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Frank Donio Inc. of Hammonton, NJ is a 90-year old company with a network of family-owned farms, and a group of growers who have been in business for generations.
In a typical year, the company reports the New Jersey season will yield an average of 12 to 14 million pounds of fresh and frozen blueberries.
Sunny Valley International of Glassboro, NJ has long been a supplier of imported and domestic blueberries, with good supplies in the category 12-months a year due to winter programs from Peru and Chile among others, plus spring programs in Georgia and North Carolina.
The grower/shipper started shipping in mid June and has strong volume. It, as well as other Jersey growers are expecting have 30-40 percent more fruit than last year.
The company is expecting a great supply between the second week of June through late July for East Coast retailers.
Sunny Valley is also the exclusive marketer for the Jersey Fruit Cooperative, marketing blueberries for nine family-owned blueberry growers in New Jersey.
Sonny Boy Produce Landisville, NJ typically ships about 6.5 million pounds of blueberries a year. It grows and ships Jersey blues, plus works with other companies from other growing areas to supply blueberries during other times of the year. The company also is expressing optimism for the shipping season.
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Morning Kiss Organic announced May 12 the return and expansion of its organic melon program, which includes mini seedless watermelons, cantaloupes and honeydews. The company said that — with its sourcing coming from Mexico, California and North Carolina — the program is designed to deliver melons throughout the summer and into early winter.
“Nothing captures the essence of summer like fresh organic melon,” Nelly Czajkowski, sales manager at Morning Kiss Organic, said in a news release. “These fruits are not only delicious and healthy but also a smart way for retailers to boost organic sales during the peak summer months.”
Morning Kiss Organic called the outlook for this summer’s melon crop very promising, saying it expects excellent volume out of California’s Central Valley. Such volume would support robust promotional activity throughout July and August, it added.
Morning Kiss Organic’s season will run from May through early December, with East Coast-grown mini seedless watermelons available from late June through early August. The company said it is looking forward to bringing in melons from a North Carolina grower.
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ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
“Papayas have a melon-like texture and are packed with beta-carotene, vitamin C and other nutrients,” says registered dietitian Julia Zumpano, RD, LD. “You can even eat the fruit’s crunchy black seeds.”
And papaya may help protect vision, fight disease, prevent inflammation, improve gut health, lower blood sugar and protect your heart. Zumpano outlines all the different ways papaya can benefit your health.
What is a papaya?
Early European explorers called papayas “tree melons” because the fruit looks a bit like a melon. But papayas are actually berries. They grow on tall tree-like plants in tropical regions like Central America, India and Mexico.
In the U.S., papaya plants grow in the warm climates of California, Florida, Hawaii, Texas and Puerto Rico. They’re a popular tropical fruit, along with bananas, mangoes and pineapples.
Papaya nutrition
One small papaya (157 grams) provides:
- 67 calories
- 0.7 grams protein
- 0.4 grams of fat
- 17 grams of carbohydrates
- 2.6 grams of fiber
- 12.3 grams of total sugar
Other nutrients include:
- 95.6 milligrams of vitamin C
- 31.4 milligrams of calcium
- 33 milligrams of magnesium
- 15.7 milligrams of phosphorus
- 286 milligrams of potassium
What are papaya health benefits?
Vitamins and antioxidants in papayas make this fruit a nutritious addition to meals. Papayas provide a host of potential health benefits.
1. Protects vision
A natural food pigment called carotenoids gives papayas their orange, yellow and pink hues. Like carrots, papayas are especially high in beta-carotene.
“Your body changes beta-carotene into vitamin A,” explains Zumpano. “These nutrients are vital to good vision.”
A cup of sliced papaya has 68 micrograms of vitamin A, which is a third of the recommended daily value (about 33% DV).
2. Fights disease
With 95 milligrams of vitamin C, a small papaya provides more than the recommended DV. Your body can’t make this water-soluble vitamin, which means you need to get vitamin C from foods and drinks each day.
Studies suggest that eating foods high in vitamin C may lower your risk of lung cancer and breast cancer. The vitamin may also help treat pancreatic cancer. Additionally, plant chemicals (phytonutrients) in papayas, such as lycopene, may help fight cancer, according to one study.
Vitamin C in papayas helps your body in other ways, too:
- Protects vision
- Keeps joints healthy
- Makes collagen for healthy hair, nails and skin
- Promotes wound healing
3. Prevents inflammation
Papayas have an enzyme called papain that helps minimize oxidative stress.
