Author Archive
Peru’s Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation (MIDAGRI), through the National Agrarian Health Service, announced that the 2024-2025 table grape campaign registered exports of 562,093 tons, consolidating Peru’s position as world leader in exports for the second consecutive year.
Grape exports reached 44 international markets. Three key markets accounted for 83%: the United States with 46% share, European countries (24%) and Mexico (8%). Other important markets included the United Kingdom, Spain, Canada, Hong Kong, Colombia, China and Taiwan.
Peru’s export season runs from October to April of the following year. The country has more than 56 varieties of table grapes, the most exported being Sweet Globe, Red Globe, and Allison, which are also the most demanded in the international market.
A few weeks before the end of the export season, SENASA authorized 137 packing plants and certified more than 22,000 hectares of crops, mainly in the regions of Ica and Piura, followed by Lambayeque, La Libertad, Arequipa, and other regions such as Ancash, Lima, Moquegua, Tacna and Cajamarca.
In recent years, SENASA has gained access to Japan, China, and Ecuador in a joint effort with the Association of Table Grape Producers (PROVID), adding to the 92 international markets that already enjoy these Peruvian products.
Tomato shipments got underway in early April from Culiacan, Mexico and are now in good volume. Harvesting started from Florida’s Ruskin/Palmetto growing region in mid-April, according to a news release from Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA.
Round
- Supplies are increasing in Florida, especially large-size fruit
- Growers are harvesting spring fields in Mexico’s Culiacan region
- Quality is good
- Large sizes (4×4 and 4×5) are most abundant
Roma
- East Coast supplies continue to increase
- Mexico’s Culiacan supply is more plentiful with the new crop
- All sizes are available
- Central Mexico began harvesting spring crops in late April
Grape & Cherry Varieties
- Florida volume has increased through April
- Stocks are increasing in Western Mexico
- Supplies have been tight but improving in Central Mexico and Baja
The Chilean/Peruvian offshore grape season will end in early May. Harvesting will transition to Mexico in early May. Expect pricing to gradually increase as the offshore season winds down, according to a news release from Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA.
Offshore
- The Peruvian/Chilean green and red seedless seasons will end in early May
- MFC Lunch Bunch Grapes will ship through late May
- Quality is good; some soft/damaged fruit is being reported
- Expect tight supplies and rising markets through April
- Mexico
- Markon First Crop and Markon Essentials Seedless Grapes will be available soon
- Green and red seedless grapes are expected to begin shipping in early May
- The portioned grape season will begin in late May
- Expect elevated pricing in the early season; markets will gradually decrease as volume rises
A recent study published in the journal Nutrients found that daily mango consumption may lower insulin levels and enhance insulin sensitivity in overweight or obese adults experiencing chronic low-grade inflammation.
Conducted at the Illinois Institute of Technology with 48 adults aged 20 to 60, the study compared the effects of fresh mangos to a calorie-matched control food, on inflammation and insulin sensitivity. Participants consuming mangos exhibited significant reductions in insulin resistance, as measured by the Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR). Additionally, improvements in beta-cell function (insulin production and release) were noted using the disposition index (DI).
After a four-week intervention, the mango group showed significantly lower insulin concentrations during an oral glucose tolerance test compared to baseline, while no changes were observed in the control group.
“Our study indicates that incorporating fresh mangos into the diet may provide an accessible way for those who are overweight or obese to enhance insulin function and decrease the risk of type 2 diabetes,” Professor of Food Science and Nutrition Indika Edirisinghe, PhD, noted.
Importantly, while maintaining comparable caloric intake, participants in the mango group did not experience changes in body composition, whereas the control group showed a slight increase in weight.
Other markers of inflammation and glucose levels did not differ significantly between the two groups, suggesting that fresh mangos could be a healthier alternative to similar sweet treats.
Edirisinghe emphasized that the observed improvement in insulin sensitivity without corresponding weight gain challenges the perception that the natural sugar in mangos negatively impacts obesity and diabetes. While the specific mechanisms remain unclear, improved antioxidant status from mango consumption may play a role in regulating blood glucose levels.
These findings highlight the importance of incorporating fresh fruits, particularly mangos, into dietary habits that support heart health, blood sugar control, and overall wellness.
The mangos consumed were a combination of Kent and Keitt varieties, and aside from the intervention or control food, participants maintained their usual diet and lifestyle. The study utilized a randomized, placebo-controlled, single-blinded design over four weeks in real-life conditions, enabling thorough evaluations of fasting and postprandial glycemic responses.
