1/13/21

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
Weather continues to be the overriding factor dictating market direction with mostly ideal weather although minor frost delays have limited most growers ability to harvest at full capacity.  These delays have kept the Supply and Demand in Balance and prices steady. Overnight temperatures are forecast to warm over the next 4-5 days which will allow for full production before Frost returns early next week likely leading to lower prices as the week progresses . Quality continues to be mostly very nice although increased epidermal peel has been visible. We anticipate deals to be available through the end of the week before firming later next week.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine and Romaine Hearts  Romaine supplies continue to be strong while demand remains moderate for cartons but strong for Hearts. Warmer overnight temperatures will push production although labor will remain less than full capacity especially for the more labor intensive commodities such as Hearts . Epidermal blister and peel has begun to be more prevalent although currently quality is mostly very nice. Some growers have been letting heads size up and peeling away any outer issues leading to slightly more pale Hearts. Retail demand continues to be strong for Hearts keeping prices elevated while carton Romaine has leveled off.
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  Prices on Greenleaf and Boston leveled off while red leaf, due to decreased acres, has escalated . Shippers’ will continue with limited supplies of red leaf which will keep prices elevated. Quality remains very nice from most production areas although some epidermal peel has been visible .
Celery
We are starting to find a little more availability, which most likely means that at the current $40.00 + FOB’s demand is starting to slow down. Light production is still in the forecast through January but with warmer weather in all growing regions over the next 5 days most growers will start to see better sizing which equates to higher yields. It feels as though we could start to see a decline in pricing sometime next week. Quality has been good, dark green color and good weights. There is very little to no insect or disease pressure being found. Shipping points are Santa Maria, Oxnard and down in the Yuma region.
Artichokes
Production of the thornless varieties from most production areas continue to sustain mild to moderate frost damage as overnight temperatures hovered near freezing. . Availability of  “clean ” artichokes will be extremely limited until we transition to new production areas later this month. Heirloom and Original varieties will return in the Spring.
Broccoli
Demand remains steady on all packs but especially on crowns. The market will settle in at current trading levels going into next week. There is availability out of Santa Maria, the Yuma regions as well as Texas with products from Mexico. There is also some light production coming out of Florida. Our Shui Ling production was limited this week but we should get back to normal production next week.
Cauliflower
Prices are on the floor and shippers need help moving products. We won’t see much change this week or the beginning of next week, but supplies could tighten up a little by the end of next week. Santa Maria is currently offering out the cheapest deals but the Desert regions are bringing prices down daily as well.
Brussels Sprouts
Coastal California supplies continue to be strong with a mix of quality and sizing. Pricing remains elevated in the desert due to mostly transferred product from Northern California production areas. Mexico has begun limited production with expected better overall quality in coming weeks
Green Onions
Mexico production has been limited due to cool weather and seasonal labor shortage pushing prices higher.  We haven’t had the sustained prolonged freeze normal for this time of year so we anticipate a quicker return to normal supplies than previous years but labor will be slow to fully return keeping supplies tight and Prices elevated for another couple weeks.
Strawberries
Strawberries are very tight in all areas due to the cooler weather and rain. Look for the market to have increasing supplies going forward. Next week Mexico will be the primary source of supply. Florida will work through their weather related issues over the next 7 to 10 days.
Raspberries
Colder temperatures are the major factor supplies are short.  In addition, transfer trucks have caused some loading delays. Quality has been good with excellent flavor. Central Mexico has had some weather related issues due to colder temperatures
Blackberries
Supplies will begin to downtrend over the next few weeks for most suppliers.   Quality has been good with excellent taste.
Blueberries
Market remains steady, fruit is coming from Central Mexico and imports from Peru, Chile, and Argentina. Long Beach port is experiencing several day delays in container unloadings due to a backlog, due to lack of labor.
Stone Fruit
Light supplies of large sized yellow peaches and nectarines are currently available. The offshore stone fruit season continues to be delayed. Because of continued back log of vessels in Southern California, the next containers will not be available until late next week. White nectarines will be available during the first week of February. Yellow peaches, nectarines and plums should see better volume by the second week of February, assuming there are no more port delays.
Grapes
Import grapes are in full swing. East coast red and green grapes are plentiful as more imports are arriving daily. Both Peruvian and Chilean fruit is arriving on both coasts and inventories are improving. West coast container delays are still still limiting supplies out west. Excellent quality reports on the product arriving. Berry structure is strong with green stems. Red varieties include Allison, Crimson and Flames. The main green varieties are Sugar Ones and Thompsons. Steady pricing is expected for the next two weeks.
Citrus
Oranges – Excellent quality on navels. Cool weather has greatly benefitted this years crop, allowing fruit to color up and obtain adequate sugars. We have not seen many quality issues these past 2 months. Fancy fruit is plentiful, with a lot of the fancy product going into choice boxes. Sizes are peaking on 72 and 88 sizes. Lighter supplies reported on small 138 sizes. We expect these trend to continue foe the next few weeks.
Lemons – Good quality industry wide. Stronger markets this week as foodservice business slowly improves. District 3 will be ending soon which will lighten supplies in the coming weeks. Good supplies on fancy fruit and large sizes. Better markets expected in the coming weeks.
Limes – Good supplies on 200 count limes this week. Rain is in the forecast for next week, which will tighten supplies. Quality has been good, although there have been some reports of discoloration and blanching.
Cantaloupes
Cantaloupes remained in a demand exceeds very light supply situation yet again this week, and this does not look to be changing anytime soon. The enduring damages from the Hurricanes that hit Central America at the very beginning of the season caused such severe and widespread damage that essentially the whole deal needed to be replanted. Yields of what they are getting are very low and quality it fair at best causing what is arriving to be repacked and cutting supplies even further. Set contracts are taking up nearly all available product. In short, there is a severe shortage keeping prices high. This looks to continue at least until the end of January and possibly into February
Honeydews
Guatemalan and Honduran honeydew continue to arrive in limited volume due to hurricanes at the beginning of the season and continued wet weather in the weeks after the hurricanes. Sugar has been decent and quality has been just okay. Occasional black spots have been found, with minimal wind scarring. Mexico is shipping and getting lion’s share of the business driving prices there higher. Overall demand is fair. New areas in Mexico are due to start and with warming weather could increase supplies considerably. Demand could improve with cantaloupes as short as they are prices in Mexico could ease off as new areas pick up production. We look for a steady to moderately lower market next week.
Dry Onions
The Jumbo Yellow Onion doldrums continue. Pricing is very cheap and shippers are looking to move volume so run any and all offers by us!
Asparagus
Quality is very nice and supplies are improving daily. More product is crossing from Mexico this week, which is helping to keep up with demand and providing some relief. We expect even more product in the pipeline by next week and pricing will start to settle as a result.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   Mostly ideal weather conditions have pushed production once again forward in the desert. . Prices have retreated but look for supplies to stabilize with cooler temperatures forecast for next week . Quality remains at Seasonal peak .
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with improving demand
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to spike led by the Farm to Family Program. Most growers have been reaching for supplies . Continue to plan ahead even further to get partial coverage.
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. Production continues to be limited to shortage.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Demand for romaine continues to keep prices elevated while  Green and Redleaf  supplies remain slightly better, offering a decent value. Epidermal peel has been more prevalent but overall quality has been nice.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Demand continues to be strong throughout the Citrus category due to retail sales. California Winter lemon crop remains strong with slightly elevated pricing. Many shippers have shifted production exclusively to bags on All Citrus. Lime quality remains inconsistent. The Navel crop profile remains perfect for retail demand as we are in Peak production.  Mandarins continue to offer a terrific value with excellent flavor and sizing profile providing a great item for retail promotions. Specialty varieties have begun with Cara’s , Satsumas, Minneolas and later this monthTango’s and Bloods
OG Peppers
California / Mexico :  Continued limited supplies of Colored Bells but good supplies of Green Bells although improved weather should help improve supplies of all colors in coming weeks.

