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Fewer Avocado Shipments Heading into April Due to Lower Supplies, Tariff Uncertainty

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Avocado shipments remain limited. Harvesting was curtailed in Mexico last week due to Benito Juarez Day. Expect elevated prices for the next three weeks as Mexican growers are uncertain about the potential tariffs scheduled to begin April 2, 2025, according to a news release by Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA.

Mexico

  • All sizes are tight; the Benito Juarez holiday is limiting production
  • Size and grade substitutions may be requested to fill orders
  • Quality is good; checkerboarding (uneven ripening within a case) has been reported
  • Expect elevated markets and tight supplies for the next four weeks

California

  • New crop production is in full swing
  • California supplies will help fill the void from Mexican-grown product
  • Supplies are dominated by medium sizes (48- through 60-count fruit)
  • Quality is good; firm fruit has been reported even when ripe
  • Expect high prices; demand is strong due to Mexican shortages

Colombia

  • Imports will ship into the East Coast through May; these supplies only account for 5% of U.S. demand
  • The crop is currently dominated by small sizes (60- to 84-count fruit)
  • Quality is comparable to that in Mexico; texture is creamy and oil content is high

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U.S. Warns of Possible Barring to Ships from Countries ‘Causing Choke Points at Key Locations’

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The Federal Maritime Commission, the United States’ shipping regulator, has warned it may bar entry to ships from countries found to be causing choke points at key locations around the world.

Splash 247 reports that the FMC has opened an investigation into transit constraints at international maritime chokepoints, particularly the effects of foreign governments’ laws, regulations, or practices, as well as the actions of owners or operators of foreign-flag vessels on shipping conditions in these passages.

The shipping routes under investigation include the English Channel, the Malacca Strait, the Northern Sea Passage, the Singapore Strait, the Panama Canal, the Strait of Gibraltar, and the Suez Canal.

“Remedial measures the Commission can take in issuing regulations to address conditions unfavorable to shipping in U.S. foreign trade include refusing entry to U.S. ports by vessels registered in countries responsible for creating unfavorable conditions,” the FMC warned yesterday.

The global trading order has been torn up since Donald Trump returned to power in Washington, D.C. The new administration has lashed out with tariffs, claims on the Panama Canal, and plans to charge Chinese-built ships calling in the US, among a string of policies that have unsettled world trade.

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Florida Blueberry Shippers are Predicting Normal Volume in New Season

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Blueberry shipments in the United States typically occur from spring to late September and Florida kickoffs off the nation’s first fruit. 

Florida is the eighth-largest blueberry-growing state, alongside Oregon, Washington, Georgia, New Jersey, and Michigan, Maine, North Carolina and California. Depending on the weather, growers typically begin harvesting in late March.

Observers of Florida blueberries are generally seeing a crop of 20 million pounds, which is considered normal. 

The Florida Blueberry Growers Association expects lower than last year, with more normal tonnage after last year’s oversupply.

FBGA optimism is boosted since Georgia’s blueberry season seems to be a little later than usual this year, not starting until late April, early May.

Although Mexican production is seen for April, it is believed volume will be light at that point. 

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Honey Bear Brands Cites Fiber in Apples to Help Reduce Risk of Certain Cancers

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ELGIN, MN – Honeybear Brands, a leading grower, marketer and developer of premium conventional and organic apples, pears and cherries, is urging retailers to remind shoppers to eat more fiber rich apples this March, in an effort to help them reduce their risk of certain cancers.

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in the U.S. and the risk is growing in younger adults. In fact, the number of people under 55 who’ve been newly diagnosed with colorectal cancer has nearly doubled since 1995. As a result, the American Cancer Society has issued new recommendations for people to start regular screening at age 45 rather than 50.

What’s increasing the risk? Experts point to the American diet — processed food, low-fiber, high-fat meals. But a high-fiber diet is a significant preventative measure against colon cancer. Apples are a powerhouse of fiber, thanks to their skin, and are packed with phytochemicals — such as flavonoids and polyphenols — that may help fight certain cancers.

“As younger adults see their risk for this disease increase, we want to encourage them to add more fiber to their daily diets. Apples are an easy way to do this. A portable snack, or an easy ingredient in a meal, apples are within reach and very affordable,” said Kristi Harris, Marketing Director, Honeybear Brands, in a recent press release.

Honeybear Brands is supporting this Colorectal Cancer education effort at retail, offering point of sale promotional materials featuring the recognized blue ribbon this March.

“We want to trigger that connection for shoppers looking to make informed choices at store level and the blue ribbon symbolizes the importance of gut health,” said Harris.

The company is also working with My Food Gal, a food blogger on a social media campaign to inspire consumers to follow her easy, high fiber recipe that features the delicious combination of apples, oats and peanut butter.

