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Chilean cherry production has increased by over 50% in recent years, and industry analysis is studying new markets, adjusting volumes, and developing new products, such as frozen cherries, according to ChileAlimentos.
It notes while the frozen cherry industry remains relatively small compared to fresh fruit, it has shown a consistent growth over the years.
Bachelet explained that cherries are a new addition to the frozen sector, where most exports from Chile have historically been berries.
Chile’s frozen industry has historically been with berries, and began with raspberries In recent years, blueberries have made up the largest volume. The freezing industry typically selects ripe fruits that cannot withstand transport, because these fruits are equally good, ripe, and perfect in terms of flavor and color.
The United States has been identified as the primary producer and consumer of frozen cherries, with Europe and Turkey also showing significant growth.
The frozen sector has experienced substantial growth as experienced by the first two months of 2025, when exports doubled, increasing from over 2,000 tons to 4,500 tons, and this upward trend is expected to continue.
The organization points ouit 8,690 tons of frozen cherries were exported last year, and projections suggest that this figure may nearly double to around 19,000 tons this year. This growth is attributed to a larger supply of fruit, leading to increased opportunities for sourcing raw materials, a traditional challenge for the frozen industry.
The United States is identified as a key target for growth, followed by Canada, China, and Japan.
Frozen cherries are primarily used in cherry pies and sold as standalone fruits. However, many cherries are now being marketed in mixtures with other fruits, such as cherry mix and berry cherry mix.
Excellent cherry shipments are hoped for due to favorable weather this spring in the Pacific Northwest.
Early estimates project a larger cherry crop this season, about 24.5 million boxes, which is about 28% higher than last year. This is up from last year’s 19 million boxes.
Stemilt Growers of Wenatchee, WA grows, packs and ships cherries. The company is highly optimistic due to favorable growing conditions.
CMI Orchards of Wenatchee, WA expressed similar thoughts about the good weather.
A winter freeze impacted the overall 2024 crop size in Washington, but that’s not the case this year, which marketers hope will allow for an extended harvest into September.
Chelan Fresh Marketing of Chelan, WA alluded to how clean a crop this year was shaping up to be. The company expects to have about 10% more cherries this season. It pointed out the region grows more than 60 varieties of cherries, everything from bing, skeena, sweetheart, rainier, coral champagne and Black Pearl.
Peak shipments will be the week of June 23, and the week of July 14. However, ample supplies are seen from mid-June through at least mid-August.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863
LGS Specialty Sales of New Rochelle, NY, a leading importer of citrus, avocados, grapes, and persimmons, shares an update on its mandarin supply ahead of the summer season, according to a press release.
The company expects a seamless transition from domestic and Moroccan fruit into southern hemisphere supply offering Clemenules and Orograndes varieties over the next month and then transitioning to W. Murcotts and Tango varieties late-June/early-July.
“This year, we are experiencing excellent timing for southern hemisphere fruit,” said Lucio Rainelli, Director of Sales at LGS Specialty Sales. “Moving directly from Moroccan W. Murcotts to Clementines from the southern hemisphere should alleviate any issues with supply disruption or quality.”
Fruit will be arriving to the U.S. the week of May 12 with heavier supply anticipated the following week. The earlier timeframe ensures quality fruit will remain on the shelves despite the shift in growing regions.
“We are extremely pleased to offer our customers a smooth transition and give consumers an excellent eating experience with this year’s higher volume, great sizing and color,” added Rainelli. “Looking forward to a good summer season ahead!”
About LGS Specialty Sales, Ltd.
Born out of love of fresh produce and a desire to bring the world’s best-tasting fruit to U.S. shoppers, LGS Specialty Sales, Ltd. has been importing fruit from select growers around the world for more than 30 years. Today, LGS is a leading importer of clementines, oranges, avocados, grapes, lemons, limes, Minneola’s, Cara Cara oranges and persimmons, with an industry-wide reputation for innovation and excellence in produce quality, service, packaging and food safety.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
The global dragon fruit market is set for substantial growth, with its value expected to rise from US$507.3 million in 2023 to US$973.6 million by 2033, at a CAGR of 6.7%. Dragon fruit thrives in warm and humid climates, offering a year-round supply due to its evergreen nature.
