfavorable weather conditions, such as rain and cooler temperatures in production areas, have resulted in slower overall production.
Grapes
Strong markets continue this week. We anticipate a gradual increase in open-market fruit availability towards the middle of February, thanks to the impending arrival of more vessels. There could be better volumes of extra-large and jumbo green varieties as early as next week. Although product will continue to be tight, steady arrivals from Chile are expected over the coming weeks, providing some relief to tight markets.
Oranges
Good volume on large size oranges, and there is currently a shortage of 113s and 138 count sizes. Some consumers are switching to larger sizes to offset cost, especially 72 count and above, as smaller fruit is scarce. Overall quality is strong although we have seen some issues with rot, an issues that generally occurs as a result of wet conditions. Similar conditions expected through next week as more rain is expected in California.
Lemons
Good production this week, particularly on 115 and 140 count fruit. We anticipate better production of larger sizes in the upcoming weeks. Production is mostly coming out of district 1. We expect strong quality for the coming weeks.
Avocados
The teams are decided and the pools are being passed around offices. The avocado inventories are piled high in anticipation of the big day. Lets not forget the ‘Swifties’ who some are predicting will add a significant amount of new viewers to this year’s Super Bowl. The jury on whether or not there’s enough new watchers to boost this year’s Guacamole consumption is still out. All of that said, the market is flat and there is plenty of fruit for promotions and the spot market. Some voicing concern over the chance of there being too much fruit post Super Bowl Sunday. Still time to put together those last minute promos.
Limes
Lime market took a nosedive this past week on extremely low demand. Despite the low volumes and bleak outlook from suppliers for the next month or two, the lime market dropped into the low/mid $20’s and $30’s from the high $30’s and mid $40’s that buyers were paying only 10 days to 2 weeks ago. The upward momentum that was bolstered by stories about diminishing supplies was crushed by crippling weather across the country that stalled demand and put buyers on high alert. Nothing has changed on the supply side, so it’s a matter of time until demand surges ahead and that could be sooner than later. With the Super Bowl looming, we can expect the party crowd to belly up to the bar and start ordering those lime adorned cocktails. Wide range in quality and color, so let us help find you the perfect lime for your customers!
Dry Onions
Now that the higher prices are setting in on the jobber level of marketing we are starting to see some buyer’s resistance. Not a lot yet…plus it’s almost February and business slips anyway.

Nothing has changed as far a new areas starting. Texas and Mexico are the one’s who need to answer the supply “Bell”. This deal looks like it’s pretty well made through the end of the Northwest deal.
Asparagus
Rain, colder than normal temps are keeping the Mexican asparagus deal from totally launching. There is no shortage of demand as the market starts to adjust to the fits an starts of the Corborca deal. Next week the temps are going to be in the low 40’s at night and only 60’s during the day. That does not ad up to 140 total that is required for consistent growth of asparagus.

One shipper told this writer that the week of 11 Feb will be the start of 28’s…stay tuned
Cantaloupes
The anticipated drop in supplies did not happen this week. Sizes moderated and more smaller sizes (12s and a few 15s) were being produced. Guatemala supplies did abate somewhat as is normal and this should continue into February. Dominican Republic supplies are on the rise but quality is a bit iffy. Honduras is still going and Costa Rica should begin to start their deal (yet is a smaller deal due to costs of growing there). Overall supplies look to be trending a bit lighter. Demand pattern has been centered on contracts and the pull has been consistently good. Spot market demand however has been stubbornly slow, even as the weather across the country has milded. Next week not much looks to change. Dominican fruit should improve both in size and quality. We see a steady market ahead with dealing on off sizes.
Honeydew
I could cut and paste the above post on cantaloupes for dews and it would be mostly accurate. Overall supplies should be a tad lighter, quality is mostly good but more inconsistent than cantaloupes. Sizes are continuing to run large but still peaking on 5 and 6 count with adequate jbo 5s and a few larger and very few smaller. Demand, as above, is contract centric, with draggy spot market interest. We see little change ahead.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Broccoli and Cauliflower supplies and prices remain mostly steady with strong demand.  Rain in the forecast will likely impact production heading into the weekend .
OG Celery
Production remains mostly in Oxnard although the Desert and Mexico have increased production leading to improved supplies and easing pricing. Heavy rains forecast could result in slowing harvest although inventory supplies are currently heavy.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Multiple production areas continue to offer sufficient options and strong supplies with mostly excellent quality. Rain will likely impact all production areas by next week .
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Production has slowly improved although quality remains varied as growers deal with epidermal blister and discoloration following frost and rain in the last couple of weeks. Additionally more rain forecast for tomorrow through next week in the Desert will once again impact harvest , availability and quality. Romaine is especially susceptible to epidermal discoloration as the head grows larger than Green leaf and Red leaf  stretching and tearing the epidermal layer allowing for moisture to get trapped. Expect volatility to remain high especially if the forecast comes to fruition.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit  Strong demand throughout the entire Citrus category due to strong retail sales and revived foodservice activity. Rain in most production areas has delayed harvest although long term will improve quality.

Grapefruit production is currently strong with mostly Fancy, Large size fruit available

Lemon  Mexico supplies continue to peak on smaller Choice fruit while California production has improved with increasing Fancy fruit and size in the desert. Prices have begun to firm with overall crop acres lower for the season.

Lime quality and supplies remain inconsistent with varied prices.

The Navel crop has begun to peak with much improved  brix and quality as sizing remains heavy to larger sizes due to the rains.

1/18/24

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
Supplies appear to be sufficient for current demand even as critically cold temperatures slowed production. A return to mild temperatures are forecast through next week, other than possible rain on Monday, which should allow growers increased harvest hours . Shippers tried to raise prices but they remain varied , reflecting only modest demand. Increased epidermal blister and peel will begin to appear on arrivals this week while also leading to varied color, weights and solidity.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine  Cold temperatures temporarily slowed production but the more significant impact has been the increase of epidermal blister and peel . Although quality has been mostly mice , expect to see increased discoloration due to epidermal blister on arrivals . Prices remain mostly steady as demand continues to be modest.

Romaine Hearts  Production is expected to remain steady as growers trade late starts for increased labor required to trim any quality issues brought on by excess epidermal burn. Strong demand with wide ranging prices are expected to continue.

Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  supplies are expected to resume with steady pricing and modest demand. Also expect an increase in epidermal blister and peel through the end of the month.
Celery
Good availability out of Santa Maria and Oxnard and the Desert growing regions. Shippers are motivated to get product moving especially 30 and 36 count sizes. Run your offers by us!
Broccoli
The cooler temperatures from last week are now showing some affects on harvest this week. Harvest yields were pretty normal last week and shippers were able to harvest estimated volumes. They are now starting to see a decrease in estimated harvest numbers as the crop is not ready for harvest due to the cooler temps from last week. Expect the market to remain fairly active going into next week
Cauliflower
Market remains fairly active and will finish out the week in this manner. There seems to be the haves and have nots in the shipping industry. There is a fairly wide range in pricing but it seems as if this will narrow down over the next few days. A majority of shippers are saying they will be light or out of cauliflower for the rest of this week as well as the early part of next.
Artichokes
Winter production of the thornless variety has begun to improve just in time to get hit by frost . Most all production areas including Oxnard , Coachella and Mexico were hit by freezing overnight temperatures.  . While still yielding Extra Large sizes , Medium sizes have become available with prices easing. Some growers have started to offer discounted quotes on frost kissed varieties.
Brussels Sprouts
Domestic production from Northern California is expected to wind down as Winter storms in Northern California are forecast for this weekend which will immediately impact quality. Overlapping production from Mexico has saturated the market with good quality from both areas. Expect quality to swing towards the new, Mexican crop by next week.
Green Onions
Cold overnight temperatures in production areas of Northern Mexico have given way to more mild temperatures which will begin to improve production and lower prices are expected to follow. Now that temperatures have moderated, production should begin to improve although growers will be dealing with residual quality issues through the end of the month.
Strawberries
Light supplies out of California will continue into next week due to limited harvesting and other regions moving orders from the East to cover needed supplies. Fruit sizing out of California has been small with some reports of occasional pin rot and mold being reported. There should be better availability later next week. Stem strawberries are expected to be limited out of Oxnard for Valentine’s day. Central Mexico is currently experiencing lighter supplies, but we are expecting an upward trend for the next several weeks. Quality has been fair, with occasional mold and bruising stemming from previous wet weather. Florida is producing lighter, but steady production. Better numbers are expected by the middle of February. There is some rain in the forecast next week.
Raspberries
Slightly better supplies starting next week. Overall quality of raspberries has been much better than blackberries, due to the lack of rain in the Raspberry growing areas. Peak volumes are not expected until mid February.
Blackberries
Overall production is flat. After incurring weeks of rain, Central Mexico looks to be finally on the mend and by this weekend, we should start to see a larger increase in supply on all berries from Mexico. Quality is improving very quickly and it’s looking like good supplies moving forward.
Blueberries
The import market has gotten tighter as vessels are slow to arrive to the East Coast from Chile. Fruit from Chile started hitting Philadelphia ports last week and shippers are seeing delays in drayage, keeping the market two-tiered, those with fruit and those waiting for fruit. This is being reflected in how much fruit importers brought in and which vessel they were on. Another problem factor will be quality. A lot of red berries and soft fruit are being found through quality control, stemming from all the poor weather in Chile over the past month. The fruit is struggling to arrive in good condition after being on the water for 3 weeks due to weather delays caused by the heavy rains from this El Nino season. We should expect a general increase in production and increase in supply as we move forward.
Stone Fruit
The onset of the offshore fruit season is gradual, with modest quantities of peaches and nectarines gradually making their way to both coasts. The next vessel is expected to arrive in the week of 1/15. Production has been hampered by rain and cooler temperatures in the production areas. Stone Fruit is beginning to reach the west and east coasts with a limited supply.
Grapes
Red and Green grape availability will likely be limited for the coming 2 weeks. The domestic grape season has concluded, and all production is focused on South American growing regions. Shipments have been delayed due to recent weather patterns . Black Seedless grapes are currently available, and a few Red Globes are also in stock. Quality and condition reports are good remains strong on offshore fruit. Quantities are anticipated to improve toward the end of the month as more shipments arrive.
Oranges
Markets have strengthened this week due to production slowdowns from rain and colder weather. Positive quality reports note good color and sugar levels. Main sizes are 72s, 56s, and 88s, with limited availability of smaller fruits. Anticipated conditions indicate continued strength. Abundance in sizes 72 and larger contrasts with higher demand for sizes 88 and smaller, projecting increased firmness in the smaller fruit category.
Lemons
Fruit quality is excellent, and the market is maintaining stability. Consistent numbers are observed this week, particularly in District 1, with fruit counts peaking in the 115, 140, and 95 count ranges. While a slight green tint persists, there’s visible improvement in color, and further enhancement is anticipated in the upcoming weeks.
Avocados
Picking has been heavy in recent weeks, with current trading experiencing a slight downturn. Across much of the country, where sub-zero temperatures prevail this week, sales have been less than stellar. There is good availability on all sizes as packers have started building inventories in anticipation of the Playoffs and The Super Bowl. Some are questioning whether it’s too much, too soon, but only time will reveal the answer. Reports indicate that some suppliers are scaling back on harvest this week, although the temptation to maximize fruit inventory remains high, driven by the desire to have the most fruit to sell when demand eventually increases (because it will). Sources suggest that we should anticipate shortages in 60ct and 70ct fruit. Following the Super Bowl, California is expected to ramp up production, reaching a peak in May/June.”
Limes
Lime production continues to be constrained for several reasons. Persistent rains in growing regions and growers opting to leave fruit on the trees longer to bolster the market are contributing factors. However, prolonging the time fruit hangs on trees may negatively impact its quality. Currently, the sizing profile leans towards medium and large fruit. As we enter February, anticipate a shift towards smaller sizing with improved quality. However, overall volumes are not expected to see improvement until the end of Q1. Analyzing a three-year trend reveals a sharp drop in FOBs around weeks 14-15, consistent with reports from growers. Despite strong demand, adverse weather conditions across the country have had an impact this week.
Dry Onions
Cold conditions for packing and moving onions around have curtailed some production. Most shippers are able to stay up with demand, but some are falling behind. Raising the market to stave off demand has not materialized and the prices are getting nosed up, little by little. Transportation is holding up and rail rate are very reasonable.
Asparagus
Cooler temps have not helped the growth of asparagus…however, we are starting to see lower prices being given out to the chains for building their ads for the February pull…some in the mid $30’s and high $20’s for the first week of February. This might be a little premature low pricing for that period and this writer cautions his buyers not to go too heavy…this weather is still too fluky to call right now.
Cantaloupes
Production in Guatemala and Honduras has been ample with best quality from the latter. Sizes have been running large peaking on jbo 9s with ample 9s and jbo 6s, some 12s and nothing smaller. There was some import processing issues at POEs with the holiday Monday. Demand has been hampered by the exceptionally wintery weather across the nation. Prices have been steady but with some dealing particularly on jbo 9s and larger. Next week little looks to be changing in the supply picture and the siege of winter weather is predicted to moderate. Markets should be steady and possibly a bit higher on regular 9 count and smaller.
Honeydew
Most supplies are from offshore (Guatemala and Honduras) with some from Mexico. Quality is okay, but a but inconsistent. Sizes are skewing larger with mostly 5 count and some jbo 5s count with some 6s. Supplies are ample but not overwhelming. As with lopes, demand has been slowed by the spate of cold and wintry weather. Next week supplies should be steady to slightly increased and sizes should continue to run large. Demand could improve a bit with more moderate weather. Market should be steady with some dealing on larger sizes and possibly a bit higher prices on smaller sizes.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Broccoli and Cauliflower supplies have slowed as overnight temperatures have receded. As the overnight temperatures moderate expected supplies to slowly improve by the end of the month.
OG Celery
Production remains mostly in Oxnard although the Desert and Mexico have increased production leading to improved supplies and easing pricing. Quality remains mostly good
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Multiple production areas continue to offer sufficient options and strong supplies with mostly excellent quality.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Production slowed as overnight temperatures delayed harvest. A return of mild temperatures will allow growers more harvest time but will be offset by dealing with residual epidermal blister from freezing temperatures. Fortunately quality had been strong but discoloration from blistering will begin to impact arrivals.

Green and Red leaf   Supplies remain mostly steady with good demand. Epidermal blister cycle has begun and will likely impact supplies through the end of the month.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit  Strong demand throughout the entire Citrus category due to strong retail sales and revived foodservice activity.

Grapefruit production is currently strong with mostly Fancy, Large size fruit available

Lemon  Mexico supplies continue to peak on smaller Choice fruit while California production has improved with increasing Fancy fruit and size in the desert. Prices have begun to stabilize with overall crop acres lower for the season.

Lime quality and supplies remain inconsistent with varied prices.

The Navel crop has begun to peak with much improved supplies brix, quality as prices ease to promotable levels mostly on large sizes.

12/21/23

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
The Desert should see their first weather event this weekend with rain in the forecast although warmer than normal temperatures persist. With mild demand some growers are contemplating laying out through Christmas Day. Markets remain steady with elevated quotes and daily dealing. Quality has been mostly very nice with some high core, varied color and weights. Minimal lettuce ice has been observed so far and the market is likely to remain steady until freezing temperatures materialize.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine  Romaine supplies continue strong from the Desert with excellent quality. Only minor frost delays so far in the Desert have kept epidermal blister mostly non-existent . Rain in the forecast could interrupt harvest this weekend but overall supplies remain strong.

Romaine Hearts  also have seen a significant quality improvement in the desert with continued strong supplies. Prices remain varied with plenty of affordable options.

Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  Steady supply with improving demand from the East Coast. Quality continues to improve daily.
Celery
The Christmas demand is now over and prices are starting to deflate. We will see lower pricing going into next week. There are still some disease issues causing lighter yields in the Oxnard district but this problem wont have any affect on price.
Broccoli
With the cooler weather and forecast of rain in the Desert growing regions on Friday we still do not expect to see any change in the market. There are a few shippers that are starting to increase their FOB’s sighting lighter harvest yields due to weather but on the flipside there are shippers that are pricing product rather aggressively and are looking for business. There is also good availability out of the Carolinas and Central Mexico. Quality out of all these regions have been good.
Cauliflower
We do not expect much change in this market as the week finishes out. Demand still remains very good and shippers are selling out daily. Lighter yields on 9 size flower is expected through next week and the demand exceeds on this size will remain unchanged.
Artichokes
Fall production of the thornless variety continues with minimal new plantings from Oxnard , Coachella and Mexico . Mostly yielding Extra Large , Jumbo size.  Expect limited supplies on Medium Large sizes through December. Light frost from some production areas has been reported but overall supplies should get a boost from weekend rain.
Brussels Sprouts
Domestic production continues to be strong in Northern California as quality, higher yields and acres remain . Strong demand for Christmas has slightly firmed prices on Mediums with still good volume available as well as steep discounts on off sizes.  Mexico crop will overlap production by mid January
Green Onions
Ideal weather has allowed steady production in Mexico leading up to strong Christmas demand but rain forecast this weekend combined with seasonal labor interruptions in Mexico during Christmas and New Years will impact supplies heading into January. Fortunately the crop appears strong and supplies should resume once labor crews return fully by mid January
Strawberries
Very light supplies on strawberries due to rain and cold weather. California fruit has fair color with white shoulders, occasional misshapen, bruising, and some brown calyx. Mostly smaller sizing. Santa Maria, California, is forecast for the week with colder temperatures. Central Mexico will continue with very light supplies as they are getting hit with hail and rain. Central Mexico seeing severe quality issues due to the recent hailstorms. Fruit will have quality issues for the next few weeks. Strawberries will be very limited going into the new year.  Florida will have limited production due to recent wet weather in the area.
Raspberries
Supplies continue to be light with better supplies expected in the next two weeks. We will see supplies slowly build as we move into late January. California volumes will be minimal as their season concludes.
Blackberries
Central Mexico was hit by quite a bit of rain and hail over the past two weeks. Supplies are expected to be low as production slows due to both loss of fruit and colder temperatures. The current outlook is that blackberries may not rebound until mid-January. Supplies will be lighter coming out of Mexico as we still are feeling the effects of recent cold weather patterns.
Blueberries
Baja production is past its fall peak and volumes will continue to decline over the next 3 to 4 weeks. Light supplies the next few weeks as Chile is slow to start. Most vessel arrivals are expected to begin at the end of the year (Week 52/Week 1) with limited airfreight coming in now. Chilean farmers have reported colder than normal temperatures which have slowed their production.
Stone Fruit
The stone fruit season has come to an end. The offshore fruit season is anticipated to commence in the weeks ahead.
Grapes
Expect tight import inventories this week, especially with reds. California shippers are clearing out stocks to help with the limited supply. The transition to 18-pound imports is reducing surplus. The East Coast is getting the majority of volume from Peru, and this will continue through the Holidays. The West Coast will likely have a tight market until mid-January when shipments from Chile arrive. High-quality grape volumes from Peru and Chile will peak on the East Coast after Christmas.
Oranges
California is experiencing heavy rain this week, affecting harvest through the Holiday. Orchards need time to dry before harvest resumes. Growers have harvested early in anticipation. Navels are vibrant and delicious, with color and sweetness increasing due to cooler nights. Larger sizes like 72s are abundant, while 88s and smaller are more limited this month. Expect similar conditions and strengthening markets for the new year.
Lemons
District One is making good progress, but expect limited availability of fancy fruit in sizes 115 and larger. The fruit is undergoing a 1-2 day gas treatment to enhance its color. While there may still be a slight green tint, improvements are expected this week. Sizes are peaking on 140 and 165 count fruit. Smaller lemons are abundant with robust supply and competitive pricing.
Avocados
Avocado prices are on the rise, particularly for larger sizes such as 48’s and 60’s. In preparation for the upcoming New Year, there has been an increase in harvesting to ensure an ample supply and avoid shortages. However, this effort comes with added expenses. While the current stocking up is aimed at maintaining a temporary balance, there is a possibility of prices going up a bit in early 2024. Growers are gearing up for higher demand during football playoffs, leading to an increase in fruit harvesting. Despite a potential slight drop in prices during the holidays, we anticipate a more demanding and challenging start to the new year.
Limes
Lime prices on the rise on lighter supplies. Despite fruit coming from multiple regions, the overall volume is decreasing and we are preparing to see elevated pricing across all sizes moving into the new year. Suppliers have been alerting buyers for several weeks that the expectation is that there will be a significant drawdown to the volumes available due to previous weather events. More rain forecast in Mexico late next week will further disrupt production.
Dry Onions
Tight supply situations continue to plague the onion market. Demand is still very good at higher pricing as jobbers and chains get use to paying $22-$24 for the same thing they were paying $16-18 a few weeks ago. There is no immediate end in sight. What a business, eh?
Asparagus
The demand for Asparagus is very high and the chains that booked lids for this period are in good shape…everyone that depends on getting grass on the spot market are suffering… prices as high as $60 on larger and mid 50’s on standards.
Cantaloupes
No real changes to report. All are from the Caribbean basin arriving mostly at Florida Ports of Entry (POE), with a few on other ports in the mid-Atlantic, Texas and Southern CA. Volume is steady and moderate and peaking on larger sizes, jbo and reg 9s with some 12s and some larger. Quality is iffy leaving us with a two tiered market. Demand on contracted product is steady, but spot market demand is very slow due to seasonal taste and the aforementioned iffy quality. Little looks to be changing next week, other than perhaps some unloading holiday disruptions at the ports.
Honeydew
Mexico is still shipping but winding down. Sizes are skewing of reg 5 & 6 count. Quality is okay. Offshore product is iffy quality and light supplies with size skewing to jbo 5 and 5 with some 6s and some larger. Demand is quite slow other than contracted or pre- committed. Market is steady and two tiered (for offshore) with deep discounts being offered on off quality. Little looks to be changing next week.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Broccoli production have improved as well as quality resulting in stable prices while slightly cooler temperatures have slowed Cauliflower production although sufficient supplies remain at relatively affordable pricing. Demand has improved but still mostly moderate
OG Celery
Production remains mostly in Oxnard with yields being impacted by soil borne disease . Production from the Desert and Mexico remains limited but should improve in January. Prices have escalated as demand has increased for Christmas and should continue through New Years. Quality remains mostly good to fair with some insect pressure.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Multiple production areas continue to offer sufficient options and strong supplies with excellent quality.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Steady supplies and improved quality should continue as weather in the Desert has been ideal. Markets remain mostly steady with good demand. Rain this weekend in the Desert will temporarily interrupt harvest.

Green and Red leaf   Supplies remain steady with improved quality and strong demand. Epidermal blister remains mostly non-existent as temperatures in the desert remain warmer than normal.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit  Strong demand throughout the entire Citrus category due to strong retail sales and revived foodservice activity.

Grapefruit production is currently strong with mostly Fancy, Large size fruit available

Lemon  Mexico supplies continue to peak on smaller Choice fruit while California production has improved with increasing Fancy fruit and size in the desert. Prices have begun to ease and should be promotable heading into January.

Lime quality and supplies remain inconsistent with varied prices.

 

The Navel crop has begun to peak with much improved supplies brix, quality and size as prices ease to promoteable levels
Produce West Inc. | 831-455-2981 | 831-455-1666 | www.producewest.com

11/15/23

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
Most growers have transitioned to their Winter Desert production district without skipping a beat. In fact quality has improved from the start although with a wide range of weights.  Color and Texture have improved from the tail end of the Northern California district. Once all transitional production areas are cleaned up, the market could once again firm even with the artificially inflated prices currently being quoted by the industry.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine  Romaine supplies continue strong with most shippers starting their Winter districts. Quality has taken a significant jump from Northern California

 

Romaine Hearts  also have seen a significant quality improvement in the desert with continued strong supplies as well as demand.

