Author Archive
Strawberry shipments from the Sunshine state have seasonally started and good quality fruit is being reported by The Florida Strawberry Growers Association of Plant City, FL.
Wish Farms, Plant City, FL started its season in late November and typically ships strawberries until April.
The company is growing four varieties, Brilliance, Medallion, Ember and Encore. The Ember and Encore are contributing to higher yields and productivity.
Wish Farms focuses on the eastern United States, although it ships all over the U.S. and Canada. However, its Florida strawberries tend to stay east, as there is a heavier supply of Mexican berries in other regions during this time.
“We ship all over the U.S. and Canada, but Florida strawberries tend to stay east, as there is a heavier supply of Mexican berries in other regions during this time,
Naturipe Farms, Salinas, CA, sees good prospects for its central Florida strawberry operations, which started harvesting in November.
Its peak supplies will occur in early 2026. Compared to last year, Naturipe did not have any major weather challenges and expects to have a great season. Naturipe Farms distributes its Florida strawberries primarily on the East Coast.
Grimes Produce Co., Plant City, FL, says Florida strawberries are in demand and Grimes does significant business within the state, but its strawberries find their fruit is shipped across the United States and Canada. A good portion of its product goes to Canada.
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Tallahassee, FL, reports Florida has over 15,000 acres of fresh strawberries in production, an increase of about 2,000 acres compared to last year.
Astin Strawberry Exchange has a new 100,000-square-foot facility and farms about 800 acres. This is the third cooler, which can hold 150,000 flats.
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ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-6853.
Overseas market supply of onions has been strong and steady, which helps the U.S. provide a year around supply of the product.
According to Volza’s Onion Import data of United States, from November 2023 to October 2024, there were 3,789 onion importers in the U.S., importing from 4,071 suppliers globally.
Peruvian onion production has climbed to 591,000 tons by 2025, enabling a reliable, year-round U.S. supply.
A&J Produce Corp., Bronx, NY reports Peru and Mexico are the primary sources of onion imports, with less supplies from Chile.
Fewer countries are attempting exports to the U.S. and Canada because of strong domestic production and strict import standards. Also, growing demand for sweet onions has spurred more domestic production of these varieties.
G&R Farms Produce, Glennville, GA notes Peruvian sweet onions are available from Labor Day right through to Vidalia season. This allows a seamless year-round supply of sweet onions, bridging the gap until the Vidalia crop comes back into season in Georgia. The company is projecting an increase of about 3% to 5% more onions from Peru over last year.
JJB Family Farms, Escondido, CA, points out Mexican white onions are prevalent from February to May, while organic whites from Mexico are big from March through June. Peruvian yellow sweets typically hit the states at the end of October or early November.
Potandon Produce, Idaho Falls, ID, works primarily with U.S. growers to offer yellow, red, white and sweet onion varieties, while also supplementing with select imports from Peru and Mexico.
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ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-5863.
Church Brothers Farms of Salinas, CA has announced completion of its acquisition of key assets and operations of Mann Packing from Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc. solidifying the company’s leadership position in value-added vegetables and accelerating its long-term retail growth strategy.
The acquisition immediately expands Church Brothers’ annual volume with capacity to grow through the newly integrated Gonzales, CA facility: a 200,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art fresh-cut plant that includes 160,000 square feet of production and cold storage space, 40,000 square feet of offices, and
7.5 acres designated for future expansion.
With the acquisition now complete, Church Brothers becomes one of the only suppliers with the scale and capability to deliver a full retail fresh-vegetable offering – from value-added cut vegetables and packaged salads to specialty items and a broad assortment of field-packed products.
“This is a pivotal moment in our company’s growth,” said Brian Church, Chief Executive Officer at Church Brothers Farms. “By bringing Mann Packing into the Church Brothers family, we are significantly expanding our retail capabilities while sharpening our operational focus. We’re moving with urgency,
discipline, and ambition because our goal isn’t just to participate in the retail category; it’s to be a significant player.”
The acquisition allows Church Brothers to support both sides of its business more effectively. All retail processing will move to the Gonzales plant, providing year-round dedicated retail production while freeing up its San Juan Bautista, Yuma and Northern Mexico facilities for continued foodservice growth.
“This deal creates immediate advantages across our business,” said Jeff Church, Chief Operating Officer. “Retail customers gain a simplified, stable, single-location supply chain, while our foodservice customers benefit from expanded capacity and focus at our other facilities. It’s a meaningful win for our customers, our employees, and our long-term growth strategy.”
