Loading Delays with Desert Lettuce Due to Cold and Ice; Quality Problems

Loading Delays with Desert Lettuce Due to Cold and Ice; Quality Problems

Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA in a press release reports low temperatures in the Arizona and California deserts have resulted in ice forming on lettuce in the growing fields.

  • The Arizona/California desert growing region is experiencing the coldest weather of the season, causing significant lettuce ice
  • After several days of cool wind gusts, morning temperatures have dipped into the upper 20°s to low 30°s
  • Short-term challenges include:
    • Dehydration
    • Harvesting and loading delays
    • Stalled plant growth
  • Markon inspectors are monitoring crops and supplies closely for long-term quality challenges that include:
    • Discoloration
    • Epidermal blister/peel
    • Low case weights
    • Shortened shelf-life