Newsletter 11/28/18

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Lettuce

As anticipated the Iceberg Lettuce market escalated to historical levels amid the romaine advisory by the CDC. Demand for leafy veg items, especially iceberg, immediately spiked and prices reflected the lack of availability as buyers scrambled to fill their “Salad Bowl”. Now that there has been some resolution to the Romaine situation, demand and prices for iceberg should ease although now the desert forecast for below normal temperatures and precipitation along with possible frost  next week could further “muddy” the situation. Expect continued volatility with supply and demand curves defying conventional wisdom.  Quality from the desert continues to vary with many soft puffy heads and light texture as shippers reach for supplies.

Mix Leaf

The unprecedented CDC Romaine advisory affected ALL levels of the Produce Industry with many suffering significant losses. Now the FDA and CDC has released the voluntary ban the built up synergies have the markets adjusting to a variety of factors and seeking a sustainable level. Updated labeling, clearly defining production by Country, State and now Counties or Valleys, will further help customers trace their supplies as diligently as Growers have the past decade. As expected  Green leaf and Red leaf demand went through the roof, and now that romaine has been “reinstated”  demand for Green and Red leaf should ease but both have been cut so far ahead to fulfill overwhelming demand with cooler weather forecast expect lighter supplies to coincide with easing markets.

Brussels Sprouts
Domestic production from Northern Coastal region continues to be strong. The market has held mostly steady with heavy demand helping keep prices firm. A few quality issues from insect pressure remain but overall quality is good.

Celery
There are adequate supplies available in multiple growing areas. Salinas has product available and is looking to move product to finish out the season. Santa Maria and Oxnard areas are currently in full production and taking offers on load volume. There is a better balance of pricing between sizes this week. Quality is very nice with very few problems to report. With widespread rain hitting the west coast we could soon see gaps in production and muddy product. Rain is expected to continue off and on through the weekend and will certainly slow weekend harvest.

Strawberries
Supplies will continue to decrease going into the weekend. Weather forecasts are calling for rain in all growing regions including California, Mexico, and Florida. California and Mexico are expected to get the heaviest rainfall. We expect California to completely sit out of harvest on Wednesday and possibly Thursday due to the inclement weather. This storm may put an early end to the Santa maria season and putting the the main focus on Oxnard. With Salinas and Watsonville finished,fruit will be limited. Additionally, with Mexico’s already light volume, the rain may set the industry into a very challenging supply shortage for the next 2 weeks. Quality will be affected by the rain and we will see soft fruit that is easily bruised. Pin rot will be the norm. Supplies will be light through the weekend with many suppliers being in a prorate situation.

Blackberries
Mexican blackberries are in good supply. Markets have been flat with aggressive deals loading in Texas. There is rain expected over the next 3 days, so we can expect supplies to lighten up. Even with the fruit under hoops, colder temperatures, combined with rain will slow growth and production.

Raspberries
Production has slowed down this week as we moved throughout first peak production window in Mexico. Supplies will be consistent into next week, barring and rain interruption. Mexico is forecast for heavy rains for the next 48 hours. Even with the fruit under hoops and protected, harvest will be hindered by limited labor and poor working conditions. Colder temperatures will slow growth of the plants. We may see a small gap in supply over the weekend and early next week as we navigate this storm. Market prices have come up slightly and will remain firm.

Blueberries
Blueberry supplies have been consistently steady.. We have plenty of fruit arriving from Argentina, Peru and now Chile. Mexico. There maybe a lull in production because of the forecast for upcoming rain. Markets have started to climb this week with slight increases on both coasts. Depending on how much the rain affects the Mexican supply, we maybe be in for a spike in pricing next week.

Cauliflower
Light supplies will remain in effect for the next 10 days. There should be increased production out of the Imperial Valley and Yuma by the middle of December. Quality out of Salinas and Santa Maria has been fair. Light yellow cast and some soft shoulder is being spotted but is not prevalent through out the industry.

Broccoli
Market will remain strong as we finish out the week. The production gap we are currently in should start to close up the second week of December as production out of the Imperial Valley and Yuma comes in line. We should start to see increased production out of Central Mexico next week. The weather forecast for Central Mexico is calling for some rain and cooler temperatures this weekend and into early next week but hopefully it will not hinder oncoming production.

Limes
From Mexico, Lime supplies are mostly good and should be through mid-December. Market pricing is steady. Supplies expecting to tighten up mid-December through the first of the year. The smaller sizes will be limited in supply during this time frame and prices will climb higher.

Artichokes
Production continues steady with improving demand especially on the Heirloom variety.  Most varieties currently are seeded or Thornless. at reduced prices. Production is peaking on Medium size profile Some frost has been reported in Salinas and Mexico which will impact quality. Forecast for frost in the desert next week could further hamper quality.

Stone Fruit
The first arrivals of imported Stone Fruit season is expected for the end of December/first of the year.

Grapes
The grape harvest from California is generally completed. There is plenty of inventory to promote grapes through December. In regards to quality, there has been condition issues with some of the crop that has been held far too long in cold storage. Most all of this fruit is being dumped into the terminal market at ridiculously low prices. On grapes of good to excellent condition, the market is steady on seedless reds and blacks while the green seedless market is starting to make a move higher on the best available greens. The predominant varieties are: Red Seedless- Scarlet Royal, Allison, & Crimson, Green Seedless – Autumn King, and Black Seedless – Autumn Royal.

Green Onions
Production has started to improve mostly on iced Green Onions but ice less supplies should improve heading into the weekend although cooler weather in Mexico will lessen the impact. Quality should also improve with an improvement in weather.

Squash
Stronger markets industry on squash this week, especially on yellow and grey varieties. Mexico is transitioning growing regions, resulting in supply gaps over the coming week. Cooler weather and rain showers are expected into next week, which will affect quality.

Asparagus
Shipping has now shifted from the Central California to Brawley. This is for loading only…the product is still coming from Baja Mexico.

Prices at the moment are depressed in the $18- $19 range on 11/1 standard, lower prices on Jumbo.

Peru is experiencing heavy volume in ships arriving daily with 30 to 40 containers on each load. Pricing for the Christmas pull has lids in the mid $30’s and, depending on demand, will adjust downward.

Onions
An Idaho-Eastern Oregon shipper said he’d seen brisk demand, and customers seeded to be stocking up. Quality was good, and pricing was less than optimum. Another IEO shipper said cold, dry weather allowed farmers to get fall field work finished, and he called demand good with a solid Thanksgiving trade. The price was “still cheap.”

Western Colorado and Utah were seeing “phenomenal demand” for their onions, and though trucks were tightening up, the feel was that the market was getting better.

Crop updates that week said the Imperial Valley was finished planting, and shippers expect a “manageable crop” with fewer planted acres.

The Texas Rio Grande Valley was also finishing the last of its planting and replanting, with one shipper telling us a normal start time and normal crop are anticipated. Mexico is in the ground, with some shippers expecting loads in mid- to late January and others around the first of February.

Lemons
The demand for California/Arizona lemons is strong.  Fruit is peaking on 140/165/115 size in both growing regions. The quality of the product as been excellent and is expected to remain so for the near future. The market is forecasted to remain firm for the coming week. As the Spanish/Turkish imports arrive over the next few weeks, we could see the market ease a bit. We will keep you posted.

Cantaloupes
Mexico continues to wind down and should be for all intents and purposes a non factor. Ditto for domestics and the last dregs are being harvested this week. So we are not dependent almost completely on the offshore deal, which is harvesting only in Guatemala at this point. Guatemalan fruit seems to be imported by one big player and a couple of much smaller volume deals. Sizes are running large. Volume has been adequate. Contracts have been taking almost all the volume, leaving just a small percentage open to the spot market sales. Contract pricing is in the 11.00=12.00 range, but the spot market stayed steady in the 19.00-22.00 range. Little looks to be changing for the next couple of weeks. Guatemala will be the main if not the only area producing. Demand will be mostly contract and spot market should remain on the snug side with fair demand and steady prices. Around the 3rd or last week of December we should see some other production areas come on line with increased volume and adjusting prices.

Honeydews
Honeydews are dribbling in and lagging in production from Guatemala, and that trend looks to stay in place for the next week. Mexico will continue to produce but have light volume. Domestics are history. Sizes off shore are running very large in the jbo 4 and 5 range with a few 6s (mostly jbo6) Mexico has a more democratic run of sizes but light volume. Prices have been firm with deals only showing up on jbo 4s off shore. Mexican volume should be decreasing next week as their volume normally does in response of off shore’s normal increase. But the increase off shore looks to be delayed about a week of 10 days. Once again contracts are dominating demand and spot market is just following along. We look for little change for the next couple of weeks and perhaps a price adjustment toward the end of December or the first of the year.

Oranges
With the Thanksgiving holiday last week and rain/showers in the forecast today through Friday, the navel harvest has been irregular and combined with good demand we are seeing supplies tightening up a bit.  The size structure is still running small with sizes peaking at 113, 88, 138, and 72.  88’s and larger are moving out quite well with deals available 113’s and 138’s.  Over the next couple of weeks, prices should remain steady to slightly higher if we get a rain market. Brix averages remain at 10-12, some 13.

Organic Items

OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower  The market has been firm with lighter supplies due to cooler evenings. Quality has been good with some insect pressure reducing yields

Broccoli  Production will be light until full transition to the desert takes affect. Expect the market to remain strong. Demand has been steadily improving.

OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most Herbs and Bunching Green production continues to be limited until full transition to Arizona and Mexico takes place in coming weeks. The markets are expected to remain strong through November.

OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg  will become extremely high demand with prices expected to rise substantially as Romaine Production rebounds from the CDC advisory

OG Citrus
Lemons:   Steady production and improving quality has led to better demand and stable pricing.  Mexico and Chile quality is still variable and supplies should hold steady with a higher percentage of fancy fruit expected.

Oranges  Navel production continues to improve although sizing profile is still running below normal.  Expect prices to ease heading into the Winter Citrus season . sizing profile will likely remain smaller through November.

Limes:  Improved weather in Mexico should help increase Supplies. Quality has held steady despite weather interruptions.

Grapefruit:  Production is light and desert supplies expected to ramp up next week. While supplies from Mexico are expected to improve this week..

Mandarins:  Production  has begun and is expected to ramp up in time for The Holidays. Prebook now to reserve your Christmas volume.

OG Avocados 
Mexico: Production from Mexico has been shut down for the past 3 weeks with inventories completely wiped out. The discord among growers, laborers, cartels and the Mexican government is expected to end this week although unconfirmed. Additionally rain is forecast for the area next week which could further hamper production. Promotional supplies were expected to be available through November but with the current unrest supplies are on hold.

California: Season will begin early 2019

OG Grapes
Green & Red  Central Valley supplies continue to be excellent along with outstanding quality. Specialty varieties, especially reds are exceptional size and brix levels. Possible rain in the forecast next week could affect quality but inventories are reported to be strong.

OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady with good supplies . Winter advisories forecast for the next couple weeks will likely lead to reduced supplies Continue to plan ahead to get full coverage.

Potato supplies will continue steady with most supplies moving into storage on Gold, Red and Russets.

Onion demand has been good and production has finished as supplies will be shipped out of storage. Expect quality to be good through December but could decline by the beginning of the new year.