Founded in Salinas in 1937, Mann Packing is known for category-defining products such as Broccolini, Stringless Sugar Snap Peas, Broccoli Cole Slaw, and its leadership in cut vegetables and specialty items. Church Brothers will continue to nurture iconic trademarks like Broccolini while conducting a full evaluation of Mann’s branded products as part of the integration process.
“Mann’s has been an innovator in our valley for nearly nine decades,” said Brian Church. “We’re proud to steward that legacy forward—with the same commitment to quality and creativity, but now with the scale, farming network, and operational capabilities that only Church Brothers can provide.”
With full operational integration targeted for April 1, 2026, the combined organization will be focused on executing a strong launch year, expanding retail salad production, and leveraging its vertically integrated farming model to deliver consistent quality and supply across all channels.
For more information about the company and its products, visit ChurchBrothers.com.
About Church Brothers Farms
Church Brothers Farms is a vertically integrated family-owned and operated company that produces a full line of fresh vegetables year-round. Church Brothers has an in-house farming/harvest program and state of the art processing plants in the U.S. and Mexico. The Church family has a legacy of service and innovation in the Salinas Valley that spans multiple generations.
Broccoli and lettuce items from the Arizona/California desert growing regions have shown much improvement after a tumultuous start to the winter growing season, but weather-related quality challenges persist, according to Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA.
Size, weights, and overall plant maturity have improved following a warm spell in mid-December, which is helping harvesting crews to manage some of the outer leaf defects in lettuce items.
Below are some of the defects being observed in key commodity items:
Broccoli
- Mildew pressure in some lots (variety and region-specific)
- Occasional pin rot
- Uneven sizing
Iceberg/Leaf Lettuce
- Bottom rot
- Mildew pressure
- Premature pinking
- Rib blight
- Shortened shelf-life
- Weak tip
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Global almond production is expected to rise next season, primarily thanks to increased output in the United States, the European Union, and Australia, according to the US Department of Agriculture.
The agency’s latest biannual report, Tree Nuts: World Markets and Trade, projects global almond production will increase by nearly 10 percent to 1.8 million metric tons (shelled), the highest since 2020-21.
The United States, the world’s leading almond producer, is forecast to harvest around 1.4 million tons, up 122,000 tons.
According to the agency, the US benefited from favorable spring temperatures and rainfall that supported crop development, leading to a 13 percent increase in output.
The European Union and Australia are also two major contributors to the global pot.
Global almond exports are forecast to reach 1.1 million tons, supported by a modest increase in trade from the United States and Australia.
EU imports are projected to rise by 10,000 tons to 275,000, while India’s imports are expected to increase slightly to 180,000.
The report notes that market gains will be partially offset by a nearly 25 percent decline in China’s imports to 100,000 tons, due to reduced shipments from the United States.
Tropical fruit grower and importer Tierra Suelta of Miami, FL reports plentiful volumes of premium Dragon Fruit are now available for shipping.
“We’ve entered peak Dragon Fruit season with 40,000 boxes arriving weekly,” said Steve Stutz, VP of
Sales. “For the next two months, our state-of-the-art packing facility in Ecuador will operate at capacity
to support promotable volumes of our highest quality Dragon Fruit. Tierra Suelta has the production,
logistics and infrastructure to meet the needs of major retailers throughout the holiday season and
beyond.”
Earlier this year, Tierra Suelta invested significantly in developing and building a state-of-the-art packing
facility dedicated to Dragon Fruit. The new facility is Global GAP and Primus certified. Through a
combination of automated processing and hand packing, Dragon Fruit shipments maintain cold chain
integrity and arrive to customers in North America in pristine condition.
Once considered an exotic novelty, Dragon Fruit continues to be a consumer favorite. According to
industry research, the US Dragon Fruit market is projected to reach $160 million by 2034. Tierra Suelta
is fully committed to helping retailers succeed with this popular fruit by providing an abundant supply of
fresh, sweet Dragon Fruit, along with in-store and online support to generate additional consumer
demand.
“In the winter months, the fruit’s vibrant color and festive appearance naturally enhances fruit platters
and decorative tablescapes,” said Adrian Abreu, CEO. “We have four varieties of Dragon Fruit—white,
red, yellow, and golden—all of which boast antioxidant-rich nutritional profiles. The fruit’s immunity boosting qualities also make it an ideal snack choice during cold-and-flu season.”