The increasing popularity of dragon fruit is attributed to its rich nutritional profile, which can help combat chronic conditions such as cancer and asthma, regulate blood sugar, and promote skin and hair health. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, this fruit has gained traction among health-conscious consumers who seek nutritious ingredients for a balanced diet.
Dragon fruit plays a key role in the food and beverage industry, driving market expansion as producers develop a range of tropical products to satisfy diverse consumer tastes. The potential for sustained market growth is clear, as underscored by the findings of Persistence Market Research.
Key Market Growth Drivers
The growing awareness of dragon fruit’s health benefits, such as its rich nutrient content and antioxidant properties, is a key factor driving demand. Consumers increasingly recognize the fruit’s ability to help mitigate chronic health conditions, making it a desirable addition to their diets. Additionally, the shift toward healthier eating habits propels the rise in dragon fruit consumption as part of natural, nutritious food choices.
The food and beverage sector is expanding rapidly, with dragon fruit gaining popularity as an ingredient in various products. Its versatility has allowed producers to innovate, creating new offerings that cater to changing consumer preferences. Moreover, the globalization of markets and favorable trade policies have enhanced the reach of dragon fruit, making it more accessible in regions that previously had limited exposure.
Despite its evergreen nature, dragon fruit cultivation still faces challenges due to seasonal variations that can impact supply and pricing stability. Additionally, the plant is susceptible to pests and diseases, which can affect yields and product quality. Transportation and shelf-life issues are also significant hurdles, as the fruit’s delicate nature requires careful handling, particularly in long-distance shipments.
The geographical constraints of dragon fruit cultivation limit its production to specific regions with warm, humid climates. This can cause supply shortages and price fluctuations in areas where the fruit is not grown locally. Furthermore, the high initial investment required to establish dragon fruit orchards, including land, infrastructure, and cultivation practices, may deter some potential growers from entering the market.
Innovation in dragon fruit products has been a significant trend as producers explore new avenues for the fruit’s use. Dragon fruit-based beverages, snacks, desserts, and even skincare products have been developed to cater to diverse consumer needs. The rise of e-commerce has also expanded the market, providing consumers with easier access to dragon fruit products from different regions and encouraging online sales growth.
As health and wellness trends continue influencing consumer behavior, the demand for functional foods like dragon fruit, known for their nutritional benefits and disease-fighting properties, has surged.
Unlike some recent years, favorable growing conditions has California stone fruit growers and shippers optimistic about a good start to the season in late May.
Stone fruit growers were hit hard by Hurricane Hilary in August 2023. They are hoping this year will provide a long season with strong volumes and a good water supply, similar to 2024.
A rainy March has brought much-needed rain to the state. The snowpack in the mountains guarantees a good supply of water for irrigation during summer, as lakes and rivers should maintain strong levels.
Stone fruit grower Mountain View Fruit Sales expects similar volumes from last year.
March 2025 had cooler weather than a year ago which slowed the crop some. However, the season is expected to ramp up in late May, with shipments occurring through the middle of October, weather permitting.
The initial estimate for the season looks very close to last year’s total volume.
Some of the heaviest volume is expected leading up to Memorial Day and for the summer holidays.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Over 30 different fruits and vegetables are produced in Georgia each year, and growers are very optimistic about this summer shipping season.
The Georgia Department of Agriculture reports blueberries, peaches, watermelons and sweet corn are all looking good.
Corbett Brothers Farms LLC of Lake Park, GA shipped watermelon and sweet corn for the first time last year and have them again this summer and loadings get underway on May 20 and continue until July 4.
The company has already started harvesting squash, cucumbers, bell pepper and specialty peppers and wi eggplant. The summer season will end around the Fourth of July, and the fall season will kick off in early September with the same commodities.