Newsletter 11.21.18

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Lettuce
Choas & Confusion are replacing Transition as this weeks buzzwords. With the latest romaine advisory by the CDC complementary commodities especially iceberg lettuce will be in extreme demand As this newsletter goes to press prices have doubled and will likely double again before next week. Production is centralizing in the desert with overall industry volume expected to increase. Even with improved supplies iceberg will be in an extreme demand exceeds situation for an extended period. Quality from the desert has been variable with many soft puffy heads and light texture. The weather has been good so quality should improve quickly.
Mix Leaf
ALL production of Romaine related products will be halted immediately upon further investigation from government agencies. Until then all salad substitutes will be in extreme demand. Expect Green leaf and Red leaf demand to leapfrog Romaine and triple in price over the weekend. Cooler weather has improved Quality but seeders remain as well as occasional yellow fringe and weak texture. Near ideal weather should improve quality heading into next week.
Brussels Sprouts
Domestic production from Northern Coastal region continues to be strong. The market has held mostly steady with heavy demand for Thanksgiving helping keep prices firm. A few quality issues from insect pressure remain but overall quality is good.
Celery
Volume has sustained through the Thanksgiving push and product is still available out of Salinas, Santa Maria and Oxnard areas. Lighter supplies on small sized celery.  Product is being shipped down to Yuma for loading purposes at premium pricing. Good overall quality in all loading regions, although there have been some ice related issues reported. Run offers by us for post holiday business.
Strawberries
Harvesting crews will be limited due to the Thanksgiving holiday. The shortened week will artificially tighten up supplies combined with rain in the forecast, the short term outlook for berries is grim. The Salinas and Watsonville area will be very limited this week and the inclement weather may finish the season. The Oxnard area is forecast for rain on Wednesday and mostly sunny skies with highs in the 60s and lows in the 50s. The Santa Maria area is forecast for rain on Wednesday with the balance of the week to be partly cloudy, with highs in the 60s and lows in the 50s. Salinas/Watsonville is forecast for rain on Wednesday and Friday with partly cloudy skies the rest of the week, with highs in the 60s and lows in the 50s decreasing to the 40s for the weekend. Oxnard fruit has occasional bruising, soft shoulder, windburn and over ripe with average counts of 22 to 24. Santa Maria fruit has occasional bruising, white shoulder, soft shoulder, misshapen and overripe and average counts of 24 to 26, some smaller and larger depending on variety. Salinas/Watsonville fruit has occasional bruising, white shoulder, misshapen and overripe with an average count of 26 to 28 and occasional smaller.
Cauliflower
The strong market created by cooler temperatures in all growing regions will last well into next week. Please try and give us advanced orders as day of orders are difficult to fill.
Broccoli
Light volume due to cooler temperatures and transition has created a demand exceeds situation. Not only is California experiencing cooler temperatures but Central Mexico has also been battling below normal temperatures for this time of year. We expect the market to stay strong for the next ten days. We will have limited supplies of our Shui Ling crowns available next week.
Limes
From Mexico, ample supply of limes out there with good volume on all sizes. Quality has been fair. Market prices are steady.
Artichokes
Production continues steady with improving demand especially on the Heirloom variety.  Most varieties currently are seeded or Thornless. at reduced prices. Production is peaking on Medium size profile Some frost has been reported in Salinas and Mexico which will impact quality.
Stone Fruit
The Imported Stonefruit season will kick off in December.
Grapes
No major shifts in supply, quality or markets for the coming week . There is plenty of promotional opportunities and volume spot buys available. The eating quality remains high. The predominant varieties are: Red Seedless- Scarlet Royal, Allison, & Crimson, Green Seedless – Autumn King, and Black Seedless – Autumn Royal.
Green Onions
Production has started to improve mostly on iced Green Onions but iceless supplies should improve heading into the weekend although cooler weather in Mexico will lessen the impact. Quality should also improve with an improvement in weather.
Squash
Good supplies on Italian squash out of Nogales through the holiday. We expect this to continue through this month and light as colder weather hits Mexican growing areas. Yellow squash is much lighter this week due to gaps in growing areas. Quality is marginal, with many shippers now packing more #2 product on yellows. We expect better volume around the second week of December as winter growing regions ramp up.
Asparagus
Production Western Mexico has been strong with strong Holiday demand helping firm pricing . Quality has shown improvement .Cooler weather in Mexico will likely tighten supplies after Thanksgiving.
Lemons
Lemons are currently being harvested from the Desert (District 3) and the San Joaquin Valley (District 1). Supplies are steady. There is a good run of sizes available with the peak sizes being 115/90’s in the Desert and 140/165’s from the San Joaquin Valley. The fancy to choice ratio is running 70/30. The quality from both districts has been great. Market prices expected to be steady to slightly higher. Keep in mind that labor continues to be an issue that we are monitoring closely.  It’s harder for growers to find pickers each day reducing the amount of fruit that can be packed.
Oranges
Navel Oranges – Our 2018-2019 California Navel Orange Season is in full stride. The size structure continues to run small with sizes peaking at 113/88/138’s and 72’s. With that said, the growers are still coming up with a good amount of large sizes (56’s & larger). The fruit is eating real good for this time of year brixing as high as 12.5.  The market seems to have settled into the current pricing comfortably. If there is any opportunity to drive prices lower, it will be on the smaller sizes  .Looking ahead, the growers are reporting a large amount of cracking as the oranges grow quickly. This could affect future yields.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower  The market has been firm with lighter supplies due to cooler evenings. Quality has been good with some insect pressure reducing yields.
Broccoli   Production will be light until full transition to the desert takes affect. Expect the market to remain strong . Demand has been steadily improving.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most Herbs and Bunching Green production continues to be limited until full transition to Arizona and Mexico takes place in coming weeks. The markets are expected to remain strong through November.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg  will become extremely high demand with prices expected to rise substantially as Romaine Production comes to a halt.
OG Citrus
Lemons:   Steady production and improving quality has led to better demand and stable pricing.  Mexico and Chile quality is still variable and supplies should hold steady with a higher percentage of fancy fruit expected.  .
Oranges  Navel production continues to improve although sizing profile is still running below normal.  Expect prices to ease heading into the Winter Citrus season . sizing profile will likely remain smaller through November.
Limes:  Improved weather in Mexico should help increase Supplies. Quality has held steady despite weather interruptions. With no further rains forecast quality should improve in coming weeks
Grapefruit:  Production is light and desert supplies will be limited through November.
Mandarins:  Production  has begun and is expected to ramp up in time for The Holidays. Prebook now to reserve your Holiday volume.
OG Avocados
Mexico: Production from Mexico has been shut down for the past 3 weeks with inventories completely wiped out. The discord among growers, laborers, cartels and the Mexican government is expected to end this week although unconfirmed. Additionally rain is forecast for the area next week which could further hamper production. Promotional supplies were expected to be available through November but with the current unrest supplies are on hold.
California: Season will begin early 2019.
OG Grapes
Green & Red  Central Valley supplies continue to be excellent along with outstanding quality. Specialty varieties , especially reds are exceptional size and brix levels. Possible rain in the forecast next week could affect quality but inventories are reported to be strong.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and improved weather could further enhance supplies heading into a heavy Holiday demand period. Continue to plan ahead to get full coverage.
Potato supplies will continue steady with most supplies moving into storage on Gold, Red and Russets.
Onion demand has been good and production is steady .Quality has been very good The market continues to be steady, especially on Red and White.

Newsletter 11/14/18

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Lettuce
Transition will be completed by this weekend with most shippers focused on a single production area. Overall supplies will tighten with production limited by light weights and labor availability in Yuma. Quality from the desert has been variable with many soft puffy heads , light texture and fringe burn .The weather has been good so quality should improve quickly.  Processors continue to buy excess acreage to make up for diminished bin weights which will keep prices artificially inflated. Las Cruces, NM production will wrap up production this week as well.
Mix Leaf
Romaine and especially Heart demand continues to be strong with steady but transitioning supplies. Quality has varied widely with seeder growth and mildew pressure from the Northern districts while the desert has shown some yellow fringe and weak texture. Near ideal weather should improve quality heading into next week. Overall Romaine acreage appears to be off in Yuma to start the season. Green leaf and Red leaf demand has been good but lagging behind Romaine.
Brussels Sprouts
Domestic production from Northern Coastal region continues to be strong. The market has held mostly steady with heavy demand for Thanksgiving helping keep prices firm. A few quality issues from insect pressure remain but overall quality is good.
Celery
This market is red hot as the thanksgiving pull continues. Production is decreasing as shorter days and cooler nights come into play. We currently are in the highest demand period of the year. Quality remains very nice with good color and condition industry wide. Product is coming out of Salinas and Santa Maria / Oxnard areas.
Strawberries
Strawberry supplies will continue to decrease into next week. The drop in supplies started over the weekend and has now lasted through the front part of the week. This was a direct result of the wildfires in the southern part of the state. Unfortunately, the situation is more severe than anticipated and supplies will be affected for the remainder of the week. The winds have not subsided and the fire continues to spread. Air quality continues to diminish and the county officials have ranked it “unhealthy”. Shippers are canceling or delaying harvestharvest and workers are not showing up. This is having a major impact on the volume of fruit being harvested and production is down 20-30%. Because of the delays in harvest and decreased production, we can expect to see limited supplies of strawberries in all California loading locations. Suppliers are warning of possible fill rates on market fruit and are advising of long wait times at the coolers as a result of limited production, same day harvest, and increased demand. Market prices have jumped up in all areas and will remain firm until we get past this rough patch. Mexico production, however, is gradually increasing with good arrivals of fruit into McAllen, TX. If loading in McAllen is an option, that would be your best option for order fulfillment. On the east coast, we are seeing some light harvest already get started in Florida. We expect supplies and quality to improve as we move forward.
OG Strawberries
Lighter supplies and fruit volume will decrease into next week. Colder temps at night night will help firm fruit up. This will help as bruising was the main defect with the Organic fruit. There is a forecast for a heavy and cold storm to hit the East Coast next week. This could curtail demand for the Berry category in general.
Raspberries
Supplies will be good into next As we phase out of domestic production and focus primarily on Mexican fruit, we can expect to see improved supplies and quality. Mexico is gradually building up momentum and that fruit is making its way to McAllen, Oxnard, Yuma, and the east coast. Quality is being reported as strong and market prices have been steady. Promotional opportunities will be available over the next 2-3 weeks.
Blueberries
Supplies are plentiful. Supplies have certainly improved and prices are lower. On the east coast, in particular, shippers have seen a flush of fruit arrive via boat and plane. These import blues are coming from Peru, Argentina and now light volume from Chile. Most of the inventory is in Miami and prices have dropped this week with plenty of aggressive prices available for spot buy opportunities. On the west coast, we are seeing better supplies of Mexican fruit as well as some South American fruit in Los Angeles. Market prices on the west coast continue to be higher than the east coast but have also come down from weeks past. Quality is being reported as strong in all areas. We expect to see continued improvements in all areas moving forward.
Blackberries
Blackberry supplies have steadily improved over the past few weeks. Mexico is the primary source of production and that fruit is working its way through every distribution channel. McAllen has the most available fruit and so we are seeing some aggressive prices being offered to move volume. California and the east coast is a little more expensive as the fruit is being transferred to cover demand. We will have promotional opportunities for the next 2-3 weeks.
Cauliflower
Extremely Limited!!! Cauliflower will be very difficult to procure for the remainder of this week and going into the first part of next week. Cooler temperatures and a gap in production between the end of the Central Coast production and the beginning of the Desert deal has sparked this current situation. Pre -booking a day or two in advance is highly recommended.
Broccoli
We have seen a slight increase in price and demand this week. A perfect storm of cooler nighttime temperatures, transition and holiday demand has created this stronger market. Prices will remain at this level through the middle of next week. The cooler temperatures are starting to create some purple color and knuckly domes. Production out of Central Mexico has been limited again due to cooler temperatures. We have been receiving limited supplies of our “Shui Ling” crowns and expect this to continue into next week.
Limes
Plenty of volume available on all sizes. There a wide range in quality with quality being mostly fair to good. Market prices expected to be steady for the coming week.
Artichokes
Production continues steady with improving demand especially on the Heirloom variety.  Most varieties currently are seeded or Thornless. at reduced prices. Production is peaking on Medium size profile Some frost has been reported in Salinas and Mexico which will impact quality.
Cantaloupes
As expected supplies got rather short this week as a supply gap between domestic and off shore became reality. Westside is completely done. Desert is virtually done as well, with only a few clean up supplies hanging around and running small sizes. Mexico is still harvesting but their deal as well is winding down with sizes peaking on jbo 9s and 9s. Offshore melons started arriving in Florida ports from Guatemala, but it is early and there are very few. They too are running mostly 9s and jbo 9s size. Demand has been a bit better for the holiday but certainly not robust or scintillating. That being said prices are higher this week in all areas. Next week domestic production should be finished. Mexico supplies look to remain light at weather there is much cooler than normal. Offshore supplies should increase but not dramatically. Demand should be quiet after the holiday, but will feel better than due to short supplies. We look for a steady and firm market until offshore supplies get into full swing sometime in December.
Honeydews
Lack of demand continues to keep a lid on the honeydew market. Supplies are light as domestics are finishing up. Mexico however continues to have adequate supplies especially in the face of anemic demand. Off shores will not start for another couple of weeks. That being said supplies could be a bit lighter next week with disrupted crossings from Mexico due to holiday next Thursday and subsequent post holiday lull in activity. We look for the market to be steady to slightly higher next week, but with no dramatic changes.
Onions
Washington is shipping Jumbo Yellow 50# bags at anywhere from $4.50 to $5.50 fob Othello WA. Red Jumbo 25# onions are in the $5.00-$6.00 range with deals being made on volume. Idaho and eastern Oregon seem to be holding in the $5.00 range and deals are being made on multiple load volume there also. Whites are in the 12.00-13.00 range ad seem to be holding steady. Availability is good in all colors and sweets in both conventional and organics with good quality coming out of storage. Demand has picked up on smaller onions.
Potatoes
Best deals on count cartons are running from as low as $6.50 on 40 count cartons all the way up to $8.50 to $9.00 to nine on 80,90, & 100’s. 10# poly and 5# poly is in the $6.00 to $7.00 mostly
Transportation is still relatively high now that Christmas trees will start shipping from the Northwest causing more of drain on available transportation.
Stone Fruit
The Imported Stone fruit season will kick off in December.
Grapes
The harvest from California will start to wrap up over the next 10-12 days. Promotable ad volumes will be available through the month of December.  Quality and condition on all varieties is good. The market is steady. The predominant varieties are: Red Seedless- Scarlet Royal, Allison, & Crimson, Green Seedless – Autumn King, and Black Seedless – Autumn Royal.
Green Onions
Production has started to improve mostly on iced Green Onions but iceless supplies should improve heading into the weekend although cooler weather in Mexico will lessen the impact. Quality should also improve with an improvement in weather.
Asparagus
Baja Mexico is still shipping good supplies of 11/1 bunch Asparagus with ad pricing in the $18.90 to $22.90 range…prices for next week will start to rise to the $22.90-$28.90 level…some as high as $30.00+ for the Christmas pull. Peru on boats will continue with good supplies but air shipments could start to become scarce as space availability starts to decrease with the approaching holiday shipping.
Lemons
Mexican Lemons crossing at McAllen, Texas continue to have problems with rind breakdown and decay. Peak sizes on the Mexican lemon are 165/140/200’s. Expect Mexican lemons in the marketplace through December. From California, lemons are available on all grades and sizes. Peak sizes are 115/95/140’s. The market is fairly steady. Quality remains very good. Meyer Lemon are available if you are interested.
Oranges
Cooler temps have finally arrived in the San Joaquin Valley. This is helping to bring on color and reduce the gas times. The navels are coloring up nicely and the eating quality has been good with fruit brixing as high as 12. The market has adjusted lower on the smaller sizes while holding firm on 56/72’s. The packouts continue to run heavy to the Fancy grade (85-90% Fancy) with the size structure peaking at 113/88/138 followed by 72’s.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower  The market has been firm with lighter supplies due to cooler evenings. Quality has been good with some insect pressure reducing yields
Broccoli    Production continues steady with a strong market. Demand has been steadily improving.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most Herbs and Bunching Green production continues to be limited until full transition to Arizona and Mexico takes place in coming weeks. The markets are expected to remain strong through November.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg  as well as Romaine Production has been limited , mostly due to quality with heavy insect and mildew pressure. Expect markets to continue to remain tight as heavy demand continues. Supplies are expected to remain volatile through November.
OG Citrus
Lemons:   Steady production and improving quality has led to better demand and stable pricing.  Mexico and Chile quality is still variable and supplies should hold steady with a higher percentage of fancy fruit expected.  .
Oranges  Navel production continues to improve although sizing profile is still running below normal.  Expect prices to ease heading into the Winter Citrus season . sizing profile will likely remain smaller through November.
Limes:  Improved weather in Mexico should help increase Supplies. Quality has held steady despite weather interruptions. With no further rains forecast quality should improve in coming weeks
Grapefruit:  Production is light and desert supplies will be limited through November.
Mandarins:  Production  has begun and is expected to ramp up in time for The Holidays. Prebook now to reserve your Holiday volume.
OG Avocados
Mexico: Production from Mexico has been shut down for the past 3 weeks with inventories completely wiped out. The discord among growers, laborers, cartels and the Mexican government is expected to end this week although unconfirmed. Additionally rain is forecast for the area next week which could further hamper production. Promotional supplies were expected to be available through November but with the current unrest supplies are on hold.
California: Season will begin early 2019
OG Grapes
Green & Red  Central Valley supplies continue to be excellent along with outstanding quality. Specialty varieties , especially reds are exceptional size and brix levels. Possible rain in the forecast next week could affect quality but inventories are reported to be strong.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and improved weather could further enhance supplies heading into a heavy Holiday demand period. Continue to plan ahead to get full coverage.
Potato supplies will continue steady with most supplies moving into storage on Gold, Red and Russets.
Onion demand has been good and production is steady .Quality has been very good The market continues to be steady, especially on Red and White