Red leaf, green leaf and Boston  Steady supply with improving demand from the East Coast which will result in elevated pricing as shippers look to push prices closer to break-even levels. Quality has been varied but much improved to start the desert season .
Celery
And just like that it seems the Holiday pull has come and gone. Prices are now beginning to decline as buyers have satisfied thier appetities for their Thanksgiving demand. Look for prices to decline into next week and then sit there until the Christmas demand begins around the week of 12/4/23. Shippers are now harvesting in Salinas, Santa Maria and Oxnard. Quality in all three areas has been nice, general weights are 55# and we are finding good green color and very little to no pith.
Broccoli
Pricing turned a little quicker than anticipated. Light harvest volumes in both Salinas and Santa Maria have helped turn the tide. Although pricing is high it has seemed to hit a ceiling. Pricing is not expected to go any higher and we could start to see a slight decline starting as early as Monday of next week.
Cauliflower
Slight price declines are expected as we finish out the week. Product is being harvested in Salinas, Santa Maria and the Desert regions. There might be some deals to be had over the next few days so run your ideas by us.
Artichokes
Fall production of the thornless variety has slowed with minimal new plantings to harvest. Most growers are cleaning up their last remaining fields in Salinas and will gap before starting Oxnard , Coachella or Mexico later this month.
Brussels Sprouts
Domestic production continues to be strong in Northern California as quality, higher yields and acres increase with growers mechanically harvesting which leads to a surge in production. Strong demand for Thanksgiving as well as the homegrown season winding down will inevitably lead to firmer pricing but take advantage of promotable offerings for the Holidays while they last.
Green Onions
Production has mostly returned to normal as growers in Mexico concentrate on improving quality and yields. Supplies are expected to remain steady while demand has increased, boosting prices higher . Supplies should be good through the month before weather and labor interruptions commence next month.
Strawberries
All of the California regions are expecting 1.5 to 2 inches of rain beginning Wednesday night and continuing through the weekend. These forecasted storms will most likely end the season for the Northern growers. In Santa Maria, Growers have been trying to pick as much fruit as possible before storms arrive. The Oxnard areas are past their peak and will be facing declining numbers into December. Fruit quality has been good out of Mexico with stable numbers that are expected to have increasing numbers as we approach the end of the year.
Raspberries
The main growing areas continue to be challenged with inclement weather. In the North we are expecting 4 to 5 days of wet weather beginning Wednesday night and continuing through the weekend. Santa Maria is expecting wet weather along with high wind gusts in the forecast. Mexico has moved on from quality issues that were created by the hurricanes several weeks ago. The quality of the fruit has been good with high Brix levels being reported.
Blackberries
We are expecting a slow, but steady rise in supplies predominantly out of Mexico. The majority of California Blackberry regions will be on the decline with the exception of Oxnard as they expecting decent numbers into December.
Blueberries
Baja production is past its peak and will continue to decline through year end. We expect the product out of Mexico to increase in the 1st week of December. The numbers out of Peru will continue to be steady and strong for the next several weeks.
Stone Fruit
The domestic seasons for yellow and white nectarines have concluded, along with white varieties. Offshore fruit season is anticipated to start in a few weeks. Red plums are currently limited, particularly in larger sizes, while black plums are available in all sizes. Both black and red plum seasons are expected to conclude next week.
Grapes
Green Seedless grapes are still available in good supplies. Red grapes are becoming more scarce every day. Pricing is firm and expected to rise soon. Projected supplies of all grape varieties are expected to lighten over the next two weeks. Overall grape quality is exceptional. We will likely begin to see more quality issues arise as more storage fruit hits the market.
Oranges
Navels are starting, but with low sugar based on recent quality reports. Improvement is expected over the next two weeks, though there might be delays in fruit orders. Consider pre-booking. While the market is currently high, it’s expected to settle in the coming weeks. This year will offer a lot choice fruit according to recent reports.
Lemons
District 1 is now in full swing, bringing an increase in lemon supplies over the next two weeks. The pack outs show higher volumes on 115 to 200 count range. We’re anticipating a larger proportion of choice-grade fruit this season, leading to a more noticeable price difference between choice and fancy grades.
Limes
The market on Limes has moderated and prices though lower have begun to stabilize. Better demand at lower pricing is keeping the market from falling to levels more commonly associated with the time of year. There is perceived value currently based on the extreme high prices of the past couple of months. Small fruit continues to dominate; however, we have seen steady increases in pack outs of medium and large fruit. Despite the current volume increases and lower FOB’s, experts warn that mid-December could see a decline in volume and increase in pricing that could extend well into the new year.
Avocados
We are seeing a slowdown on picking this week and that will continue into next week as growers seek to control inventories. A holiday in Mexico on Monday (Revolution Day) will result in a day of no harvest. Harvest projections remain light for the balance of the week due to Thanksgiving. Sizing heavier to larger sizes (48/60) with #2 fruit volume up slightly on the heels of the last rain storms which has caused some Lenticel damage to the exterior of the fruit. Small fruit may be challenging over the next couple of weeks.
Dry Onions
Finally! We have some movement in the onion market. Demand exceeds supply for the balance of the week on most quality onion houses. Jumbo yellows are cleaning up like it was the fall of 2020 when we had sustained double digits market. As the packing houses go full force into the Thanksgiving pull the receivers are looking to move substantial numbers for the holiday. If the shippers don’t get too ambitious, this market will last through the first of the year and beyond.
Asparagus
The pipelines are cleaning up with lower pricing and demand is starting to show. As more and more growers go into contract mode with their buying, demand stays even. There’s not much serious advertising and the retailers don’t seem to care about putting something on “hot buys” …too much thinking as the corporate office is calling the shots in the produce aisle. The idea of paying a really sharp buyer a lot of money to make a lot of money seems to be declining…just saying.
Cantaloupes
Yuma seems to be winding down quickly and is not much of a factor moving forward. Mexico is in prodigious production and decent quality but had been discounting like mad to get business. They should be winding down their exports. Offshore is quickly becoming the main supply source. Production is okay, but not heavy as the have off and on seasonal rains, but the big storm is tracking away from them and heading Northeast. Quality is good and sizes are running heavy to jbo 6 jbo 9 and 9- with few if anything smaller. Overall demand is only fair and spot market demand is very slow. Prices going into next week look steady with some but less discounting
Honeydew
Yuma is winding down but not as rapidly as it is on cantaloupes. Mexico has copious volume and still is discounting like crazy or even giving them away with prices to be established after receivers sell them. Offshore has been slow to start but supplies are arriving. Quality is good offshore and variable in Mexico. Sizes peaking on 5s mostly with some larger and some 6s. Market should be steady to lower next week
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Broccoli production in Salinas and Santa Maria will slowly wind down before transitioning to the Desert. Patience and flexibility will again serve you well as this annual ritual of transitioning right in the middle of the Thanksgiving pull continues. Prices have escalated and Supplies should be overall  sufficient  but logistical challenges will be inevitable. Better production in the Desert is expected next week.
OG Celery
Production from Salinas and Santa Maria and now Oxnard  has been steady allowing for flexible loading options . Quality remains mostly good to fair with some insect pressure. Improved supplies and availability in the desert are expected as Mexico begins production .
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
As growers transition to multiple production areas for the Winter including Mexico supplies are expected to improve along with quality.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Lettuce production has mostly finished in Northern California and transition to the desert will commence in full next week with expected significant quality improvements. Markets remain mostly steady although demand has begun to escalate which will lead to firmer pricing.

Green and Red leaf   Limited supply to start the desert season will give way to improved supplies and quality rapidly.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit  Strong demand throughout the entire Citrus category due to strong retail sales and revived foodservice activity.

Lemon  Mexico supplies continue to peak on smaller Choice fruit. California has limited production and size in the desert.

Lime quality and supplies remain inconsistent with varied prices.

California The Navel crop has begun with limited availability and size to start.

10/8/23

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
Transition is in full swing as growers wrap up production in Salinas either choosing to be selective or abandon the last remaining plantings for improved quality in the Desert. Some growers will continue to have lettuce in their transitional production areas ( Huron, Oxnard , Santa Maria ) through the end of the week but anticipate full transition to the Desert next week. Quality should see substantial improvements once weights are allowed to size up.  Markets shot up in recent days as demand has fully returned from the East. Planted acres in the Desert appear to be sufficient to fill demand pending any significant weather related issues. In the meantime take advantage of Production from Las Cruces, NM which continues to offer some of the best quality with all the logistical advantages through next week.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine  Romaine supplies continue strong with most shippers starting their Winter district this week. Quality is expected to take a significant jump once settled into the desert as the remaining production from Northern California limps to the finish line.

Romaine Hearts  should see the most significant quality improvement once transitioned with strong demand expected as poor arrivals have been weighing down the market.