Dragon Fruit’s peak season will continue into February, with more limited quantities available for the
remainder of the year. In addition to Dragon Fruit, Tierra Suelta offers a wide variety of tropicals yearround. Other key items favored by consumers include Star Fruit, Thai Guava, Mamey, Tropical
Avocados, Malangas and more. Tierra Suelta’s customized packaging, merchandising support, shopper
information, and private label programs help retailers succeed in these verticals as well.
Tierra Suelta, which translates to “loose soil,” is a woman- and minority-owned, vertically-integrated
farming business that grows and ships tropical fruits, roots and specialty produce from its headquarters
in Miami.
About Tierra Suelta
Tierra Suelta, Inc. is a third-generation, Primus-certified, woman- and minority-owned grower, packer, shipper of tropical fruits. With a state-of-the-art packing and cooling facility located on their South Florida farm, and full-time agronomist on staff, Tierra Suelta provides premium fruit with exceptional flavor and quality. Tierra Suelta ships throughout North America and has a consistent, reliable year-round dragon fruit program.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS:1-800-404-5863.
Harvesting was been canceled for Friday, December 26 due to persistent rain in California’s Santa Maria and Oxnard growing regions. Expect tight supplies and strong markets through the week of January 5-9, according to Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA
Santa Maria/ Oxnard
- These regions received over 2.5 inches of rain in 48 hours; most growers cancelled harvests for at least two days
- During this period, packer label will be substituted as needed
- Expect a demand-exceeds-supply market for the next week
- Quality is average; early signs of decay and bruising have been reported
- Maintaining the cold chain will be vital for shelf-life; Markon recommends ordering for quick turns
- Expect strong demand and elevated markets through next week
Mexico/South Texas
- Volume will increase through December and reach its peak in mid-January
- Quality concerns include over-ripening and light bruising
- Size is small-medium (19 to 25 berries per one-pound clamshell)
- Expect elevated pricing and tight stocks as Mexico helps fill orders from California
Florida
- MFC Strawberries are available
- Volume is rising
- Quality is improving; concerns include white shoulders and green tips
- Size is small-medium (17 to 25 berries per 1-pound clamshell)
- Expect pricing to inch up as Florida supplements California shortages
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Wishing everyone involved in moving our nation’s freight a Happy New Year with good health and prosperity. God Bless. We are so thankful for you!
The Chilean Table Grape Committee, part of the country brand Frutas de Chile, updated its export projection for the 2025-26 season, forecasting a total volume of over 63,6 million 18-pound boxes. This represents a slight 6.4 percent decrease compared to the previous year, but is very much in line with the first projection, standing only 0.5 percent above that previous forecast.
The increasing volume of new varieties has driven growth this year.
This season’s challenge for Chilean exporters lies in managing exit logistics. There’s more fruit between mid February and mid March compared to last year, and less volume in from mid April into May.
New varieties are expected to reach 72 percent of the total shipments, which is higher than the 67 percent of last season and the 71 percent expected in the first estimate.
This updated forecast takes into account data from more growers, accounting for 86 percent of last season’s total export volume.
Frutas de Chile projects that by the end of the country’s export window, new varieties will total over 45 million boxes.
Taking the lead among the newcomers is Sweet Globe, with just over 7 million boxes, representing more than a 30 percent increase over last season and a 17 percent uptick versus the committee’s first estimate.
Runner-up Autumncrisp is totaling over six million boxes, showing 33 percent growth from last year and a 19 percent increase compared to the first forecast.
Traditional varieties will reach over 8 million boxes, with many deflating significantly in volume. This is the case of Thompson Seedless, which is projected to experience a decline in its volumes by over 20 percent compared to 2024, totaling slightly 1.5 million boxes. This represents a dramatic 37 percent decrease compared to the committee’s first projection.
Red Globe, another traditional variety in the Chilean market, is holding steady. Frutas de Chile projects over 9 million boxes for the grape, but the number still falls below the brand’s first estimate, showing a nearly 5 percent drop.
Challenges and market reshuffling
Compared to last season, Chilean table grape volumes are shifting, and while the Latin American market is expected to expand by 20 percent, Asia and North America will decline by 21 percent and 9 percent, respectively.