Newsletter 11/7/18

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Lettuce
Transition continues with production finishing in Salinas and just underway in Yuma AZ while Huron will continue for another week. Some shippers have overlapping production areas and have offered discounts to intensify buyers but overall volume is light to moderate. Huron continues to have the preferred quality with weight, size and color all excellent while Yuma is starting with good color but light and variable solidity.. Processors will continue to have the largest impact on markets as they alternately supplement and sell off supplies leading to increased volatility.  Las Cruces, NM production looks to improve next week as they move past fields that were affected by heavy rains last month.
Mix Leaf
Romaine and especially Heart demand continues to be strong with steady but transitioning supplies. Quality has varied widely with seeder growth and mildew pressure from the Northern districts while initial production from the desert has been well received. Some shippers are holding customers to 8-10 week  allocation while others have sufficient supplies. Romaine acreage appears to be off in Yuma to start the season. Green Leaf and Red Leaf demand has been good but lagging behind Romaine.
Brussels Sprouts
Domestic production from Northern Coastal region continues to be strong. The market has held mostly steady with heavy demand anticipated for Thanksgiving.. have resulted in significant volume deals .A few quality issues from insect pressure remain but overall quality is good.
Celery
This market is becoming extremely active. Thanksgiving pull is among us and demand has picked up substantially. Production is slowing due to colder nights and shorter days. We are starting to see some mechanical defects normal for this time of year. There are more deals on large sizes, and smaller sizes are harder to find. Expect strong markets to continue through next week.
Strawberries
Increasing supplies as we enter the 2nd week of November.. All shippers had anticipated November to be their shortest production month. However, with the current weather patterns in all growing regions, production has not slowed down. Actually, it continues to be above forecast. Salinas, Watsonville, Santa Maria, Oxnard and Central Mexico are all in production. Supplies are steady with plenty of promotional and volume buy opportunities available. Quality is being reported as good in all areas, but Santa Maria and Oxnard have proven to be the best fruit at this time. Shippers do not expect any major shifts in supply over the next 2 weeks as weather forecasts call for more sunny days and cool nights. Market prices are lower with spot buys opportunities available for the weekend.
Raspberries
Good supplies are expected as we move into next week as Mexico production is increasing. We are seeing good volume of fruit available to load in McAllen, TX and Oxnard, CA. The domestic harvest has slowed down, but as expected, we will not see any disruption in supply as we transition to all Mexican production. Quality is being reported as very good and markets will remain steady.
Blueberries
There has been a big shift this week in both supply and price. On the east coast in particular, shippers have seen a flush of fruit arrive via boat and plane. These import blues are coming from Peru, Argentina and now light volume from Chile. Most of the inventory is in Miami and prices have dropped this week with plenty of aggressive prices available for spot buy opportunities. On the west coast, we are seeing better supplies of Mexican fruit as well as some South American fruit in Los Angeles. Market prices on the west coast are higher than the east coast, but have also come down from weeks past. Quality is being reported as strong in all areas.
Blackberries
Supplies are improving. We have moved past the supply shortages and Mexican production is getting up to speed. Domestic harvest is done. Initially, most of the fruit was being sold out of McAllen, TX, but we have seen it make its way out west and has helped fill the pipeline for orders loading in Oxnard. Quality is being reported as good with occasional red cell. Markets have been split; cheaper fruit in Texas and a little more expensive in California. I expect to see supplies continue to improve as we move forward.
Cauliflower
Prices are increasing as nighttime temperatures lower along the central coast of California. Lighter yields are expected for the remainder of this week. Most shipper will continue to ship out of Salinas and Santa Maria for the next two weeks.
Broccoli
The market is slightly weaker but it does not look like it will fall too much this week as supplies continue to meet demand with not much oversupply. We do not expect much change as we enter the transaction period over the next 14 days. Quality has been good out of California, nice green domes with tight but fairly large beads. Central Mexico product is available out of Texas but quality has been an issue. The heavy rains that occurred during the beginning of the growing season has hampered some of the early product. Going forward quality should improve.
Limes
Plenty of fruit available on all sizes. The quality has been mixed due to the recent rains. The market is steady to slightly higher but remains at promotable levels.
Artichokes
Production continues steady with improving demand especially on the Heirloom variety.  Most varieties currently are seeded or Thornless. at reduced prices. Production is peaking on Medium size profile.
Cantaloupes
The market firmed this week, not from increased demand but from falling supplies. Blythe would down considerably and should be finished by early next week. Sizes in that area were quite large. Yuma has about 10 days to 2 weeks to go with sizes peaking in regular 9s. Phoenix will also have fruit until almost November but lighter supplies and smaller sizing. Nogales is shipping and peaking on 9s and jbo 9s with adequate volume. Their price structures have gone up to match or nearly match domestic levels. The harvest has started in Guatemala with one importer selling cornering those supplies until after Thanksgiving when others will start. Sizes look to be jbo 9s, 9 and 12s from there and they are expecting one load to arrive Miami next week. Demand should be lackluster in response to the prices and wintry weather that is coming into some of the more populated areas of the country. We look for a firm and steady to slightly higher market next week.
Honeydews
A completely different story. Mexico supplies are abundant and peaking on 5s and 6s. Domestic supplies have been underwhelming all season, but with demand has been quite slow due to poor appearance of the fruit and the cheap competition from Mexico. These things look to change little next week. As with cantaloupes, there will be some Guatemalan fruit arriving with one supplier next week in Florida. Expected quality is being touted as good with sizing running Jbo 5s. 5 and some 6s. Prices being quoted are quite high at this point. With Mexico going strong and off shore coming in and some continued production domestically, supplies look ample. There is nothing in the offing that should pique demand, so market should stay dull and steady next week.
Onions
Washington is shipping Jumbo Yellow 50# bags at anywhere from $4.50 to $5.50 fob Othello WA. Red Jumbo 25# onions are in the $5.00-$6.00 some as high as $7.50 range with deals being made on volume. Jumbo Whites are $10.00-$11.00 range in Washington.
Idaho and eastern Oregon seem to be holding in the $5.00-$5.50 range and deals are being made to multiple load volume. Whites are in the $12.00-13.00 range seem to be holding steady.
The tone of demand is “Fair” according to most shippers with the hope of Thanksgiving demand rising next week.
Potatoes
Best Deals on count cartons are running from as low as $6.50 on 40 count cartons all the way up to $8.00-9.00 on 80’s, 90’s, and 100’s. 10# poly and 5# poly are in the $6.00-7.00 range with bins growing in more popularity.
Stone Fruit
We are currently in transition. The California Stonefruit season is virtually done with very little left in storage. The Imported Stonefruit season will kick off in late December.
Grapes
The October 31st USDA Table Grape Storage Report stated we have 18.1 million boxes of grapes in storage vs. 13.6 million a year ago. That is an increase of 33% with a ton more of late season grapes yet to be harvested. So it will be more of the same. Expect excellent supplies on good quality for all colors. With this, we forecast pricing to remain steady for the next 3-4 weeks including the Thanksgiving holiday. The Autumn King is the predominant green seedless variety with Scarlet Royals still the predominant red seedless variety. At this point look for good volumes into December with pricing at very promotable levels.
Green Onions
Production continues light with continued recent heavy rains further hampering harvest . Supplies are expected to remain tight through the month but should slowly improve with expected increase in demand next month.
Asparagus
Increased production from Western Mexico has started to materialize as rains fade and the market has eased. Many shippers are expecting good demand in anticipation of Holiday promotions and have already firmed pricing. Quality has shown improvement. Production from Peru has also begun to increase.
Lemons
The Mexican lemon crop is past its peak. The Mexican fruit is looking tired and arrival issues are steadily increasing. California supplies are steady with fruit being clean with good quality from both the Desert and the San Joaquin Valley. Peak sizes are 140/165/115’s. Please keep in mind that the San Joaquin Valley (District 1) has started a month earlier than normal. This could make transition to the offshore crop in early summer 2019 tricky as there will be less fruit available.
Oranges
Shippers are now packing volume.  48’s through 72’s are light in supplies on good demand. 88’s are in moderate supply with good demand yesterday with a few ads taking hold. 113’s, 138’s, and 163’s are fairly heavy in supplies with opportunities to drive prices lower on volume.  Weather is expected to remain mild and with no rain for the next 10 days.  The brix averages are 10-11 with the oranges eating well so early in the season. Gas times are coming down now averaging 72 hours. Pack outs have been running 85% Fancy and 10% choice.
Squash
Production in Mexico continues and quality is improving daily. There are plenty of deals on Italian squash and yellow straight neck out of Nogales and Mcallen Texas. Grey squash is also available in both areas. Supplies are good; it is a buyers market and shippers are looking to deal on both #1 and #2s.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower  The market has been firm with lighter supplies due to cooler evenings. Quality has been good with some insect pressure reducing yields
Broccoli Production continues steady with a strong market. Demand has been steadily improving.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most Herbs and Bunching Green production continues to be limited until full transition to Arizona and Mexico takes place in coming weeks. The markets are expected to remain strong with increased pressure from East coast demand.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg  as well as Romaine Production has been limited , mostly due to quality with heavy insect and mildew pressure. Expect markets to continue to advance as demand increases from the east. Supplies are expected to remain volatile through November.
OG Citrus
Lemons: Steady production and improving quality has led to better demand and stable pricing.  Mexico and Chile quality is still variable and supplies should hold steady with a higher percentage of fancy fruit expected.  .
Oranges  Navel production continues to improve although sizing profile is still running below normal.  Expect prices to ease heading into the Winter Citrus season . sizing profile will likely remain smaller through November.
Limes:  Improved weather in Mexico should help increase Supplies. Quality has held steady despite weather interruptions. With no further rains forecast quality should improve in coming weeks
Grapefruit:  Production is light and desert supplies will be limited through November.
Mandarins:  Production  has begun and is expected to ramp up in time for The Holidays. Prebook now to reserve your Holiday volume.
OG Avocados
Mexico: Escalating discord among growers, laborers, cartels and the Mexican government continues to hamper production and artificially pushing prices higher. Improved weather should help quality if the fruit is allowed to be harvest within a short period of time. Promotional supplies were expected to be available through November but with the current unrest supplies are on hold.
California: Season will begin early 2019.
OG Grapes
Green & Red  Central Valley supplies continue to be excellent along with outstanding quality. Specialty varieties , especially reds are exceptional size and brix levels.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady and improved weather could further enhance supplies heading into a heavy Holiday demand period. Continue to plan ahead to get full coverage.
Potato supplies will continue steady with most supplies moving into storage on Gold, Red and Russets.
Onion demand has been good and production is steady with improving demand .Quality has been very good The market continues to be strong, especially on Red and White.