1/7/21

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
A cold New Years Weekend in the desert led to light harvest and limited inventory entering the first week of the New Year . Additionally, labor has been slow to return after the Holidays. These factors helped push prices higher as demand peaked to start the week. Weather as always this time of year will dictate market direction going forward and forecast call for Chamber of Commerce days ahead. Quality continues to be mostly very nice although increased epidermal peeling will be visible following the cold overnight temperatures this past weekend. We anticipate the market to ease to more sustainable levels as we get closer to the weekend.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine and Romaine Hearts  Romaine supplies continue to be strong while demand has improved after the Holidays pushing prices slightly higher. Freezing Temperatures last weekend will increase Epidermal blister, peel and eventually discoloration in coming weeks but currently quality is mostly outstanding . Retail demand continues to be strong for Hearts keeping prices elevated while carton Romaine is expected to level off. Forecast call for ideal temperatures in the Desert moving forward which will help production as long as labor returns to near normal following the Holidays.
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  prices escalated coming out of the Holiday weekend but should steady at sustainable levels with expected ideal weather forecasted . Shippers’ will continue with limited supplies of red leaf which will keep prices elevated. Quality remains very nice from most production areas.
Celery
It feels like prices may have reached their peak currently sitting in the mid $30.00’s. Light production is forecasted for the next two weeks so prices will most likely stay at current levels into next week. Quality has been good, dark green color and good weights. There is very little to no insect or disease pressure being found. Shipping points are Santa Maria, Oxnard and down in the Yuma region.
Artichokes
Production of the thornless varieties from most production areas continue to sustain mild to moderate frost damage as overnight temperatures hovered near freezing. . Availability of  “clean ” artichokes will be extremely limited until we transition to new production areas later this month. Heirloom and Original varieties will return in the spring.
Broccoli
In conversations with other shippers it sounds like the market will sit at current levels going into next week. Harvest estimates are to remain on the lighter side but overall demand is just ok. Cooler night time temperatures are forecasted for the central regions of Mexico next week which will slow production, limiting volume being sent to Texas. Our Shui Ling production will be somewhat limited over the next 7 days so if you know what your needs may be for next week please give us ample time to get your order taken care of.
Cauliflower
Prices are on the decline and there is a spread of almost $10.00 between different shippers and growing regions. Santa Maria is currently offering out the cheapest deals but the Desert regions are coming down daily as well. Make sure that if you are purchasing that you are getting price protection as well. In conversations I have been told that supplies could get lighter by the end of next week. Something to keep an eye on.
Brussels Sprouts
Coastal California supplies continue to be strong with a mix of quality and sizing. Pricing remains elevated in the desert due to mostly transferred product from Northern California production areas. Mexico has begun limited production with expected better overall quality in coming weeks
Green Onions
Mexico production has been limited due to cool weather and seasonal labor shortage pushing prices higher.  We haven’t had the sustained prolonged freeze normal for this time of year so we anticipate a quicker return to normal supplies than previous years but labor will be slow to fully return keeping supplies tight and Prices elevated most of the month.
Strawberries
We should see a gradual increase in overall supply as we move closer to the end of January. The numbers will be a little off in Oxnard due to cooler weather. The forecast for Florida has also slightly lighter numbers due to colder weather and some fruit damage caused by recent rains. The loss in volume in these two areas should be offset by an increase in volume expected out of Mexico. Yields, quality and sizing has been excellent out of Mexico.
Raspberries
Cold temperatures have kept expected volume lower than forecasted. We are expected increased numbers the week of 18th
Blackberries
We are expecting increased supplies next week as long as weather patterns remain consistent.
Blueberries
The Mexican season will be experiencing better numbers week over week into February. Fruit out of the Baja region will remain consistent and begin to increase volume the last week of January. The Peruvian production is past peak and will continue with decreasing volumes through January.
Stone Fruit
First arrivals of offshore peaches landed over the weekend and have since been sold. With the continued back log of vessels in Southern California, the next containers will not be available until the week of 1/21. The next arrival will have volume fill and tray pack yellow and white peaches. More information to come as we get updated on future arrivals. Nectarines and plums will likely not be available until early February.
Grapes
Storage supplies are quickly drying up and there are limited amounts of green grapes available on the open market. Red seedless are in better supplies, though quality is beginning to show signs of soft fruit. Green storage fruit is expected to be finished by the middle of next week. Import supplies are slowly building on both coasts and markets have remained similar to previous weeks. West coast arrivals will likely increase over the next two weeks and markets should remain steady for now.
Citrus
Oranges – Great quality on California navels this season. Cool temperatures have resulted in improved color and brix. Sizing is increasing and we are now seeing more 72 and 88 sized fruit on the market. Lighter supplies this week on small sizes, and we could see stronger markets on 138 and smaller sizes by as early as next week.
Lemons – District 3 crop will be finishing in the next couple of weeks. District 1 lemons are in full production. Good supplies on large size fancy and choice lemons. Better demand this week than in weeks past, hopefully a trend that will continue for the coming weeks as district 3 finishes. Quality is very nice with no issues to report.
Limes – Better demand this week on limes. Sizes are peaking on 200 size and smaller fruit. Plenty of volume crossing this week and shippers will be able to keep up with demand. Overall quality is good, although there have been some reports of blanching. Run offers by us on limes.
Dry Onions
Jumbo Yellow Onions are in the doldrums. A lot of shippers have very long faces right now and need to keep selling…there will be blood this year and there’s not much that can be done. I hope these shippers are applying for PPP through the small business admin. Herd immunity is coming and with it food service and schools and hotels and conventions and parties!!!! Keep your collective heads up…help is on the way.
Asparagus
Mexico (Caborca) has burned its fern two weeks ago and are getting very low yield due to cold temps. I’ve been told by a very competent source that the low temps and the high daily temp have to ad up to 120 for the Asparagus to start to grow. Right now, and into next week here will only be a total of 110. Grass is going to be hard to come by for a few weeks. Avoid all ads until this starts to clear up.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   Cooler weather should be giving way to ideal weather conditions in the desert which should push production once again. Prices are expected to return to sustainable levels with quality at Seasonal peak .
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with improving demand
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to spike led by the Farm to Family Program. Most growers have been reaching for supplies . Continue to plan ahead even further to get partial coverage.
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. Production continues to be limited to shortage.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Demand for romaine continues to keep prices elevated while  Green and Red Leaf  supplies remain slightly better, offering a decent value. Slightly increased epidermal peel will be evident in coming weeks although much less than in previous years .
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Demand continues to be strong throughout the Citrus category due to retail sales. California Winter lemon crop remains strong with slightly elevated pricing. Many shippers have shifted production exclusively to bags on All Citrus. Lime quality remains inconsistent. The Navel crop profile remains perfect for retail demand.  Mandarins continue to offer a terrific value with excellent flavor and sizing profile providing a great item for retail promotions. Specialty varieties have begun with Cara’s , Satsumas, Minneolas and later this month Bloods
OG Peppers
California / Mexico :  Good Supplies of Green Bells with continued limited supplies of Colored Bells although improved weather should help improve supplies in coming weeks.

12/30/20

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
The market continues steady with CV-19 restrictions and shutdowns and escalating freight rates restraining demand while widespread frost and cooling soil temperatures slow growth. Quality continues to be mostly very nice although temperatures , closer to freezing , will likely impact quality in coming weeks. Prices are expected to firm if the freezing temperatures persist.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine and Romaine Hearts  Romaine supplies continue to be strong while demand remains mild.  Cooler conditions with more widespread frost is forecast for the balance of the week and will likely impact quality and supplies. Romaine Heart demand is much better than carton Romaine with slightly elevated pricing. Mild epidermal peel is evident in most areas with overall quality still good although near freezing temperatures will likely increase the blister , peel and discoloration and could tighten supplies by delaying harvest hours.
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  prices remain steady at sustainable levels although most shippers’ have limited supplies of Red leaf which has kept prices firmer.  Quality remains very nice from most production areas.
Celery
Prices have escalated this week due to cooler temperatures. Product is just not sizing up as it should especially with the cooler nighttime temperatures that we have experienced. Most shippers in the Oxnard and Santa Maria districts where the largest acreage sits have the ability to harvest 36 sizes only or wait for the product to size up. Most are now going to wait for more sizing. Expect prices to continue to climb as we go into next week.
Artichokes
Production of the thornless varieties from most production areas continue to sustain mild to moderate frost damage as overnight temperatures hover near freezing. . Availability of  “clean ” artichokes will be extremely limited until we transition to new production areas later next month. Heirloom and Original varieties will return in the Spring.
Broccoli
Limited availability out of California and the Desert growing regions for the remainder of the week. Cooler temperatures are forecasted for these areas going into the weekend and this will keep prices at current levels and possibly a tick higher come Monday. There is good availability out of Texas on Mexican crowns due to a significant jump in freight rates this week. Buyers will wait it out until next week to load hoping rates will drop. We should see active buying out of Texas next week, taking advantage of the lower prices. Thank you for the business on our Shui Ling Crowns out of Mexico shipping out of Pharr,TX. We will have consistent supplies available next week. Quality has been excellent with 4″-5″ domes and true short cut with less than 5% hollow core.
Cauliflower
Business has been brisk this week on flower. We feel the market has topped out though and we should start to see a decrease in prices beginning next week if not earlier. Quality has been very nice, sizing has been on the smaller size due to the cooler growing temperatures. Good availability is expected for next week.
Brussels Sprouts
Coastal California supplies continue to be strong with a mix of quality and sizing. Pricing remains elevated in the desert due to mostly transferred product from Northern California production areas. Mexico has begun limited production with expected better overall quality by early next month.
Green Onions
Mexico production has started its seasonal shortage with cooler weather and reduction in Mexico’s labor force combining to limit supplies. Pricing has firmed and will continue to escalate for the next few weeks.
Strawberries
Volumes should increase gradually as we move into the month of January. As always, availability will be subject to weather.  Florida volume is declining due to recent rains. The forecast for the next few days is a chance of rain, combined with very cool temperatures. Central Mexico is also receiving volume short of expectations due to slower fruit ripening. There is a chance of showers in the forecast for California all next week.
Stone Fruit
Delays continue at the ports of entry which have prevented much of the early offshore stone fruit from hitting land. We are expecting some peaches and nectarines to start arriving later next week but in very limited supply. Utility plums are finished for the season. Offshore plums are not expected to arrive for another 3 weeks.
Grapes
Red grape varieties remain plentiful , with a good amount of storage fruit expected to last well into January. Green grape supplies are dwindling quickly and storage greens will likely clean up by the end of next week. Quality is holding up on the red varieties, although greens are showing more issues as the product is held longer in storage. Imported fruit is arriving on both coasts in light numbers and pricing is elevated. More offshore arrivals are expected to arrive over the next couple of weeks, which will overlap storage supplies, exceeding demand.
Citrus
Oranges – Good supplies of fancy oranges this week. Better color has been reported and quality is excellent overall. Demand is still sluggish, and deals are being made by shippers wanting to clean up inventories. Good volumes, especially on 88 and 113 count fruit. Run offers by us on all sizes.
Lemons – Mexico production is mostly finished, with the exception of a few large sizes available on the market. Good supplies this week on California lemons. Quality is very nice, and shippers are looking to move product. Restaurant closures have severely impacted the lemon market, and we expect this to continue well into the new year.
Limes – Good supplies continue this week on limes, especially on 175 and 200 count sizes. Shippers are looking to move on all sizes and listening to reasonable offers. Quality has been holding up nicely and color is deep and uniform. Like lemons, the lime market is lackluster due to bar and restaurant closures.
Dry Onions
Time marches on and the Onion shippers are keeping up with demand. The latest shutdowns of restaurants in CA and other parts of the country have been taking the small glimmer of business away and replacing it with more handouts. The slow startup of vaccinations hasn’t helped, but it’s at least
getting to the brave medical population and some of the elderly in nursing homes. Let’s hope the speed up of vaccinations will open things up and stem the recent tide of new case. Wear you Mask. How many of us have gotten halfway across a parking lot, to only turn around and return to your car because you forgot to put your mask on…there should be a name for the function…
Asparagus
Volumes of asparagus out of Peru will slow to a trickle for the next two weeks as strike unfolds in the growing and shipping areas. There will be a very large gap in supplies unless they can settle this strike. Mexico (Caborca) has burned its fern two weeks ago and are getting very low yield due to cold temps.
I’ve been told by a very competent source that the low temps and the high daily temp have to ad up to 120 for the Asparagus to start to grow. Right now, and into next week here will only be a total of 110. Grass supplies are going to be limited for a few weeks. Avoid all ads until this starts to clear up.
Cantaloupes
As we enter the new year. there appears to be little change ahead for the tight cantaloupe market. Lingering damage from the Hurricanes that hit Guatemala and Honduras as well as the heavy rains that hit other production areas has devastated supplies, causing replanting, which will not be ready until very late in February or early March. There is a small increase in volume expected to arrive next week, but how much of that volume will be usable remains an open question. Also existing contracts will make spot market supplies even scarcer. Once again it looks like high price, very limited availability and poor quality will be the theme again to start 2021.
Honeydews
Honeydews are available but in worse shape than cantaloupes. Offshore product is quite sparse and quality is mostly unusable for retail. Mexico still has fruit and quality while variable is better than offshore and much lower priced, which makes them a better procurement option. Demand has been very slow. Prices have been steady. Not much should change next week.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   Cooler weather has again begun to slow production to match moderate demand .  Prices have begun to firm and likely will escalate if colder weather persists.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with improving demand
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to spike led by the Farm to Family Program. Most growers have been reaching for supplies . Continue to plan ahead even further to get partial coverage.
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. Production continues to be limited to shortage.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Demand for romaine continues to keep prices elevated and cooler temperatures will keep supplies limited through the New Year. Anticipate increased epidermal peel and discoloration following this week’s colder temperatures.  Green and Red leaf  quality looks good and offer a significantly better value although colder temperatures are expected for the end of the week and will likely impact supplies .
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Demand continues to be strong throughout the Citrus category due to retail sales. California Winter lemon crop improves weekly at elevated pricing. Many shippers have shifted production exclusively to bags on All Citrus. Lime quality remains inconsistent. The Navel crop profile remains perfect for retail demand. Some much needed Rain could delay harvest but will eventually improve sizing and quality . Mandarins continue to offer a terrific value with excellent flavor and sizing profile providing a great item for retail promotions. Specialty varieties should be starting up early next month with Cara’s , Minneolas and later next month Bloods
OG Peppers
California / Mexico  Good Supplies of Green Bells with continued limited supplies of Colored Bells expected through early next month. . The market reflects the disparity in production.