Red leaf, Greenleaf and Boston  Steady supply with improving demand from the East Coast which will result in elevated pricing as shippers look to push prices closer to break-even levels. Quality has been varied and should improve once we get into full production in the desert.
Celery
The holiday pull is upon us and prices have escalated quickly. We expect these price levels to last through the week of 11/18. Shippers are now harvesting in Salinas, Santa Maria and Oxnard. Quality in all three areas has been nice, general weights are 55# and we are finding good green color and very little to no pith.
Broccoli
Pricing turned a little quicker than anticipated. Light harvest volumes in both Salinas and Santa Maria have helped turn the tide. Although pricing is high it has seemed to hit a ceiling. Pricing is not expected to go any higher and we could start to see a slight decline starting as early as Monday of next week.
Cauliflower
The market has leveled out and we could start to see a price decline begin as early as Friday of this week. There seems to be decent availability in the Santa Maria district and we will start to see production out of Yuma beginning the end of next week.
Artichokes
Fall production of the thornless variety has slowed with minimal new plantings to harvest. Most growers are cleaning up their last remaining fields in Salinas and will gap before starting Oxnard , Coachella or Mexico later this month.
Brussels Sprouts
Domestic production continues to be strong in Northern California as quality, higher yields and acres increase with growers mechanically harvesting which leads to a surge in production. Strong demand for Thanksgiving as well as the homegrown season winding down will inevitably lead to firmer pricing but take advantage of promotable offerings for the Holidays while they last.
Green Onions
Production has mostly returned to normal as growers in Mexico concentrate on improving quality and yields. Supplies as expected to remain steady while demand will continue to increase for the next couple weeks boosting prices higher. Supplies should be good through the month before weather and labor interruptions commence next month.
Strawberries
Supplies will continue to light and we expect this trend to continue for the next several weeks. The Salinas and Watsonville areas is finishing their season, with most orders being booked in the Santa Maria and Oxnard areas. Their is rain in next weeks forecast which will add to our already demand-exceeds-supply situation. Yields are down in this area due to colder weather. Mexico volumes should increase mid- to late-November. California fruit has fair color with white shoulders, occasional misshapen, bruising, occasional mechanical damage, and occasional green tip.
Raspberries
Raspberries are rebounding more quickly from Hurricane Otis than blackberries and good supplies are expected by end of this week.
Blackberries
New crop from Central Mexico is going; however, we are still seeing quality concerns from the aftermath of Hurricane Otis. It will take at least another 1-2 weeks to clean up everything and for the plants to rebound.
Blueberries
While demand has fallen off due to higher market pricing, supplies are only slightly increasing. Overall, there will be more blueberries available over the coming weeks, but expectations are that the market will remain fairly high.
Stone Fruit
Yellow peaches are done being packed for the season. Red plum supplies are much tighter this weeks and markets are reacting. In contrast, black plums are abundant and available in various sizes. Domestic yellow and white nectarines have concluded their season. White peaches are also finished for the season, while yellow peaches will be available for one more week. Offshore fruit season is still a few weeks away.
Grapes
Improving supplies of red, green, and black seedless grapes this week. Current supplies are projected to continue for the remainder of the month. All grape types are currently boasting exceptional quality.. With market conditions stabilizing, producers and shippers are looking to move product and offering deals on volume orders.
Oranges
Valencia oranges are almost done for the season, and Navels are just starting, but extremely tight. There’s a problem with low sugar content in most orchards, but over the next two weeks, the quality and sugar levels will improve each day. Orders might still face delays and adjusted rates, so it’s a good idea to pre-book. Prices are high now but expected to drop by the end of the month. Expect excellent quality fruit expected for the upcoming season.
Lemons
District 1 is now up and going, and lemon supplies will likely improve over the next two weeks. pack outs are showing higher volumes on 115 to 200 count. We expect a higher proportion of choice fruit available in the coming season and thus a wider price difference between choice and fancy grade.
Limes
Fresh Lime market pricing has stabilized following a week or so of small declines. In general, we are seeing some better volume of fresh limes with significantly improved quality. Small-sized limes continue to dominate the market, while larger-sized ones remain limited in comparison, accounting for a relatively small portion of the available crop, and this trend may persist until the second quarter of 2024. We anticipate an adequate supply until the end of this month, after which a decline is expected in December.
Avocados
Lighter demand and increased production. Current oversupply has led to lower spot FOB’s as growers rushed in to fill a gap in supplies following several weather events that slowed production. Not a big seller for this time of year, suppliers are struggling to gain the attention of buyers who tend to be focused more on items popular for Thanksgiving. Sizing is still heavier to small fruit, yet we are seeing a bit more of the 48’s and 60’s which is welcomed by many. #2 fruit remains short, but due to the lighter demand overall, there is fruit to be had. Reports of some light Lenticel damage as a result of the rains, though this defect does not impact the interior of the fruit, but rather the skins as the fruit ripens.
Dry Onions
Remember the song “hello Mother hello Father” Camp Granada? “Wait a minute it stopped hailing, guys are sailing, playing baseball! Gee that’s better…that was all the Onion market needed was for Demand to increase…some guys are already cleaned up for the week and the market is stabilizing. The East will be coming in heavy for next week followed by the Midwest customers to probably carry us through the Christmas business.
Asparagus
Demand this week is still low and will not change until next week when the East has to come in for the “Thanksgiving Pull”. Peru is still stuck with high priced grass in Florida. Rumors have it that there is a lot of product on the tarmac in Lima with no destinations. Ugh!
Cantaloupes
The westside is done except for one producer still going to rapidly coming to an end. Yuma production is ample and peaking on jbo 9s and 9s. Offshore has been increasing arrivals peaking on large sizes jbo 9s/6 and reg 9. Mexico is going as well with a run of sizes. So may choices that buyers seem to have little if any interest in, as they are not in seasonal demand. Market is weak with many sellers looking for orders and willing to deeply discount off their quotes. Yuma has about a week more to go. Mexico should be winding down in exporting to U.S. due to lack of demand. Offshore sellers depend heavily on contract deals which have yet to kick in but should start to over the next two weeks. We look for markets to continue to struggle thru next week then possibly improve with diminishing districts and supplies.
Honeydew
Honeydew production is much lighter than cantaloupes, except for Mexico. Yuma is quite light and offshore arrivals have yet to start. Demand however has been anemic and does not look to improve anytime soon due to seasonal consumer tastes. Thus domestically markets are struggling but without much volume, discounts are not so significant. Mexico is practically giving their production away as drastic discounts. Little looks to change ahead and could get worse with offshore supplies on the rise, unless Mexico calls it quits. Market should be steady next week or possible a bit lower.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Broccoli production in Salinas and Santa Maria will slowly wind down before transitioning to the Desert. Patience and flexibility will again serve you well as this annual ritual of transitioning right in the middle of the Thanksgiving pull continues. Prices have escalated and Supplies should be overall  sufficient  but logistical challenges will be inevitable.
OG Celery
Production from Salinas and Santa Maria and now Oxnard  has been steady allowing for flexible loading options . Quality remains mostly good to fair with some insect pressure. Demand has been improving daily pushing prices higher.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Steady production in Northern California will give way to sporadic but available supplies as Growers transition to multiple production areas for the Winter including Mexico. Improved supplies and quality are expected once the desert settles into full production later next week.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Lettuce production winds down rapidly in Northern California and will transition to the desert with expected significant quality improvements. Markets remain mostly steady this week as demand remains steady.  Improved supplies and quality are expected once the desert begins in coming weeks which will likely lead to improved demand

Green and Red leaf   Steady supply with improving demand as Prices remain mostly steady.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit  Strong demand throughout the entire Citrus category due to strong retail sales and revived foodservice activity.

Lemon  Mexico supplies continue to peak on smaller Choice fruit. California has limited production and size in the desert.

Lime quality and supplies remain inconsistent with varied prices.

The California Navel crop has begun with limited availability and size to start.

10/27/23

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
Transition season has begun with most areas fully operational. In an effort to maintain a seamless supply many growers extended their acreage into transitional production areas which appears to be leading to an overlapping surplus although with varying quality. Once the transitional glut passes later next month , supplies are expected to ease back to normal and growers will try to push prices closer to breakeven FOBs. In the meantime take advantage of the promotable surplus including Production from Las Cruces, NM which continues to offer some of the best quality with all the logistical advantages.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine  Romaine supplies continue steady with improving demand , Quality remains mostly varied, with some seeder, twist and discoloration especially on heavier , pale Romaine

Romaine Heart  supplies also remain steady with even wider quality issues. Growers harvesting smaller, greener hearts continue to have the best arrivals .