ORLANDO, Fla. — Mango has long been a favorite for their sweet flavor, but there’s even sweeter news for its health benefits. A new 2025 literature review, published in Food & Function Journal, of nearly a decade-worth of mango nutrition science uncovered the role this vibrant fruit plays in supporting satiety, weight maintenance and blood sugar balance, as well as other areas like brain, gut and skin health.
This comprehensive literature review, conducted by the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT), evaluated published research about mango nutritional benefits between 2016 and 2025 to understand the role mango can play in overall health and wellness. The study found that across the body of research, mango demonstrated promising benefits across a number of important health needs.
Mango and Weight Maintenance
Within the body of research studied, data showed that mango may support weight maintenance by helping people feel fuller for longer. In one particular study, for example, adult participants who snacked on fresh mango reported feeling more satisfied after two hours than when they ate a low-fat cookie with the same number of calories (100 kcal). After 12 weeks, the mango snackers maintained their weight, while the cookie group gained weight.
The findings on weight maintenance are further substantiated by a separate, recently published study from Florida State University, which found that participants who ate mango daily saw a decrease in waist-to-hip ratio while the control group’s increased. They finished with less body fat and more lean mass than the control group.
Mango and Blood Glucose Control
In the literature review, researchers found that mango consumption consistently showed benefits for blood sugar across multiple studies. Compared to common snack alternatives, eating mangos was linked to improved insulin activity and lower blood sugar. Notably, mango intake increased levels of adiponectin, a natural protein associated with reduced inflammation and enhanced insulin sensitivity, suggesting a potential mechanism behind mangos’ positive effects on insulin-related markers.
These findings suggest that regular mango consumption may improve insulin sensitivity, highlighting the potential for mango to help the body use insulin more efficiently and support long-term metabolic health.
“The growing body of research identifies mango’s promising role in supporting metabolic health,” said Britt Burton-Freeman, PhD, MS, Director of the Center for Nutrition Research, Illinois Institute of Technology. “Findings suggest that mango can be a valuable addition to a balanced diet, helping to regulate blood glucose and support weight management – benefits that many people may not always associate with fruit. As we continue to explore mango’s unique nutrient and phytonutrient profile, we’re uncovering even more ways it can contribute to overall well-being.”
Mango Intake and Emerging Research Areas
Early research is also uncovering potentially promising associations between mango intake and brain health, gut microbiome support and even skin appearance. While more studies are needed, bioactives in mango like mangiferin and gallotannins are showing potential in areas like cognitive performance and skin protection.
Naturally invigorating from the inside out, mango delivers over 20 vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and feel-good nutrients. Learn more at Mango.org/mango-nutrition.
This literature review was supported through an unrestricted grant from the National Mango Board (NMB). NMB had no influence over the studies or their findings.
About the Study
The literature review examined 29 in vitro and in vivo research studies between 2016 and July 2025 on the health benefits of consuming mango (flesh), with a focus on obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. It also explored emerging evidence of potential benefits related to brain, gut and skin health.
About Illinois Institute of Technology
Based in the global metropolis of Chicago, Illinois Tech was born to liberate the power of collective difference to advance technology and innovation for all. It is the only tech-focused university in the city, and it stands at the crossroads of exploration and invention, advancing the future of Chicago and the world. It offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in engineering, computing, architecture, business,
design, science and human sciences, and law. Illinois Tech students are guaranteed access to hands-on experiences, personalized mentorship, and job readiness through the university’s one-of-a-kind Elevate program. Its graduates lead the state and much of the nation in economic prosperity. Its faculty and alumni built the Chicago skyline. And every day in the city’s living lab, Illinois Tech fuels breakthroughs that change lives. Visit iit.edu.
About National Mango Board
The National Mango Board BB #:189984 is an agricultural research and promotion program funded by the mango industry, and an instrumentality of the United States Department of Agriculture. The Board’s vision is “for mango to be an on-going part of every American’s diet based on versatility, taste and nutritional benefits, enabling mango to move toward being a top 10 valued whole fruit in the U.S. market by 2030.” One serving, or ¾ cup of the superfruit mango contains 70 calories, 50 percent of daily value of vitamin C, 15 percent of daily value of folate, 15 percent of daily value of copper, eight percent daily value of vitamin A, eight percent daily value of vitamin B6, seven percent of daily value of fiber and an amazing source of tropical flavor. Learn more at Mango.org.