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
The market continues steady as modest demand is winning out over moderate supply.  CV-19 restrictions and shutdowns along with Holiday week loading has restrained demand while cool overall temperatures with isolated frost have kept supplies in check. Even with the mild frost , Quality has been mostly very nice. There is some epidermal peel evident but not wide spread or severe. Prices will likely remain near current levels until cold temperatures impact harvest or Demand improves .
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine and Romaine Hearts  Romaine supplies continue to surge while demand remains mild.  Near ideal weather conditions with only mild isolated frost continues to push quality and supply forward. Only mild epidermal peel is evident in most areas with overall quality the best of the season. Cold weather could impact supplies as most growers are nearly 2 weeks ahead of schedule although forecast call for continued mild temperatures.
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  prices have eased to more sustainable levels with most shippers negotiable although limited supplies of Red leaf have kept prices firm.  Quality remains very nice from most production areas.
Celery
Demand remains good even with the Christmas holiday pull behind us. Prices will remain at current trading levels going into next week. Your better pricing options are coming out of the Oxnard and Santa Maria growing regions. Quality is good with nice green color and heavy weights out of all areas.
Artichokes
Production of the thornless varieties from most production areas continue to sustain mild to moderate frost damage as overnight temperatures hover near freezing. . Availability of  “clean ” artichokes will be extremely limited until we transition to new production areas later next month. Heirloom and Original varieties will return in the Spring.
Broccoli
It looks like prices will settle at current trading levels for next week. Limited labor and cooler temperatures will keep harvest production in check. Thank you for the business on our Shui Ling Crowns out of Mexico shipping out of Pharr,TX. We will have consistent supplies available next week. Quality has been excellent with 4″-5″ domes and true short cut with less than 5% hollow core.
Cauliflower
There is a wide range of pricing out there right now. Santa Maria has been your best option for pricing and then things escalate as you get into the Desert growing regions. It does not look like we will see any further decrease in price as we head into next week and we could even see a slight uptick in prices. Stay in touch with your Produce West sales representative for the latest information.
Brussels Sprouts
Coastal California supplies continue to be strong with a mix of quality and sizing. Pricing remains elevated in the desert due to mostly transferred product from Northern California production areas for strong Christmas demand . Mexico has begun limited production with expected better overall quality by early next month.
Green Onions
Mexico production continues steady with favorable weather conditions although supplies are expected to decrease rapidly over the next several weeks as Mexico’s labor force will be significantly reduced during the Holidays. Pricing is expected to escalate quickly.
Strawberries
Volume is expected to remain relatively stable the next few weeks. Central Mexico and Florida will increase forward. We expect Oxnard production to decrease each week until the start of Spring production. Central Mexico has seen good size with low to average counts. Baja has seen good size as well and good flavor as their volume continues increasing. Florida has seen mostly appearance related defects as their volume increases. Oxnard has seen some impacts from recent Santa Ana winds as they continue to down trend in production.
Raspberries
Volume continues to downtrend steadily as expected, and the outlook is to continue on this path through the New Year with early January being our lowest production point. Volume should steadily increase as of late January as Central Mexico and Oxnard pick up. Unexpected cold fronts could lead to gaps or create delays. Central Mexico has reported good counts and brix. Oxnard reported good overall quality with good flavor and medium sized fruit.
Blackberries
Supply will remain steady for the next couple of weeks. We are transitioning from the early varieties into the mid-season varieties out of Mexico. We expect supply to hover around the same levels for the next couple of weeks. We expect the California supply to downtrend in January when the plants get ready for the next cycle. Oxnard has seen minimal defects at the dock with good firm fruit overall. The Northern District has reported good, consistent quality. Central Mexico has seen good quality and good size with low basket counts.
Stone Fruit
Delays at the port have prevented much of the early offshore stone fruit from hitting land. We are expecting some peaches and nectarines to start trickling in next week but in very limited supply and high pricing. Some utility plums are currently available, although supplies are limited. Offshore plums are not expected to arrive for another 3 weeks.
Grapes
Shippers are still working through their storage grapes this week . Red varieties are plentiful , with a good amount of storage fruit expected to last well into January. Green grape supplies are dwindling quickly and storage greens will likely clean up by the end of next week. Quality is holding up ok on the red varieties, although greens are showing more issues the longer they are stored. Imported fruit is arriving on both coasts in light numbers and pricing is elevated. More offshore arrivals are expected to arrive over the next two weeks, which will overlap storage supplies, exceeding demand.
Citrus
Oranges – Plenty of navels available this week. Better color has been reported and quality is excellent. Demand has been lackluster and deals are being made by shippers wanting to clean up inventories. Good volumes, especially on 88 and 113 count fruit. Run offers by us on all sizes.
Lemons – Good production continues this week on California lemons. Supplies will continue increasing as we head toward the new year. Mexico production is mostly finished, with the exception of a few large sizes. Quality is very nice, and shippers are looking to move product. Restaurant closures have severely impacted the lemon market, and we expect this to continue well into the new year.
Limes – Good supplies continue this week on limes, especially on 175 and 200 count sizes. Shippers are looking to move on all sizes and listening to reasonable offers. Quality has been holding up nicely and color is deep and uniform. Like lemons, the lime market is lackluster due to bar and restaurant closures.
Dry Onions
Deals are being made on Jumbo’s with multi-order transactions. Now the second wave of mandatory shutdowns for restaurants has made even the out-door dining non- existent. As the vaccine is distributed, we will see the spikes become less prevalent and openings start to increase. So much for the V recovery…the only V recovery was the stock market. This country is still in trouble, with looming evictions and people going out of business.
Asparagus
Product is gapping heavily in Mexico as a result of cold weather and transitioning growing regions. Volumes of asparagus continue to enter in high volumes out of Peru. All signs are pointing to strong volume to continue through the Christmas holiday and that asparagus will be promoted heavily
throughout the next few weeks. It is also important to note that as we enter January, markets begin to get more difficult due to it being a supply-gap month.
Cantaloupes
Cantaloupes, especially usable ones, are in critically short supply and look to remain so well into January if not longer. The devastating hurricanes that afflicted Central America last month has left a severe legacy of short supplies and poor quality of those scant supplies. Thus the sparse amount of fruit that is arriving is poor and is almost all being rejected throughout the supply chain. At the same time, being in the tropics greatly slows the drying out of the ground and has stymied plantings for product that would be harvested in February, leaving little hope of seeing an adequate usable supply until March at the earliest, if then. We see cantaloupes being close to entirely unavailable until Spring
Honeydews
Honeydews are equally as devastated from Central America and appear to be following the same devastatingly short supply and poor quality future as cantaloupes. The difference is that Mexico is producing some useable fruit at reasonable price levels and is there as an alleviating factor. Normally buyers switch to Offshore fruit by now but it appears supplies will be depending on Mexico into the Spring. Quality is mixed but there is ample useable product crossing in Nogales. However prices are rising moderately. We look or a firm to higher market on honeydew.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   Supplies have begun to improve as Post Christmas demand settles down. Markets are beginning to edge lower with improving quality. Barring any significantly cold weather prices should continue to level out.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with improving demand
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to spike led by the Farm to Family Program. Most growers have been reaching for supplies . Continue to plan ahead even further to get partial coverage.
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. Northwest production continues to be limited to shortage.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Demand for romaine continues to keep prices elevated . Temperatures will directly impact supplies for the next month as traditionally we are entering the coldest time of the year in the desert.  Green and Red leaf  quality look much improved and should offer a significantly better value as we settle into the desert season .
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Demand continues to be strong throughout the Citrus category due to retail sales. Mexico’s lemon crop will begin to slow while supplies from California /Winter crop has been improving weekly at escalated pricing. Pricing overall remains competitive. Many shippers have shifted production exclusively to bags on All Citrus. Lime quality remains inconsistent. The Navel crop profile remains perfect for retail demand . Flavor and sizing profile will improve weekly, Mandarins continue to offer a terrific value with excellent flavor and sizing profile providing a great item for retail promotions. Specialty varieties should be starting up early next month with Cara’s , Minneolas and later next month Bloods
OG Peppers
California / Mexico :  Improved supplies of Green Bells from Mexico as Red and Yellow Bell production has begun to improve as well. Markets have adjusted
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12/16/20