*This study was supported through an unrestricted grant from the National
Spring vegetable shipments are underway from California’s Salinas Valley and volume will be gradually building in the weeks ahead.
Babe’ Farms based in Santa Maria some of its top-selling spring produce includes rainbow root vegetables (baby beets, carrots, specialty radishes), baby head lettuces, its signature Blonde Frisée and the all-new Pink Rhône Little Gem lettuce.. The company is expecting strong shipments for Easter (April 20) and Mother’s Day (May 11)
Tanimura & Antle of Salinas, CA grow and ship a wide variety of premium fresh produce, including iceberg, romaine and romaine hearts, other leafy items, cauliflower, broccoli, celery and its Artisan family of products.
Each spring, Tanimura & Antle transitions from the desert growing regions surrounding Yuma, AZ, to California’s Salinas Valley, one of the most fertile agricultural areas in the world. The company also strategically transitions to Huron, CA, to bridge the gap between seasons.
Peru’s Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation (MIDAGRI) reported that the country is consolidating its position as the world’s leading exporter of blueberries, with record sales surpassing $2.27 billion by the end of 2024. The current campaign will continue through April 2025.
According to MIDAGRI, Peru exported 326,000 tons of blueberries by the end of 2024, marking a 57% increase compared to 2023.
More than 11% of exports were organic, targeting an essential segment of the international market.
Although Peru strengthened its role as the top blueberry exporter in 2024, shipments to some markets declined in 2023. Countries such as Mexico and Colombia faced similar trends, reducing overall supply and driving up international prices. This contributed to a 23% increase in the value of Peruvian blueberry exports compared to 2022.
Quantity and quality of blueberries
If climatic disruptions such as El Niño or La Niña—marked by high temperatures, heavy rains, or water shortages—do not impact crops, Peruvian blueberry exports could exceed 350,000 tons this year.
In 2024, the United States remained the top destination for Peruvian blueberries, accounting for 55% of total shipments, followed by the Netherlands (21%) and Hong Kong (9%). These three markets together represented 85% of total exports.
Additionally, exports to India, Russia, Taiwan, Singapore, Belgium, France, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia are expected to grow, with China also showing substantial increases in demand.
This year’s California avocado shipments are shaping up to be one of the strongest in recent years, with a projected harvest of 375 million pounds. This is the largest crop since 2020, says the California Avocado Commission of Irvine, CA.
California avocados are most commonly available on the West Coast, though the commission is expanding its marketing program because of the larger harvest this year
Michael J Cavaletto Ranches in Nipomo, CA has seven ranches and expects to generate 9 million to 10 million pounds from all of them this year, a little higher than usual.
The California avocado industry had harvested 8% of its total crop by the second week of March, according to Calavo Growers, Santa Paula, CA.
Index Fresh of Corona, CA reports the 2025 California season started in mid-January, earlier than normal.
Additionally, strong volumes will be available throughout the season, following the spring rains.
Peak loadings of California avocados is expected from spring through summer, and the California Avocado Commission estimates promotable volume will be at least 10 million pounds per week from April through Labor Day weekend, with some weeks reaching significantly higher volumes.
Because of the favorable weather, some growers have been encouraged to start harvesting earlier than usual.
Mission Produce in Oxnard, CA reports supply and demand are synchronized and quality is looking good.
Tomato supplies have been tight due to increased demand and older winter fields finishing in Sinaloa, Mexico, according Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA
Round
- Florida volumes are light but are increasing going further into April; quality is good
- Mexico has moderate volume due to transitions from winter to spring crops in Sinaloa
- Quality is mixed, but is better out of newer fields
- Water restrictions in Sinaloa are expected to lessen April production
Roma
- East Coast supplies are fair with volume increasing in April
- Volume is moderate in Mexico as spring transitions are underway in Sinaloa
- New crop will bring additional extra-large size availability
- Reduced water allocation will reduce overall supply in April
Grape & Cherry Varieties
- Florida supplies are light but started increasing in early April
- West Mexico supply is steady; recent cooler weather has slowed production
- Central Mexico has light supply; expect increased production in late April when new crops start
A rising consumer preference for healthy and convenient food options is drawing increased attention to the frozen fruit sector, a recent market analysis by Verified Market Reports said. Among the rising fruit options, the frozen raspberry market is experiencing consistent growth.
The global frozen raspberry market was valued at $1.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $2.3 billion by 2031, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5% from 2024 to 2031.