“Oxidative stress occurs when you don’t have enough antioxidants to fight free radicals,” Zumpano explains. “The resulting cell damage can lead to chronic inflammation, which increases your risk for health problems.”
A small review of studies found that phytonutrients and extracts in papayas may protect against:
- Aging
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- Gum disease
- Chronic inflammation
4. Improves gut health
Research shows that eating fermented papayas may improve gut health. Naturally fermented foods have probiotics that support a healthy gut microbiome.
“Probiotics are healthy bacteria that aid digestion and fight inflammation,” notes Zumpano.
5. Lowers blood sugar
Fermented papaya can lower blood sugar (glucose) levels. This may be helpful if you have prediabetes. But it’s not good for people who take insulin or oral diabetes medications.
“You could end up with blood sugar that’s too low, also known as hypoglycemia,” warns Zumpano.
6. Protects your heart
One small, sliced papaya has 286 milligrams of potassium. That’s 6% of the recommended DV.
“Foods high in potassium help relax blood vessels, improving blood flow and blood pressure,” says Zumpano.
Vitamin C in papayas also lowers high blood pressure by minimizing oxidative stress and inflammation. In addition, research suggests that lycopene in papayas may prevent heart disease and stroke by reducing “bad cholesterol” (low-density lipoprotein or LDL).
Are there any risks to eating papaya?
Yes. People with certain conditions may want to select a different fruit. This includes people who:
- Are allergic to latex. Unripe papayas have high levels of papaya latex made of papain enzymes. Someone with a latex allergy who eats papaya may have an allergic reaction (oral allergy syndrome) to this natural latex. “The latex enzymes can irritate and damage the esophagus and gums,” says Zumpano.
- Have asthma. Papain enzymes in papayas may trigger breathing problems in people with asthma, according to research.
- Are at risk for blood clots. Papaya heightens the effects of blood thinners that help prevent blood clots. Eating papaya while taking these medications can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising.
- Take certain medications. Papaya can also interact with medicines that treat thyroid disorders and heart rhythm problems like atrial fibrillation.
Is it safe to eat papaya seeds?
Yes, the crunchy black seeds inside a papaya are safe to eat.
“They have a spicy or peppery flavor,” reports Zumpano.
Papaya seeds have fiber, which may help prevent constipation. But eating too many seeds can cause stomach upset and diarrhea.
A TikTok trend encourages people to eat papaya seeds as a natural way to get rid of intestinal parasites like roundworms and pinworms. If this is news to you (or you’re saying, “Ew!”), here’s what you really need to know: Intestinal parasites aren’t that common, and eating papaya seeds won’t help if you have one.
“You should see your healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and medications,” advises Zumpano.
Picking the perfect papaya
If you still need more reasons to try papayas, consider that the Environmental Working Group lists it among its Clean 15™ fruits. This means papayas have some of the lowest amounts of pesticide residue of any fruit.
When shopping for papayas, look for ones with yellow skin that feel soft, but not mushy to the touch.
“A green, hard skin is a sign the fruit needs more time to ripen,” says Zumpano.
You can speed up the ripening process by placing the fruit in a closed paper bag. But don’t let papayas sit too long. An overripe papaya can get mealy and bland — and certainly won’t remind you of a tropical getaway.
Naturipe Farms avocado season is shaping up to be one of the best yet, with a strong supply driven by the growing impact of maturing avocado trees in Colombia.
With Mexico providing year-round supply and Colombia complementing the seasonal transitions, hass avocados from both these points of origin result in a harmonious blend, says Naturipe. By using multiple growing regions, the company can provide an abundant supply of avocados, meeting retailer demand, according to a news release.
“Our Colombian avocado program has been a tremendous success,” said Andy Bruno, president of Naturipe Avocado Farms Division. “We are seeing improved quality and consistent supply as our trees mature and produce even more avocados. Retailers have embraced this new origin, and consumers enjoy how consistently delicious, ripe and readily available the supply is. Colombia’s climate and growing conditions allow for multiple crops throughout the year, which positions it as a reliable source for a 10-month supply now and, hopefully, 12 months once trees are fully matured.”
Naturipe owns its own Colombian avocado orchards, which it says gives the company full control over production and the ability to deliver consistent quality and supply to retail partners. With more than 1,500 acres of land dedicated to avocado production, Naturipe says it is well positioned to continue scaling its operations to meet growing demand.