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
The market continues to be temperate as demand remains moderate with many foodservice operators struggling with CV-19 restrictions and shutdowns. Retail demand has kept the market from bottoming out but overall it remains sluggish. Quality has been mostly very nice pushing yields higher. Prices will likely settle near current levels until cold temperatures impact harvest . Currently only isolated frost delays have been recorded although traditionally the next 2 weeks are the coldest in the desert.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine  Demand for romaine continues to cool with favorable growing conditions in the desert nudging production forward as CV-19 shutdowns continue to hamper the industry . Carton Romaine has bottomed out while ample supply of hearts offer a strong retail value .  Most shippers are interested in moving volume and are negotiable. Quality has been Very nice in most production areas with more widespread epidermal peel becoming visible. Forecast calls for cooler but not critically cold overnight temperatures to continue into next week.
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  prices have eased to more sustainable levels with most shippers negotiable although limited supplies of Redleaf have kept prices firm.  Quality remains very nice quality from most production areas.
Celery
Demand for the Christmas pull is in full swing. Demand is expected to be good for the remainder of the week. Next week prices will subside and there will be better availability across the board. The most aggressive pricing is coming out of the Oxnard and Santa Maria growing regions. Quality is good with nice green color and heavy weights out of both growing regions.
Artichokes
Production of the thornless varieties from Northern California continue to sustain mild to moderate frost damage as overnight temperatures drop near freezing. . Availability of  “clean ” artichokes will be extremely limited until we transition to new production areas early next month. Heirloom and Original varieties will return in the Spring.
Broccoli
Market has been strong over the last 2 weeks as supplies were limited due to a big percentage of the Desert growing regions not fully operational and cooler nighttime temperatures. It now seems as though the market has reached its highest price level and we should start to see a decline in price over the next 5 days. There is better volume coming out of the Imperial Valley and Yuma,AZ districts and we are now seeing more product shipping out of Mexico. Thank you for the business on our Shui Ling Crowns out of Mexico shipping out of Pharr,TX. We will be somewhat limited over the next two weeks with good demand and a small planting gap keeping things tighter for us. Please give us as much advance notice as possible so that we can fill your orders accordingly.
Cauliflower
Demand has been very good and the high FOB’s represent this. Talking to a few shippers the consensus is that we will start to see better supplies by the end of the week. With that being said look for prices to start to decline by the first part of next week if not earlier. Quality has been good, white domes, nice green jackets have been consistent characteristics from all shipping points.
Brussels Sprouts
Coastal California supplies continue to be strong with a mix of quality and sizing. Pricing remains elevated in the desert due to mostly transferred product from Northern California production areas for strong Christmas demand . Mexico has begun limited production with expected better overall quality by early next month.
Green Onions
Mexico production continues steady as demand improves daily. Pricing has been mostly competitive although we anticipate the seasonal shortage approaching which will reduce supplies and push prices higher starting next week.  Stock up now !
Strawberries
Overall Volume out of California through the holidays barring any sustained inclement weather. Even with warmer temperatures that we are experiencing out of Santa Maria and Oxnard, supplies out of these areas will gradually decline into the month of January. The quality out of California has been fair to good with some reports of scarring due to high winds primarily in the Southern California area. We expect to see an increase of supplies out of Mexico and Florida into and after the holidays. Organic strawberries have finally stabilized and volume should remain steady into the New Year.
Raspberries
Overall supplies will be on a slight natural downtrend over the next few weeks. We will see small increases in supply beginning in January. Peak production is forecasted for the middle of February.
Blueberries
We have peaked on Peruvian production and volume will trend downward into January.  Chile has started with light numbers, but supplies will ramp up quickly. The early reports are showing excellent quality. The mexican and Baja regions will continue with steady to slightly increased volume over the next few weeks.
Blackberries
As we approach the new year, we will be transitioning into the middle part of Mexico where the temperatures have been colder than normal. Initially, supplies will be light until we can experience warmer temperatures in this area. The California regions are forecast for colder temperatures into the new Year.
Stone Fruit
Utility plums are finished for the season. The import season is getting ready to start next week. There have been some recent delays at the port and many vessels will not be unloaded until next week due to labor shortages. Peaches will likely be available in limited supplies next week. Plums are still about a month away from production, and will likely not be available until the end of January. Expect more port delays through the holiday with limited personnel over the holiday and as covid distancing rules take effect.
Grapes
Red and green grapes are still available. Red varieties are more plentiful , with a good amount of storage fruit still available. Green grape supplies are dwindling quickly and storage fruit will likely clean up by the end of next week. Quality is holding up ok on the red varieties, although greens are showing more issues the longer they are held in storage. Imported fruit is arriving on both coasts in light numbers and pricing is elevated. More offshore arrivals are expected over the next two weeks, which will help overlap storage supplies, keeping up with demand through the new year.
Citrus
Oranges – Steady markets this week as navels reach full production out of the central valley. Better color on all fruit has been reported and product is holding up nicely. More deals are expected in the coming days as shippers look to move fruit for post holiday business. Fruit is peaking on 88 and 113 count sizes. Plenty of nice fruit available so run offers by us.
Lemons – Heavy supplies this week out of district 1. Mexico is nearing the end of their season, but will likely have little effect on the markets due to lackluster demand. Sizes are peaking on 95 – 140 count fruit, although shippers are looking to move on all sizes at this point. Quality is very nice, and shippers are looking to move product. Restaurant closures have severely impacted the lemon market, and we expect this to continue well into the new year.
Limes – Good supplies continue this week on limes. Like lemons, the lime market is lackluster due to bar and restaurant closures. Quality has been holding up nicely and color is deep and uniform. Shippers will continue pushing on all sizes through the holidays so run offers by us.
Dry Onions
I’m starting to feel like Yogi Berra… It’s like De Ja Vu all over again. Deals are being made on Jumbo’s with multi-order transactions. Now the second wave of mandatory shutdowns for restaurants has made even the out-door dining non- existent. As the vaccine is distributed, we will see the spikes become less prevalent and openings start to increase. So much for the V recovery…the only V recovery was the stock market. This country is still in trouble, with looming evictions and people going out of business. Light a candle and let’s hope the Calvary is on the way.
Asparagus
Volumes of asparagus continue to enter in high volumes out of Peru. All signs are pointing to strong volume to continue through the Christmas holiday and that asparagus will be promoted heavily throughout the next few weeks. It is also important to note that as we enter January, markets begin to get more difficult due to it being a supply-gap month.
Cantaloupes
The market rose this week due to very light supplies, as Guatemala is still struggling with the legacy of the two recent hurricanes. Quality and yields have been adversely affected and look to remain so until close to if not after the first of the year. Sizing is also shrinking. Honduras should start in a small way next week, but they too are dealing with the hurricane legacy. We expect product, especially larger sizes and better quality to remain quite tight keeping prices high until after the new year.
Honeydews
Off shore quality sizing and volume is also struggling due to the recent weather. However Mexico still has plenty of product and cheap pricing. Demand has been very slow and nothing seems to be in the offing to change that. Prices on off shore fruit declined a bit, and Mexico rose just a tad. We see little change to this dynamic, once again until after the first of the year.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   Markets have settled at current levels as demand and supply have balanced.   Christmas and New Years demand should start to ease slightly although we anticipate supplies to be volatile through the Holiday’s due to potential cold weather.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with demand expected to surge as local Homegrown production comes to a close.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to spike led by the Farm to Family Program. Most growers have been reaching for supplies . Continue to plan ahead even further to get partial coverage.
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. Northwest production continues to be limited to shortage.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Demand for romaine continues to keep prices elevated . Temperatures will directly impact supplies for the next month as traditionally we are entering the coldest time of the year in the desert.
Green and Red leaf  quality look much improved and should offer a significantly better value as we settle into the desert season .
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Demand continues to be strong throughout the Citrus category due to retail sales. Mexico’s lemon crop will begin to slow while supplies from California /Winter crop will begin to improve. Pricing remains competitive. Many shippers have shifted production exclusively to bags on All Citrus. Lime quality remains inconsistent. The Navel crop profile remains perfect for retail demand . Flavor and sizing profile will improve weekly, Mandarins have begun with excellent flavor and sizing profile providing a great item for retail promotions.
OG Peppers
California / Mexico :  Improved supplies of Green Bells from Mexico as Red and Yellow Bell production has begun to improve as well. Markets should adjust accordingly.