Demand for frozen fruits continues to rise, driven by their long shelf life and versatility in smoothies, desserts, and baking. As health awareness grows, consumers are increasingly drawn to frozen raspberries for their high antioxidant and vitamin content.
North America and Europe lead the market, benefiting from strong consumer awareness and well-established retail infrastructures. Meanwhile, the Asia-Pacific region is expected to see rapid growth, supported by rising disposable incomes and the increasing popularity of Western diets.
The expansion of retail chains and greater availability of frozen fruits in supermarkets and online stores have improved consumer access. Additionally, advancements in freezing and packaging technology have helped maintain product quality and extend shelf life, making frozen raspberries more appealing to both consumers and retailers.
The industry is also embracing digital technologies such as AI, IoT, and blockchain to enhance operational efficiency, foster product innovation, and personalize customer experiences.
Investment opportunities in the frozen raspberry market are expanding, particularly as eCommerce platforms continue to grow. The rise of plant-based diets and demand for clean-label products also present avenues for innovation, including frozen raspberry mixes and ready-to-eat meals.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s March 2025 crop forecast estimates an output of 11.6 million boxes of oranges and 1.2 million boxes of grapefruit in Florida this month, a slight increase in production since February’s projection.
The positive news offers what Matt Joyner, CEO at Florida Citrus Mutual, called “a glimmer of hope” that production may be on the road to recovery after the setbacks the state’s industry has suffered, including several hurricanes and the ever-present citrus greening.
In a press release by the organization, Joyner added that “with continued resources from the state and federal levels, Florida citrus growers can preserve Florida’s citrus legacy as the iconic symbol of our state, providing jobs and shaping our culture for more than a century.”
The statement also urged the citrus industry, academia, and the government to join forces in the fight to preserve the industry and emphasized the importance of investing in solutions.
“On February 3, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the proposed Focus on Fiscal Responsibility Budget for 2025-2026 ahead of this year’s legislative session, which includes more than $20 million for the Citrus Health Response Program and other citrus research,” the press release stated. “Of the $20 million, $7 million is for advertising and additional research through the Florida Department of Citrus to increase the production of trees and advance technologies that produce a tree resistant to citrus greening.”
On a lighter note, Joyner mentioned that disease-resistant varieties have surfaced in the last two years, giving growers hope of increasing their citrus production.
Peru’s Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation (MIDAGRI), through the National Agrarian Health Service, announced that the 2024-2025 table grape campaign registered exports of 562,093 tons, consolidating Peru’s position as world leader in exports for the second consecutive year.
Grape exports reached 44 international markets. Three key markets accounted for 83%: the United States with 46% share, European countries (24%) and Mexico (8%). Other important markets included the United Kingdom, Spain, Canada, Hong Kong, Colombia, China and Taiwan.
Peru’s export season runs from October to April of the following year. The country has more than 56 varieties of table grapes, the most exported being Sweet Globe, Red Globe, and Allison, which are also the most demanded in the international market.
A few weeks before the end of the export season, SENASA authorized 137 packing plants and certified more than 22,000 hectares of crops, mainly in the regions of Ica and Piura, followed by Lambayeque, La Libertad, Arequipa, and other regions such as Ancash, Lima, Moquegua, Tacna and Cajamarca.
In recent years, SENASA has gained access to Japan, China, and Ecuador in a joint effort with the Association of Table Grape Producers (PROVID), adding to the 92 international markets that already enjoy these Peruvian products.
Tomato shipments got underway in early April from Culiacan, Mexico and are now in good volume. Harvesting started from Florida’s Ruskin/Palmetto growing region in mid-April, according to a news release from Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA.
Round
- Supplies are increasing in Florida, especially large-size fruit
- Growers are harvesting spring fields in Mexico’s Culiacan region
- Quality is good
- Large sizes (4×4 and 4×5) are most abundant
Roma
- East Coast supplies continue to increase
- Mexico’s Culiacan supply is more plentiful with the new crop
- All sizes are available
- Central Mexico began harvesting spring crops in late April
Grape & Cherry Varieties
- Florida volume has increased through April
- Stocks are increasing in Western Mexico
- Supplies have been tight but improving in Central Mexico and Baja
The Chilean/Peruvian offshore grape season will end in early May. Harvesting will transition to Mexico in early May. Expect pricing to gradually increase as the offshore season winds down, according to a news release from Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA.