“Our ability to diversify our supply mix and seamlessly integrate Colombian avocados with our existing program has been a game-changer,” Bruno said. “We’re excited for what’s ahead and confident that our program will continue to deliver the great-tasting flavor profile of hass avocados that retailers and consumers want year-round.”
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), Pacific Regional Office, released its initial subjective forecast for 2025 California almond production on May 12. Production is projected to reach 2.80 billion pounds, a 3% increase over the 2024 total.
The state has 1.39 million almond-bearing acres, 10,000 more than the 2024 bearing acreage estimate.
According to the USDA report, the subjective forecast is based on a survey of 500 almond growers conducted between April 21 and May 7.
This year, the almond bloom began during the first week of February in the Sacramento Valley and peaked by mid-month. Weather during bloom varied across the state, with storms bringing heavy rainfall, wind and hail.
The report notes that crop development in the San Joaquin Valley was slower than usual due to cool temperatures and reduced bee flight hours. However, conditions improved in early March, with warmer weather accelerating the crop’s progress through the end of bloom.
Growers reported significantly lower yields in the Nonpareil variety due to a lighter overall flower set compared with its pollinators. The impact of the intense summer heat on orchards in 2024 is still being assessed. Meanwhile, growers are actively irrigating, fertilizing and treating orchards for pests and disease.
On a positive note, water is not expected to be an issue this year.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
According to a U.S. Department of Agriculture report, 2024 was a great year for fresh strawberry exports. Volumes increased 20% year over year to 351.5 million pounds, a new high for the industry valued at $570.3 million. Strawberries are now the third most valuable fresh fruit exported, behind apples and grapes and ahead of oranges and cherries.
Canada is the leading destination for fresh U.S. strawberries, followed by Mexico, where the share and volume of domestic supplies exports have increased in recent years.
Processed strawberries exports, mostly made up of frozen fruit, make up about 8% of exports by value. Frozen strawberry export volumes rebounded in 2024 after record lows in 2023, increasing 42 percent year-over-year to 31.1 million pounds.
Frozen strawberry exports in 2024 were destined mainly to Mexico, Canada, Japan, and South Korea.
Imports decreased only less than 1%, totaling 585.4 million pounds year over year. This breaks the five-year streak of increasing import volumes but is near 2023’s record high of 588.6 million pounds.
On average, Mexico supplies 98% of the fresh strawberry import volume to the United States when domestic supplies are lower.
Mexico’s strawberry production is expected to increase in 2025, driven by domestic and export demand. Most of Mexico’s strawberry production is concentrated in Baja California and central Mexico, including the States of Michoacán and Guanajuato.
As for processed strawberries, imports were valued at $373.4 million in 2024, a decrease of 1.8% from the prior year. Frozen strawberries comprise most of the imported processed strawberries, with the rest prepared or preserved items such as jams, pastes, and purees.
There are fewer grape supplies and shipments of Mexican grapes. Combine this with strong demand and there are higher retail grape prices and less volume. This situation is expected to continue through most of July.
According to a press release from Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA, updated estimates show Mexican growers lost 30 percent of the red grape crop and 24 percent of green grape harvests due to storm damage.
The most damage is being seen in red grapes as this crop was at peak maturity with high sugar levels at the time of the storm.
Quality is expected to be good, but mold and split grapes are problems. Quality control crews will double their efforts to ensure the best quality available upon shipping.
The California season is expected to begin in mid-July. Expect low volume and elevated markets for the next four weeks.
Mexico’s avocado industry is poised for another strong year in 2025, with production forecast to reach 2.75 million metric tons (MMT)—a 3% increase over 2024, according to the USDA.
The growth is driven by stable growing conditions, improved agricultural practices, and strong international demand, particularly from the United States. Exports are projected to hit 1.34 MMT, up 5% year-on-year, with the United States expected to absorb 80% of Mexico’s avocado exports by volume. Canada followed with 7%, and Japan accounted for 3%.
Mexico continues to dominate the global avocado trade, supplying nearly 88% of total U.S. imports in 2024. Domestically, avocado consumption continues to rise, growing nearly 10% to 27 pounds per capita in 2024. However, avocados are still considered a luxury item in Mexico due to their relatively high cost compared to other fruits. Despite its success, the industry is under increasing pressure to address its environmental footprint.