Newsletter 10/31/18

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Lettuce
 As transition continues from Salinas to Central Valley ,California and now to the Arizona deserts, supplies have been accessible but light. Yuma, AZ is expected to start next week while Salinas and Huron CA are forecast to go through mid November varying by shipper. Most growers are skeptical they’ll be able to cover contracts and are holding orders to 8-10 week averages . Quality in Salinas has been fair while Huron has been excellent. We expect Yuma to have variable size and quality to start as many fields experienced heavy rains and flooding last month. Prices have already spiked in anticipation and could head higher if demand improves although Processors will continue to have the largest impact on markets as they supplement supplies during the upcoming transition. Expect volatility to last through November. Las Cruces , NM production looks to improve next week as they move past fields that were affected by the same heavy flooding last month.

Mix Leaf
Romaine and especially Heart demand continues to be strong with steady supplies. Increase pressure from the rising iceberg market will pressure Romaine markets higher. Demand has improved from all parts of the country. Quality has varied with a return of seeder growth. Transition to the Southern CA , Arizona deserts will take place by the week of November 12th  with only a handful of shippers .Expect similar allocation of Romaine through mid November. Green leaf and Red leaf demand has also started to improve and supplies will also be sporadic through transition.

Brussels Sprouts
Domestic production from Northern Coastal region continues to be strong. The market has held mostly steady although surging supplies ahead of Thanksgiving promotions have resulted in significant volume deals .A few quality issues from insect pressure remain but overall quality is good. Regional production continues from Eastern Canada for another week.

Celery
This market is gaining strength, resulting in higher pricing industry wide.   Shorter days and colder nights are slowing production. Demand is increasing as customers begin stocking up for the holiday season. Expect strong markets to continue as demand increases in November. Quality remains very nice with very few issues to report. Salinas and Santa Maria are the main growing areas.

Strawberries
We have several areas in production at the moment. Salinas / Watsonville will continue to harvest through November or until our first major rain/freeze. The quality in this area is fair as we are approaching the end of the season. Market prices are lower than the other loading locations because of quality and the industry is transitioning south. I expect to see some aggressive spot buy opportunities in this area to help blow through some product over the next 2 weeks. Santa Maria continues with consistent harvest, but we will see volume start to trend down over the next 2 weeks as most shippers focus on moving production toward Oxnard. In Oxnard, we will see an increase in production over the next 3-4 weeks. Shippers are breaking into new crop and we expect quality to remain solid, barring any major weather events. Market prices in both Santa Maria and Oxnard seem to be in line and are slightly higher than Salinas/Watsonville. Finally, Mexico will slowly ramp up over the next 2 weeks. Most of this product will be sold out of McAllen, Yuma or transferred to the east coast. Market prices will be in line with Oxnard and quality is expected to be good. Florida production will start late November.

Raspberries
Consistent supplies, quality, and markets on raspberries. We have both Domestic and Mexican production currently. The domestic harvest will start to wind down, but Mexico will continue to improve. As we transition loading locations to Oxnard and Yuma, we do not foresee any disruption in supplies. McAllen is also an option for loading at this time. Market prices have been steady and will continue to be flat until we see our first peak in Mexico over the next 3 weeks.

Blueberries
Supplies are finally beginning to improve. On the east coast, we are seeing consistent arrivals of Peruvian and Argentinean fruit with good availability in Miami. Quality is being reported as good. Market prices have started to decline this week with good supplies expected for the weekend. We can expect to see more aggressive prices moving forward. On the west coast, air arrivals and transfers of import fruit are coming in on a regular basis. Although the volume is not as high as the east coast, we do expect to see better supplies and lower markets moving forward. Additionally, Central Mexico production is slowly ramping up. Most of this fruit is being sold out of McAllen with some transfers to California. Market prices are higher but will decline as production picks up over the next 2 weeks. Chilean production is expected for late November.

Blackberries
We are seeing a definite divide in supplies and price on blackberries. Due to the domestic harvest finishing up and the limited production in Mexico, supplies in California remain very limited this week. However, the fruit that is being harvested, is getting transferred to McAllen and sold at a much cheaper price than CA. As we wait for the effects of the storms from last week to wear off and production to increase, we can expect to see this split market. If loading in McAllen is an option, you will have the best chance of getting covered in full at a better price point. We expect supplies to improve over the next 2 weeks.

Cauliflower
We have seen a slight decrease in harvest volume this week and prices are up $2.00 – $3.00 from last week at this time. Markets look like they will remain at current trading levels going into next week. Quality has been fair, there is some light yellow cast showing as well as the occasional soft shoulder. We have not seen any brown spotting in recent inspections.

Broccoli
It is becoming a broken record but there is not much change expected in the market for the next 7 days. Supplies are matching demand and prices are really not fluctuating that much in either direction. Bunch followed by regular cut crowns are the most abundant. Short cut crowns are available but demanding $2.00 – $3.00 more than regular cuts. We have started shipping our “Shui Ling” crowns out of Central Mexico and are available for loading in Pharr, TX. This will be our first year shipping our ” Shui Ling Green” label. The product in this box will have slightly larger heads counting mainly 25-30 heads per carton. Quality on our first shipment was very nice.

Limes
The rains did come as forecasted and with these recent rains we should see a larger size profile in 2 weeks.  The peak size is 230’s followed by 200’s . 175’s are more plentiful while 150’s and larger still tight. The market is mostly steady. Quality remains good.

Artichokes
Production continues steady with improving demand especially on the Heirloom variety.  Most varieties currently are seeded or Thornless. at reduced prices. Production is peaking on Medium size profile.

Cantaloupes
The market went up this week on diminishing supplies. All traces of the Westside deal were gone. Mexico was going with lightish supplies and big sizes. Desert deal has started to ebb. Sizes in all areas are running large and peaking on jbo 9s with even some jbo 6s and some but not many regular 9s. 12s and smaller are virtually non- existent. Quality has improved but fruit still has a greenish cast however with less ground spots. Demand was still on the lackluster side but felt better as there was less product available. Offshore may have some arrivals in Florida Ports only by the weekend of 11/9 with some increased, but by no means robust volume the week of 11/15. It won’t be until after Thanksgiving that volume picks up with some other Caribbean basin areas start arriving. We don’t see any dramatic increases in demand, especially with higher prices, but the diminishing production could prices on a firm to upward trend pretty much through November.

Honeydews
Unlike cantaloupes, the honeydew market continued to struggle. Domestic supplies are moderate and scarring remains a problem. However Mexico production has been ample with quality better than domestic. Sizes have been running large in both areas peaking on jbo 5s with some jbo 4s, ample supplies of reg 5s and barely adequate supplies of 6s. Demand has been dreadful. Other than processing the retail business has been anemic in the face of unseasonability, cool and wet weather in delivered markets and consumers’ expectation of continued poor quality and appearance. Supplies should ebb along with the cantaloupes. Off shore dews production starts a week or so after their cantaloupes start. We see no dramatic increases in demand due to the same dynamic that has affected cantaloupes. We look for a dull but possibly rising market on honeydews by the end of next week or the following week.

Onions
We are well into the storage section of the Onion calendar. Washington is shipping Jumbo Yellow 50# bags at anywhere from $4.50 to $5.50 fob Othello WA. Red Jumbo 25# onions are in the $5.00-$6.00 range with deals being made on volume. Idaho and eastern Oregon seem to be holding in the $5.00 range and deals are being made on multiple load volume there also. Whites are in the 12.00-13.00 range ad seem to be holding steady.

Potatoes
Best deals on count cartons are running from as low as $6.50 on 40 count cartons all the way up to $8.00 to nine on 80,90,& 100’s. 10# poly and 5# poly are in the $6.00 to $7.00 range with bins growing in more popularity.

Transportation is still relative high now that flat bed trucks are not viable this time of year and reefers are in short supply…best bet is large rail or pigs for solid service.

Grapes
We continue to see excellent quality and supplies of all grapes. There are several varieties currently being harvested on the red and green seedless. All sizes are available. Market prices have remained flat with plenty of promotional opportunities and spot buys available.

Stone Fruit
 The California stone fruit season is finishing up. Given the current demand, Black Plums should be available through early November with Red Plums going into late November. Quality on the remaining fruit seems to be strong. Prices have been steady and will continue to be flat as we finish up.

Green Onions
Production continues light with continued recent heavy rains further hampering harvest . Supplies are expected to remain tight through the month but should slowly improve with expected increase in demand next month.

Asparagus
Increased production from Western Mexico has started to materialize as rains fade and the market has eased. Many shippers are expecting good demand in anticipation of Holiday promotions. Quality has shown improvement. Production from Peru has also begun to increase. Prices are expected to firm during the Thanksgiving promotional season.

Lemons
From Mexico, the lemon crop is beginning to finish up. What has been crossing is mostly smaller sizes on the choice grade. The crop is heavy to the choice grade due to scarring. Demand exceeds supplies on 115’s and larger. From California, District 2 is in full swing while District 1 has started on a light way. Steady supplies of 115’s and smaller with 95’s and larger still limited. Prices seem to have stabilized at the current level. The exterior quality is very good.

Oranges
California Navels have started in a strong way. The fruit is testing very good on the sugar/acid test making for better tasting early fruit. Peak sizing is on 113/138/88’s. Expect a peak on smaller size profile for most of the Navel season. Market prices have moved down rapidly and there are volume deal on the small sizes of 138’s and 163’s.

Squash
Quality is improving out of Mexico. Rain related quality and availability issues from the previous weeks are beginning to clear up and getting back to normal. The market on yellow and Italian squash is easing and shippers are now looking to move product.

Organic Items

OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower  The market has been firm with lighter supplies due to cooler evenings. Quality has been good with some insect pressure in the hotter inland locations

Broccoli Production continues steady with a strong market. Demand has been steadily improving.

OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most Herbs and Bunching Green production continues to be light with improved demand. The markets are expected to advance with increased pressure from East coast demand. . Expect some volatility in supplies as we approach the Fall and “Homegrown ” production becomes scarce.

OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg  as well as Romaine Production has been limited , mostly due to quality with heavy insect and mildew pressure. Expect markets to continue to advance as demand increases from the east. Supplies are expected to remain volatile through November.

OG Citrus
Lemons:  Steady production and improving quality could help stabilize pricing especially heading into the Winter Citrus season . Mexico and Chile quality is still variable and supplies should hold steady with a higher percentage of fancy fruit expected.  .

Oranges  Navels have begun with improved supplies  Expect prices to ease heading into the Winter Citrus season . sizing profile will likely remain smaller through November.

Limes:  Supplies from Mexico have continuously been hampered by heavy rains. Quality has held steady despite weather interruptions. With no further rains forecast quality could improve in a couple weeks  but continued small sizing profile.

Grapefruit:  Production is light and desert supplies will be limited through November.

Mandarins:  Limited Production  has begun and is expected to ramp up in November although sizing nor volume is expected to fill Holiday demand . Time is running out to Reserve your promotional supplies for the Holidays.

OG Avocados 
Mexico: Mexico production has improved although recent rains and upcoming weekend Holiday, Dia de Muertos, may ease supplies. Quality has been good although continuous rain has increased spotting or darkening skin. Promotional supplies are expected to be available through November. as well as off shore varieties.