Strawberry shipments from the Sunshine state have seasonally started and good quality fruit is being reported by The Florida Strawberry Growers Association of Plant City, FL.
Wish Farms, Plant City, FL started its season in late November and typically ships strawberries until April.
The company is growing four varieties, Brilliance, Medallion, Ember and Encore. The Ember and Encore are contributing to higher yields and productivity.
Wish Farms focuses on the eastern United States, although it ships all over the U.S. and Canada. However, its Florida strawberries tend to stay east, as there is a heavier supply of Mexican berries in other regions during this time.
“We ship all over the U.S. and Canada, but Florida strawberries tend to stay east, as there is a heavier supply of Mexican berries in other regions during this time,
Naturipe Farms, Salinas, CA, sees good prospects for its central Florida strawberry operations, which started harvesting in November.
Its peak supplies will occur in early 2026. Compared to last year, Naturipe did not have any major weather challenges and expects to have a great season. Naturipe Farms distributes its Florida strawberries primarily on the East Coast.
Grimes Produce Co., Plant City, FL, says Florida strawberries are in demand and Grimes does significant business within the state, but its strawberries find their fruit is shipped across the United States and Canada. A good portion of its product goes to Canada.
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Tallahassee, FL, reports Florida has over 15,000 acres of fresh strawberries in production, an increase of about 2,000 acres compared to last year.
Astin Strawberry Exchange has a new 100,000-square-foot facility and farms about 800 acres. This is the third cooler, which can hold 150,000 flats.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-6853.
Overseas market supply of onions has been strong and steady, which helps the U.S. provide a year around supply of the product.
According to Volza’s Onion Import data of United States, from November 2023 to October 2024, there were 3,789 onion importers in the U.S., importing from 4,071 suppliers globally.
Peruvian onion production has climbed to 591,000 tons by 2025, enabling a reliable, year-round U.S. supply.
A&J Produce Corp., Bronx, NY reports Peru and Mexico are the primary sources of onion imports, with less supplies from Chile.
Fewer countries are attempting exports to the U.S. and Canada because of strong domestic production and strict import standards. Also, growing demand for sweet onions has spurred more domestic production of these varieties.
G&R Farms Produce, Glennville, GA notes Peruvian sweet onions are available from Labor Day right through to Vidalia season. This allows a seamless year-round supply of sweet onions, bridging the gap until the Vidalia crop comes back into season in Georgia. The company is projecting an increase of about 3% to 5% more onions from Peru over last year.
JJB Family Farms, Escondido, CA, points out Mexican white onions are prevalent from February to May, while organic whites from Mexico are big from March through June. Peruvian yellow sweets typically hit the states at the end of October or early November.
Potandon Produce, Idaho Falls, ID, works primarily with U.S. growers to offer yellow, red, white and sweet onion varieties, while also supplementing with select imports from Peru and Mexico.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-5863.
Church Brothers Farms of Salinas, CA has announced completion of its acquisition of key assets and operations of Mann Packing from Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc. solidifying the company’s leadership position in value-added vegetables and accelerating its long-term retail growth strategy.
The acquisition immediately expands Church Brothers’ annual volume with capacity to grow through the newly integrated Gonzales, CA facility: a 200,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art fresh-cut plant that includes 160,000 square feet of production and cold storage space, 40,000 square feet of offices, and
7.5 acres designated for future expansion.
With the acquisition now complete, Church Brothers becomes one of the only suppliers with the scale and capability to deliver a full retail fresh-vegetable offering – from value-added cut vegetables and packaged salads to specialty items and a broad assortment of field-packed products.
“This is a pivotal moment in our company’s growth,” said Brian Church, Chief Executive Officer at Church Brothers Farms. “By bringing Mann Packing into the Church Brothers family, we are significantly expanding our retail capabilities while sharpening our operational focus. We’re moving with urgency,
discipline, and ambition because our goal isn’t just to participate in the retail category; it’s to be a significant player.”
The acquisition allows Church Brothers to support both sides of its business more effectively. All retail processing will move to the Gonzales plant, providing year-round dedicated retail production while freeing up its San Juan Bautista, Yuma and Northern Mexico facilities for continued foodservice growth.
“This deal creates immediate advantages across our business,” said Jeff Church, Chief Operating Officer. “Retail customers gain a simplified, stable, single-location supply chain, while our foodservice customers benefit from expanded capacity and focus at our other facilities. It’s a meaningful win for our customers, our employees, and our long-term growth strategy.”