In response, the Avocado Institute of Mexico launched its Path to Sustainability plan in April, aimed at aligning all major stakeholders—from the country’s 35,000+ growers to packers and exporters—under a unified strategy. The plan targets four core areas: water, biodiversity, climate, and deforestation, and lays out a roadmap with specific goals and benchmarks to achieve water, carbon, and deforestation neutrality by 2035. The sustainability initiative also includes commitments to cover orchard floors, improve soil health, and restore ecosystems. According to environmental consultant Ernesto Enkerlin, the water footprint of avocado farming has historically been overestimated due to the failure to account for the ecological benefits of the orchards themselves. With updated methodologies, the industry now sees water neutrality as a realistic goal—and a potential benchmark for other crops.
Meanwhile, avocado imports into Mexico remain low and are projected to decline by 10% in 2025 to just 3,800 MT, reflecting the country’s ability to meet demand through local production. Imports mainly occur during seasonal gaps and come from countries like Peru and Colombia. With exports surging, domestic demand growing, and a bold sustainability framework underway, Mexico’s avocado industry is positioning itself not just as a global leader in volume—but as a model for long-term, environmentally conscious growth.
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Global importer-exporter Salix Fruits kicked off its 2025 summer citrus program last month. This marked the beginning of the Southern Hemisphere’s citrus season, according to the company, and the launch featured products such as lemons, mandarins, oranges and grapefruits.
U.S. citrus production has been significantly high across most varieties, particularly lemons, reducing immediate interest in imports from the Southern Hemisphere, according to Salix Fruits. On the supply side, Argentina and Chile have recovered their lemon production, while Chile reports strong mandarin volumes but lower orange yields. Peru is set to increase its mandarin output, while South Africa anticipates an average production year.
Meanwhle, Salix Fruits highlighted several factors shaping this year’s citrus trade landscape. For example, Europe is experiencing lower volumes due to spring frosts in Turkey, impacting the export of lemons, mandarins, oranges and fine fruit, which may also affect the start of the 2025-26 season. Additionally, Spain’s decreased production of verna lemons, the early conclusion of Moroccan mandarin shipments and strong demand for Egyptian oranges indicate that Europe and Russia will be promising markets for exports from South Africa, Argentina, Peru and Chile.
Salix Fruits notes these production fluctuations create supply and demand opportunities, and this is where the company’s global sourcing and sales network becomes a critical advantage for its
clients. The company has offices in the U.S., Egypt, South Africa, Argentina, Chile, Spain, India and across Asia.
The U.S. remains a priority market Salix Fruits because of the consistent citrus demand.
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Peruvian trade welcomed 2025 with a 31% uptick, the Research Centre for Global Economy and Business of the Exporters’ Association (CIEN-ADEX) noted. The country recorded $6.2 billion in shipments, up from $5.2 billion during the same period in 2024.
ADEX President Julio Pérez Alván noted that January marked the ninth consecutive month of growth since May 2024, driven by higher mineral prices, improved cocoa prices, and increased volumes of grapes, mangoes, and cocoa beans.
Regarding the potential tariff increases announced by the Trump administration, Deputy Minister of Foreign Trade Teresa Mera Gómez said the ministry is closely monitoring official communications and developing strategies to mitigate any possible impact on the sector.
Pérez Alván also stressed the need to address structural challenges affecting the competitiveness of Peru’s export sector, including labor informality and public security issues, which create uncertainty and hinder investment and economic growth.
Export Performance
According to CIEN-ADEX’s January report, traditional exports totaled $4.8 billion, marking a 33.7% increase and accounting for 70% of total shipments. Mining led the sector with $4.2 billion in exports, followed by hydrocarbons, traditional fishing, and agriculture, which saw a 6.5% decline.
China remained Peru’s top export destination, accounting for 51.5% of total shipments. Other key markets included the United Arab Emirates, Canada, Switzerland, South Korea, India, the United States, Japan, Chile, and Brazil.
Fresh grapes stood out as the top export product by FOB value, reaching $526.6 million—a 59% increase. Other notable exports included blueberries, mangoes, cocoa, natural calcium phosphates, refined copper wire, asparagus, and unalloyed zinc.
The U.S. was the primary destination for these products, with shipments totaling $828.6 million, representing 39.8% of total exports in this category and a 31% year-over-year increase. The top ten destinations also included the Netherlands, Mexico, Chile, Colombia, Spain, Ecuador, Brazil, China, and Bolivia.
In total, 2,106 products were exported to 125 countries in January. Shipments were made by 3,520 companies, 263 more than in the same month last year.
Peru’s trade balance closed with a $1.7 billion surplus, with total exports reaching $6.9 billion and imports amounting to $5.1 billion.