Red leaf, Greenleaf and Boston  Steady supply with improving demand from the East Coast which will result in elevated pricing as shippers look to push prices closer to break-even levels. Quality has been varied with mildew and tipburn expected to remain.
Celery
We are not finding any real increases in pricing but there seems to be a slighlty better demand, especially from East Coast customers. Expectations are for prices to increase slightly next week and look for further pricing increases as we head into the week of October 30th and the start of the Holiday pull. The Oxnard disrtict is scheduled to start the week of November 16th with Santa Maria and Salinas shipping through the middle of December.
Broccoli
There is good availability out of both Santa Maria and Salinas and shippers are looking for business. Crown sizing in California is trending from 4.5” to 5.5” with medium size heads. Bunch is trending 2-3 stalks for 14s and 3-4 stalks for 18s. We are finding the  occasional mechanical damage, light pin rot, and very occasional hollow stem. The current influx of product from Central Mexico shipping out of McAllen,TX is not helping the market either. Run your ideas by us!!
Cauliflower
Cauliflower is currently being harvested in the Salinas and Santa Maria Valley. Overall sizing is trending mainly toward 12s with a few 9s and some 16s. We are finding the occasional bacterial spotting, slight bruising, and some curd spreading. Product is fresh, the quality is great, and supplies are very good. Let us know if you are looking for anything extra. Yuma harvest will begin on or around November 11th. Salinas and Santa Maria should have availability through the month of November.
Artichokes
Fall production of the Thornless variety yielding a full sizing profile. Limited quantities of the Green Globe variety are also available for another week
Brussels Sprouts
Domestic production has  begun to surge in Northern California as quality , higher yields and acres increase with some growers beginning mechanical harvest . Prices have finally receded quicker this week . Take advantage of promatable offerings for the Holidays.
Green Onions
Production has mostly returned to normal as growers in Mexico concentrate on improving quality and yields. Supplies as expected to increase for the next couple weeks before cooler weather sets in later next month when historically demand ramps up quickly.
Strawberries
The Fruit out of Mexico is beginning to trickle in as cloudy and humid weather continues to persist. Grower in Mexico have been cleaning their fields up over the past week, in order to avoid further quality challenges down the road. We should see volume to increase week over week as the weather moves out of the area. The Oxnard area may be looking at lower volumes as the forecast is for cooler weather next week. In Santa Maria, the summer plants are producing less fruit as we move towards the end of their season. Santa Maria’s winter plants continue to produce nice fruit and should continue for the next few weeks before down-trending. Salinas and Watsonvile continue with light numbers and should extend into November as long as quality remains good.
Raspberries
Good numbers continue out of Mexico and the area should reach peak production next before beginning to decline week over week as we approach 2024. California’s production has passed peak numbers and will continue to decline for the remainder of the year. Oxnard, Santa Maria and the Baja region are facing declining and somewhat limited numbers into November.
Blackberries
As an industry, the supply of Blackberries remains lower primarily due to the lingering effects of the rains in Mexico. We should see better supplies beginning the 1st week of November out of Mexico as long as mother nature cooperates. Baja will continue with low volume for the next few weeks, but the quality has been good. Oxnard continues with light volume and working through occasional quality issues. There have been reports of leaky berries and red cell.
Blueberries
Production is past its peak in the Baja region and volumes will steadily decline into December. As we approach November, we can expect an increase in fruit out of Mexico, with more significant volumes forecasted for the latter part of November. We expect shipments of Peruvian fruit to start arriving in the ports this week and next. The early shipments of the Peruvian fruit has been nice showing good quality, condition and flavor.
Stone Fruit
The yellow and white nectarines have concluded their season. White peaches are also finished for the season, while yellow peaches will be available for one more week. Black and red plums are currently available in a variety of sizes. Offshore fruit season is still a few weeks away.
Grapes
Shippers are currently packing limited quantities of red and green seedless grapes daily, which, along with high production costs, has led to this slower packing process. We anticipate a steady supply situation continuing into the upcoming week and similar market conditions at least until mid-November. While the quality has been mixed, the overall reports have been positive.
Oranges
Valencia oranges continue to experience strong demand, particularly for sizes 88 count and smaller, where demand surpasses supply. Larger sizes, specifically 88 count and above, are currently peaking in terms of sizing, while 113 and 138 count sizes are relatively limited in availability. In the upcoming weeks, we anticipate a market progression as supplies become more abundant. The offshore navel season is drawing to a close, further impacting the overall citrus market.
Lemons
Demand has strengthened across the board. Domestic supplies are tightening, with limited availability expected in the coming weeks. Offshore fruit is nearing the end of its season, which will further strengthen markets. This shift in market dynamics, with heightened demand and diminishing offshore supply, indicates a period of increased stability and potentially rising prices for lemons in the near term.
Limes
Lime prices have softened ever so slightly over the past week, yet the sizing has not changed much. Large fruit is still tighter on supplies, yet we are seeing more availability. High pricing has also curbed some of the demand. Unfortunately, the weather continues to be a challenge in Mexico and this most recent storm may have impacts on harvesting. We dont expect things to change significantly for the next several weeks, but will continue to monitor and report what we learn.
Avocados
As we were beginning to see the pipeline refilled, a major storm has set its sights on Michoacan in Southern Mexico. Hurricane Otis will have an impact on harvest and this does not bode well for those seeking large fruit. Inventories are plentiful on small sizes, but that could be affected by buyers being flexible and changing size requirements for the short term. 60’s through 84’s reportedly in good supply, whereas 32’s through 48’s are going to be a challenge. Otis is forecast to reach the growing region of Michoacan today (Wed Oct 25) by early late afternoon evening with winds between 40-75mph.
Cantaloupes
The waiting game continues for volume to pick up in Yuma and the Imperial Valley, as vines fight effects of Whitefly and diseases, severely cutting yields. Sizes are skewing large but contracts and other previous commitments are being severely prorated or even cancelled due to the aforementioned shortage. The west side is virtually history. Mexico continues to ship but has mostly small sizes available and they continue to be shunned by markets east of the Mississippi. Offshore melons are dribbling in but are few and far between and we are hearing they are struggling with low brix. Next week remains a question. The desert has plenty of fields but it remains to be seen if they will ever get any yields. Offshore arrivals should be slowly increasing in FLA, but it will take a bit to get them through arrival protocols, and we don’t know what the quality will be. Stay tuned.
Honeydew
Once again the story arc is the same for honeydews as with cantaloupes, but everything is several days later. Mexico is shipping some smaller sizes. Yuma for all intents and purposes is not really in any notable production. Off shore will be end of next week or the following week. We need to stay tuned and stand by on dews as well.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Broccoli production in Salinas and Santa Maria has improved after being limited by quality issues . Cauliflower supplies have steadied as well as both markets have receded to more sustainable levels.
OG Celery
Production from Salinas and Santa Maria has been steady along with pricing. Quality remains mostly good to fair with increasing insect pressure and pith. Demand is expected to improve in coming weeks which will likely lead to more active pricing as growers try to lift the market for the Holiday season.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Production remains varied among growers in Northern California although with sufficient supplies and mostly good quality . Transitional production will begin in coming weeks which should lead to increased supplies although possible logistical challenges .
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Lettuce production continues with varied quality issues with mildew, insect pressure , seeder and twist resulting in discoloration on arrivals. Markets remain mostly steady this week as demand continues to be modest.

Green and Red leaf   Steady supply with improving demand as Prices remain mostly steady.  Insect, mildew and fringe burn continuing to limit supplies through the Fall.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit  Strong demand throughout the entire Citrus category due to strong retail sales and revived foodservice activity.

Lemon  Mexico supplies continue to peak on smaller Choice fruit. California has limited production in the desert.

Lime quality and supplies remain inconsistent with varied prices.

California The Navel crop has been slow to get underway with supplies expected to be minimal for a couple more weeks.

10/19/23

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
As we approach the transition season, production continues to run ahead of demand as many growers, in an effort to maintain a
se
amless
 supply, have extended their acreage into transitional production areas which appears to be leading to an overlapping surplus. Quality should continue to vary from all production areas with typical season ending / beginning defects mostly resulting in varied weight, color and texture. Production from Las Cruces, NM has been yielding some of the best quality with all the logistical advantages.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine  Romaine supplies continue steady with improving demand , mostly from the East. Quality remains mostly good with some mildew, tip burn and seeder pressure resulting in some discoloration , twist and ribbiness. INSV has increased in some areas although still manageable.

Romaine Heart  supplies also remain steady with improving demand but heavily tiered pricing.

Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  Continue with steady supplies with improving demand from the East Coast which will result in elevated pricing as shippers look to push prices closer to break-even levels. Quality has been varied with mildew and tipburn expected to remain.
Celery
We are not finding any real increases in pricing but there seems to be a slightly better demand, especially from East Coast customers. Expectations are for prices to increase slightly next week and look for further pricing increases as we head into the week of October 30th and the start of the Holiday pull. The Oxnard district is scheduled to start the week of November 6th.
Broccoli
Pricing is on a slight decline and will continue to come down a little more before the week’s end. There is good availability out of both Santa Maria and Salinas going into next week. Run your ideas by us.
Cauliflower
The market is in somewhat of a freefall. Best advice would be to get some market protection when placing orders over the next few days. The warmer weather we are currently experiencing here on the Central Coast is going to push the product along at a faster rate than normal.
Artichokes
Fall production of the thornless variety yielding a full sizing profile. Limited quantities of the Green Globe variety are also available for another week
Brussels Sprouts
Domestic production has begun to improve in Northern California as quality , higher yields and acres increase with some growers beginning mechanical harvest . Prices have receded slowly but should accelerate next week.
Green Onions
Production has been slowly ramping up with Growers in Mexico now mostly in new fields with improved quality and yields boosting supplies as prices recede back to seasonal levels. Some younger plantings are still showing some effects of recent storm damage which could impact supplies as we enter the Holiday loading window.later next month.
Strawberries
Salinas and Watsonville continue its volume downtrend at an accelerated rate as the heat begins to impact fruit size as well as available harvest hours. The northern season should be complete by early November. Quality in this area has been fair to good with berry sizes ranging 24 to 28 count. The overall quality in Santa Maria has been good and Production will remain steady into next week. There have been occasional reports of overripe fruit. Oxnard’s volume is trending up. Fruit quality has been nice, with large Berry sizes ranging 15 to 18 count. Peak volumes forecasted for early November. The numbers out of Mexico are increasing, but there is a forecast for on and weather for the area which could affect available volume crossing into Texas.
Raspberries
In California, conventional fruit production is in a post peak phase, gradually decreasing for this season.Oxnard experienced a spike in numbers due to an increase in temperatures. Volumes will start to head down next week. Santa Maria’s production is steadily declining. The quality has been excellent. The Northern areas numbers are beginning to decline week over week. Mexico continues to produce good numbers as they head toward their peak production next week.
Blackberries
Supplies out of Mexico are still feeling the effects caused by hurricane Lydia a few weeks ago. Mexico will begin to increase production for the next several weeks. California experienced some minor damage due to excessive heat. The damage was mostly on the fruit on the end of the covered rows. California’s production is on the decline overall, but Oxnard will continue with steady numbers into mid November.
Blueberries
The Baja area is well past its peak and will continue to decline at a rapid rate. Mexico is expected to see increasing numbers next week with more significant numbers beginning the 1st week in November. Argentina and Uruguay are finally experiencing better weather conditions for shipment to the states. Light volume will begin to arrive next week. Chile will continue with light volumes over the next 4 to 6 weeks.
Stone Fruit
The white and yellow peach season is winding down, with limited availability of white and yellow nectarines. While white nectarines have finished for the season, black and red plums are still available in all sizes. As we near the conclusion of the California stone fruit season, prices are anticipated to continue strengthening until the offshore season starts.
Grapes
Shippers are packing limited quantities of red and green seedless grapes daily, and this slow packing process has been coupled with high production costs.

Supplies are expected to hold steady into next week. , We expect similar market conditions until at least mid-November. Quality has been mixed, although reports have been positive overall.
Oranges
Valencia oranges are currently experiencing higher demand, particularly for the 88 and smaller sizes. The fruit market is currently peaking with 88, 72, and 56 count fruit, with very limited availability of 113 and 138 count oranges. It is anticipated that this market will continue to advance in the coming weeks, as consumer interest remains strong. However, it’s worth noting that the overall fruit quality of Valencia oranges is only fair at the moment. Offshore production is gradually coming to a close.
Lemons
There has been a notable surge in demand across the board, encompassing all sizes and grades. The availability of domestic fruit has become exceedingly scarce, as the supply struggles to keep pace with the heightened demand. Offshore fruit supplies are light and these conditions will likely continue for the coming weeks.
Limes
Quality remains subpar and requires some repacking adding costs to each box. Peak sizing still small 230ct & 250ct. Finding large fruit is still a challenge. Costs are still high, especially on large fruit. We see a large gap in pricing between small and large fruit and expect things to remain steady for at least a couple of more weeks. Some experts warn that the challenges could last well into the final 2 months of the year. Rain, heat, and humidity all to blame for the current situation.
Avocados
The word on the street is that supplies should steadily improve as harvest ramps back up. The pipeline is being refilled and the market should reflect as most sizes are available. 48’s tend to be more snug as they are the most popular size, but were told those too will see better supplies. Good supplies on 32’s, 36’s, and 60’s. 70’s good to promote and #2 fruit is becoming more available.
Dry Onion
Harvest is mostly complete and now the jockeying for position begins. Demand is variable in Food Service and Retail. The Farmers Market business is starting to dry up as the days get shorter. The prices seem to have stabilized somewhat over last weeks fire sale. Idaho prices have remained in the $7-7.50 range and are breezing along with demand and supply being in equilibrium.
Asparagus
When inquiring about long range and short-range projections on supply from various growers, I began to get an out look that was a little disturbing…one shipper reports” Going to be limited supply through the winter months. Limited production out of Peru due to El Niño and less production than anticipated from Sonoyta Mexico and Caborca for the fall harvest. Expect strong markets”
Cantaloupes
The narrative elements of cantaloupes are rather dramatic: promise, disappointment, waiting, and fear. The promise of supplies remains unfulfilled. The Westside is all but done, with nothing left but the shouting. The desert has fruit planted, but it can’t seem to achieve robust volume due to whitefly and bacterial issues resulting from the extreme heat and unusually wet weather. Many commitments are going unfulfilled. There is virtually nothing in the pipeline available for spot market users, who appear to have given up trying to secure their supplies. All of this leaves us in a supply-driven, high-price, low-demand corner. Sizes of what remains on the Westside are small, while sizes of what is being harvested in the desert are large, and the quality is good. Mexico is in motion, but there is traditionally light demand for Mexican products in the U.S. There is fruit in the desert fields, but yields are quite low, and maturity is significantly delayed. Therefore, at this point, there seems to be little to relieve the supply situation next week. Offshore melons are starting early, as Guatemala has been quite hot. A few will arrive sometime next week but might not be available to ship until the following week, as they need to go through customs, etc. The fear is that offshore volume will increase just about the time the desert finally experiences some robust production. We anticipate the market to remain tight with high prices for most, if not all, of next week, with perhaps a major change the following week.
Honeydew
We could cut and paste the above post and apply it to honeydews. Exceptions being that the desert is more delayed than on cantaloupes. It appears honeydews will also stay quite tight with large sizes in the desert, mostly 6s & 6s in Mexico an offshore arriving the end of next week or the following week.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Broccoli production in Salinas and Santa Maria has improved after being limited by quality issues , especially insect pressure and pin rot. Cauliflower supplies have steadied as well as both markets have receded to more sustainable levels. A brief spike in temperatures could  affect harvest before more seasonable temperatures return this weekend.
OG Celery
Production from Salinas and Santa Maria has been steady along with pricing. Quality remains mostly good to fair with increasing insect pressure and pith. Demand is expected to improve in coming weeks which will likely lead to more active pricing as growers try to lift the market for the Holiday season.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Production remains varied among growers in Northern California although with sufficient supplies and mostly good quality . Transitional production will begin in coming weeks which should lead to increased supplies although possible logistical challenges .
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine Lettuce production has seen increased quality issues with mildew, insect pressure as well as increased tipburn resulting in varied quality. Markets remain mostly steady this week as demand continues to be modest.

Green and Red leaf   Supplies remain steady with improving demand. Prices remain mostly steady with varied quality including increasing insect, mildew and fringe burn continuing to limit supplies through the Fall.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit  Strong demand throughout the entire Citrus category due to strong retail sales and revived foodservice activity.

Lemon  Mexico supplies continue to peak on smaller Choice fruit. California has limited production in the desert.

Lime quality and supplies remain inconsistent with varied prices.

California  Valencias crop will be winding down in most areas with below normal production and strong demand while Navels are still a few weeks out.

10/12/23

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
Supply continues to run ahead of Demand as many growers will begin transitional production areas which will offer multiple loading locations boosting supplies even further in coming weeks. Quality should improve in some of these new production areas including Las Cruces,NM as Salinas growers deal with sun scald from weekend temperature spike as well as insect, tipburn and seeder pressure resulting in varied solidity, color and texture.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine  Romaine supplies continue steady with improving demand , mostly from the East. Quality remains mostly good with some mildew, tip burn and seeder pressure resulting in some discoloration , twist and ribbiness. INSV has increased in some areas although still manageable.

Romaine Heart  supplies also remain steady with improving demand but heavily tiered pricing.

Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  Continue with steady supplies with improving demand from the East Coast which will result in elevated pricing as shippers look to push prices closer to break even levels. Quality has been varied with mildew and tipburn expected to remain.
Celery
The market remains flat in all growing areas and shippers are looking to move product. As we head into the later part of October we expect pricing to increase as the Salinas and Santa Maria districts wind down harvest. Oxnard should start harvest around the middle of November. Celery plantings continue to go in as planned In Oxnard,CA. Temperatures have started to decline which should be beneficial to the celery crop in aiding with supressing any large Fusarium outbreaks.
Broccoli
Steady go as we finish out the week. Market seems slightly weaker now than at the end of last week, but there will not be an increase in harvest volume as we finish out the Salinas season so pricing will not fluctuate much over the next month or so. We are still seeing an increase in volume out of Central Mexico loading in the McAllen valley and this is where the price buy would be for crowns.
Cauliflower
There was a significant jump in pricing at the end of last week. It seems as though the market has topped out and we expect to see a decline in pricing going into next week. Quality of late has been hit and miss. We are still finding some product with light brown spotting but not as noticeable as it was last week.
Artichokes
Fall production of the Thornless variety yielding a full sizing profile. Limited quantities of the Green Globe variety are also available for a couple more weeks.
Brussels Sprouts
Domestic production has begun to improve in Northern California as quality , higher yields and acres increase with some growers beginning mechanical harvest . Prices have started to recede slowly but should accelerate in coming weeks .
Green Onions
Production has been slowly ramping up with Growers in Mexico now mostly in new fields with improved quality and yields boosting supplies as prices recede. Tropical storms in Southern Mexico may interrupt harvest later this week if they reach the Northern production areas.
Strawberries
The fruit out of the Salinas and Watsonville area is of fair quality with misshapen and overripe fruit being reported. Conventional sizing will continue to run small. Most ranches are picking 26 to 28 ct fruit. Production will continue to decrease throughout October. The Santa Maria area is producing good fruit quality with occasional pinot and light colored fruit being reported. The fall crop fruit is averaging 18 to 22 ct. The Oxnard area fruit is running larger in size, with supplies increasing every week. The Quality has been nice with full color and good fruit shape. Warmer temps are expected out of Oxnard next week, so we may see volume increasing out of this area in the short term. The Mexican fruit has met some weather related challenges from a few weeks ago. There have been a few reports of bruising and decay. We expect these challenges to clean up over the next 7 to 10 days.
Raspberries
Overall production will be limited for the next couple of weeks as Mexico moves on from the recent wet weather patterns. California’s production has already passed its peak and is anticipated to decline gradually for the remainder of the season.
Blackberries
We expect light numbers on the first shipment of Mexican Blackberries. They will start light, but ramp rather quickly week over week. Weather permitting, we are expecting a good outlook for this season and normal progression.
Blueberries
The overall production continues to be limited as El Nino-related weather continues to keep Peruvian production limited. Light production, combined with good demand will continue to keep Peruvian product near non-existent for the next several weeks. Argentina is forecasting heavy inclement weather over the weekend that will limit their production as well. Cooler domestic temperatures will help improve quality on the remaining Oregon, Washington, Michigan product, so these may be the options to go with for the next week as we expect light shipment out of Peru and Argentina.
Stone Fruit
The white and yellow peach season is finishing, and the availability of white and yellow nectarines is limited. Black and red plum quality is marginal and fewer are available overall. As we approach the conclusion of the California stone fruit season, pricing will continue to climb until the offshore season begins.
Grapes
California’s grape season has been shorter than expected and shortages are widespread. Red seedless grapes, particularly Scarlet Royals, are in short supply. Green seedless grapes are more available, although still tight overall, keeping pricing firm. Brazilian imports on the East Coast will help stabilize the green seedless grape market in October. However, red seedless grapes are becoming scarcer, with potential price increases in late October or early November, depending on quality and variety. Peru will be the primary source for red seedless grapes, but significant volumes won’t arrive until at least mid-November, keeping pricing high.
Oranges
72 count and larger are currently in high demand, while 88, 113, and 138 supplies are selling out daily. 6-week averages are currently in effect. Navels will likely start last week of October. The season is expected to begin slowly, with common sizes being 88, 72, and 56. This year’s harvest will have a higher proportion of top-quality fruit (about 60%), which may stabilize the fancy fruit market in the U.S. However, there might be a decrease in exported fruit due to quality concerns.
Lemons
Product is now available in the desert regions, although supplies are limited and will remain light through the early part of November. District 1 is scheduled to start the middle of November. Mexican fruit is limited and volumes will likely remain light for the near future. This year’s overall crop will be at least 10-15% lighter than last year and there will be an excess of choice fruit available in the coming months.
Limes
When discussing large fruit, costs continue to be high. The result being a substantial pricing disparity across different sizes. The market’s stability in the coming weeks is contingent on demand. Severe weather has adversely affected the recent bloom, potentially leading to unprecedented pricing and availability for the remainder of the year when compared to historical norms. Adding insult to injury, extreme heat and humidity have negatively impacted fruit quality and shelf life. Presently, small fruit, such as 230’s and 250’s, dominate the market, while larger fruit remains in short supply.
Avocados
Just as things were getting back to normal, Supplies will be impacted by two weather systems. This has caused quite a bit of chaos after a couple weeks of high yields. Some relief was felt when the harvest slowed down last week, in hopes of reducing the excess inventory pressure and return to a sense of normalcy this week. However, now we’re dealing with unpredictable heavy rains, which is making it a challenge to maintain supplies until the weekend when the storms are expected to pass. While inventories have decreased a bit from last week, reports are that there are still enough avocados for about a week’s worth of business, with some sizes being more readily available than others. Due to the urgency to meet short-term needs, prices have gone up a bit, but we anticipate things will return to normal once the weather improves. Here are some important points to remember for this week: There are more 32’s and 36’s available. Good supply of 40’s,48’s, 60’s, and 70’s. 84’s are available and #2’s are becoming more available.
Dry Onion
Hang on…it’s getting a little bumpy in the onion patch. Spot market pricing is dipping to the lowest levels of the recent past. Deals are being made for volume orders and the contracts are being squeezed. Demand is still low and the market is adjusting lower to maintain shed production.
Asparagus
USDA reports there is a” Wide range in quality”. Seediness is the major culprit with hot, dry conditions in growing areas of Mexico. Prices have strengthened in the past week and demand is steady in the mid $20’s for Peru and the high to low $30’s for Mexico. Volume is steady for what’s out there.
Cantaloupes
Transition time. The Westside is winding down quickly and will be effectively wrapped this week. Sizes are spread out and running a bit smaller peaking on 9s and 12s with some smaller sizes. Overall supplies are light and availability limited. Desert is easing in but at a slower pace. Sizes are starting large (jbo and reg 9s mostly) and supplies are light with limited availability. Most product in both areas are being oversold on contractual commitments leaving precious few for spot market sales.  Mexico is starting in a small way running mostly 9, 12s and 15s. Quality and sugar is fair. Demand for spot market is very slow as many loaded up at the first sign of Westside finishing and are holding off for now until there is better availability and lower prices, which should happen mid to end of next week.
Honeydew
Also in transition. Supplies are light. Quality is fair and prices are quite high on the Westside. Desert will not start until next week. Mexico has started with fair quality and sugar. Supplies are light there as well but should increase by the weekend. Market should stay elevated with few supplies for spot market business until late next week but more likely the week after next.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Broccoli production in Salinas and Santa Maria has improved slightly after being limited by quality issues , especially insect pressure and pin rot. Cauliflower supplies have now become increasingly limited as some plants were damaged with the spike in temperatrure this past weekend.
OG Celery
Production from Salinas and Santa Maria has been steady along with pricing. Quality remains mostly good to fair with increasing insect pressure and pith. Demand is expected to improve in coming weeks which will likely lead to more active pricing.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Production remains varied among growers in Northern California although with sufficient supplies and mostly good quality .
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Lettuce production has seen increased quality issues with mildew, insect pressure as well as increased tipburn from this weekends heat spike all resulting in varied quality. Markets remain mostly steady this week as demand continues to be modest.

Green and Red leaf   Supplies remain steady with improving demand. Prices remain mostly steady with varied quality including increasing insect, mildew and fringe burn continuing to limit supplies through the Fall.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit  Strong demand throughout the entire Citrus category due to strong retail sales and revived foodservice activity.

Lemon  Mexico supplies continue to peak on smaller Choice fruit. California has limited production in the desert.

Lime quality and supplies remain inconsistent with varied prices.

California  Valencias crop will be winding down in most areas with below normal production and strong demand Navels are still a few weeks out.