12/10/20

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
The market is still sluggish with mild demand and steady supplies. Quality has been mostly very nice pushing yields higher. Prices will likely settle near current levels until cold temperatures impact harvest . Currently only isolated frost delays have been recorded although traditionally the next 2 weeks are the coldest in the desert. The uncertainty of CV-19 restrictions nationwide has kept demand anchored.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine  Demand for romaine remains moderate with surging supplies . The market is adjusting to light demand although hearts are slower to adjust . Most shippers are interested in moving volume and are negotiable. Quality has been Very nice in most production areas with isolated, mild epidermal blister seen. The next couple weeks are critical as , historically, temperatures reach their lowest of the season which could impact quality and supplies. Forecast calls for much cooler overnight temperatures early next week.
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  prices have eased to more sustainable levels with most shippers negotiable. Quality remains very nice quality from most production areas.
Celery
Demand for the Christmas pull has started and prices are trending upwards. We expect demand to be pretty good over the next 10 days. It would be wise to purchase early and hold inventory than to wait until the end of the week or buying next week. Prices will continue to escalate. Best availability and pricing is coming out of the Oxnard and Santa Maria growing regions. Quality is good with nice green color and heavy weights out of both growing regions.
Artichokes
Production of the thornless varieties from Northern California continue to sustain mild frost damage as overnight temperatures drop near freezing. . Availability of  “clean ” artichokes will be extremely limited until we transition to new production areas later this month.  Heirloom and Original varieties will return in the Spring.
Broccoli
Market has turned around as cooler weather has slowed production in California, Arizona and Central Mexico. Generally there is lighter supplies this time of year as production out of Salinas comes to an end and Santa Maria supplies lighten up, coupled with production out of the Desert regions just getting started this scenario is commonplace. Central Mexico is also experiencing cooler temps and overcast days so supplies are limited out of there as well. The expectation is for the market to remain active over the next 10 days.
Cauliflower
Overall light supplies and cooler temperatures have slowed down harvest production. Market is expected to remain active over the next 10 days. Salinas has all but finished for the season, Santa Maria is now in their winter production which is limited acres being grown over the next 3 months and the Desert region is just getting started with light production and will slowly ramp up over the next two weeks. The qulaity on what is available is nice, clean white domes and green jackets.
Brussels Sprouts
Coastal California supplies continue to be strong with a mix of quality and sizing. Pricing remains elevated in the desert due to mostly transferred product from Northern California production areas. There has been a lull in demand post Thanksgiving that has offered value buys but traditionally strong December demand will likely continue to keep prices elevated .
Green Onions
Mexico production continues steady with quality and yields showing improvement. Pricing remains mostly steady but is expected to move higher starting next week as traditionally colder temperatures and seasonal labor shortages will severely impact supplies . Stock up now !
Strawberries
Volume will increase slightly over the next few weeks and will be slightly more favorable than previously expected due to unfavorable weather that was forecast to impact the crop never materialized. We expect California production to continue to gradually decline in the weeks ahead while Central Mexico production increases each week, eventually resulting in higher production volume as we approach 2021.  Oxnard is producing good sized fruit with good flavor as a result of cooler nighttime temperatures. Santa Maria has seen good overall quality with good flavor in all varieties. The Northern District will wrap up their season as a result of recent rains. Florida has seen some bruised fruit due to warm temperatures over the weekend. Organic volume is slightly better than originally forecasted, but we will experience a natural decline out of California.
Raspberries
An improvement in temperatures across each region has resulted in an uptick in volume this week. Unfortunately, last week the extremely cool temperatures slowed fruit maturation which will  push more volume into this week. Going forward we expect production volume to gradually decrease each week as we approach year end. Oxnard has seen good size and color with good flavor. Baja and Central Mexico have seen good size and good overall quality.
Blueberries
Production out of Peru is past it’s peak and will continue with strong volumes though year end. The Mexican season has begun and is ramping up quickly. Baja volumes will continue with stable volumes though year end. Chile will begin production this month with light volumes.
Blackberries
Supply has exceeded the projections through the front half of the week. The additional supply was driven by improved night temperatures in the USA and Mexico which released the fruit which was held up from last week’s cold night temperatures. We expect steady supply for the next several weeks.
Stone Fruit
Utility red plums are still available. There is little to no availability this week on most stone fruit varieties, as we are currently in a production gap. Offshore fruit is expected to start arriving next week. We will start off with strong markets on most varieties, which will continue into January.
Grapes
Plenty of storage fruit still available. Good supplies are expected to last through the holiday. Lighter volumes likely towards the end of the month, particularly on green grape varieties. There will be better supplies of red grapes, as storage fruit will carry through into January. Black seedless varieties will likely sell out before the new year. Demand has been steady, which should continue for the coming weeks. Imported fruit has begun to arrive on both coasts. Imported volume is expected to increase towards the end of the month which will help keep up with demand. Quality is holding up, although some issues have recently been reported on green grapes.
Citrus
Oranges – California navels are in full production out of the California San Joaquin valley. Color is improving and overall quality has been strong. Volumes are peaking on the 88 and 113 count fruit and markets appear to have bottomed out. Steady markets are expected this week, followed by a slight uptick in demand as we get closer to the holiday.
Lemons – Chilean lemons are finished for the season. District 1 and district 3 are both in production, further adding to the supply exceeds demand scenario we are currently in. More lemons are expected to flood the market in the coming weeksand shippers are looking to move volume at cheap prices. Run offers by us on ALL orders.
Limes – Plenty of volume available this week on most sizes. Mexico has experienced good growing conditions over the past few weeks and quality has been very nice. Shippers are looking to move inventories, especially on 175 and 200 count fruit. We are currently in a ‘supply exceeds demand scenario’ so run offers by us on limes.
Dry Onions
Market is $5.00 to $6.00 on Jumbo yellows in Northwest. Whites are $12.00 . Reds are in the $6.00 range. If you can buy a block of loads the market is generally $5.00. I talked to an East Coat broker this morning and he said the East Coast is almost no existent as far as demand goes. They had a decent run with the food basket deal, but that’s over for most receivers. Doom and Gloom. Waiting for the vaccine to arrive for widespread inoculation, until then WEAR A MASK!
Asparagus
Not much different than last week. Demand continues to increase somewhat
with lower prices being offered from Mexican grown product.
There has been talk of killing fern and starting early in Caborca, which is the
really big Mexican deal that starts big volume in February…These growers are
trying to take part of the “higher” prices that usually come along in the early
winter. We’ll see how that goes. Colder weather is starting to creep into the
equation, which will slow everything down to a trickle…stay tuned.
Cantaloupes
Mexico is for all intents and purposed done following the finish of the domestic deal last week. This leaves only the Caribbean Basin as the source of supply, currently grown in Guatemala and Honduras. Both those areas have been afflicted recently by two hurricanes and continued unsettled weather hampering both volume, quality and self life. Sizes are running mostly jbo and reg 9s count. Demand has been quite slow as winter, minus warm weather vacations and cruises does not exactly lend itself to a craving for melons. The slow demand is being further exacerbated by COVID food service closings. So we are stuck in a situation of fair quality, somewhat high prices due to light supplies and slow demand. The market is steady with some discounting before shipping or after arrival due to quality. The current trend is for more of the same until offshore areas get past their rough beginning around the first of the year when volume and quality improve making the market more viable.
Honeydews
Unlike cantaloupes there are plentiful supplies of good quality honeydews continuing to arrive from Mexico and prices have remained quite low as demand has been slowed by the same factors of COVID related problems and unseasonability. Offshore has been sending some dews as well and quality is variable, sizes are mostly 5 and 6s and prices are higher due to the very light volume. Little looks to change until around the end of the Month.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   Retreating prices have been stalled by improving demand as Markets have begun to surge higher again on improving demand for Christmas and New Years. We anticipate supplies to be short of demand through the New Year .
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with demand expected to surge as local Homegrown production comes to a close.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to spike led by the Farm to Family Program. Most growers have been reaching for supplies . Continue to plan ahead even further to get partial coverage.
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. Northwest production continues to be limited to shortage.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Demand for romaine continues to keep prices elevated . Temperatures will directly impact supplies for the next month as traditionally we are entering the coldest time of the year in the desert.
Green and Red leaf  quality look much improved and should offer a significantly better value as we settle into the desert season .
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Demand continues to be strong throughout the Citrus category due to retail sales. Mexico’s lemon crop will begin to slow while supplies from California /Winter crop will begin to improve. Pricing remains competitive. Many shippers have shifted production exclusively to bags on All Citrus. Lime quality remains inconsistent. The Navel crop profile remains perfect for retail demand . Flavor and sizing profile will improve weekly, Mandarins have begun with limited production with excellent flavor and sizing profile. Now is the time to get in your orders for the Holiday’s
OG Peppers
California / Mexico :  Improved supplies of Green Bells are expected from Mexico while Red and Yellow Bells continue to be very limited.

12/2/20

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
The market continues to adjust for lack of demand. Quality is improving daily as is supply. Prices are approaching sustainable levels which should help spur back demand that has been affected by seasonal post Thanksgiving lull and the uncertainty of CV-19 restrictions nationwide. Temperatures remain seasonally mild with only isolated frost forecast which will help continue to keep quality improving. Supplies should remain sufficient until the weather cools significantly which traditionally happens the week of Christmas.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine  Although good, a Lull in demand for Carton and Hearts combined with good weather and improving supplies has pushed prices lower. Most shippers are holding back from quoting significantly lower prices but are listening to offers . The market is correcting although reduced acres will help keep the decline from being too steep. Quality should improve daily until the seasonal, critically cold temperatures arrive later this month.
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  prices have eased to more sustainable levels as quality improves from the desert.
Celery
We will have a little lull in the market until the Christmas pull starts in about 2 weeks. There is good availability on all sizes and shippers are making deals to keep these moving. You can load out of Santa Maria, Oxnard and Yuma.  Quality is good with nice green color and heavy weights coming out of both growing regions.
Artichokes
Production of the thornless varieties from Northern California sustained moderate frost damage a couple weeks ago as overnight temperatures dropped significantly below frost levels . Availability of  “clean ” artichokes will be extremely limited until we transition to new production areas later next month.  Heirloom and Original varieties will return in the Spring.
Broccoli
The historically slow week after Thanksgiving is upon us. Demand has waned and there is plenty of product available. We have steady supplies of our Shui Ling Crowns loading in Pharr ,Tx quality has been outstanding. Get with your Produce West sales representative and run your offers by us.
Cauliflower
Ample availability is expected over the next 10 days. Quality out of all growing regions is very nice, good white color and dark green jackets. Run your offers by us.
Brussels Sprouts
Coastal California supplies continue to be strong with a mix of quality and sizing. Pricing remains elevated in the desert due to mostly transferred product from Northern California production areas. There has been a lull in demand post Thanksgiving that has offered value buys but traditionally strong December demand will likely continue to keep prices elevated .
Green Onions
Mexico production continues steady with quality and yields showing improvement. Pricing remains mostly steady but is expected to move higher heading into December which traditionally encounters colder temperatures and seasonal labor shortages especially towards the end of the month.
Strawberries
Volume is on the decline out of Northern California.  Oxnard and Central Mexico are increasing volumes and markets are weaker in all growing areas. Santa Maria, California is forecast on Wednesday to be sunny, with partly sunny skies Thursday and Friday, and then sunny for the weekend. Highs are forecast in the low 70s and lows in the 30s. Central Mexico is forecast for partly sunny skies, with highs in the 80s and lows in the 40s. Santa Maria, California fruit has some occasional bruising, white shoulders, soft shoulders, scarring and bronzing from wind, occasional pin rot, and misshapen. Average counts are 26 to 28, occasionally higher and lower.
Raspberries
Production is coming on in Central Mexico! Steady volumes in Baja.
Blueberries
Imports continue to come in with very good volume on the East Coast. Mexico is ramping up as well. Expect good supply across all regions through December. We will see the transition from Argentina to Chile within 3 weeks; Peru will bridge the change-over between the other countries.
Blackberries
Mexican production on both organic and conventional is falling off as we are past the fall peak. Production will stay lower until late January when the large ramp-up will last into early March before trickling down until the end of the season in June.
Stone Fruit
A small amount of utility red plums are still available in small amounts. There is little to no availability this week on most stone fruit varieties, as we are currently in a production gap. Offshore fruit is expected to start arriving the end of next week. We will start off with strong markets on most varieties, continuing through the new year.
Grapes
Storage red grapes are in good supply. We are starting to see quality decline as we dig into storage supplies. California growers are finished with harvest for the year. Green seedless grapes are available in storage, although volumes are much tighter and quality is expected to decline rapidly on greens, . We still expect a ‘demand exceeds’ scenario in December on greens, and tight supplies will continue through the new year. Black seedless grapes are available in light numbers and quality is still holding up for now. Peruvian grapes are expected to start arriving this weekend in light supplies, increasing in the coming weeks.
Citrus
Oranges – California navel production i in full swing. Color is improving daily and overall quality has been very nice. Volumes are peaking on the 88 and 113 count fruit and shippers are looking to move product. Pricing is expected to remain steady for the next week, and should experience an uptick as Christmas demand ramps up.
Lemons – Chilean lemons are still available as the season comes to a close. District 1 has started, further adding to the supply exceeds demand scenario we are currently in. As more restaurants are ordered to close, we will see further stagnation of these markets. We do not expect strong markets through the new year as restaurants and bars continue to close.
Limes – Plenty of volume available this week on most sizes. Mexico has experienced good growing conditions over the past few weeks and quality has been very nice. Shippers are looking to move inventories, especially on 175 and 200 count fruit, so run offers by us on limes.
Dry Onions
Now that a lot of restaurants are being shut down again, business will start to stumble…couple that with the lack of large family Thanksgiving dinners and little or no travelling throughout the holiday, we are in for a slight lull in over business. Will it drive a stake through the heart of the accumulated strides made over the last few months? We’ll see, but, I for one am more afraid of this surge than the first one. Hopefully we’ll be able to contain it till the Calvary (vaccine) comes to our rescue. Prices are steady as of this writing.
Asparagus
The demand for asparagus is not high. Just as I said in the Dry onion report,
there isn’t going to be a lot of big dinners, but people have to eat. The pricing
from Mexico has tried to go up a bit due to lower supplies, however Peru seems to having good volume and plenty of product available at cheap pricing. Stay tuned.
Cantaloupes
As predicted domestic cantaloupes have ended and there is few coming from Guatemala as the recent hurricanes have delayed a full throated output. Mexico was pretty much alone this week so the market there improved but only a bit on better quality of the prime sizes (, jbo9 and 120, as winter ins not a bit month for home melon consumption we all know how the food service sector struggling under the COVID restrictions. Next week Mexico will continue to ship as weather there has been conducive to robust production. Sizing should be stable. Quality will be wide ranging with ample amounts of good fruit. Guatemalan imports should increase first in FLA POEs the East Coast, Texas and CAS POEs. Sizes there are primarily 9 and 12. We look for a steady to lower market next week,
Honeydews
Once again are following a similar supply narrative though lagging off shore behind cantaloupes by a week or so. Mexico is still going and market is steady. Overall demand is slow leaving a prodigious supply of all sizes. Guatemala will be adding their suppliers to the pile next week keeping the prices steady to lower with discounts readily available
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   .Improving supplies have caught up with good demand and prices have begun to ease. Now that more of the product is being grown in the desert as opposed to being transferred Quality should show improvement. We anticipate markets to settle at more sustainable levels before December Holiday demand potentially pushes prices higher .
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with demand expected to surge as local Homegrown production comes to a close.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to spike led by the Farm to Family Program. Most growers have been reaching for supplies . Continue to plan ahead even further to get partial coverage.
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. Northwest production continues to be limited to shortage.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Demand for romaine continues to be strong especially hearts although demand has slowed this week prices remain elevated . Improved quality is expected to directly impact supplies from the warmer Southwest desert production areas.
Green and Red leaf  quality look much improved and should offer a significantly better value as we settle into the desert season .
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Demand continues to be strong throughout the Citrus category due to retail sales. Mexico’s lemon crop will begin to slow while supplies from California /Winter crop with begin to improve. Pricing remains competitive. Many shippers have shifted production exclusively to bags on All Citrus. Lime quality remains inconsistent. The Navel crop profile remains perfect for retail demand . Flavor and sizing profile will improve weekly, Mandarins have begun with limited production with excellent flavor and sizing profile. Now is the time to get in your orders for the Holiday’s
OG Peppers
California / Mexico :  Improved supplies of Green Bells is expected from Mexico while Red and Yellow Bells continue to be very limited awaiting start up in Mexico . We anticipate improved production in coming weeks.