Frank Donio Inc. of Hammonton, NJ is a 90-year old company with a network of family-owned farms, and a group of growers who have been in business for generations.
In a typical year, the company reports the New Jersey season will yield an average of 12 to 14 million pounds of fresh and frozen blueberries.
Sunny Valley International of Glassboro, NJ has long been a supplier of imported and domestic blueberries, with good supplies in the category 12-months a year due to winter programs from Peru and Chile among others, plus spring programs in Georgia and North Carolina.
The grower/shipper started shipping in mid June and has strong volume. It, as well as other Jersey growers are expecting have 30-40 percent more fruit than last year.
The company is expecting a great supply between the second week of June through late July for East Coast retailers.
Sunny Valley is also the exclusive marketer for the Jersey Fruit Cooperative, marketing blueberries for nine family-owned blueberry growers in New Jersey.
Sonny Boy Produce Landisville, NJ typically ships about 6.5 million pounds of blueberries a year. It grows and ships Jersey blues, plus works with other companies from other growing areas to supply blueberries during other times of the year. The company also is expressing optimism for the shipping season.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Morning Kiss Organic announced May 12 the return and expansion of its organic melon program, which includes mini seedless watermelons, cantaloupes and honeydews. The company said that — with its sourcing coming from Mexico, California and North Carolina — the program is designed to deliver melons throughout the summer and into early winter.
“Nothing captures the essence of summer like fresh organic melon,” Nelly Czajkowski, sales manager at Morning Kiss Organic, said in a news release. “These fruits are not only delicious and healthy but also a smart way for retailers to boost organic sales during the peak summer months.”
Morning Kiss Organic called the outlook for this summer’s melon crop very promising, saying it expects excellent volume out of California’s Central Valley. Such volume would support robust promotional activity throughout July and August, it added.
Morning Kiss Organic’s season will run from May through early December, with East Coast-grown mini seedless watermelons available from late June through early August. The company said it is looking forward to bringing in melons from a North Carolina grower.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
“Papayas have a melon-like texture and are packed with beta-carotene, vitamin C and other nutrients,” says registered dietitian Julia Zumpano, RD, LD. “You can even eat the fruit’s crunchy black seeds.”
And papaya may help protect vision, fight disease, prevent inflammation, improve gut health, lower blood sugar and protect your heart. Zumpano outlines all the different ways papaya can benefit your health.
What is a papaya?
Early European explorers called papayas “tree melons” because the fruit looks a bit like a melon. But papayas are actually berries. They grow on tall tree-like plants in tropical regions like Central America, India and Mexico.
In the U.S., papaya plants grow in the warm climates of California, Florida, Hawaii, Texas and Puerto Rico. They’re a popular tropical fruit, along with bananas, mangoes and pineapples.
Papaya nutrition
One small papaya (157 grams) provides:
- 67 calories
- 0.7 grams protein
- 0.4 grams of fat
- 17 grams of carbohydrates
- 2.6 grams of fiber
- 12.3 grams of total sugar
Other nutrients include:
- 95.6 milligrams of vitamin C
- 31.4 milligrams of calcium
- 33 milligrams of magnesium
- 15.7 milligrams of phosphorus
- 286 milligrams of potassium
What are papaya health benefits?
Vitamins and antioxidants in papayas make this fruit a nutritious addition to meals. Papayas provide a host of potential health benefits.
1. Protects vision
A natural food pigment called carotenoids gives papayas their orange, yellow and pink hues. Like carrots, papayas are especially high in beta-carotene.
“Your body changes beta-carotene into vitamin A,” explains Zumpano. “These nutrients are vital to good vision.”
A cup of sliced papaya has 68 micrograms of vitamin A, which is a third of the recommended daily value (about 33% DV).
2. Fights disease
With 95 milligrams of vitamin C, a small papaya provides more than the recommended DV. Your body can’t make this water-soluble vitamin, which means you need to get vitamin C from foods and drinks each day.
Studies suggest that eating foods high in vitamin C may lower your risk of lung cancer and breast cancer. The vitamin may also help treat pancreatic cancer. Additionally, plant chemicals (phytonutrients) in papayas, such as lycopene, may help fight cancer, according to one study.
Vitamin C in papayas helps your body in other ways, too:
- Protects vision
- Keeps joints healthy
- Makes collagen for healthy hair, nails and skin
- Promotes wound healing
3. Prevents inflammation
Papayas have an enzyme called papain that helps minimize oxidative stress.