Offshore
- The Peruvian/Chilean green and red seedless seasons will end in early May
- MFC Lunch Bunch Grapes will ship through late May
- Quality is good; some soft/damaged fruit is being reported
- Expect tight supplies and rising markets through April
- Mexico
- Markon First Crop and Markon Essentials Seedless Grapes will be available soon
- Green and red seedless grapes are expected to begin shipping in early May
- The portioned grape season will begin in late May
- Expect elevated pricing in the early season; markets will gradually decrease as volume rises
A recent study published in the journal Nutrients found that daily mango consumption may lower insulin levels and enhance insulin sensitivity in overweight or obese adults experiencing chronic low-grade inflammation.
Conducted at the Illinois Institute of Technology with 48 adults aged 20 to 60, the study compared the effects of fresh mangos to a calorie-matched control food, on inflammation and insulin sensitivity. Participants consuming mangos exhibited significant reductions in insulin resistance, as measured by the Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR). Additionally, improvements in beta-cell function (insulin production and release) were noted using the disposition index (DI).
After a four-week intervention, the mango group showed significantly lower insulin concentrations during an oral glucose tolerance test compared to baseline, while no changes were observed in the control group.
“Our study indicates that incorporating fresh mangos into the diet may provide an accessible way for those who are overweight or obese to enhance insulin function and decrease the risk of type 2 diabetes,” Professor of Food Science and Nutrition Indika Edirisinghe, PhD, noted.
Importantly, while maintaining comparable caloric intake, participants in the mango group did not experience changes in body composition, whereas the control group showed a slight increase in weight.
Other markers of inflammation and glucose levels did not differ significantly between the two groups, suggesting that fresh mangos could be a healthier alternative to similar sweet treats.
Edirisinghe emphasized that the observed improvement in insulin sensitivity without corresponding weight gain challenges the perception that the natural sugar in mangos negatively impacts obesity and diabetes. While the specific mechanisms remain unclear, improved antioxidant status from mango consumption may play a role in regulating blood glucose levels.
These findings highlight the importance of incorporating fresh fruits, particularly mangos, into dietary habits that support heart health, blood sugar control, and overall wellness.
The mangos consumed were a combination of Kent and Keitt varieties, and aside from the intervention or control food, participants maintained their usual diet and lifestyle. The study utilized a randomized, placebo-controlled, single-blinded design over four weeks in real-life conditions, enabling thorough evaluations of fasting and postprandial glycemic responses.
*This study was supported through an unrestricted grant from the National
Spring vegetable shipments are underway from California’s Salinas Valley and volume will be gradually building in the weeks ahead.
Babe’ Farms based in Santa Maria some of its top-selling spring produce includes rainbow root vegetables (baby beets, carrots, specialty radishes), baby head lettuces, its signature Blonde Frisée and the all-new Pink Rhône Little Gem lettuce.. The company is expecting strong shipments for Easter (April 20) and Mother’s Day (May 11)
Tanimura & Antle of Salinas, CA grow and ship a wide variety of premium fresh produce, including iceberg, romaine and romaine hearts, other leafy items, cauliflower, broccoli, celery and its Artisan family of products.
Each spring, Tanimura & Antle transitions from the desert growing regions surrounding Yuma, AZ, to California’s Salinas Valley, one of the most fertile agricultural areas in the world. The company also strategically transitions to Huron, CA, to bridge the gap between seasons.
Peru’s Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation (MIDAGRI) reported that the country is consolidating its position as the world’s leading exporter of blueberries, with record sales surpassing $2.27 billion by the end of 2024. The current campaign will continue through April 2025.
According to MIDAGRI, Peru exported 326,000 tons of blueberries by the end of 2024, marking a 57% increase compared to 2023.
More than 11% of exports were organic, targeting an essential segment of the international market.
Although Peru strengthened its role as the top blueberry exporter in 2024, shipments to some markets declined in 2023. Countries such as Mexico and Colombia faced similar trends, reducing overall supply and driving up international prices. This contributed to a 23% increase in the value of Peruvian blueberry exports compared to 2022.
Quantity and quality of blueberries
If climatic disruptions such as El Niño or La Niña—marked by high temperatures, heavy rains, or water shortages—do not impact crops, Peruvian blueberry exports could exceed 350,000 tons this year.
In 2024, the United States remained the top destination for Peruvian blueberries, accounting for 55% of total shipments, followed by the Netherlands (21%) and Hong Kong (9%). These three markets together represented 85% of total exports.
Additionally, exports to India, Russia, Taiwan, Singapore, Belgium, France, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia are expected to grow, with China also showing substantial increases in demand.