11/25/20

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
The market is currently adjusting mostly due to light demand as a result of high prices and the uncertainty of CV-19 restrictions nationwide. Additionally a few shippers are offering steep discounts to clean up older production areas. Supplies from the Southwest Desert areas are still being affected by soil-borne disease but temperatures are forecast to remain ideal with minimal frost which should help improve quality, yields and supply.  We still expect some Volatility as we enter December where temperatures will dictate supply.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine Demand for Carton and Hearts has temporarily eased this week with the Thanksgiving Holiday but is anticipated to remain strong as growers continue to have reduced acres to account for CV-19 and the other unnamed pathogens. Prices are likely to ease slightly but remain elevated. We anticipate improved quality heading into December but seasonally Cold temperatures could impact supplies later next month. Volatility will likely remain as we continue to deal with the uncertainty of demand.
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  prices remain mostly steady with. Improved quality evident from the desert. Quality is expected to improve weekly and pricing should ease to more sustainable levels as production ramps up
Celery
We will have a little lull in the market until the Christmas pull starts in about 2 weeks. There is good availability on all sizes and shippers are making deals to keep these moving. You can load out of Santa Maria,Oxnard and Yuma.  Quality is good with nice green color and heavy weights coming out of both growing regions.
Artichokes
Production of the thornless varieties from Northern California sustained moderate frost damage a couple weeks ago as overnight temperatures dropped significantly below frost levels . Availability of  “clean ” artichokes will be extremely limited until we transition to new production areas later next month.  Heirloom and Original varieties will return in the Spring.
Broccoli
Production has started to pick up in the desert growing regions and Mexico. Markets are in a downward correction as the higher prices over the last two weeks have slowed demand. Cooler temperatures are expected in both the Santa Maria and desert growing regions next week so this could slow production and settle the price correction in the low to mid teens. We will have steady supplies of our Shui Ling Crowns loading in Pharr ,Tx over the next two weeks. Get with your Produce West sales representative for the latest information.
Cauliflower
Ample availability is expected over the next 10 days. Markets will continue to decline going into next week as we head into one of the slower weeks of the year, post Thanksgiving. Quality out of all growing regions is very nice, good white color and dark green jackets. Run your offers by us.
Brussels Sprouts
Coastal California supplies continue to be strong with a mix of quality and sizing. Prices have firmed with strong Thanksgiving Holiday demand. There will be a lull in demand post Thanksgiving that will offer potential value buys but traditionally strong December demand will likely continue to keep prices elevated .
Green Onions
Mexico production continues steady with quality and yields showing improvement. Pricing remains mostly steady but is expected to move higher heading into December which traditionally encounters colder temperatures and seasonal labor shortages especially towards the end of the month.
Strawberries
As Northern California winds down, Oxnard and Central Mexico supplies are increasing. For Thanksgiving week, markets are weaker in all growing areas. Santa Maria, California is forecast on Wednesday to be partly sunny with sunny skies for the balance of the week. Highs are forecast in the 60s, increasing to the 70s for the weekend; lows are forecast in the 40s on Wednesday, decreasing to the 30s for the balance of the week. Central Mexico is forecast for sunny skies on Wednesday and Thursday, mostly sunny on Friday, Saturday mainly cloudy, and Sunday sunny skies. Highs are forecast in the 80s and lows in the 50s. Santa Maria, California fruit has some occasional bruising, white shoulders, soft shoulders, water damage, overripe, and misshapen. Average counts are 26 to 28, occasionally higher and lower.
Raspberries
Production is coming on in Central Mexico! Steady volumes in Baja.
Blueberries
Imports continue to come in with very good volume on the East Coast. Mexico is ramping up as well. Expect good supply across all regions now through December.
Blackberries
Mexican production on both organic and conventional is falling off as we are past the fall peak. Production will stay lower until late January when the large ramp-up will last into early March before trickling down until the end of the season in June.
Stone Fruit
Utility red plums are still available in small amounts. There is little to no availability this week on most stone fruit varieties, as we are currently in a production gap. Offshore fruit is expected to start arriving in 2 weeks. We will start off with strong markets in early December, continuing through the new year.
Grapes
California growers are finished with harvest for the year. Storage red grapes are in good supply. Quality is still ok , although condition will inevitably decline in the coming weeks. Green seedless grapes are available in storage, although volumes are much tighter and quality will decline faster in storage. We expect a ‘demand exceeds’ scenario in December on greens, and tight supplies will continue through the new year. Black seedless grapes are available, although supplies are declining rapidly. Peruvian grapes are expected to start arriving next week in light supplies.
Citrus
Oranges – More California navels are entering the pipeline. Color is improving daily and overall quality has been very nice. Volumes are peaking on the 88 and 113 count fruit and shippers are looking to move product. Pricing is expected to remain steady post Thanksgiving.
Lemons – Plenty of deals on small sized Chilean lemons as that season comes to a close. District 1 is starting, further adding to the supply exceeds demand scenario we are currently in. As more restaurants are ordered to close, we will see further stagnation of these markets. Quality has been strong overall. Run offers by us, as shippers continue looking to move product.
Limes – Plenty of volume available this week on most sizes. Mexico has experienced good growing conditions over the past few weeks and quality has been very nice. Shippers are looking to move inventories, especially on 175 and 200 count fruit, so run offers by us on limes.
Dry Onions
There are a lot of long faces around Chicago, Detroit, New York etc. as the local and state governments impose curfews and are barring indoor dining. The CDC keeps reporting incredible spikes in Covid infections as hospitals continue to fill up. If and when the vaccines start to leak into our economy so will business begin to leak back. This is starting to feel like a Pregnancy…little by little the vaccine will expand until finally there will be a birth of screaming active food service infant. There will be fits and starts, but we will see it crawling then wobbly walking and finally running and bringing bubbly life back to our business. The Onion markets are plodding along and using whatever transportation is available to move product.
They could move a lot more product if there were more trucks. This writer paid $1.69 per pound on jumbo yellow onions yesterday. That’s an $84.50 return on a 50# bag. Please note this was in Woodland CA outside of Sacramento where freight is cheaper than going east. Glad to see someone is getting rich on onions. Retail continues to thrive.
Asparagus
Demand is starting to show up as pricing drops. I’m sure there will be some
real interesting promotions coming in the next few weeks including Christmas
ads. The market will continue to be in the teens until around the 10th and 12th of December. The Peruvian gush will add up to about 140 containers a week
through mid to late December. That’s about 440,000 cartons per week. Couple
that with what’s shipping from Mexico and we have more than we’ve ever had
this time of year without restaurants there to support the supply.
Cantaloupes
Market is in a bit of a twilight zone right now with many unknowns. Domestic has only a few desert loads left mostly 12s with some 9s. Mexico is continuing to produce with a wide range of quality and prices and run of sizes. Prices are much higher on jbo 9s and reg 9s than others from there. Offshore has had a few arrive this week, mostly in South Florida and shipped between after the first hurricanes in Guatemala. Sizes peaking on 9s with some other sizes. Quality is okay. Net week domestic will be done. Mexico should continue to be steady in both supply and size. Offshore will have virtually nothing arriving until the next weekend at the earliest as a second hurricane had delayed shipments from there. Guatemalan quality is the wild card here as we need to see how they arrive after all the rain they had. Demand should be very dull. No promotions. No cruises. Few restaurants and resorts and not many retail purchased during the winter. COVID is rampant still and stilting demand. Look for little change most of next week.
Honeydews
As has been the case most of the fall the narrative on honeydews mirrors cantaloupes. Domestic is finishing. Mexico is shipping mostly 5,6 and jbo 5s but also some 8s with a wide range of quality and prices. Off shores just beginning with 5 and 6 count and mostly good quality but that new arrives could show problems from the rains there. Demand will be struggling with the same issues that are facing the cantaloupes. We look for a dull and mostly steady market next week.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   . Strong demand and light supplies due to Cold weather pushed pricing higher . Demand is expected to ease off the Holiday rush and supplies should slowly improve as transition to the warmer desert climate begins next week . We anticipate markets to settle at more sustainable levels before December Holiday demand potentially pushes prices higher .
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with demand expected to surge as local Homegrown production comes to a close.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to spike led by the Farm to Family Program. Most growers have been reaching for supplies . Continue to plan ahead even further to get partial coverage.
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. Northwest production continues to be limited to shortage.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Demand for romaine continues to be strong especially hearts although demand has slowed this week prices remain elevated . Improved quality is expected to directly impact supplies from the warmer Southwest desert production areas.  Green and Redleaf  quality look much improved and should offer a significantly better value as we settle into the desert season . Expect volatility to continue especially with romaine as we deal with the uncertainty of demand.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Demand continues to be strong throughout the Citrus category due to retail sales. Mexico’s lemon crop is peaking with mostly Fancy supplies as well as the California /Winter crop with limited production. Pricing remains competitive. Many shippers have shifted production exclusively to bags on All Citrus. Lime quality remains inconsistent. The Navel crop profile remains perfect for retail demand . Flavor and sizing profile will improve weekly, Mandarins have begun with limited production with excellent flavor and sizing profile. Now is the time to get in your orders for the Holiday’s
OG Peppers
California / Mexico :  Improved supplies of Green Bells is expected from Mexico while Red and Yellow Bells continue to be very limited awaiting start up in Mexico . We anticipate improved production in a couple weeks.