“Oxidative stress occurs when you don’t have enough antioxidants to fight free radicals,” Zumpano explains. “The resulting cell damage can lead to chronic inflammation, which increases your risk for health problems.”
A small review of studies found that phytonutrients and extracts in papayas may protect against:
- Aging
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- Gum disease
- Chronic inflammation
4. Improves gut health
Research shows that eating fermented papayas may improve gut health. Naturally fermented foods have probiotics that support a healthy gut microbiome.
“Probiotics are healthy bacteria that aid digestion and fight inflammation,” notes Zumpano.
5. Lowers blood sugar
Fermented papaya can lower blood sugar (glucose) levels. This may be helpful if you have prediabetes. But it’s not good for people who take insulin or oral diabetes medications.
“You could end up with blood sugar that’s too low, also known as hypoglycemia,” warns Zumpano.
6. Protects your heart
One small, sliced papaya has 286 milligrams of potassium. That’s 6% of the recommended DV.
“Foods high in potassium help relax blood vessels, improving blood flow and blood pressure,” says Zumpano.
Vitamin C in papayas also lowers high blood pressure by minimizing oxidative stress and inflammation. In addition, research suggests that lycopene in papayas may prevent heart disease and stroke by reducing “bad cholesterol” (low-density lipoprotein or LDL).
Are there any risks to eating papaya?
Yes. People with certain conditions may want to select a different fruit. This includes people who:
- Are allergic to latex. Unripe papayas have high levels of papaya latex made of papain enzymes. Someone with a latex allergy who eats papaya may have an allergic reaction (oral allergy syndrome) to this natural latex. “The latex enzymes can irritate and damage the esophagus and gums,” says Zumpano.
- Have asthma. Papain enzymes in papayas may trigger breathing problems in people with asthma, according to research.
- Are at risk for blood clots. Papaya heightens the effects of blood thinners that help prevent blood clots. Eating papaya while taking these medications can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising.
- Take certain medications. Papaya can also interact with medicines that treat thyroid disorders and heart rhythm problems like atrial fibrillation.
Is it safe to eat papaya seeds?
Yes, the crunchy black seeds inside a papaya are safe to eat.
“They have a spicy or peppery flavor,” reports Zumpano.
Papaya seeds have fiber, which may help prevent constipation. But eating too many seeds can cause stomach upset and diarrhea.
A TikTok trend encourages people to eat papaya seeds as a natural way to get rid of intestinal parasites like roundworms and pinworms. If this is news to you (or you’re saying, “Ew!”), here’s what you really need to know: Intestinal parasites aren’t that common, and eating papaya seeds won’t help if you have one.
“You should see your healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and medications,” advises Zumpano.
Picking the perfect papaya
If you still need more reasons to try papayas, consider that the Environmental Working Group lists it among its Clean 15™ fruits. This means papayas have some of the lowest amounts of pesticide residue of any fruit.
When shopping for papayas, look for ones with yellow skin that feel soft, but not mushy to the touch.
“A green, hard skin is a sign the fruit needs more time to ripen,” says Zumpano.
You can speed up the ripening process by placing the fruit in a closed paper bag. But don’t let papayas sit too long. An overripe papaya can get mealy and bland — and certainly won’t remind you of a tropical getaway.
Naturipe Farms avocado season is shaping up to be one of the best yet, with a strong supply driven by the growing impact of maturing avocado trees in Colombia.
With Mexico providing year-round supply and Colombia complementing the seasonal transitions, hass avocados from both these points of origin result in a harmonious blend, says Naturipe. By using multiple growing regions, the company can provide an abundant supply of avocados, meeting retailer demand, according to a news release.
“Our Colombian avocado program has been a tremendous success,” said Andy Bruno, president of Naturipe Avocado Farms Division. “We are seeing improved quality and consistent supply as our trees mature and produce even more avocados. Retailers have embraced this new origin, and consumers enjoy how consistently delicious, ripe and readily available the supply is. Colombia’s climate and growing conditions allow for multiple crops throughout the year, which positions it as a reliable source for a 10-month supply now and, hopefully, 12 months once trees are fully matured.”
Naturipe owns its own Colombian avocado orchards, which it says gives the company full control over production and the ability to deliver consistent quality and supply to retail partners. With more than 1,500 acres of land dedicated to avocado production, Naturipe says it is well positioned to continue scaling its operations to meet growing demand.