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Desert Heat Wave Challenging Seasonal Transition of Vegetable Shipments

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The California/Arizona weather forecast calls for a heatwave in the desert vegetable growing region, according to a news release by Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA

Temperatures will climbed into the mid-80°s through last weekend and may reach triple digits by Wednesday, March 26.

Growers will adjust harvesting schedules and pack ahead to avoid peak temperatures as much as possible. Markon inspectors will be closely evaluating commodity and value-added desert row crops while working with suppliers to minimize heat-related challenges.

Markon First Crop (MFC) Lettuce items will become difficult to attain as the desert season winds down; Markon Best Available (MBA) will be substituted as needed.

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California Crema Gem Avocados will be Shipping into Summer

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California Crema label avocados will be shipped exclusively by Index Fresh of Corona, CA into the summer. The company is a global avocado production, distribution and marketing company.

California Crema avocados are the Gem variety — gold-flecked, creamy and in season annually between April and July, while supplies last, according to a news release.

Index Fresh said California Crema avocados are harvested by California farmers, pack flavor and nutritional density and pair resilience with responsibility. The offering is sold bagged and in bulk with eye-catching, innovative packaging, the company said.

Index Fresh cites the rich, creamy avocados are already staples of California cuisine and the go-to ingredient for restaurants and home chefs that want to deliver on exceptional flavor. The company partners with farmers who have invested years in cultivating a promotable level for the 2025 crop.

Index Fresh said Gem avocados are often associated with farming practices that strive to minimize their environmental impact, like growing on compact trees that have a more dense and efficient fruit set, producing more within a smaller footprint. The fruit grows inside a lush canopy, where they are insulated from direct sun and more resilient to extreme weather, the release said.

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U.S. Fruit Consumption has Decreased in the 21st Century

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There is much research demonstrating that fruits are a rich source of these nutrients. According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA), 2020-2025, the underconsumption of some of the nutrients provided by fruits is considered a public health concern. 

Dietary guidelines by the USDA and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services indicate the amount of fruit recommended for a nutritionally adequate diet has remained the same since 2005. 

According to these entities, about 80% of the U.S. population consumes less fruit than the recommended amount.

A recent examination by the USDA Economic Research Service (ERS) indicated that, on average, U.S. consumers have been eating and drinking less fruit since the turn of the 21st century.

Estimates from the ERS Loss Adjusted Food Availability Data show per capita U.S. total fruit availability declined from 0.95 cup equivalents per person per day in 2003 to 0.82 cup equivalents per person per day in 2021, a 14% drop, the report shows.

Additionally, data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), collected at the individual level, similarly show total fruit intake in the United States declined 7% from 1 cup equivalent per person per day in 2003–04 to 0.93 cup equivalents per person per day in 2017–18.

Fruit consumption is measured in fresh, canned, frozen, and dried products, as well as 100% juice.

The ERS Loss-Adjusted Food Availability data product and NHANES both show U.S. consumers drank less fruit juice over time, on average.

Children are eating more fruit at school; Senior adults are eating less fruit overall

The fruit density of children’s diets increased from an average of 0.55 cup equivalents per 1,000 calories in 2003–04 to 0.74 cup equivalents per 1,000 calories in 2017–18.

In-school meals have contributed to increased consumption by children. The fruit density of children’s diets when eating at school increased from 1 cup equivalent per 1,000 calories in 2003–04 to 1.36 cup equivalents per 1,000 calories in 2017–18.

However, seniors and working-age adults do not fare as well as children in meeting dietary fruit guidelines. In 2017–18, seniors consumed 0.59 cups of fruit per 1,000 calories, which is 0.16 cup equivalents less fruit per 1,000 calories than in 2003–04. 

Regardless, children and adults, including seniors, consistently have fallen short of Federal guidelines. From 2017 to March 2020, only 23.2% of children and 14.7% of adults met the DGA’s fruit recommendations for their age and sex group.

Fruit consumption levels tied to health behaviors and awareness

ERS researchers also sought to understand how individual and societal factors relate to being in low—or high-consuming groups. They found the most significant factors in predicting high consumption are health behaviors, including engaging in physical activity and not smoking, and health knowledge captured by awareness of USDA’s MyPlate, a tool used to visualize recommendations for a healthy diet.

On the other hand, those who have these healthy behaviors and knowledge were less likely to be low-fruit consumers. Researchers also found income and fruit prices were not strongly associated with low or high consumption.

Source: Amber Waves, USDA

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Shipments of Minneola Tangelos are Underway from San Joaquin Valley

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Minneola Tangelos loadings are underway from Bee Sweet Citrus, Inc. of Fowler, CA with a strong supply of the specialty citrus variety available.

“Minneola Tangelos are one of the many specialty citrus varieties that we offer to our customers, and this season’s crop eats well,” stated Bee Sweet Citrus Sales Representative Joe Berberian. “The fruit’s sugar levels are high, and the variety possesses the perfect blend of sweet, tangy flavor.”