This year’s California avocado shipments are shaping up to be one of the strongest in recent years, with a projected harvest of 375 million pounds. This is the largest crop since 2020, says the California Avocado Commission of Irvine, CA.
California avocados are most commonly available on the West Coast, though the commission is expanding its marketing program because of the larger harvest this year
Michael J Cavaletto Ranches in Nipomo, CA has seven ranches and expects to generate 9 million to 10 million pounds from all of them this year, a little higher than usual.
The California avocado industry had harvested 8% of its total crop by the second week of March, according to Calavo Growers, Santa Paula, CA.
Index Fresh of Corona, CA reports the 2025 California season started in mid-January, earlier than normal.
Additionally, strong volumes will be available throughout the season, following the spring rains.
Peak loadings of California avocados is expected from spring through summer, and the California Avocado Commission estimates promotable volume will be at least 10 million pounds per week from April through Labor Day weekend, with some weeks reaching significantly higher volumes.
Because of the favorable weather, some growers have been encouraged to start harvesting earlier than usual.
Mission Produce in Oxnard, CA reports supply and demand are synchronized and quality is looking good.
Tomato supplies have been tight due to increased demand and older winter fields finishing in Sinaloa, Mexico, according Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA
Round
- Florida volumes are light but are increasing going further into April; quality is good
- Mexico has moderate volume due to transitions from winter to spring crops in Sinaloa
- Quality is mixed, but is better out of newer fields
- Water restrictions in Sinaloa are expected to lessen April production
Roma
- East Coast supplies are fair with volume increasing in April
- Volume is moderate in Mexico as spring transitions are underway in Sinaloa
- New crop will bring additional extra-large size availability
- Reduced water allocation will reduce overall supply in April
Grape & Cherry Varieties
- Florida supplies are light but started increasing in early April
- West Mexico supply is steady; recent cooler weather has slowed production
- Central Mexico has light supply; expect increased production in late April when new crops start
A rising consumer preference for healthy and convenient food options is drawing increased attention to the frozen fruit sector, a recent market analysis by Verified Market Reports said. Among the rising fruit options, the frozen raspberry market is experiencing consistent growth.
The global frozen raspberry market was valued at $1.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $2.3 billion by 2031, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5% from 2024 to 2031.
Demand for frozen fruits continues to rise, driven by their long shelf life and versatility in smoothies, desserts, and baking. As health awareness grows, consumers are increasingly drawn to frozen raspberries for their high antioxidant and vitamin content.
North America and Europe lead the market, benefiting from strong consumer awareness and well-established retail infrastructures. Meanwhile, the Asia-Pacific region is expected to see rapid growth, supported by rising disposable incomes and the increasing popularity of Western diets.
The expansion of retail chains and greater availability of frozen fruits in supermarkets and online stores have improved consumer access. Additionally, advancements in freezing and packaging technology have helped maintain product quality and extend shelf life, making frozen raspberries more appealing to both consumers and retailers.
The industry is also embracing digital technologies such as AI, IoT, and blockchain to enhance operational efficiency, foster product innovation, and personalize customer experiences.
Investment opportunities in the frozen raspberry market are expanding, particularly as eCommerce platforms continue to grow. The rise of plant-based diets and demand for clean-label products also present avenues for innovation, including frozen raspberry mixes and ready-to-eat meals.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s March 2025 crop forecast estimates an output of 11.6 million boxes of oranges and 1.2 million boxes of grapefruit in Florida this month, a slight increase in production since February’s projection.
The positive news offers what Matt Joyner, CEO at Florida Citrus Mutual, called “a glimmer of hope” that production may be on the road to recovery after the setbacks the state’s industry has suffered, including several hurricanes and the ever-present citrus greening.
In a press release by the organization, Joyner added that “with continued resources from the state and federal levels, Florida citrus growers can preserve Florida’s citrus legacy as the iconic symbol of our state, providing jobs and shaping our culture for more than a century.”
The statement also urged the citrus industry, academia, and the government to join forces in the fight to preserve the industry and emphasized the importance of investing in solutions.
“On February 3, Governor Ron DeSantis announced the proposed Focus on Fiscal Responsibility Budget for 2025-2026 ahead of this year’s legislative session, which includes more than $20 million for the Citrus Health Response Program and other citrus research,” the press release stated. “Of the $20 million, $7 million is for advertising and additional research through the Florida Department of Citrus to increase the production of trees and advance technologies that produce a tree resistant to citrus greening.”
On a lighter note, Joyner mentioned that disease-resistant varieties have surfaced in the last two years, giving growers hope of increasing their citrus production.