“Our ability to diversify our supply mix and seamlessly integrate Colombian avocados with our existing program has been a game-changer,” Bruno said. “We’re excited for what’s ahead and confident that our program will continue to deliver the great-tasting flavor profile of hass avocados that retailers and consumers want year-round.”
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), Pacific Regional Office, released its initial subjective forecast for 2025 California almond production on May 12. Production is projected to reach 2.80 billion pounds, a 3% increase over the 2024 total.
The state has 1.39 million almond-bearing acres, 10,000 more than the 2024 bearing acreage estimate.
According to the USDA report, the subjective forecast is based on a survey of 500 almond growers conducted between April 21 and May 7.
This year, the almond bloom began during the first week of February in the Sacramento Valley and peaked by mid-month. Weather during bloom varied across the state, with storms bringing heavy rainfall, wind and hail.
The report notes that crop development in the San Joaquin Valley was slower than usual due to cool temperatures and reduced bee flight hours. However, conditions improved in early March, with warmer weather accelerating the crop’s progress through the end of bloom.
Growers reported significantly lower yields in the Nonpareil variety due to a lighter overall flower set compared with its pollinators. The impact of the intense summer heat on orchards in 2024 is still being assessed. Meanwhile, growers are actively irrigating, fertilizing and treating orchards for pests and disease.
On a positive note, water is not expected to be an issue this year.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
According to a U.S. Department of Agriculture report, 2024 was a great year for fresh strawberry exports. Volumes increased 20% year over year to 351.5 million pounds, a new high for the industry valued at $570.3 million. Strawberries are now the third most valuable fresh fruit exported, behind apples and grapes and ahead of oranges and cherries.
Canada is the leading destination for fresh U.S. strawberries, followed by Mexico, where the share and volume of domestic supplies exports have increased in recent years.
Processed strawberries exports, mostly made up of frozen fruit, make up about 8% of exports by value. Frozen strawberry export volumes rebounded in 2024 after record lows in 2023, increasing 42 percent year-over-year to 31.1 million pounds.
Frozen strawberry exports in 2024 were destined mainly to Mexico, Canada, Japan, and South Korea.
Imports decreased only less than 1%, totaling 585.4 million pounds year over year. This breaks the five-year streak of increasing import volumes but is near 2023’s record high of 588.6 million pounds.
On average, Mexico supplies 98% of the fresh strawberry import volume to the United States when domestic supplies are lower.
Mexico’s strawberry production is expected to increase in 2025, driven by domestic and export demand. Most of Mexico’s strawberry production is concentrated in Baja California and central Mexico, including the States of Michoacán and Guanajuato.
As for processed strawberries, imports were valued at $373.4 million in 2024, a decrease of 1.8% from the prior year. Frozen strawberries comprise most of the imported processed strawberries, with the rest prepared or preserved items such as jams, pastes, and purees.
There are fewer grape supplies and shipments of Mexican grapes. Combine this with strong demand and there are higher retail grape prices and less volume. This situation is expected to continue through most of July.
According to a press release from Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA, updated estimates show Mexican growers lost 30 percent of the red grape crop and 24 percent of green grape harvests due to storm damage.
The most damage is being seen in red grapes as this crop was at peak maturity with high sugar levels at the time of the storm.
Quality is expected to be good, but mold and split grapes are problems. Quality control crews will double their efforts to ensure the best quality available upon shipping.
The California season is expected to begin in mid-July. Expect low volume and elevated markets for the next four weeks.
Mexico’s avocado industry is poised for another strong year in 2025, with production forecast to reach 2.75 million metric tons (MMT)—a 3% increase over 2024, according to the USDA.
The growth is driven by stable growing conditions, improved agricultural practices, and strong international demand, particularly from the United States. Exports are projected to hit 1.34 MMT, up 5% year-on-year, with the United States expected to absorb 80% of Mexico’s avocado exports by volume. Canada followed with 7%, and Japan accounted for 3%.
Mexico continues to dominate the global avocado trade, supplying nearly 88% of total U.S. imports in 2024. Domestically, avocado consumption continues to rise, growing nearly 10% to 27 pounds per capita in 2024. However, avocados are still considered a luxury item in Mexico due to their relatively high cost compared to other fruits. Despite its success, the industry is under increasing pressure to address its environmental footprint.