Founded in Salinas in 1937, Mann Packing is known for category-defining products such as Broccolini, Stringless Sugar Snap Peas, Broccoli Cole Slaw, and its leadership in cut vegetables and specialty items. Church Brothers will continue to nurture iconic trademarks like Broccolini while conducting a full evaluation of Mann’s branded products as part of the integration process.
“Mann’s has been an innovator in our valley for nearly nine decades,” said Brian Church. “We’re proud to steward that legacy forward—with the same commitment to quality and creativity, but now with the scale, farming network, and operational capabilities that only Church Brothers can provide.”
With full operational integration targeted for April 1, 2026, the combined organization will be focused on executing a strong launch year, expanding retail salad production, and leveraging its vertically integrated farming model to deliver consistent quality and supply across all channels.
For more information about the company and its products, visit ChurchBrothers.com.
About Church Brothers Farms
Church Brothers Farms is a vertically integrated family-owned and operated company that produces a full line of fresh vegetables year-round. Church Brothers has an in-house farming/harvest program and state of the art processing plants in the U.S. and Mexico. The Church family has a legacy of service and innovation in the Salinas Valley that spans multiple generations.
Broccoli and lettuce items from the Arizona/California desert growing regions have shown much improvement after a tumultuous start to the winter growing season, but weather-related quality challenges persist, according to Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA.
Size, weights, and overall plant maturity have improved following a warm spell in mid-December, which is helping harvesting crews to manage some of the outer leaf defects in lettuce items.
Below are some of the defects being observed in key commodity items:
Broccoli
- Mildew pressure in some lots (variety and region-specific)
- Occasional pin rot
- Uneven sizing
Iceberg/Leaf Lettuce
- Bottom rot
- Mildew pressure
- Premature pinking
- Rib blight
- Shortened shelf-life
- Weak tip
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Global almond production is expected to rise next season, primarily thanks to increased output in the United States, the European Union, and Australia, according to the US Department of Agriculture.
The agency’s latest biannual report, Tree Nuts: World Markets and Trade, projects global almond production will increase by nearly 10 percent to 1.8 million metric tons (shelled), the highest since 2020-21.
The United States, the world’s leading almond producer, is forecast to harvest around 1.4 million tons, up 122,000 tons.
According to the agency, the US benefited from favorable spring temperatures and rainfall that supported crop development, leading to a 13 percent increase in output.
The European Union and Australia are also two major contributors to the global pot.
Global almond exports are forecast to reach 1.1 million tons, supported by a modest increase in trade from the United States and Australia.
EU imports are projected to rise by 10,000 tons to 275,000, while India’s imports are expected to increase slightly to 180,000.
The report notes that market gains will be partially offset by a nearly 25 percent decline in China’s imports to 100,000 tons, due to reduced shipments from the United States.
Tropical fruit grower and importer Tierra Suelta of Miami, FL reports plentiful volumes of premium Dragon Fruit are now available for shipping.
“We’ve entered peak Dragon Fruit season with 40,000 boxes arriving weekly,” said Steve Stutz, VP of
Sales. “For the next two months, our state-of-the-art packing facility in Ecuador will operate at capacity
to support promotable volumes of our highest quality Dragon Fruit. Tierra Suelta has the production,
logistics and infrastructure to meet the needs of major retailers throughout the holiday season and
beyond.”
Earlier this year, Tierra Suelta invested significantly in developing and building a state-of-the-art packing
facility dedicated to Dragon Fruit. The new facility is Global GAP and Primus certified. Through a
combination of automated processing and hand packing, Dragon Fruit shipments maintain cold chain
integrity and arrive to customers in North America in pristine condition.
Once considered an exotic novelty, Dragon Fruit continues to be a consumer favorite. According to
industry research, the US Dragon Fruit market is projected to reach $160 million by 2034. Tierra Suelta
is fully committed to helping retailers succeed with this popular fruit by providing an abundant supply of
fresh, sweet Dragon Fruit, along with in-store and online support to generate additional consumer
demand.
“In the winter months, the fruit’s vibrant color and festive appearance naturally enhances fruit platters
and decorative tablescapes,” said Adrian Abreu, CEO. “We have four varieties of Dragon Fruit—white,
red, yellow, and golden—all of which boast antioxidant-rich nutritional profiles. The fruit’s immunity boosting qualities also make it an ideal snack choice during cold-and-flu season.”