Bland Farms of Glennville, GA finished its Vidalia onion harvest in early May and has planting Sand Candy sweet potatoes in Georgia and North Carolina. It now has a year around sweet potato program.
When the Vidalia sweet onion season ends in August, Bland Farms will transition to its Peru premium sweet onion program, which will last through February. Then, the sweet onion seaspm will move to Mexico.
The company also sources sweet onions from Nevada and California.
Shuman Farms of Reidsville, GA will ship Vidalia onions through Labor Day
Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA has released these “Live from the Fields” reports on South Georgia cucumbers and squash May 15, 2025:
- Harvesting is ramping up for cucumbers in south Georgia
- MFC Cucumbers are available in various pack sizes
- Quality is very good; supplies are ample
- Supplies are expected to remain available through mid-June
View a Markon “Live from the Fields” video regarding Markon First Crop (MFC) Zucchini and Yellow Squash currently being packed out of the South Georgia growing region.
- Harvesting is ramping up for various dry vegetable crops in Southern Georgia
- MFC Zucchini, and Yellow Squash are available in various pack sizes
- Quality is very good; supplies are ample
- Recent rain and thunderstorms had little or no impact on production
- Supplies are expected to remain available through mid-June *****
- ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
The 2025 crop of Chilean apples from Honeybear Brands—a leading grower, marketer, and developer of conventional and organic apples, pears, and cherries—is now available in the U.S. market.
Among the varieties shipped from South America are Honeycrisp and the exclusive Pazazz, which the company says deliver premium taste and eating quality that consumers will enjoy throughout spring and summer.
This year’s imported season kicked off with a wide range of conventional and organic varieties, including Gala, Pink Lady, Granny Smith, Fuji and Honeycrisp apples, as well as Bartlett and Bosc pears.
“Honeybear Brands is the leading apple importer from the Southern Hemisphere, ensuring retailers have premium conditioned fruit to meet shopper expectations year-round,” said Don Roper, vice president of sales and marketing at Honeybear Brands.
Pazazz is a late-season apple that retains its texture and flavor long after other premium varieties. It is ideal as a snack and for culinary preparations.
In December 2024, the USDA said apple production in Chile is forecast mostly unchanged at 920,000 tons as high yields from sufficient winter rainfall and chill hours offset decreased acreage. Additionally, exports are forecast to increase only slightly to 535,000 tons for the 2024-25 season.
Chile is the leading exporter of fresh apples to the U.S., with a 44.7% market share. According to USDA data, the country has averaged over 126 million pounds of apples exported to the U.S. annually in the last five years.
Canada is in second place with almost 50 million pounds of apples annually.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Coming off of record shipments last season California blueberries are entering its peak volume period this week with both organic and conventional fruit.
The California Blueberry Commission reports 74.5 million pounds were shipped in 2024.
California Giant Berry Farms of Watsonville, CA reports peak loadings of organic will occur the first two weeks and lasting June, while peak conventional loadings are now underway.
California Giant Berry Farms is anticipating its conventional fruit harvest to be up more than 30% compared with 2024.
Overall, this year nationwide production is projected at 721 million pounds, down slightly from 740.5 million pounds in 2024.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
The final loading shipments of South American table grapes have been exported and delivered to the U.S. for grower-shipper, Divine Flavor of Nogales, AZ. A few weeks ago the company turned its attention from Chile to their principal growing regions of Jalisco and Sonora, Mexico.
In recent years, April through May has emerged as a pivotal window for Divine Flavor, with their Jalisco operation kicking off right as the Chilean season concludes with its final shipments. A consistent supply of fresh, high-quality premium varieties—like Autumncrisp, Cotton Candy, and Sweet Globe (all proprietary green seedless grapes)—has played a vital role in supporting a seamless transition for their North American retail partners.