In response, the Avocado Institute of Mexico launched its Path to Sustainability plan in April, aimed at aligning all major stakeholders—from the country’s 35,000+ growers to packers and exporters—under a unified strategy. The plan targets four core areas: water, biodiversity, climate, and deforestation, and lays out a roadmap with specific goals and benchmarks to achieve water, carbon, and deforestation neutrality by 2035. The sustainability initiative also includes commitments to cover orchard floors, improve soil health, and restore ecosystems. According to environmental consultant Ernesto Enkerlin, the water footprint of avocado farming has historically been overestimated due to the failure to account for the ecological benefits of the orchards themselves. With updated methodologies, the industry now sees water neutrality as a realistic goal—and a potential benchmark for other crops.
Meanwhile, avocado imports into Mexico remain low and are projected to decline by 10% in 2025 to just 3,800 MT, reflecting the country’s ability to meet demand through local production. Imports mainly occur during seasonal gaps and come from countries like Peru and Colombia. With exports surging, domestic demand growing, and a bold sustainability framework underway, Mexico’s avocado industry is positioning itself not just as a global leader in volume—but as a model for long-term, environmentally conscious growth.
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Global importer-exporter Salix Fruits kicked off its 2025 summer citrus program last month. This marked the beginning of the Southern Hemisphere’s citrus season, according to the company, and the launch featured products such as lemons, mandarins, oranges and grapefruits.
U.S. citrus production has been significantly high across most varieties, particularly lemons, reducing immediate interest in imports from the Southern Hemisphere, according to Salix Fruits. On the supply side, Argentina and Chile have recovered their lemon production, while Chile reports strong mandarin volumes but lower orange yields. Peru is set to increase its mandarin output, while South Africa anticipates an average production year.
Meanwhle, Salix Fruits highlighted several factors shaping this year’s citrus trade landscape. For example, Europe is experiencing lower volumes due to spring frosts in Turkey, impacting the export of lemons, mandarins, oranges and fine fruit, which may also affect the start of the 2025-26 season. Additionally, Spain’s decreased production of verna lemons, the early conclusion of Moroccan mandarin shipments and strong demand for Egyptian oranges indicate that Europe and Russia will be promising markets for exports from South Africa, Argentina, Peru and Chile.
Salix Fruits notes these production fluctuations create supply and demand opportunities, and this is where the company’s global sourcing and sales network becomes a critical advantage for its
clients. The company has offices in the U.S., Egypt, South Africa, Argentina, Chile, Spain, India and across Asia.
The U.S. remains a priority market Salix Fruits because of the consistent citrus demand.
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ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Peruvian trade welcomed 2025 with a 31% uptick, the Research Centre for Global Economy and Business of the Exporters’ Association (CIEN-ADEX) noted. The country recorded $6.2 billion in shipments, up from $5.2 billion during the same period in 2024.
ADEX President Julio Pérez Alván noted that January marked the ninth consecutive month of growth since May 2024, driven by higher mineral prices, improved cocoa prices, and increased volumes of grapes, mangoes, and cocoa beans.
Regarding the potential tariff increases announced by the Trump administration, Deputy Minister of Foreign Trade Teresa Mera Gómez said the ministry is closely monitoring official communications and developing strategies to mitigate any possible impact on the sector.
Pérez Alván also stressed the need to address structural challenges affecting the competitiveness of Peru’s export sector, including labor informality and public security issues, which create uncertainty and hinder investment and economic growth.
Export Performance
According to CIEN-ADEX’s January report, traditional exports totaled $4.8 billion, marking a 33.7% increase and accounting for 70% of total shipments. Mining led the sector with $4.2 billion in exports, followed by hydrocarbons, traditional fishing, and agriculture, which saw a 6.5% decline.
China remained Peru’s top export destination, accounting for 51.5% of total shipments. Other key markets included the United Arab Emirates, Canada, Switzerland, South Korea, India, the United States, Japan, Chile, and Brazil.
Fresh grapes stood out as the top export product by FOB value, reaching $526.6 million—a 59% increase. Other notable exports included blueberries, mangoes, cocoa, natural calcium phosphates, refined copper wire, asparagus, and unalloyed zinc.
The U.S. was the primary destination for these products, with shipments totaling $828.6 million, representing 39.8% of total exports in this category and a 31% year-over-year increase. The top ten destinations also included the Netherlands, Mexico, Chile, Colombia, Spain, Ecuador, Brazil, China, and Bolivia.
In total, 2,106 products were exported to 125 countries in January. Shipments were made by 3,520 companies, 263 more than in the same month last year.
Peru’s trade balance closed with a $1.7 billion surplus, with total exports reaching $6.9 billion and imports amounting to $5.1 billion.