11/5/20

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
As we enter Transition we continue to have uncertainty in supplies, quality and results. This has led to markets to react higher although demand remains moderate. Cooler weather is expected statewide next week which will keep supplies limited so It may take a week or two but things are expected to settle with eventual improved production. Yuma, Huron, Salinas and Santa Maria are all in play this week with wide varying availability and quality. Continue to remain flexible with transportation to take advantage of all possible opportunities. . Quality in Huron remains the best followed by Santa Maria with Yuma currently unaccounted. Volatility is expected to remain through mid November.  Las Cruces, New Mexico continues to offer very nice quality daily. Ask your Produce West rep for updates on transportation as well.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine Demand for Carton and Hearts remain strong with supplies spread unevenly throughout the industry resulting in some tiered pricing. Transition to Southern California and Arizona desert production areas has begun. Wide variations in quality and availability remain. Continue to be flexible to take advantage of the best deals. We expect quality issues and escalated but flexible prices to continue well into November.
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  prices have eased somewhat as improved quality leads to better production along with transition to new production areas. Quality is expected to improve weekly and pricing should ease to more sustainable levels.
Celery
As expected demand is starting to pick up, there is availability out of Santa Maria, Salinas and now Oxnard. Prices will continue to escalate next week as will demand.  Everything looks pretty good with nice green color and good weights coming out of both growing regions.
Artichokes
Production of the thornless varieties continue to be steady. Availability is expected to improve as we get further into new production areas Heirloom and Original varieties will return in the Spring after a small production window comes to a close .
Broccoli
Due to cooler nighttime temperatures and shorter days along with the gradual decrease in production as the Salinas season begins to wind down we are starting to see lighter supplies out of California. Also the East Coast and Canadian local deals are coming to an end and most of those customers are telling us that they will start to pull from the West Coast next week.  We have started our Shui Ling crown program out of Central Mexico. We are loading in Pharr ,Tx and quality has been good. Expectations are for prices to climb higher out of all production areas. Get with your Produce West salesperson for the latest information.
Cauliflower
Much like broccoli the market has started to take off. Cooler temperatures and lighter volume out of Salinas and Santa Maria as the season winds down is the main cause. Expect markets to stay active into next week.
Brussels Sprouts
Coastal California supplies continue to be strong with a mix of quality and sizing as pricing remains competitive. Supplies continue to outpace demand although that is likely to change buoyed by Thanksgiving demand. Insect pressure should subside as Fall weather begins to settle in this weekend
Green Onions
Mexico production continues steady with their Fall crop with quality and yields showing improvement. Pricing remains mostly steady at slightly elevated rates.
Strawberries
Limited volume will continue into next week, especially on organics.  The California harvests and markets will continue to show strength into next week. Windy conditions and colder temperatures will come to northern California this weekend. Oxnard and Central Mexico are beginning with light volume. Santa Maria, California is forecast for sunny skies, becoming partly cloudy Friday through the weekend. Highs are forecast in the 80s, decreasing to the 60s on Friday through the weekend, and lows in the 50s decreasing to the 40s on Friday and the 30s for the weekend. Central Mexico is forecast for mostly sunny skies, with highs in the 80s and lows in the 40s. Santa Maria, California fruit has some occasional bruising, white shoulders, soft shoulders, water damage, decay under the calyx, pin rot, and misshapen. Average counts are 26 to 28, occasionally higher and lower.
Raspberries
Production is increasing as supplies out of Central Mexico increase. Steady volumes in Baja.
Blueberries
Imports continue to come in with good volume on the East Coast. Peruvian volume has increased and will continue to ramp up through the year end. Mexico is ramping up volume as well. Expect good supplies across all regions now through December.
Blackberries
Mexican production on both organic and conventional is expected to ramp up, but will stabilize as the weather cools.
Stone Fruit
Late season red plum production will continue through November. Demand is very strong and markets will continue to strengthen. Quality remains strong and product is holding up nicely. Black plums are finished for the season. Pluots are now completely finished for the season. We are still about a month out from the first arrivals of offshore stone fruit.
Grapes
Late season crop has been picked and much of the supply is now going into storage. Good supplies and availability is expected on red, green and black grapes. Red seedless will be the most plentiful, while green and black grapes will be in short supply for remainder of the month. This year’s supplies are expected to be significantly less than 2019 totals, although overall demand is down due to ongoing covid restrictions. Imports will begin arriving in early December and increase from that point on. We should continue to see steady markets for the month of November on red, green and black grapes.
Citrus
Oranges – Strong pricing continues this week, although markets are beginning to settle as more navels become available. Sizing is currently peaking on 88ct and 113ct. We expect pricing to decrease as more navels become available in California. There are still some valencias available in larger sizing, but quality is becoming an issue as the season comes to a close.
Lemons – Heavy supplies continue this week. There are deals available as shippers attempt to rotate inventories. Chilean lemons are finishing up as district 1 is starting. District 3 is still in production and sizing is heavier on the mid sizes. Quality is good overall.
Limes – Good supplies this week, especially on small fruit. Weather was been good in growing regions and more fruit will come on as a result. Quality is very nice overall, although some overripe fruit has been reported. Shippers are looking to move small sizes and listening to offers. Rain is in the forecast for next week in Mexico growing regions, which could slow production and tighten supplies.
Dry Onions
Most Onion shippers this week are a little slower than last week, with pricing holding steady. The Washington deal seems a little more active that the Treasure Valley location. This might have to do with the West Coast demand on the rise a bit. The East hasn’t started their Thanksgiving pull yet, but it’s just
around the corner. Freight is outrageous and will continue to be with the Washington apple deal in full swing competing for refrigerated transportation.
Asparagus
Mexico has a gush of product coming and the chains are starting to take
advantage of the lower prices. Standard and small asparagus is very plentiful
with a slight premium on the large and jumbo. Peru continues to have better
boat service and has cut a few days from the voyage to Miami. Mexican prices
are as low as $15 on standard and small, as low as $9-10. These prices will
quickly clean any back log and the market will snap back for the Thanksgiving
pull starting the week of the 16th .
Cantaloupes
All fruit is now coming from the CA/AZ desert or Nogales. Little has changed in the way of trends. Domestic fruit continued to mostly 12s and smaller and retail demand continued to focus on 9s and larger which remained tight. Spot market demand was very quiet. Nogales ran better sizing but there was a wide range in quality with some old fruit which sat in warehouses either in Mexico or Nogales and was only fair quality at best. Demand was quite slow on due to the stigmatic legacy of old recalls. Mexico production was also quite high causing deep discounts and low prices on that fruit, keeping all prices in check. Larger domestic fruit was strong with much higher priced than smaller sizes. Next week domestic production should still be mostly small and a bit less as weather is due to be much cooler in the desert. Nogales will still have good production. Demand may improve a bit due to the holiday but with Thanksgiving being autumn focused the effect should be minimal. We look for little change next week, except for perhaps a small improvement in domestic prices due to lighter supplies
Honeydews
Domestic production remained steady peaking on regular 5s and 6s with some 8s and few jumbos. Nogales has a run of sizes and skewed toward the larger sizes. Quality of domestic fruit was good. Mexico production was abundant and warehouses on both sides of the border were stuffed, leading to less fresh product being deeply discounted. A few better quality fresh product was available at higher prices. Demand was dull. Next week cooler temps could diminish supplies a bit. Demand will remain dull as consumers look to more autumnal products. Perhaps Mexico will cut exports due to the poor market. We look for a steady and dull market next week, with a chance of the bottom prices rising if that occurs.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   . More seasonal weather has allowed quality to improve.  Markets remain mostly steady with demand expected to improve weekly. Cauliflower production remains mostly steady with improving demand. Prices have been gradually escalating as demand peaks for Thanksgiving Holiday.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with demand expected to surge as local Homegrown production comes to a close.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to spike led by the Farm to Family Program. Most growers have been reaching for supplies and will likely begin to gap as they transition to Southern California growing areas. Continue to plan ahead even further to get partial coverage.
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. Northwest production continues to be limited.  We expect shortages and elevated prices through the Fall
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Demand for romaine continues to be strong especially hearts with continued light supplies. Due to reduced acres, increased insect pressure and diminished quality Cooler overnight temperatures will significantly improve quality in coming weeks although keeping supplies in check. Green and Red quality has been marginal with production lighter and demand improving weekly. We look forward to transitioning to Southern desert production areas in a couple weeks for improved quality and supplies.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Demand continues to be strong throughout the Citrus category due to retail sales. Mexico’s lemon crop is peaking with mostly Fancy supplies and the California Fall/Winter crop has started with limited production. Pricing remains competitive. Many shippers have shifted production exclusively to bags on All Citrus. Lime quality remains inconsistent but has shown signs of improvement. The Navel crop is just beginning as Valencias wind down with similar sizing profile expected. Mandarins have also just begun limited production with expected excellent flavor and sizing profile. Now is the time to get in your orders for the Holiday’s
OG Grapes
California:   Central Valley production has another week or two left before quality and size declines. Reds continue to offer the best value while Green grape production will likely finish much sooner .