The company notes historically the red seedless would exceed green seedless demand, but slowly that has shifted to a point where in most cases greens now double the demand of reds. Part of this is due to the popularity of the Autumncrisp variety, as well as Sweet Globe, Cotton Candy, among others.
Last April, Mexico Table Grapes Association (AALPUM) announced around 23 million boxes for 2025 (about a 1.3% increase from 2024), and there, it was reported Sonora could see a delay on early-season varieties to start the season, but with volumes picking up in June.
With the early varieties, the Sonoran grape season will see some delays on reds and a smaller crop of Flames than from previous years. But once it approaches the mid-season of harvest, reds will bounce back with better volume, and there will be good volume in June. The company expects to have about an 18% increase from Sonora program.
Divine Flavor finished its last grape shipments from Chile around the end of April (with inventories going into the first weeks of May). Their Jalisco grape program is currently midway through its harvest and will go until the end of May. The company will start its Sonoran grape program with the first organic grapes from Mexico around the middle of May which will go into the end of July.
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
A recent study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that eating blueberries and other flavonoid-rich foods may support healthy aging, including a lowered risk for poor mental health.
The study, led by researchers from Queen’s University, Belfast N. Ireland; Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia; Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health; and Rush University Medical Center, highlights the associations between the intake of flavonoids and flavonoid-rich foods, including blueberries, and three indicators of healthy aging (frailty, impaired physical function and poor mental health).
The survey involved more than 85,000 men and women over the age of 60 and showed that blueberries, strawberries, apples, oranges, and tea promote healthier aging.
“From a public health standpoint, a modest yet achievable adjustment, involving an increase of 3 servings per day in flavonoid-rich foods, translated to a 6% to 11% lower risk across the healthy aging indicators in women, and a 15% lower risk of poor mental health in men,” said Aedín Cassidy, Ph.D., nutrition and preventive medicine chair, and director for interdisciplinary research, Queen’s University Belfast and The Institute for Global Food Security.
Researchers conducted the study using data from two U.S.-wide prospective cohort studies, the Nurses’ Health Study (NHS) and the Health Professionals Follow-up Study (HPFS).
The study followed 62,743 females from 1990-2014 and 23,687 males from 2006-2018 and included their data when they reached 60 years or older. Dietary flavonoid intake was calculated from food frequency questionnaires collected when participants started and every four years over 24 years for the NHS and over 12 years for the HPFS.
Every four years, participants also completed health surveys to assess conditions related to frailty, including fatigue, poor strength, reduced aerobic capacity, presence of chronic illnesses, and weight loss. Physical impairment was assessed based on questions related to physical limitations in performing various moderate and vigorous activities.
Mental health was assessed and scored using questions from the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression and the Geriatric Depression Scale.
In the NHS, intakes of total flavonoids, compared to the lowest, were associated with a 15% lower risk of frailty, a 12% lower risk of developing impaired physical function, and a 12% lower risk of developing poor mental health. A lowered risk of these outcomes was also associated with a higher habitual intake of specific foods and beverages: tea, red wine, apples, blueberries, and oranges.
In the males with HPFS, high intakes of tea and blueberries and moderate intakes of red wine were associated with a lowered risk of poor mental health. Still, there were no associations between average intakes of any other flavonoid-rich foods and either frailty or impaired physical function.
The researchers also looked at changes due to decreased consumption of flavonoid-rich foods. In the NHS, the greatest decrease in intakes of tea, blueberries, and apples was associated with a 7%, 31%, and 16% higher risk of developing frailty, respectively. Increasing intakes of blueberries by 0.5 servings per day was associated with a 12% lower risk of frailty.
A limitation of the study is that it only focused on middle-aged and older, predominantly white women and men. Future studies in diverse population groups with broader intakes of flavonoid-rich foods are needed.
This research contributes to the growing evidence that consuming flavonoid-rich foods like blueberries throughout one’s life is an important part of a healthy diet.
“Our findings underscore the potential for simple dietary modifications to impact overall quality of life and contribute to healthy aging,” Cassidy explained.