Dragon Fruit’s peak season will continue into February, with more limited quantities available for the
remainder of the year. In addition to Dragon Fruit, Tierra Suelta offers a wide variety of tropicals yearround. Other key items favored by consumers include Star Fruit, Thai Guava, Mamey, Tropical
Avocados, Malangas and more. Tierra Suelta’s customized packaging, merchandising support, shopper
information, and private label programs help retailers succeed in these verticals as well.
Tierra Suelta, which translates to “loose soil,” is a woman- and minority-owned, vertically-integrated
farming business that grows and ships tropical fruits, roots and specialty produce from its headquarters
in Miami.
About Tierra Suelta
Tierra Suelta, Inc. is a third-generation, Primus-certified, woman- and minority-owned grower, packer, shipper of tropical fruits. With a state-of-the-art packing and cooling facility located on their South Florida farm, and full-time agronomist on staff, Tierra Suelta provides premium fruit with exceptional flavor and quality. Tierra Suelta ships throughout North America and has a consistent, reliable year-round dragon fruit program.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS:1-800-404-5863.
Harvesting was been canceled for Friday, December 26 due to persistent rain in California’s Santa Maria and Oxnard growing regions. Expect tight supplies and strong markets through the week of January 5-9, according to Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA
Santa Maria/ Oxnard
- These regions received over 2.5 inches of rain in 48 hours; most growers cancelled harvests for at least two days
- During this period, packer label will be substituted as needed
- Expect a demand-exceeds-supply market for the next week
- Quality is average; early signs of decay and bruising have been reported
- Maintaining the cold chain will be vital for shelf-life; Markon recommends ordering for quick turns
- Expect strong demand and elevated markets through next week
Mexico/South Texas
- Volume will increase through December and reach its peak in mid-January
- Quality concerns include over-ripening and light bruising
- Size is small-medium (19 to 25 berries per one-pound clamshell)
- Expect elevated pricing and tight stocks as Mexico helps fill orders from California
Florida
- MFC Strawberries are available
- Volume is rising
- Quality is improving; concerns include white shoulders and green tips
- Size is small-medium (17 to 25 berries per 1-pound clamshell)
- Expect pricing to inch up as Florida supplements California shortages
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Wishing everyone involved in moving our nation’s freight a Happy New Year with good health and prosperity. God Bless. We are so thankful for you!
The Chilean Table Grape Committee, part of the country brand Frutas de Chile, updated its export projection for the 2025-26 season, forecasting a total volume of over 63,6 million 18-pound boxes. This represents a slight 6.4 percent decrease compared to the previous year, but is very much in line with the first projection, standing only 0.5 percent above that previous forecast.
The increasing volume of new varieties has driven growth this year.
This season’s challenge for Chilean exporters lies in managing exit logistics. There’s more fruit between mid February and mid March compared to last year, and less volume in from mid April into May.
New varieties are expected to reach 72 percent of the total shipments, which is higher than the 67 percent of last season and the 71 percent expected in the first estimate.
This updated forecast takes into account data from more growers, accounting for 86 percent of last season’s total export volume.
Frutas de Chile projects that by the end of the country’s export window, new varieties will total over 45 million boxes.
Taking the lead among the newcomers is Sweet Globe, with just over 7 million boxes, representing more than a 30 percent increase over last season and a 17 percent uptick versus the committee’s first estimate.
Runner-up Autumncrisp is totaling over six million boxes, showing 33 percent growth from last year and a 19 percent increase compared to the first forecast.
Traditional varieties will reach over 8 million boxes, with many deflating significantly in volume. This is the case of Thompson Seedless, which is projected to experience a decline in its volumes by over 20 percent compared to 2024, totaling slightly 1.5 million boxes. This represents a dramatic 37 percent decrease compared to the committee’s first projection.
Red Globe, another traditional variety in the Chilean market, is holding steady. Frutas de Chile projects over 9 million boxes for the grape, but the number still falls below the brand’s first estimate, showing a nearly 5 percent drop.
Challenges and market reshuffling
Compared to last season, Chilean table grape volumes are shifting, and while the Latin American market is expected to expand by 20 percent, Asia and North America will decline by 21 percent and 9 percent, respectively.