California: Season will begin early 2019.

OG Grapes
Green & Red  Central Valley supplies continue to be excellent along with outstanding quality. Specialty varieties , especially reds are exceptional size and brix levels.

OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady but excessive heat in the Central Valley most of the Summer has interrupted production , further hampering availability with advanced notice already required with current heavy demand.

Potato supplies will continue steady with most supplies moving into storage on Gold, Red and Russets.

Onion demand has been good and production is steady with improving demand. Quality has been very good The market continues to be strong, especially on Red and White.

OG Melons
OG Watermelons Production from Mexico (Nogales) has been improving although they have been hampered by continued rains throughout Mexico Supplies of the mini’s will remain limited as well.

 

OG Cantaloupes and Honeydews  Production from the Southern desert and Mexico has been slow to start with intermittent rains from the remnants of Pacific Hurricanes.. After a long run of extremely high quality we are currently  evaluating quality after heavy rains soaked the production area last week.

Newsletter 10/24/18

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Supplies continue steady from California although many shippers are skeptical regarding future available acres with pending transition and prices have begun to spike with uncertainty of future supplies. Overall quality is holding with wide variations in color and weights , mostly due to mildew with most trimmed at field level. Central Valley CA has begun with mostly good quality but with similar variations in color and weights. Processors will continue to have the largest impact on markets as they supplement supplies during the upcoming transition. Expect volatility to last through the Fall season. Las Cruces , NM continues with light production due to the impact of previous and current rains. Streaming Pacific Hurricane season continues to affect mostly Mexico region producing dry veg and berries it has also has impacted Arizona , New Mexico and Texas all of which are either currently in production or will be in coming weeks.
Mix Leaf
Romaine and especially Heart demand continues to be strong with steady supplies. Increase pressure from the rising iceberg market will pressure Romaine markets higher. Demand has improved from all parts of the country. Quality has varied with a return of seeder growth. Transition to the Southern CA , Arizona deserts will take place in a couple weeks with reports of a few days behind schedule. Green leaf and Red leaf demand has also started to improve along with Romaine.
Brussels Sprouts
Domestic production from Northern Coastal region continues to be strong. The market has held mostly steady although surging supplies ahead of Thanksgiving promotions will result in some significant volume deals .A few quality issues from insect pressure remain but overall good quality. Regional production continues from Eastern Canada for a few more weeks.
Bell Peppers
Green Bell supplies continue steady as production transitions south with strong demand due to weather related losses in the Southeast and Mexico production areas . Prices spiked with increased demand from the east. Red Bell production has peaked and markets have spiked as well.
Celery
Good supplies on large sized celery. There is availability on all sizes, although small sizes are beginning to tighten up. Market is stronger than last week overall as colder nights and shorter day set in. Quality is nice with very few problems to report industry wide. Good production expected through next week. Demand should start picking up later next week and stronger markets will subsequently follow.
Strawberries
The Salinas and Watsonville areas are winding down, more buyers are looking for new crop fruit in the Santa Maria and Oxnard growing areas, Even with lighter available numbers, demand has been lackluster. The Salinas/Watsonville area is forecast for mostly sunny skies, with highs in the 70s and lows in the 50s. The Santa Maria, California growing areas are forecast for sunny skies, becoming partly cloudy for the weekend, with highs in the 80s decreasing to the 70s on Sunday and lows in the 50s. The Salinas/Watsonville fruit has occasional bruising, white shoulder, overripe and decay with an average count of 22 to 24, occasionally smaller. Santa Maria fruit has occasional bruising, soft shoulder, misshapen, windburn and overripe. The average count is 20 to 22, occasional smaller.
Cauliflower
Good availability and lower prices will remain for this week. Overall quality is fair, we are seeing some yellow cast and soft shoulder on all product loading out of California.
Broccoli
The market has remained unchanged for the last 10 days out of California. It does not look like we will see any changes anytime soon. Markets will remain constant through the remainder of the week. We are seeing a slight increase in price with product coming out of Central Mexico, cooler temperatures and rain are the factors behind price increase. We should have our first cartons of “Shui Ling” crowns crossing in Texas next week.
Citrus
Lime – Fairly good availability on 175’s and smaller. The peak sizes are 235/200’s with 110’s and 150’s very limited. Even with the recent rains the quality has remained good. The market is to remain steady for the next week. Reports from the fields say size should pick up in 2-3 weeks.
Artichokes
Production continues steady with improving demand especially on the Heirloom variety.  Most varieties currently are seeded or Thornless. at reduced prices. Production is peaking on Medium size profile.
Cantaloupes
Volume has yet to increase in the desert and is all but finished on the Westside. Mexico volume is moderate. Next week other than the Westside finally being completely done volume looks to increase a bit as we get past the rain damage in the desert. Ground spots however will most likely remain for the rest of the deal. Mexico is bracing for a Hurricane which could inhibit production and transporting to the border, keeping their volume limited. Demand had been lackluster due to high prices and underwhelming quality, which is limiting the retail appeal leaving processors and food service as the only significant sectors still demanding product. Next week this dynamic looks to change little. We expect at tense but steady market next week.
Honeydews
Scarring is still an issue in the desert. Volume has been low due to spotty quality and light plantings this year in those areas. Mexico has been better quality and in good volume. The price gap between domestic and Mexican product has been significant with Mexico trading at a 6.00 discount compared to domestic. The irony here is that Mexico has much better product right now with much less scarring, better condition and better brix. Domestic commercial grades are selling closer to the # 1 grades from Mexico. Domestic sizing continues to run very big with jbo 4s and 5s the prominent counts per carton.  Mexico has more of a run of sizes peaking n 5 and 6s. Next week this dynamic looks to continue. Domestic will struggle with quality and volume. Mexico should continue to be in good quality and volume unless they are affected by the hurricane. Demand should continue to be lackluster. We look for a steady market next week unless the Hurricane significantly disrupts production and transport.
Grapes
Plentiful supplies and exceptional quality continues to be the story on California grapes. We are now in the peak season.  Market prices remain flat with plenty of spot buy opportunities available.  There is a plethora of varieties out there on red seedless and green seedless and certainly a variety for everyone. Now would be a good time to speak with us about booking your needs for the balance of the season to maintain the lower pricing.
Stone Fruit
Over the next 2 week, the California stone fruit season will be finishing up. Given the current demand, Black Plums should be available through early November with Red Plums going into late November. Markets have been steady and the quality remains good.
Green Onions
Production continues light with continued recent heavy rains further hampering harvest . Supplies are expected to remain tight through the month but should slowly improve with expected increase in demand next month.
Asparagus
Increased production from Western Mexico has started to materialize and the market has begun to ease. Many shippers are expecting good demand in anticipation of Holiday promotions . Quality has shown improvement . Production from Peru has also begun to increase. Prices are expected to firm during the Thanksgiving promotional season.
Lemons
From Mexico, very little fancy grade fruit is being produced. Heavy to the choice grade from Mexico with the peak sizing of the crop small with a peak of 165/200’s. Demand exceeds supplies on 115’s and larger.  From California, quality is very nice out of the desert. Peak size is 140/165’s.  The market from California is mixed. One day it is lower with the day day it is back up.  As we settle into November, promo opportunities will abound.
Oranges
New crop California navels have started with more volume coming over the next 2-3 weeks. Remember this early fruit has been gassed and the external and internal color/quality may be an issue relative to your specs.  This will improve as we work through this early fruit. There will be plenty of 113’s and 138’s for the season with shipper ready to book ads on those sizes.
Squash
Yellow squash has mostly finished in Santa Maria growing areas. Italian squash is still readily available on the coast and quality has been holding up. Yellow and Italian squash now available out on Nogales. We are seeing good volume for now, although quality is beginning to suffer as a result of the recent tropical storms in Mexico.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower  The market has been firm with lighter supplies due to cooler evenings. Quality has been good with some insect pressure in the hotter inland locations.
Broccoli Production continues steady with a strong market. Demand has been steadily improving.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most Herbs and Bunching Green production continues to be light with improved demand. The markets are expected to advance with increased pressure from East coast demand. Expect some volatility in supplies as we approach the Fall and “Homegrown ” production becomes scarce.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg  as well as Romaine Production has been limited , mostly due to quality with heavy insect and mildew pressure. Expect markets to continue to advance as demand increases from the east.
OG Citrus
Lemons: Improved production and reduced quality has eased demand, although quality has improved from the desert as well as Mexico and Chile. Supplies should hold steady with a higher percentage of fancy fruit expected.
Oranges  Navels have begun with limited supplies  Expect limited supplies and reduced sizing profile through November.
Limes: Supplies from Mexico continue to improve and the market remains steady. Quality has held steady despite weather interruptions with improved color but continued small sizing profile.
Grapefruit: Production is light and desert supplies will be limited through November.
Mandarins: Limited Production  has begun and is expected to ramp up in November although sizing nor volume is expected to fill Holiday demand . Time is running out to Reserve your promotional supplies for the Holidays.
OG Avocados
Mexico: Mexico production has improved with additional supplies expected.. Quality has been good although continuous rain has increased spotting or darkening skin. Promotional supplies are available through November. as well as off shore varieties.
California: Season will begin early 2019.
OG Grapes
Green & Red  Central Valley supplies continue to be excellent along with outstanding quality. Specialty varieties , especially reds are exceptional size and brix levels.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady but excessive heat in the Central Valley most of the Summer has interrupted production , further hampering availability with advanced notice already required with current heavy demand .
Potato supplies will continue steady with most supplies moving into storage on Gold, Red and Russets.
Onion demand has been good and production is steady with improving demand .Quality has been very good The market continues to be strong, especially on Red and White.
OG Melons
OG Watermelons Production from Mexico (Nogales) has been improving although they have been hampered by continued rains throughout Mexico Supplies of the mini’s will remain limited as well.
OG Cantaloupes and Honeydews  Production from the Southern desert and Mexico has been slow to start with intermittent rains from the remnants of Pacific Hurricanes.. After a long run of extremely high quality we are currently evaluating quality after heavy rains soaked the production area last week.