Chilean cherry production has increased by over 50% in recent years, and industry analysis is studying new markets, adjusting volumes, and developing new products, such as frozen cherries, according to ChileAlimentos.
It notes while the frozen cherry industry remains relatively small compared to fresh fruit, it has shown a consistent growth over the years.
Bachelet explained that cherries are a new addition to the frozen sector, where most exports from Chile have historically been berries.
Chile’s frozen industry has historically been with berries, and began with raspberries In recent years, blueberries have made up the largest volume. The freezing industry typically selects ripe fruits that cannot withstand transport, because these fruits are equally good, ripe, and perfect in terms of flavor and color.
The United States has been identified as the primary producer and consumer of frozen cherries, with Europe and Turkey also showing significant growth.
The frozen sector has experienced substantial growth as experienced by the first two months of 2025, when exports doubled, increasing from over 2,000 tons to 4,500 tons, and this upward trend is expected to continue.
The organization points ouit 8,690 tons of frozen cherries were exported last year, and projections suggest that this figure may nearly double to around 19,000 tons this year. This growth is attributed to a larger supply of fruit, leading to increased opportunities for sourcing raw materials, a traditional challenge for the frozen industry.
The United States is identified as a key target for growth, followed by Canada, China, and Japan.
Frozen cherries are primarily used in cherry pies and sold as standalone fruits. However, many cherries are now being marketed in mixtures with other fruits, such as cherry mix and berry cherry mix.
Excellent cherry shipments are hoped for due to favorable weather this spring in the Pacific Northwest.
Early estimates project a larger cherry crop this season, about 24.5 million boxes, which is about 28% higher than last year. This is up from last year’s 19 million boxes.
Stemilt Growers of Wenatchee, WA grows, packs and ships cherries. The company is highly optimistic due to favorable growing conditions.
CMI Orchards of Wenatchee, WA expressed similar thoughts about the good weather.
A winter freeze impacted the overall 2024 crop size in Washington, but that’s not the case this year, which marketers hope will allow for an extended harvest into September.
Chelan Fresh Marketing of Chelan, WA alluded to how clean a crop this year was shaping up to be. The company expects to have about 10% more cherries this season. It pointed out the region grows more than 60 varieties of cherries, everything from bing, skeena, sweetheart, rainier, coral champagne and Black Pearl.
Peak shipments will be the week of June 23, and the week of July 14. However, ample supplies are seen from mid-June through at least mid-August.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863
LGS Specialty Sales of New Rochelle, NY, a leading importer of citrus, avocados, grapes, and persimmons, shares an update on its mandarin supply ahead of the summer season, according to a press release.
The company expects a seamless transition from domestic and Moroccan fruit into southern hemisphere supply offering Clemenules and Orograndes varieties over the next month and then transitioning to W. Murcotts and Tango varieties late-June/early-July.
“This year, we are experiencing excellent timing for southern hemisphere fruit,” said Lucio Rainelli, Director of Sales at LGS Specialty Sales. “Moving directly from Moroccan W. Murcotts to Clementines from the southern hemisphere should alleviate any issues with supply disruption or quality.”
Fruit will be arriving to the U.S. the week of May 12 with heavier supply anticipated the following week. The earlier timeframe ensures quality fruit will remain on the shelves despite the shift in growing regions.
“We are extremely pleased to offer our customers a smooth transition and give consumers an excellent eating experience with this year’s higher volume, great sizing and color,” added Rainelli. “Looking forward to a good summer season ahead!”
About LGS Specialty Sales, Ltd.
Born out of love of fresh produce and a desire to bring the world’s best-tasting fruit to U.S. shoppers, LGS Specialty Sales, Ltd. has been importing fruit from select growers around the world for more than 30 years. Today, LGS is a leading importer of clementines, oranges, avocados, grapes, lemons, limes, Minneola’s, Cara Cara oranges and persimmons, with an industry-wide reputation for innovation and excellence in produce quality, service, packaging and food safety.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
The global dragon fruit market is set for substantial growth, with its value expected to rise from US$507.3 million in 2023 to US$973.6 million by 2033, at a CAGR of 6.7%. Dragon fruit thrives in warm and humid climates, offering a year-round supply due to its evergreen nature.