ORLANDO, Fla. — Mango has long been a favorite for their sweet flavor, but there’s even sweeter news for its health benefits. A new 2025 literature review, published in Food & Function Journal, of nearly a decade-worth of mango nutrition science uncovered the role this vibrant fruit plays in supporting satiety, weight maintenance and blood sugar balance, as well as other areas like brain, gut and skin health.
This comprehensive literature review, conducted by the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT), evaluated published research about mango nutritional benefits between 2016 and 2025 to understand the role mango can play in overall health and wellness. The study found that across the body of research, mango demonstrated promising benefits across a number of important health needs.
Mango and Weight Maintenance
Within the body of research studied, data showed that mango may support weight maintenance by helping people feel fuller for longer. In one particular study, for example, adult participants who snacked on fresh mango reported feeling more satisfied after two hours than when they ate a low-fat cookie with the same number of calories (100 kcal). After 12 weeks, the mango snackers maintained their weight, while the cookie group gained weight.
The findings on weight maintenance are further substantiated by a separate, recently published study from Florida State University, which found that participants who ate mango daily saw a decrease in waist-to-hip ratio while the control group’s increased. They finished with less body fat and more lean mass than the control group.
Mango and Blood Glucose Control
In the literature review, researchers found that mango consumption consistently showed benefits for blood sugar across multiple studies. Compared to common snack alternatives, eating mangos was linked to improved insulin activity and lower blood sugar. Notably, mango intake increased levels of adiponectin, a natural protein associated with reduced inflammation and enhanced insulin sensitivity, suggesting a potential mechanism behind mangos’ positive effects on insulin-related markers.
These findings suggest that regular mango consumption may improve insulin sensitivity, highlighting the potential for mango to help the body use insulin more efficiently and support long-term metabolic health.
“The growing body of research identifies mango’s promising role in supporting metabolic health,” said Britt Burton-Freeman, PhD, MS, Director of the Center for Nutrition Research, Illinois Institute of Technology. “Findings suggest that mango can be a valuable addition to a balanced diet, helping to regulate blood glucose and support weight management – benefits that many people may not always associate with fruit. As we continue to explore mango’s unique nutrient and phytonutrient profile, we’re uncovering even more ways it can contribute to overall well-being.”
Mango Intake and Emerging Research Areas
Early research is also uncovering potentially promising associations between mango intake and brain health, gut microbiome support and even skin appearance. While more studies are needed, bioactives in mango like mangiferin and gallotannins are showing potential in areas like cognitive performance and skin protection.
Naturally invigorating from the inside out, mango delivers over 20 vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and feel-good nutrients. Learn more at Mango.org/mango-nutrition.
This literature review was supported through an unrestricted grant from the National Mango Board (NMB). NMB had no influence over the studies or their findings.
About the Study
The literature review examined 29 in vitro and in vivo research studies between 2016 and July 2025 on the health benefits of consuming mango (flesh), with a focus on obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. It also explored emerging evidence of potential benefits related to brain, gut and skin health.
About Illinois Institute of Technology
Based in the global metropolis of Chicago, Illinois Tech was born to liberate the power of collective difference to advance technology and innovation for all. It is the only tech-focused university in the city, and it stands at the crossroads of exploration and invention, advancing the future of Chicago and the world. It offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in engineering, computing, architecture, business,
design, science and human sciences, and law. Illinois Tech students are guaranteed access to hands-on experiences, personalized mentorship, and job readiness through the university’s one-of-a-kind Elevate program. Its graduates lead the state and much of the nation in economic prosperity. Its faculty and alumni built the Chicago skyline. And every day in the city’s living lab, Illinois Tech fuels breakthroughs that change lives. Visit iit.edu.
About National Mango Board
The National Mango Board BB #:189984 is an agricultural research and promotion program funded by the mango industry, and an instrumentality of the United States Department of Agriculture. The Board’s vision is “for mango to be an on-going part of every American’s diet based on versatility, taste and nutritional benefits, enabling mango to move toward being a top 10 valued whole fruit in the U.S. market by 2030.” One serving, or ¾ cup of the superfruit mango contains 70 calories, 50 percent of daily value of vitamin C, 15 percent of daily value of folate, 15 percent of daily value of copper, eight percent daily value of vitamin A, eight percent daily value of vitamin B6, seven percent of daily value of fiber and an amazing source of tropical flavor. Learn more at Mango.org.