Newsletter 10/17/18

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Lettuce
Shorter days and cooler nights on both sides of the country are setting in and markets have begun to firm . Production continues mostly steady as many shippers are expanding their Fall acreage to offset lower yields and expected higher demand. Overall quality is good with wide variations in color and weights , mostly due to distribution of mildew around the valley with most trimmed at field level. Processors will continue to have the largest impact on markets as they supplement supplies during the upcoming transition. Expect volatility to last through the Fall season. Transition to Central Valley growing areas will begin next week. Las Cruces , NM continues their Fall harvest with excellent quality and color. Production has been light due to previous Summer rains impacting plantings although supplies look to rebound next week extending into November.
Mix Leaf
Romaine and especially Heart demand continues to be strong although supplies have improved with increased Fall plantings allowing the market to soften.  Improved demand is expected next week as East Coast production areas have experienced their first Frost. Quality has varied with a return of seeder growth. Cooler nights forecast should help improve quality going forward. Green leaf and Red leaf demand has stalled but is expected to improve next week.
Brussels Sprouts
Domestic production from Northern Coastal region continues to be strong. The market has held mostly steady. Some quality issues from insect pressure have been more frequent but overall quality is good. Regional production continues from Eastern Canada.
Bell Peppers
Green Bell supplies continue steady as production transitions south with strong demand due to weather related losses in the Southeast and Mexico production areas . Prices spiked with increased demand from the east. Red Bell production has peaked and markets have spiked as well.
Celery
Steady production continues this week out of Salinas and Santa Maria. not much change from last week, shippers are still heavier on the large sizes. All sizes are plentiful however. Quality remains strong, with good color and condition throughout.  We expect this market to tighten towards the end of this month as temperatures cool and buyers begin to stock up for thanksgiving pull.
Strawberries
Lighter supplies due to smaller yields in all the growing areas will continue into next week. Harvest estimates have been lower than expected. This is due to the loss of fruit from the rain that hit several days ago. We saw market prices jump up if in the front part of this week and remain firm. The weather has cooled down a bit, especially at night and early morning. This cooler weather will help improve quality and produce firmer fruit. We had several reports of soft berries and bruising over the last week, which is to be expected after a rain. Moving forward, we expect supplies to remain consistent, and quality will be better. I do not foresee a big jump in market prices, but it will be a slow and gradual incline. Barring any more rain or freeze, we expect Salinas and Watsonville to continue with production for the next several weeks. Santa Maria and Oxnard will continue to be in full production and Mexico will slowly ramp up toward the end of the month.
Blackberries
Prices are in a range right now due to quality. Consider the domestic market finished. Mexico is slowly ramping up, but volumes are still low. Very little of the Mexican fruit is making its way over to California, so markets remain higher in all California loading locations. However, the fruit that is coming up from Mexico is being sold out of McAllen, TX at a much more aggressive price. Unfortunately, this still leaves most shippers in a “demand exceeds supply” position, and we can continue to see limited supplies until Mexico’s production is consistent enough to fill the pipeline. Additionally, Mexico has received some heavy rains over the last several days which could further delay harvest.
Raspberries
Supplies have been steady. We now have several areas in production. Salinas / Watsonville are winding down, but are still harvesting. Santa Maria has small volume, and Mexico is ramping up. As we transition to primarily Mexico production, we expect no gaps or shortages of supplies. Demand has been consistent, and markets have been steady. We have fruit available to load in California and Texas. Quality is good.
Blueberries
Supplies are light and we see increasing supplies over the next few weeks. We are seeing more arrivals of Peruvian fruit on the east coast and Mexico is increasing for the west. We expect to see supplies continue to be light for the next week, then ramp up by the end of the month. We will see Mexico and Baja start transferring more fruit to McAllen and California. Additionally, we will see Chilean production start up in November. As stated above, demand is still very strong. Market prices have remained higher and firm.
Cauliflower
Unlike broccoli cauliflower can not figure out what it wants to do..Markets at the beginning of the week were good and so was demand. Now it seems like there are ample supplies, especially in the Santa Maria area, and shippers will be looking to make deals as we finish out the week. Run your offers by us please!!
Broccoli
There has not been much change in the market this week. Crown cuts loading out of California are still in good demand and prices are staying in the mid to high teens. We expect the market to remain at these current trading levels for the rest of the month. Prices may fluctuate up and down slightly, but no major corrections are expected. There is more product crossing into Texas out of Central Mexico and the market is trading at $2.00 – $3.00 lower there than in California. We will start our “Shui Ling ” broccoli program loading in Pharr, TX next week.
Citrus
Small fruit like 200, 230, & 250’s remain plentiful with opportunity buys out there. Supplies of the larger sizes (110’s, 150’s, and 175’s) are slowly increasing in volume. Unfortunately, the rains have continued in Mexico making for fair quality. The forecasts are for the rains to continue.
Artichokes
Production continues steady with limited demand . Market continues to offer values on all sizes. Most varieties currently are seeded or Thornless. Limited supplies of the superior Green Globe or Heirloom variety have begun with expected elevated pricing.
Cantaloupes
Cantaloupes continued on the snug side, especially early this week as rain in the desert delayed the harvest of those starting their deals and interrupted that of those already started. Westside is down to a mere 2 or 3 still harvesting. Sizes were skewing large in the desert peaking on 9 and jbo 9s with even some jbo 6. There were more 12s starting to be harvested as of today. The Westside has been running mostly 12s and 9s with very few larger and smaller sizes available. Quality has been okay, but fall melons always run a bit greener than peak season melons on the Westside. Demand was slowed by higher prices. Some users bought ahead of the gap and have had enough to carry them through. Thus when desert production began to pickup up prices stalled and discounts are starting to creep into the deal. Mexico is going and is selling at a 1.00-3.00 discount, but domestic buyers in many areas tend to shy away from Mexican cantaloupe. Next week the Westside will be wrapping up over the course of the period. The desert should keep producing and supplies could increase as the weather is expected to be stable and warm. Demand will be hampered by expected cool weather in the Midwest and East and high costs of current inventories. We expect a somewhat lower market next week.
Honeydews
Honeydews fell into the same supply gap as cantaloupes. There were even less available. This week they were even a bit shorter in supply as domestic growers struggled to get started in the desert and the Westside was done but for one supplier. Mexico had light supplies. Sizes ran large in the desert and was showing quite a bit of scarring. Sizes were small on the Westside pretty much 5s and 6s in Mexico. Next week Mexico and the desert should increase in supplies as they get past their weather issues. Westside for all intents and purposes will be done. Demand has been and will continue to be slowed by high priced inventories and cooler weather in populated consumption areas. We look for a lower market next week.
Grapes
Steady as we go. Grapes are plentiful on excellent quality. We have not seen any issues from the past rains. Markets continue to be on the bottom and flat. The shippers will be aggressive on volume deals. Plan aggressive promotions for the balance of the California season.  Have confidence in the eating quality as all varieties are brixing high.
Stone Fruit
The season is just about over from California. There are a few large size Peaches around but those will clean up quickly going into next week. Black and Red Plums continue to be available through next week but will continue to taper off. Market prices have been steady on moderate demand.
Green Onions
Production continues light with recent heavy rains further hampering harvest . Supplies are expected to remain tight through the month but should slowly improve with expected increase in demand next month.
Asparagus
Increased production from Western Mexico has started to materialize and the market has begun to ease. Many shippers are expecting good demand in anticipation of Holiday promotions . Quality has shown improvement. Production from Peru has also begun to increase with prices easing.
Lemons
The offshore deal is quickly finishing. Mexican production continues with demand exceeding supplies on the Fancy Grade Mexican fruit. Southern California and Arizona are continuing to crank up volume, 140’s & larger continue to tight with the smaller sizes most plentiful. The quality is coming in very good and will continue to as we hit peak production. Markets mostly steady to slightly lower.
Oranges
New crop California Navel will be available next week. Peak sizes will be 88/113/138’s. This will be a great time to push bag promo opportunities. The eating quality is expected by good with the brix levels higher than normal for this time of year. Market prices on the New Crop Navels is expected to be strong. The California Valenica crop will continue limping to it’s end. Poor to fair quality expected with plenty of soft fruit and regreening.
Squash
Good supplies of zucchini still coming out of Santa Maria. Yellow squash is nearing the end of the season in Santa Maria. Nogales squash has started and product is crossing daily from Mexico. Italian and Yellow Squash are plentiful out of Nogales at this time. Grey squash is also available. We expect some quality issues ahead on Nogales squash as a result of heavy rain and wind that came through Sonora Mexico last week. The extent of the damage is yet to be determined.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower  The market has been firm with lighter supplies due to cooler evenings. Quality has been good with some insect pressure in the hotter inland locations
Broccoli  Production has improved slightly but the market continues to be strong. Demand is expected to improve heading into the fall as eastern regional supplies are likely to finish with frost expected on the East coast.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most Herbs and Bunching Green production continues to be light with improved demand. The markets are expected to advance with increased pressure from East coast demand. Expect some volatility in supplies as we approach the Fall and “Homegrown ” production becomes scarce
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg  as well as Romaine Production has been limited , mostly due to quality with heavy insect and mildew pressure. Expect markets to continue to advance as demand increases from the east.
OG Citrus
Lemons:  Improved production and reduced quality has eased demand, although quality has begun to improve from the desert as well as Mexico and Chile. Supplies should hold steady with a higher percentage of fancy fruit expected.  .
Oranges  Valencia season has finished prematurely and Navels are ready to start up next week.  Expect limited supplies and sharp price increases until the Navel crop comes in fully early next month.
Limes:  Supplies from Mexico continue to improve and the market remains steady. Quality has held steady despite weather interruptions with improved color and sizing.
Grapefruit:  Production is light and desert supplies will be limited until December. expected for the balance of the month.
OG Avocados
Mexico: Mexico production has improved with additional supplies expected.. Quality has been good although continuous rain has increased spotting or darkening skin. Promotional supplies are available through November. as well as off shore varieties.
California: Season will begin early next year 2019.
OG Grapes
Green & Red  Central Valley supplies continue to be excellent along with outstanding quality. A few older varieties with smaller sizing profiles are expected to decrease resulting in a tighter price range. The remaining “newer” varieties, especially reds are exceptional size and brix levels.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady but excessive heat in the Central Valley most of the Summer has interrupted production , further hampering availability with advanced notice already required with current heavy demand.
Potato supplies have transitioned to the Northwest with improving supplies of Gold, Red and Russets. Cooler nights will impact supplies moving forward.
Onion demand has been good and production is steady with improving supplies of Reds. Quality has been very good. The market continues to be strong, especially on Red and White.
OG Melons
OG Watermelons Production is winding down from Central Valley California and is in transition to Mexico (Nogales) Supplies are expected to improve by the end of the month.
OG Cantaloupes and Honeydews production from Westside District, CA is just about finished and only a few shippers have begun harvest from the Southern desert and Mexico . After a long run of extremely high quality we are currently evaluating quality after heavy rains soaked the production area last week.