The increasing popularity of dragon fruit is attributed to its rich nutritional profile, which can help combat chronic conditions such as cancer and asthma, regulate blood sugar, and promote skin and hair health. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, this fruit has gained traction among health-conscious consumers who seek nutritious ingredients for a balanced diet.
Dragon fruit plays a key role in the food and beverage industry, driving market expansion as producers develop a range of tropical products to satisfy diverse consumer tastes. The potential for sustained market growth is clear, as underscored by the findings of Persistence Market Research.
Key Market Growth Drivers
The growing awareness of dragon fruit’s health benefits, such as its rich nutrient content and antioxidant properties, is a key factor driving demand. Consumers increasingly recognize the fruit’s ability to help mitigate chronic health conditions, making it a desirable addition to their diets. Additionally, the shift toward healthier eating habits propels the rise in dragon fruit consumption as part of natural, nutritious food choices.
The food and beverage sector is expanding rapidly, with dragon fruit gaining popularity as an ingredient in various products. Its versatility has allowed producers to innovate, creating new offerings that cater to changing consumer preferences. Moreover, the globalization of markets and favorable trade policies have enhanced the reach of dragon fruit, making it more accessible in regions that previously had limited exposure.
Despite its evergreen nature, dragon fruit cultivation still faces challenges due to seasonal variations that can impact supply and pricing stability. Additionally, the plant is susceptible to pests and diseases, which can affect yields and product quality. Transportation and shelf-life issues are also significant hurdles, as the fruit’s delicate nature requires careful handling, particularly in long-distance shipments.
The geographical constraints of dragon fruit cultivation limit its production to specific regions with warm, humid climates. This can cause supply shortages and price fluctuations in areas where the fruit is not grown locally. Furthermore, the high initial investment required to establish dragon fruit orchards, including land, infrastructure, and cultivation practices, may deter some potential growers from entering the market.
Innovation in dragon fruit products has been a significant trend as producers explore new avenues for the fruit’s use. Dragon fruit-based beverages, snacks, desserts, and even skincare products have been developed to cater to diverse consumer needs. The rise of e-commerce has also expanded the market, providing consumers with easier access to dragon fruit products from different regions and encouraging online sales growth.
As health and wellness trends continue influencing consumer behavior, the demand for functional foods like dragon fruit, known for their nutritional benefits and disease-fighting properties, has surged.
Unlike some recent years, favorable growing conditions has California stone fruit growers and shippers optimistic about a good start to the season in late May.
Stone fruit growers were hit hard by Hurricane Hilary in August 2023. They are hoping this year will provide a long season with strong volumes and a good water supply, similar to 2024.
A rainy March has brought much-needed rain to the state. The snowpack in the mountains guarantees a good supply of water for irrigation during summer, as lakes and rivers should maintain strong levels.
Stone fruit grower Mountain View Fruit Sales expects similar volumes from last year.
March 2025 had cooler weather than a year ago which slowed the crop some. However, the season is expected to ramp up in late May, with shipments occurring through the middle of October, weather permitting.
The initial estimate for the season looks very close to last year’s total volume.
Some of the heaviest volume is expected leading up to Memorial Day and for the summer holidays.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Over 30 different fruits and vegetables are produced in Georgia each year, and growers are very optimistic about this summer shipping season.
The Georgia Department of Agriculture reports blueberries, peaches, watermelons and sweet corn are all looking good.
Corbett Brothers Farms LLC of Lake Park, GA shipped watermelon and sweet corn for the first time last year and have them again this summer and loadings get underway on May 20 and continue until July 4.
The company has already started harvesting squash, cucumbers, bell pepper and specialty peppers and wi eggplant. The summer season will end around the Fourth of July, and the fall season will kick off in early September with the same commodities.