10/30/20

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Conventional Items
Lettuce
Transition is about to hit full swing with Yuma expected to start up this weekend for a couple shippers while Huron, Salinas and Santa Maria wind down. A few  shippers will be overlapping production areas while others are gapping resulting in tiered quality , availability and price. If your transportation is flexible you’re able to get the right product at the right price. Demand remains steady but better at reduced prices. Cool overnight temperatures with Chamber days have helped growers stretch out their acreages to ensure limited production gaps. Quality in Huron remains the best although there are some potholes to avoid as well. We anticipate quality to improve daily from new production areas while Salinas and to a lesser extent Santa Maria will continue to vary with Tip burn, decay and insect pressure. Markets should ease as volume increases from multiple production areas although Volatility is expected to remain through mid November.  Las Cruces, New Mexico continues to offer very nice quality daily. Ask your Produce West rep for updates on transportation as well.
Leaf Lettuce
Romaine  While Demand for Carton and Hearts remain strong , supplies although scattered have improved slightly and pricing continues to slowly ease. Fringe, tip burn, high core, twist, insect pressure and discoloration remain widespread although cooler overnight temps have helped growers stretch current supplies until transition to the desert commences over the next couple weeks. Some shippers will start as early as Monday while others will transition as late as Mid November. Wide variations in quality and availability will lead to a widening price gap. Continue to be flexible to take advantage of the best deals. We expect quality issues and escalated but flexible prices to continue well into November.
Red leaf, Green leaf and Boston  prices have eased somewhat as improved quality leads to better production along with transition to new production areas. Quality is expected to improve weekly and pricing should ease to more sustainable levels.
Celery
Currently there is good availability out of both Santa Maria and Salinas. We will start to see an increase in prices as we get closer to the Thanksgiving pull. Expect an increase in pricing starting next week.  Everything looks pretty good with nice green color and good weights coming out of both growing regions.
Artichokes
Production of the thornless varieties continue to be steady. with Improved sizing. Availability is expected to improve now that the weather has started to cool .Heirloom and Original varieties will return in the spring after a small production window comes to a close .
Broccoli
Due to cooler nighttime temperatures and shorter days along with the gradual decrease in production as the Salinas season begins to wind down we are starting to see a slight price increase. Also the East Coast and Canadian local deals are coming to an end and most of those customers are telling us that they will start to pull from the West Coast next week. Watch for a little more active market as we head into November. We have now started our Shui Ling crown program out of Central Mexico. We are loading in Pharr ,Tx and quality has been nice as we start out our season. Get with your Produce West salesperson for the latest information.
Cauliflower
Prices are at rock bottom and shippers are looking for business.  There is word on the street that we will see lighter volume next week but currently the ball is in your hand, let us know what it will take to get an order.
Brussels Sprouts
Coastal California supplies continue to improve with a mix of quality and sizing as pricing remains competitive. Demand is improving although Supplies are still outpacing demand . Insect pressure should subside as Fall weather begins to settle in .
Green Onions
Mexico production continues steady with their Fall crop with quality and yields showing improvement. Pricing remains mostly steady at slightly elevated rates.
Strawberries
Supplies are limited. Colder weather this week has limited California harvest. As Northern California winds down, Oxnard and Central Mexico are beginning with light volume. Santa Maria, California is forecast for sunny skies Wednesday and Thursday, becoming mostly cloudy Friday through the weekend. Highs are forecast in the 70s with lows in the 40s, increasing to the low-50s for the weekend. Salinas/Watsonville, California is forecast for mostly sunny skies on Wednesday, becoming partly cloudy for the balance of the week. Highs are forecast in the 70s, decreasing to the 60s on Friday, and then increasing to the 70s for the weekend with lows in the 40s. Central Mexico is forecast for partly cloudy skies. Highs are expected in the 80s with lows in the 50s. Santa Maria, California fruit has some occasional bruising, white shoulders, soft shoulders, water damage, decay under the calyx, pin rot and misshapen. Average counts are 26 to 28, occasionally higher and lower.
Raspberries
Warmer than expected weather has produced a spike in production. Production is coming on in Central Mexico! Steady volumes out of Baja.
Blueberries
Peruvian imports continue to come in with good volume and will continue to ramp up until years end. The Mexico season is ramping up at a fast pace.  Expect good supplies across all regions by late October through November. The pacific Northwest is finished for the season.
Blackberries
Supply projections have increased for the balance of the year. The quality of the Mexican production on both organic and conventional has been excellent.
Stone Fruit
Nectarines and peaches are unavailable until the offshore season starts. Late season red plums will continue to be available through November. Demand has picked up and we are seeing stronger markets this week as a result. Quality is strong and sugar levels are adequate. Black plums are finished for the season. Pluots are expected to be available for another two weeks. Be sure to order early as demand picks up.
Grapes
Harvests are starting to wind down on red, green and black seedless grapes. We expect sufficient volumes for the next two weeks, followed by gradual decreases in supplies. Red grape volumes should carry us into the month of December with minimal volume gaps until late December when Peruvian grapes arrive on the west coast. Green grapes are still being harvested, and good volumes are expected for the next two weeks, followed by lighter supply. Green grape volume will be lighter than reds during the month of December. Black grapes are still available, but volumes should taper off towards the middle of November.
Citrus
Oranges – Strong demand continues this week on California valencias, particularly on smaller sizes. Quality is beginning to suffer as we get later in the season. Navels have started in California, although color has been an issue, with much much of the product showing up yellow in every box and low sugars have been reported. Pricing remains high and should remain strong for the coming weeks.
Lemons – Supplies continue to be plentiful and shippers are still looking to move as much product as possible. Demand is extremely low as food service business continues to be hit hard by covid shutdowns. Quality is very nice and plenty of volume available on all sizes.
Limes – Plenty of small fruit available in Texas this week. Quality is very nice overall and shippers are looking to move fruit. Weather in Mexico has been mostly favorable and we expect improving quality and plenty of volume for the coming weeks. Run offers by us on limes.
Dry Onions
It looks like there is going to be a stutter step in the onion market coming soon. As the “second wave” starts to take it’s toll on the Midwest and south, there is bound to be some closures taking place. The fine line of balancing your storage is being crunched now by onions shippers. Most shippers report they
are ahead of last year on total volume…but hope spring eternal and here comes Thanksgiving…will families be able to get together?
Asaparagus
Little by little we are seeing supplies increase and markets decreasing in price.
Peru is getting in the groove with shipments increasing by ship (air is till hard
to come by). We are hearing pricing of $26-$28.00 from Mexico and $22-$24 as lids for the Thanksgiving pull. There is always the danger of cold snaps in
Mexico that could really impair the production…after all Mother Nature is in
charge of just about everything.
Cantaloupes
Supplies of cantaloupes is ample but not overwhelming. The Westside is for all in intents and purposes done. Arizona is running small sizes, mostly 12s and 15s with few if any jbo packs. Nogales is running larger sizes. Quality and condition for the most part is okay. Little looks to be changing these patterns next week. However the cooler weather in the desert this week could have domestic sizing skewing a bit larger next week. Demand has been very slow. Retail is focused on fall fruit especially with Thanksgiving just ahead, and traditionally the week before the holiday shipping begins demand is slow. Thus prices languished and were being deeply discounted on 12s and 15s. Nogales, has good production and light demand leading to them discounting on larger sizes. Next week little should change other than perhaps larger sizing on domestic fruit. Demand will stay slow as it will be focused on fall fruit products. We look for a steady to slightly lower market on larger sizes and steady but more stable pricing on smaller sizes next week.
Honeydews
Much like cantaloupes, demand has been very slow on dews as the weather cools around the country and consumers are more interested in fall and winter fruits. Domestic supplies have been moderate and peaking on 5s and 6s. Nogales supplies have been abundant and skewing quite large. Next week demand should be no better as melons are not Thanksgiving centric. Supplies should be steady and the market should remain dull.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower and Broccoli   . More seasonal weather has allowed quality to improve.  Markets remain mostly steady with demand expected to improve weekly. Cauliflower production remains mostly steady with improving demand. Prices have been gradually escalating as demand increases weekly.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Availability and pricing appear to be mostly steady with demand expected to surge as local Homegrown production comes to a close.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and demand continues to spike led by the Farm to Family Program. Most growers have been reaching for supplies and will likely begin to gap as they transition to Southern California growing areas. Continue to plan ahead even further to get partial coverage.
Potato and Onions  Markets continue to be strong as well as demand for retail packs. Northwest production continues to be limited.  We expect shortages and elevated prices through the Fall.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg & Romaine   Demand for romaine continues to be strong especially hearts with continued light supplies due to reduced acres, increased insect pressure and diminished quality Cooler overnight temperatures will significantly improve quality in coming weeks although keeping supplies in check. Green and Red quality has been marginal with production lighter and demand improving weekly. We look forward to transitioning to Southern desert production areas in a couple weeks for improved quality and supplies.
OG Citrus
Lemons, Oranges, Limes and Grapefruit Demand continues to be strong throughout the Citrus category due to retail sales. Mexico’s lemon crop is peaking with mostly Fancy supplies and the California Fall/Winter crop has started with limited production. Pricing remains competitive. Many shippers have shifted production exclusively to bags on All Citrus. Lime quality remains inconsistent but has shown signs of improvement. The Navel crop is just beginning as Valencias wind down with similar sizing profile expected. Mandarins have also just begun limited production with expected excellent flavor and sizing profile. Now is the time to get in your orders for the Holiday’s
OG Grapes
California:   Central Valley production has another week or two left before quality and size declines. Reds continue to offer the best value while Green grape production will likely finish much sooner .
OG Melons
California:   Cantaloupes, Honeydew, have one last surge in Northern California while Watermelons have started strong in Southern California and Mexico loading in Nogales .