Minneola Tangelos are a cross between a grapefruit and a tangerine and are in season now through April. Popular for its pronounced neck and distinct red-orange rind, the variety is excellent for anyone looking for a healthy, versatile snack.

“Minneolas are incredibly unique and shouldn’t be overlooked by consumers this season,” stated Bee Sweet Citrus Director of Communications Monique Mueller. “Visually, they’re easy to tell apart from other citrus varieties, and their distinctive flavor caters to citrus fans who appreciate both sweet and tangy flavors.”

Bee Sweet’s Minneola Tangelos are available in bag and bulk items, and the company reports that the fruit’s sizing complements 2#, 3#, and 5# bags. In addition to Minneolas, Bee Sweet Citrus also has Navel oranges, Heirloom Navels, Cara Cara oranges, Royal Red oranges, mandarins, lemons, Meyer lemons, pummelos and grapefruit are available.

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Clearing the Air: The California Emissions Tug-of-War

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By Makenna Christensen ALC Logistics

In 1970, the Federal Clean Air Act granted California special authorization to “set its own separate and stricter-than-federal vehicle emissions regulations to address the extraordinary circumstances of population, climate and topography that generated the worst air in the nation.” Under this legislation, the state is required to obtain special waivers from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) before implementing such regulations. Subsequent regulations were very successful and are credited with reducing the smog that once blanketed Los Angeles and improving air quality across the state. 

Now, California’s leadership has a new goal: to reduce greenhouse gases 85 percent and achieve carbon neutrality by 2045. The key to their plan is phasing out the sale of diesel and gasoline powered vehicles. The state sent several waivers for approval to a sympathetic EPA from 2022 to 2024 with mild success. “The waivers granted during the Biden Administration were for California’s Advanced Clean Trucks Rule, Omnibus NOx rule and Clean Cars II rule. Notably, California withdrew its Advanced Clean Fleets Rule from EPA waiver consideration before the Inauguration.” Soon after these waivers were imposed (re-imposed in some cases), stakeholders began to fight back.

On his first day in office, President Trump revoked nearly 80 of the previous administration’s executive actions with the simple stroke of a pen. Among these executive actions he announced his policy to unleash American energy and terminate the “electric vehicle mandate.” This included guidance to revoke California’s EPA waivers.

Last year, the Supreme Court agreed to hear arguments about the legal basis for some of the lawsuits challenging California Clean Cars regulations. However, following Trump’s executive actions, the federal government has asked the Supreme Court to pause its schedule, arguing that a ruling was unnecessary considering Trump’s executive actions. 

President Trump is far from the first president to undo his predecessor’s legacy with an executive order. The Advanced Clean Cars waiver has actually been granted and subsequently revoked by three different administrations. Leaving many in the transportation sector unsure how to move forward. While there is no immediate threat of enforcement, how do we know that won’t change four years from now? 

If President Trump wants to enact lasting change and provide stability to our supply chain, he must codify these changes. By allowing the Supreme Court to weigh in, he can cement his legacy and stabilize the transportation sector as it searches for a path forward.

*****

Makenna Christensen graduated from Marquette University in 2022 with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Human Resources. In 2022, she started working as a Software Sales Coordinator for ALC Logistics, the software division of the Allen Lund Company. In February 2025, she successfully completed the Fresh Produce & Floral Council’s Apprentice program.

makenna.christensen@allenlund.com

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After Slow Start Mexican Mango Exports are Looking Favorable

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Early season exports of mangoes from Mexico have been very light in volume, but that is changing.

In mid-February, Mexican growers had only exported about 1 million pounds of the fruit compared to 1.8 million pounds at the same time a year ago. However, Ciruli Bros. LLC, of Rio Rico, AZ reports the light numbers will not add up to this year’s exports being short.

In fact the opposite is true.

February cold weather and some light rain, which are very unusual this time of the year, have resulted in the slow start to the season.

Volume is now picking up significantly along with larger than normal sizes for the fruit thanks to ample rainfall during the growing season.

Ciruli Bros. now is importing mangoes from Chiapas, Oaxaca and Michoacan.

G-M Produce Sales LLC of Hidalgo, TX, launched its Mexican mango season the week of Feb. 17, and it will continue until September. The company ships all the commercial mango varieties — haden, tommy atkins, kent, keitt and ataulfo.

The Mexican mango harvest for Mission Produce of Oxnard, CA started strong in February and will continue for conventional and organic mangoes until the end of the harvest in September.

Throughout the summer, the company will source honey, haden, tommy atkins, kent and keitt varieties from Mexico.

Good volume on small mangoes is expected by mid-April through June when a lot of packers in the central areas of Jalisco and southern Sinaloa are forecasting a bumper crop.

The southern areas in Michoacán should be in full swing by April and May.

Yellow mangoes will be heavy mid-March through April, with the season out of the southern areas winding down in May.

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