Bland Farms of Glennville, GA finished its Vidalia onion harvest in early May and has planting Sand Candy sweet potatoes in Georgia and North Carolina. It now has a year around sweet potato program.
When the Vidalia sweet onion season ends in August, Bland Farms will transition to its Peru premium sweet onion program, which will last through February. Then, the sweet onion seaspm will move to Mexico.
The company also sources sweet onions from Nevada and California.
Shuman Farms of Reidsville, GA will ship Vidalia onions through Labor Day
Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA has released these “Live from the Fields” reports on South Georgia cucumbers and squash May 15, 2025:
- Harvesting is ramping up for cucumbers in south Georgia
- MFC Cucumbers are available in various pack sizes
- Quality is very good; supplies are ample
- Supplies are expected to remain available through mid-June
View a Markon “Live from the Fields” video regarding Markon First Crop (MFC) Zucchini and Yellow Squash currently being packed out of the South Georgia growing region.
- Harvesting is ramping up for various dry vegetable crops in Southern Georgia
- MFC Zucchini, and Yellow Squash are available in various pack sizes
- Quality is very good; supplies are ample
- Recent rain and thunderstorms had little or no impact on production
- Supplies are expected to remain available through mid-June *****
- ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
The 2025 crop of Chilean apples from Honeybear Brands—a leading grower, marketer, and developer of conventional and organic apples, pears, and cherries—is now available in the U.S. market.
Among the varieties shipped from South America are Honeycrisp and the exclusive Pazazz, which the company says deliver premium taste and eating quality that consumers will enjoy throughout spring and summer.
This year’s imported season kicked off with a wide range of conventional and organic varieties, including Gala, Pink Lady, Granny Smith, Fuji and Honeycrisp apples, as well as Bartlett and Bosc pears.
“Honeybear Brands is the leading apple importer from the Southern Hemisphere, ensuring retailers have premium conditioned fruit to meet shopper expectations year-round,” said Don Roper, vice president of sales and marketing at Honeybear Brands.
Pazazz is a late-season apple that retains its texture and flavor long after other premium varieties. It is ideal as a snack and for culinary preparations.
In December 2024, the USDA said apple production in Chile is forecast mostly unchanged at 920,000 tons as high yields from sufficient winter rainfall and chill hours offset decreased acreage. Additionally, exports are forecast to increase only slightly to 535,000 tons for the 2024-25 season.
Chile is the leading exporter of fresh apples to the U.S., with a 44.7% market share. According to USDA data, the country has averaged over 126 million pounds of apples exported to the U.S. annually in the last five years.
Canada is in second place with almost 50 million pounds of apples annually.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Coming off of record shipments last season California blueberries are entering its peak volume period this week with both organic and conventional fruit.
The California Blueberry Commission reports 74.5 million pounds were shipped in 2024.
California Giant Berry Farms of Watsonville, CA reports peak loadings of organic will occur the first two weeks and lasting June, while peak conventional loadings are now underway.
California Giant Berry Farms is anticipating its conventional fruit harvest to be up more than 30% compared with 2024.
Overall, this year nationwide production is projected at 721 million pounds, down slightly from 740.5 million pounds in 2024.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
The final loading shipments of South American table grapes have been exported and delivered to the U.S. for grower-shipper, Divine Flavor of Nogales, AZ. A few weeks ago the company turned its attention from Chile to their principal growing regions of Jalisco and Sonora, Mexico.
In recent years, April through May has emerged as a pivotal window for Divine Flavor, with their Jalisco operation kicking off right as the Chilean season concludes with its final shipments. A consistent supply of fresh, high-quality premium varieties—like Autumncrisp, Cotton Candy, and Sweet Globe (all proprietary green seedless grapes)—has played a vital role in supporting a seamless transition for their North American retail partners.