10/10/18

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Lettuce
Production continues mostly steady as the market and demand work its’ way back to sustainable levels.Overall quality is good with wide variations in color and weights, mostly due to distribution of mildew around the valley with most trimmed at field level. Processors will continue to have the largest impact on markets as they supplement supplies during the upcoming transition. Expect volatility to last through the Fall season. Transition to Central Valley growing areas will begin in a couple weeks. Las Cruces , NM has begun their Fall harvest with excellent quality and color. Call for daily availability as the season will extend through November.
Mix Leaf
Romaine and especially Heart demand continues to be strong. Improved demand especially from the East continues to fuel higher pricing.. Quality has improved slightly with cooler evenings limiting seeder growth and improving texture although mildew pressure remains. Greenleaf demand remains strong while Redleaf is along for the ride. Quality has been improving as well.
Brussels Sprouts
Domestic production from Northern Coastal region continues to be strong. The market has held mostly steady. Some quality issues from insect pressure have been more frequent but overall quality is good. Regional production continues from Eastern Canada.
Bell Peppers
Green Bell production continues steady with improving demand allowing for continued firmer pricing especially with weather affecting Eastern production. Red Bell production has peaked and markets have begun to firm as well.
Celery
We expect steady supplies to continue through next week. Larger sizing available and shipper are looking to move volume deals. Supplies are good on all sizing and please run offers by us. Quality is very nice, with nice color and structure. Salinas and Santa Maria are the main growing areas and competitive pricing is available out of both areas.
Strawberries
Salinas and Watsonville are winding down for the season. Buyers are more interested in the new crop fruit in the Santa Maria and Oxnard growing areas. Volumes are keeping up with the demand and we expect demand to increase further as the North areas finish. The Northern areas are forecast for mostly sunny skies, some low clouds then sun on Thursday and sunny for the rest of the week with highs in the 60s increasing to the 70s Friday and lows in the 50s. The Santa Maria, California growing areas are forecast for partly cloudy skies with a chance of a morning shower on Thursday and sunny for the weekend with highs in the 70s and lows in the 50s. Salinas/Watsonville fruit has occasional bruising, fan and overripe with an average count of 25 to 27, occasional smaller. Santa Maria fruit has occasional bruising, soft shoulder, misshapen and overripe. The average count  is 22 to 24. Even with warmer temps forecast for the weekend, We are looking for the market to stay strong into next week.
Blackberries
 Mexico will continue to come in with good supply and promotable volumes for the remainder of the month. Any supplies of California Blackberries are small in numbers and hard to find.
Raspberries
Supplies will continue to cross steadily from Mexico with good enough numbers to promote for the next 2 weeks. There still in a few supplies pushing small numbers of California fruit. There have been some quality issues reported as soft berries have been found in a few lots.
Blueberries
Product remain tight as imports from Argentina, Mexico and Peru continue to arrive in small numbers. Volumes are not expected to increase until around the 2nd week of October. Promotable supplies may are not expected until mid November.
Cauliflower
There has been a lull in the market the last week or so but it looks like that will be changing. Lighter supplies are expected over the next week or so and markets have begun to reflect this. Prices will increase steadily going into the first part of next week. Order early to make sure you get everything covered.
Broccoli
The market remains fairly stable. We have seen a few shippers adjust prices slightly lower this week but most are staying at the mid teen levels they have been at over the last 10 days. We expect the market to continue at current trading levels into next week. We will start our “Shui Ling” crown and florette program next week. Call your sales representative for details and availability.
Citrus
Lime -There is a two tier market. 200’s and smaller are plentiful with opportunity buys available .  175’s and larger are limited in supply on strong demand with market pricing firm. Quality is fair to good from Mexico. This could change with wet weather (thunderstorms) forecasted for Veracruz this week.
Lemons – Weak demand is driving the market lower as domestic supplies increase. The new crop from the Desert areas of California is coming in with very nice story. Best availability is on the small sizes. By the end of October, the transition to the domestic crop will be complete.
Oranges – Limited availability on 88’s and smaller for both California Valencias and Offshore Navels.  California Valencia quality is fair at best due to regreening, decay, and mold. The Offshore Navels are mixed in quality with older lots exhibiting mold. Buy only recent offshore arrivals. With that said, the new crop California Navels will be harvested in a limited way at the end of the week.  After gassing, the California Navels will be available to load next week.  Better supplies of California Navels are expected the week of October 22.  Overall market prices for next week will be steady to higher.
Artichokes
Production continues steady with limited demand . Market continues to offer values on all sizes. Current varieties are solely seeded or Thornless. Green Globe or Heirloom variety will appear in limited quantities later this month.
Cantaloupes
As expected supplies diminished drastically over the past week driving prices upward. The Westside is dwindling rapidly and could be wrapped up for all intents and purposes by the end of the week. The California and Arizona desert deal has started but slowly, having been delayed a bit by last week’s rain. Sizes are running 9s and 12s from the Westside with very few jumbo 9s and some 15s. Desert sizing is larger peaking on jbo 9s and 9s (especially in Phoenix area). Demand has slowed this week in response to the sharply higher pricing and prices have begun to stall a bit. Next week, the Westside will have dribs and drabs of product left but will nothing significant. Desert supplies should pick up as more shippers start and their deal matures. Sizes should continue to run mostly jbo 9s an 9s. Demand will be fair, which should prompt either a moderate price decline or some discounting by mid week. However there is less product planted this fall than normal, so a significant price drop does not look likely.
Honeydews
There a bits and pieces of honeydew supplies left up north with sizes peaking and 8s with some 5s. Desert has started but is phasing in slowly with sizes skewing toward jbo and regular 5s. Prices have shot up accordingly in response to the light supplies, but demand has diminished in response. Next week we should see supplies in the desert increase gradually while the north finishes. Demand should continue to be lackluster due to the higher prices. We look for a dull and steady market early next week, with lower prices developing mid to end of the period.
Grapes
More of the same is expected. Excellent supplies and vintage quality continues on all varieties.  There’s a variety for everyone. Opportunity buys and promotional volumes exist. This should continue for the foreseeable future (next 2-3 weeks) unless a weather event like a rain storm develops.
Stone Fruit
California stone fruit season is winding down. Peaches are finishing up quickly with only a few shippers offering a very limited size range (mostly larger).  Look for peaches to be available through the end of next week.  Black plums should be available through the rest of October with Red Plums going into November. Markets have been steady and the quality remains good.
Green Onions
Production has been light most of the Summer and recent heavy rains further set back harvest leaving availability extremely limited. Supplies are expected to remain tight through the month but should slowly improve moving forward barring any new additional setbacks.
Asparagus
Increased production from Western Mexico has been anticipated for a couple weeks but continued weather delays have kept supplies light. Growers are still expecting supplies to peak before the end of the month and should coincide with Holiday promotions next month. Some seeding has been seen on initial harvest but quality has shown improvement recently. Production from Peru should also be increasing in coming weeks with prices expected to be lower.
Squash
Yellow and Italian squash is available out of Santa Maria and Nogales areas. The market has gotten active as a result of heavy rain activity in Mexico. We are seeing better volume on yellow squash this week and light on zucchini. Expect stronger markets through next week as as supplies lighten up.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower  The market has been firm with lighter supplies due to cooler evenings. Quality has been good with some insect pressure in the hotter inland locations.
Broccoli    Production has improved slightly but the market continues to be strong. Demand is expected to improve heading into the fall as eastern regional supplies are likely to finish early due to Summer long heat and humidity.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most Herbs and Bunching Green production continues to be light with improved demand . The markets are expected to advance with increased pressure from East coast demand. . Expect some volatility in supplies as we approach the Fall and “Homegrown ” production becomes scarce.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg  as well as Romaine Production has been limited , mostly due to quality with heavy insect and mildew pressure. Expect markets to continue to advance as demand increases from the east.
OG Citrus
Lemons:  Improved production and reduced quality has eased demand. Imported quality from Mexico and Chile has surpassed the limited domestic supply at least until production increases from the desert in coming weeks .
Oranges  Valencia season has finished prematurely and Navels are still a couple weeks away. Expect limited supplies and sharp price increases until the Navel crop comes in later this month.
Limes:  Supplies from Mexico continue to improve and the market remains steady. Quality has held steady despite weather interruptions with improved color and sizing.
Grapefruit:  Production is steady with limited supplies and steady pricing expected for the balance of the month.
OG Avocados
Mexico: Mexico production has improved with additional supplies expected.. Quality has been good with promotional supplies available through October. as well as off shore varieties  California: Season will begin early next year 2019.
OG Grapes
Green & Red  Central Valley supplies continue to be excellent along with outstanding quality. A few older varieties with smaller sizing profiles are expected to decrease resulting in a tighter price range.The remaining “newer” varieties, especially reds are exceptional size and brix levels.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady but excessive heat in the Central Valley most of the Summer has interrupted production, further hampering availability with advanced notice already required with current heavy demand.
Potato supplies have transitioned to the Northwest with improving supplies of Gold, Red and Russets. Onion demand has been good and production is steady with improving supplies of Reds. Quality has been very good The market continues to be strong, especially on Red and White
OG Melons
OG Watermelons Production is winding down from Central Valley California and is in transition to Mexico (Nogales) Supplies are expected to improve by the middle of the month.
OG Cantaloupes and Honeydews production from Westside CA is just about finished and only a few shippers have begun harvest from the Southern desert and Mexico. After a long run of extremely high quality we are currently evaluating quality after heavy rains soaked the production area last week.

10/5/18

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Lettuce
Production has improved enough for the market to settle from its’ peak. Demand seems to continue steady with fluctuating supplies. Growers continue to battle mildew and disease in some fields forcing early harvest especially with the remnants of Hurricane Rosa.  Processors will continue to have the largest impact on markets as they supplement supplies depending on their yields. Overall quality is good with some variation in color and weights , mostly due to proportion of mildew being trimmed at field level. Expect volatility to last through the Fall season. Transition to Central Valley growing areas will begin later October. Additionally Las Cruces , NM will begin production by the end of next week . Some heavy rains earlier this Summer reduced planted acreage but excellent quality is forecast
Mix Leaf
Romaine and especially Heart demand continues to be strong Improved demand especially from the East continues to fuel higher pricing.. Quality continues to struggle with seeders causing twist and rib discoloration. Cooler evenings have helped but recent warmer evenings may further enhance the issues along with increasing mildew pressure. green leaf demand remains strong while red leaf is along for the ride. Quality has been fair with heavy seeder and now mildew.
Brussels Sprouts
Domestic production from Northern Coastal region continues to be strong. The market has held mostly steady. Improved production and quality from regional production areas in Eastern Canada have decreased demand from California and has led to heavy discounts by some shippers.
Bell Peppers
Green Bell production continues steady with improving demand allowing for higher pricing. Red Bell production has peaked and markets have begun to firm..
Celery
This market remains soft this week. Shippers are looking to move product at competitive pricing, especially on larger sizes. Production is coming out of Oxnard, Santa Maria and Salinas. Quality is very strong with good color, structure and texture. Very few problems to report. Run offers by us.
Strawberries
Light rains came to the coast on Wednesday. We will have to wait and see how the wet weather will affect the market. The rainfall is heavier in the southern growing areas of Santa Maria and Oxnard. Harvest is on hold with crews standing by waiting for the rain to stop. Shippers are expecting supplies to become limited going into the weekend. Quality will be effected over the next week as growers pick through the rain damaged fruit down south. We expect market prices to jump in Santa Maria and Oxnard. Up north in Salinas / Watsonville, we are seeing light rain this morning. Harvest has not stopped, but we will have to wait and see if the storm blows through. At this point, I do not expect any major supply issues in the northern growing regions. Quality may be better in Salinas / Watsonville over the next week if Santa Maria and Oxnard continue to get hit hard. Market prices are expected to climb slightly.
Blackberries
Blackberries have been very limited recently. The domestic production has tapered off quickly, and supplies are snug in all California areas. Mexico has just started to scratch the surface with only a handful of shippers bringing that fruit into McAllen, TX. Because this is the only fruit available from Mexico at this time, we will see aggressive prices to help move the product out of Texas. We expect Mexican production to slowly ramp up over the next 2-3 weeks and more shippers will start to bring fruit over the border. We will see Mexican fruit available to load in California by the end of the month. Prices on the remaining domestic fruit has been higher. Quality is fair.
Raspberries
Raspberry supplies have been steady. Quality continues to hold strong, and markets have lackluster. We continue to see harvest in Salinas, Watsonville and Santa Maria. We will see this supply gradually taper off as Mexico gets started (as early as next week). We do not foresee any disruption in supply through the transition. We expect Mexico to be the primary area of production by the end of this month. We will see the Mexican fruit first become available out of McAllen, TX and slowly fill the pipeline for California as harvest increases.
Blueberries
Limited supplies will continue into next week. With the cooler weather in the South American growing regions, most shippers have opted not to harvest or send any containers to the US. This combined with the delayed and limited arrivals that were on the water, we are left in a “demand exceeds supply” situation. This is an industry-wide issue. Although shippers on the west coast are relying on storage blues from the Pacific Northwest to help fill demand, there is simply not enough fruit. Supplies will not improve until we see import fruit arrivals from Peru and Argentina on the east coast and Mexico pick up harvest for the west coast. Speaking with shippers, they are hesitant to put a hard date on when they expect supplies to increase. They are depending on the import production to ramp up, and thus far, supplies have been far less than expected. Once we have consistent containers on the water, we will need to wait for the pipeline to be filled before we see any real promotable volumes. We can expect to be in this position for another 2-3 weeks.
Cauliflower
Lighter yields are forecasted for the next couple of weeks. FOB prices are gradually increasing and are expected to continue in this manner going into next week. Quality is good, there is still the light yellow cast and some soft shoulder being found, but as growers yields have decreased they are now keeping their daily inventory fresh.
Broccoli
Market is beginning to gain some momentum as we finish out the week. Prices gradually declined last week and then caught and have now begin to increase. Lighter yields in California due to quality issues such as branchy, cateye and some spread of the dome have reduced harvest projections. As Central Mexico begins their season yields are expected to be light the first few months of harvest due to rains interrupting planting schedules. Markets could remain at current or slightly higher trading levels for a while. We expect to start our “Shui Ling” broccoli program out of Central Mexcio loading in Pharr, TX by the end of next week with light volume.
Citrus
Lime – Lime markets are steady, and pricing is promotable. Quality is mostly fair to good from Mexico.
Lemons – The market is mostly steady to slightly lower as we continue a slow transition into our domestic crop. Currently fruit is available from California, Mexico, and offshore from Chile.  Quality is slowly improving on the new crop as it is being harvested.
Oranges – The offshore Oranges 88’s and smaller are in heavy demand with those sizes generally sold out as the containers arrive. Offshore Oranges 72’s and larger are more readily available. Market price trending slightly higher. California Valencia oranges are coming in mostly 72 and 88 ct and larger with fair quality at best.  New crop California Navels will start at the end of October.  The initial 2018-19 Navel orange forecast is 80.0 million cartons, up 11 percent from the previous year .  Some growers are reporting brix already as high as 14 brix.
Artichokes
Production continues steady with limited demand . Market continues to offer values on all sizes. Current varieties are solely seeded or Thornless. Green Globe or Heirloom variety will appear in limited quantities later this month.
Cantaloupes
A serious gap has developed in supplies; The Westside quickly wrapping up, and the rain today & tomorrow is bringing this about a bit quicker than anticipated. Only a couple of suppliers are expecting to work for another week or so up there.  The desert was expecting to start by early to mid next week, but that is now in doubt due to the rains Yuma and Phoenix have experienced. Next week estimates now have that area starting the weekend of the 12th or the following week. Sizes there are expected to run large. We look for short supplies and rising prices through mid to all of next week, with lower prices perhaps developing by the week of 10/15.
Honeydews
Once again the market arc of honeydews has been following that of cantaloupes; Suppliers on the Westside and in Sacramento are finishing up and should be completely done over the weekend or early next week. Most are done now or running mostly all 8s size with few larger. Prices have risen commensurate with the supply shortage. As with cantaloupes, the desert area start date is being pushed back several days or perhaps a full week, starting now no earlier than the weekend or the week of 10/15. We suspect sizes will run large on the honeydews in the desert as well. As with lopes we look for sharply higher prices and short supplies thru most of not all of next week with perhaps declining prices and increasing supplies the week of 10/15
Grapes
Spotty showers will be passing over the grape growing region of the San Joaquin Valleyon Wednesday afternoon. Most growers have covered their vines with plastic to minimize the affects of the rains. For now, we don’t foresee any quality issues from the rain for loading the next 7-10 days as there is plenty of pre-rain grapes in inventory. On red seedless, the Scarlet Royal crop is very good this season with beautiful color, very firm berries and brix in the 22° plus range. The Scarlet Royal crop is plentiful and can support volume ads.  For green seedless, we are into the Autumn Kings. This variety is coming in with big berries more flavor than years previous.  For next week, we expect market pricing to be fairly steady on all varieties with moderate demand.  As we continue into the Fall, the grape crop will continue to consist of large, flavorful varieties with excellent maturity and good volume to support promotions. Come and get’em.
Stone Fruit
Yellow Flesh Peaches and Flavor Fall Pluots are still going with good quality and size. Market prices have been steady. Look to get one last ad opportunity in before the end of the California crop.  Peak size on the Yellow Flesh Peaches remain the same at 40/42’s while the Flavor Fall Pluots are peaking on 64 ct tray packs.  We forecast availability through the middle of October.
Green Onions
Production has been light most of the Summer and with National Holiday and recent rains in Northern Mexico production has come to a grinding halt. Supplies are expected to remain tight through the month.
Asparagus
Production from Western Mexico is expected to improve in coming weeks. Some seeding has been seen on initial harvest but quality should improve as additional fields open up. Production from Peru should also be increasing in coming weeks with prices expected to be lower.
Squash
Volume is increasing daily out of Northern Mexico. The recent hurricane has slowed production, creating some supply gaps for the short term, although supplies are expected to improve next week. Quality has been strong overall.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower the market has been firm with lighter supplies due to cooler evenings. Quality has been good with some insect pressure in the hotter inland locations .
Broccoli production has improved slightly but the market continues to be strong. Demand is expected to improve heading into the fall as eastern regional supplies are likely to finish early due to Summer long heat and humidity.
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most Herbs and Bunching Green production continues to be light with improved demand . The markets are expected to advance with increased pressure from East coast demand. . Expect some volatility in supplies as we approach the Fall and “Homegrown ” production becomes scarce.
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg  as well as Romaine Production has been limited , mostly due to quality with heavy insect and mildew pressure. Expect markets to continue to advance as demand increases from the east.
OG Citrus
Lemons:  Improved production and reduced quality has eased demand although pricing remains elevated . Imported quality from Mexico and Chile has surpassed the limited domestic supply at least until production increases from the desert in coming weeks..
Oranges  Valencia season has finished prematurely and Navels are still a couple weeks away. Expect limited supplies and sharp price increases until the Navel crop comes in later this month
Limes:  Supplies from Mexico continue to improve and the market remains steady. Quality has held steady despite weather interruptions with improved color although mostly smaller sizing.
Grapefruit:  Production is prematurely finishing with supplies not expected to return til the end of the month from the desert
OG Avocados
Mexico production has improved with additional supplies expected early next month. Quality has been good with promotional supplies available through October. as well as off shore varieties  California: Season will begin early next year 2019
OG Grapes
Green & Red  Central Valley supplies continue to be excellent along with outstanding quality. A few older varieties with smaller sizing profiles are expected to decrease resulting in a tighter price range. The remaining “newer” varieties , especially reds are exceptional size and brix levels.
OG Root Vegetables
Carrot Production has been steady but excessive heat in the Central Valley most of the Summer has interrupted production , further hampering availability with advanced notice already required with current heavy demand .
Potato supplies have transitioned to the Northwest with improving supplies of Gold, Red and Russets.  Onion demand has been good and production is steady with improving supplies of Reds. Quality has been very good The market continues to be strong.especially on Red and White
OG Melons
OG Watermelon Production continues to be primarily from Central Valley California although supplies are expected to slow considerably before transitioning to to Mexico ( Nogales) later this month.
OG Cantaloupes and Honeydews production from Central Valley California is winding down with limited availability.. Transition to the Arizona desert is expected to begin in a couple weeks although heavy rains from Hurricane Rosa are expected to impact supplies and quality .
Produce West Inc. | 831-455-2981 | 831-455-1666 | www.prod

9/21/18

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Lettuce
Production continues mostly steady with occasional surges keeping the market grounded. Demand has been steady with a continued sense of pending improvement with cooler evenings and diminished quality from the Eastern Homegrown areas. We are expecting demand to shift towards the West.  Wide variations in color, weight and appearance remain common although overall quality is good.
Mix Leaf
Romaine and Heart production continue steady with improving, steady demand. Quality has been improving although wide variations in sizing, color and appearance continue industry wide. Slightly cooler evenings have improved overall quality although seeders continue to affect appearance.   The Greenleaf and Redleaf markets have improved slightly but continue to be available with varying degrees of quality from shipper to shipper. Much like the Iceberg market there’s a sense  of an early transition to Western leafy greens adding to potential market shift.
Brussels Sprouts
Domestic production from the Northern Coastal region continues steady. The market has also held steady with moderate demand. Discounted pricing is available on wing sizes, small and jumbos. Mediums are slightly stronger but deals remain for volume.Quality is much improved.   Regional production areas have started with improving quality , possibly eroding demand from the West.
Bell Peppers
Green Bell production continues steady with improving demand allowing for firmer pricing. Red Bell production has improved but could tighten by next week with the market expected to remain firm.
Celery
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Strawberries
Supplies have been limited for the last several weeks. This week not much has changed; supplies continue to be light in Salinas, Watsonville and Santa Maria. Market prices have been higher and firm. Quality in the Salinas / Watsonville areas has been fair. We have seen reports of soft fruit and shortened shelf life, but the weather has been ideal and we expect things to improve moving forward. In Santa Maria, shippers are breaking into new crop (fall harvest). Quality is being reported as much stronger in this area, but supplies are still light. Market prices are the same in either location. We do not expect any major issues with coverage, but same day additions or orders will be a challenge. Looking out over the next several weeks, I expect to see supplies improve in Santa Maria and remain light in Salinas / Watsonville. Additionally, we will see some light harvest out of Oxnard with certain shippers. I expect quality to continue to be solid in the new growing regions and gradually improve in Salinas / Watsonville (barring any major weather events). Salinas and Watsonville are expected to have production last through late November. We will see an overlap with Santa Maria, Oxnard and eventually Mexico by December.
Blackberries
Supplies continue to be a challenge as we finish the domestic harvest season. Due to the warm weather earlier in the summer, much of the fruit ripened earlier than expected and crops as a whole were 3-4 weeks ahead of schedule. Unfortunately, this leaves the industry in a supply shortage now at the tail end of the season. We can expect to see supplies remain limited and quality to be marginal until we transition into Mexico production. We expect Mexico to begin with light harvest over the next 2-3 weeks and slowly ramp up as we approach November. This week, we are seeing softer berries and red cell in most of the fruit available in Salinas, Watsonville and Santa Maria. Supplies are limited, and markets are steady and firm. Coverage will be a challenge until we get into Mexico harvest. Expect supplies to be short through October.
Raspberries
We are seeing a second “late season” peak in production that is expected to last over the next 1-2 weeks coming from the Salinas, Watsonville and Santa Maria growing regions. Quality is being reported as good, but we have seen some soft berries with occasional decay. With the cooler weather at night, we expect this to improve. This will be the last wave of fruit from these growing regions before we phase out and transition into Mexican production by November. Market prices have been steady, but we may see some flex on spot buy opportunities over the next week
Blueberries
A split market will continue into next week. Import Blueberry supplies continue to improve on the east coast with most of the Peruvian fruit being loaded in Manfredi, PA and limited volume of Argentinian fruit in Miami. The quality is being reported as good. Market prices are coming down very slowly, this week we are seeing a small decrease across the board. We expect supplies to continue to improve as we move forward. As for the last of the domestic harvest, we are seeing very little fruit left in Michigan (maybe one more week left) and we are on the tail end of what is left in the Pacific Northwest on the west coast. Quality is fair, and market prices are higher. Mexico and Baja harvest is just getting going with light volume. Overall, we expect supplies to continue to improve on the east coast and remain limited on the west coast for the next several weeks.
Cauliflower
Currently there is excellent supplies and quality available out of both Santa Maria and Salinas. Take advantage of the rock bottom prices while they last. The market could start to trend upwards by the end of the week. Generally speaking as broccoli moves cauliflower will usually follow it.
Broccoli
Good demand and lighter supplies are driving the market up. Regional product off the East Coast and Canada is limited thus sending that business back here to the West Coast. Couple that with shorter days and cooler nights in California and we have a demand exceeds situation. We will remain in this situation into next week.
Citrus
Oranges- Supplies of Valencia Orange 113/138 continues to decline while the market price on the small Valencias continues to climb. Valencia quality is fair with 88’s and larger more readily available.  On Chilean Navels, great import navel ad opportunities for the month of September.   This week, the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) released the 2018-19 Navel Orange Objective Measurement Report. The published report forecasts 80 million cartons of Navel oranges for California, which is an 11% increase from the 2017-18 season. The initial CASS estimate puts the Central Valley at 77 million cartons to be produced. The data collected indicated a fruit set per tree of 426, which would be above the 5 year average of 333. The average September 1 diameter was 2.117 inches, which is below the 5 year average of 2.269 inches.
Lemons- Moderate to good supplies of Chilean Lemons being offered from both coast with the market price steady on 115’s and larger and slightly lower on 140’s and 165’s. There a wide range of quality and price on the Mexican lemons crossing at Texas. From the West Coast, District 3 is going in a light way on good quality. Better domestic supplies are not expected to kick in for another 2-3 weeks.
Limes – On Mexican fruit crossing into McAllen, the market is slightly higher on 175’s and larger on good demand while is wide range of price and quality on 200’s and smaller.
Artichokes
Production continues steady with limited demand . Market continues to offer values on all sizes. Current varieties are solely seeded or Thornless. Green Globe or Heirloom variety will appear in limited quantities next month
Cantaloupes
Market seems glued to the floor as lackluster demand dominates the narrative here. Sizes have skewed a bit lower, peaking on 9s the 12s with fewer jbo 9s. Best quality jbo 9s have begun to demand a bit of a premium. Next week, supplies look steady and could increase a bit with warmer day time temps in the Westside are expected. Not sure if demand will ever get robust enough to raise the market. Nothing has stimulated demand all summer. Arizona should start harvesting new fall crop the first or second week of October. We look for a dull and steady market next week with a possibly rise in the jbo 9 price on best quality.
Honeydews
Dull demand has been the rule all summer as it has with cantaloupes. There have been less honeydews planted this year so there is less of supply glut. But with demand dragging, it has had no impact on prices. Thus the market has stayed steady and dull at mostly 5.00 all season long. Sizes are running mostly 56 and 6s with fewer job 5s. Little looks to change next week. Supplies should be steady. Sizes should be peaking on regular 5s and 6s, and demand looks to stay on the slow side. It seems a steady and uneventful week lies ahead.
Grapes
The market will be steady on weak demand.  Special buys or hot deals are generally grapes that have been packed up for awhile and need to move.  Dried stems being the main issue.  All in all, it is a great time to promote. The quality is outstanding on fresh packed fruit, brix are high, and the quality of the product will driver repeat sales. Come and get’em!
Stone Fruit
California and Washington will continue to have peaches through the end of September with ad volume still available. Market price steady on moderate demand.  Quality is very good from both areas. The current plum crop looks strong and will go for a while. Various Red and Black Plum varieties continue to be offered. Market price steady on moderate demand. Promotional opportunities available on Angelino Plums.
Asparagus
Production from Peru continues to be moderate and transition to Coastal Mexico continues to be slow resulting in steady, elevated pricing. Additional volume is expected in coming weeks with promotional supplies available by the end of the month.
Organic Items
OG Broccoli & Cauliflower
Cauliflower  The market has been firm with lighter supplies due to cooler evenings. Quality has been good with some insect pressure in the hotter inland locations .  Broccoli   Production has improved slightly but the market continues to be strong. The market may continue to rise depending on supplies in eastern regional growing areas which continue to suffer for high heat and humidity
OG Herbs & Bunch Greens
Most Herbs and Bunching Green production continues to be light with improved demand . The markets are expected to advance with increased pressure from East coast demand. . Expect some volatility in supplies as we approach the Fall and “Homegrown ” production becomes scarce..
OG Leaf and Iceberg Lettuce
Leaf, Iceberg  as well as Romaine  supplies  continue steady with improved demand. Expect markets to advance in coming weeks. Continued Hot and humid weather in the east will likely lead to an early transition West.
OG Citrus
Lemons:  Improved production and reduced quality has eased demand although pricing remains elevated . Imported quality from Mexico and Chile has surpassed the limited domestic supply at least until the new production area later next month.
Oranges: Valencia’s supplies continue steady with increased sizing and sugar profile.  Demand continues strong with back to school activity.Limes: Supplies from Mexico continue to improve and the market remains steady. Quality has held steady despite weather interruptions  with improved color although mostly smaller sizing.
Grapefruit:  Supplies have been steady with good quality and demand keeping prices elevated. Sizing profiles have increased.
OG Avocados
Mexico:  Mexico has transitioned into their Fall crop with improved volume although sizing remains small. Additional production is also coming from Peru and Chile . California: California Hass production is winding down with limited availability
OG Grapes
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OG Root Vegetables
 Carrot Production has been steady but excessive heat in the Central Valley most of the Summer has interrupted production , further hampering availability with advanced notice already required with current heavy demand .
Potato supplies have transitioned to the Northwest with improving supplies of Gold, Red and Russets.  Onion demand has been good and production is steady with improving supplies of Reds. Quality has been very good The market continues to be strong.especially on Red and Whites .