The company notes historically the red seedless would exceed green seedless demand, but slowly that has shifted to a point where in most cases greens now double the demand of reds. Part of this is due to the popularity of the Autumncrisp variety, as well as Sweet Globe, Cotton Candy, among others.
Last April, Mexico Table Grapes Association (AALPUM) announced around 23 million boxes for 2025 (about a 1.3% increase from 2024), and there, it was reported Sonora could see a delay on early-season varieties to start the season, but with volumes picking up in June.
With the early varieties, the Sonoran grape season will see some delays on reds and a smaller crop of Flames than from previous years. But once it approaches the mid-season of harvest, reds will bounce back with better volume, and there will be good volume in June. The company expects to have about an 18% increase from Sonora program.
Divine Flavor finished its last grape shipments from Chile around the end of April (with inventories going into the first weeks of May). Their Jalisco grape program is currently midway through its harvest and will go until the end of May. The company will start its Sonoran grape program with the first organic grapes from Mexico around the middle of May which will go into the end of July.
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
A recent study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that eating blueberries and other flavonoid-rich foods may support healthy aging, including a lowered risk for poor mental health.
The study, led by researchers from Queen’s University, Belfast N. Ireland; Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia; Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health; and Rush University Medical Center, highlights the associations between the intake of flavonoids and flavonoid-rich foods, including blueberries, and three indicators of healthy aging (frailty, impaired physical function and poor mental health).
The survey involved more than 85,000 men and women over the age of 60 and showed that blueberries, strawberries, apples, oranges, and tea promote healthier aging.
“From a public health standpoint, a modest yet achievable adjustment, involving an increase of 3 servings per day in flavonoid-rich foods, translated to a 6% to 11% lower risk across the healthy aging indicators in women, and a 15% lower risk of poor mental health in men,” said Aedín Cassidy, Ph.D., nutrition and preventive medicine chair, and director for interdisciplinary research, Queen’s University Belfast and The Institute for Global Food Security.
Researchers conducted the study using data from two U.S.-wide prospective cohort studies, the Nurses’ Health Study (NHS) and the Health Professionals Follow-up Study (HPFS).
The study followed 62,743 females from 1990-2014 and 23,687 males from 2006-2018 and included their data when they reached 60 years or older. Dietary flavonoid intake was calculated from food frequency questionnaires collected when participants started and every four years over 24 years for the NHS and over 12 years for the HPFS.
Every four years, participants also completed health surveys to assess conditions related to frailty, including fatigue, poor strength, reduced aerobic capacity, presence of chronic illnesses, and weight loss. Physical impairment was assessed based on questions related to physical limitations in performing various moderate and vigorous activities.
Mental health was assessed and scored using questions from the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression and the Geriatric Depression Scale.
In the NHS, intakes of total flavonoids, compared to the lowest, were associated with a 15% lower risk of frailty, a 12% lower risk of developing impaired physical function, and a 12% lower risk of developing poor mental health. A lowered risk of these outcomes was also associated with a higher habitual intake of specific foods and beverages: tea, red wine, apples, blueberries, and oranges.
In the males with HPFS, high intakes of tea and blueberries and moderate intakes of red wine were associated with a lowered risk of poor mental health. Still, there were no associations between average intakes of any other flavonoid-rich foods and either frailty or impaired physical function.
The researchers also looked at changes due to decreased consumption of flavonoid-rich foods. In the NHS, the greatest decrease in intakes of tea, blueberries, and apples was associated with a 7%, 31%, and 16% higher risk of developing frailty, respectively. Increasing intakes of blueberries by 0.5 servings per day was associated with a 12% lower risk of frailty.
A limitation of the study is that it only focused on middle-aged and older, predominantly white women and men. Future studies in diverse population groups with broader intakes of flavonoid-rich foods are needed.
This research contributes to the growing evidence that consuming flavonoid-rich foods like blueberries throughout one’s life is an important part of a healthy diet.
“Our findings underscore the potential for simple dietary modifications to impact overall quality of life and contribute to healthy aging,” Cassidy explained.