DENVER — “It’s official: the latest Dietary Guidelines for Americans have yet again confirmed the importance of eating more vegetables such as potatoes that provide potassium and vitamin C.1
“The 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommendations focus on increased nutrient-dense vegetable consumption. Americans can take simple steps toward eating healthier by choosing potatoes. As a nutrient-dense vegetable, potatoes support all three healthy eating patterns – Healthy U.S., Healthy Vegetarian, and Healthy Mediterranean – defined in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Potatoes’ versatility also means they can easily fit into meals across a variety of personal and cultural preferences for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
“For the first time in the history of the committee’s guidance on nutrition and health, the Dietary Guidelines also covers specific recommendations for individuals under two years old, supporting potatoes as a healthy first food for babies and toddlers, as well.
“Potatoes are a good source of potassium, providing 15% of the daily value per serving in addition to being an excellent source of vitamin C, providing 30% of the daily value per serving. Vitamin C may help support the body’s immune system,2 which is likely to be especially top-of-mind for Americans as we head into 2021.
“What’s more, research shows that you’re likely to feel full for longer3-5 and support your body with the nutrients it needs when you choose good carbohydrates like potatoes. A serving of potatoes has 26 grams of high-quality carbohydrates that can help fuel an active lifestyle. Carbohydrates are the key fuel utilized by the brain and by muscles during exercise.6 Many Americans are moving to plant-based diets7 and obtaining enough high-quality protein is important in this process. Potatoes contain 3 grams of a complete protein that can easily be absorbed by the body.8,9
“Many Americans are struggling with food insecurity and are not meeting recommendations for fruit and vegetable intake.10 Research suggests that potatoes are an affordable, nutrient-dense vegetable that provides more nutrients per penny than most other vegetables.11
“Potatoes are a nutritious, affordable option that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways – including simple, delicious preparations with few ingredients, making them easy to incorporate into a healthy diet. For more information on potato nutrition and preparation please visit PotatoGoodness.com.”
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About Potatoes USA Potatoes USA is the marketing organization for the 2,500 commercial potato growers operating in the United States. Potatoes USA was established in 1971 by a group of potato growers to promote the benefits of eating potatoes. Today, as the largest vegetable commodity board, Potatoes USA is proud to be recognized as an innovator in the produce industry. For more information on Potatoes USA’s mission to “Strengthen Demand for U.S. Potatoes” by creating positive change in the industry through innovative and inspiring approaches, please visit PotatoesUSA.com.
U.S. imports of Mexican mangoes are starting the 2021 season with higher volumes predicted than in recent years.
The National Mango Board of Orlando, FL is expecting significantly higher volumes until mid-June compared to the previous year.
The board expects about 12% more of the tropical fruit than the previous season, with an estimated volume of about 42 million boxes.
This would also be 11 percent higher than the average 5-year (2016-2020) volumes. Based on current projections higher volumes are seen beginning the last week of May and through June.
Also fueling optimism is no significant problems are seen with logistics or operations.
Meanwhile, demand had an increase in 2020, which is projected to continue into 2021 despite difficulties arising from the pandemic.
Crowley Logistics has added 355 new refrigerated reefer cargo containers to its fleet in Central America to ensure availability for perishables in the supply chain.
The 40-foot-long cubes have wireless asset monitoring technology, allowing continuous monitoring during transit at sea and on land, according to a news release.
“We realize the importance of having the best refrigerated equipment in the right quantities – all strategically positioned to meet customers’ needs during peak perishables season and throughout the rest of the year,” Brett Bennett, senior vice president and general manager, said. “It is a priority for us to ensure we are meeting all their needs for reliable logistics services, including the highest level of available equipment.”
The containers were sent to Santo Tomas, Guatemala to support Central America’s heavy northbound reefer season. They’re equipped with Star Cool refrigeration units, which are environmentally friendly and have been upgraded to boost efficiency and reliability.
Crowley Logistics expanded on-terminal perishables handling capabilities with a new U.S. Department of Agriculture inspection dock at Port Everglades, Fla., earlier in 2020. The $1.6 million dock has space for 80 refrigerated reefers, more than doubling the facility’s previous size.
The dock has shoreside power plugs for each reefer, cutting cargo time and the need to move containers to a separate location for USDA inspections.
Crowly has invested about $160 million in new cargo equipment since 2014.
During a webinar, named Panorama for Postseason Table Grapes, which was organized by the Chilean Fruit Exporters Association (ASOEX) and others, the latest estimate for rain damaged grapes it volume will be slashed by 35 percent this season.
As of February 10, the estimated number of table grape exports only reached 68 million boxes.
Most affected were grapes in central Chile, which destroyed a good part of the mid-season grape crop.
Fedefruta, Chile’s fruit growers group, reports three out of four of the country’s fruit growers suffered some type of damage from the rains, which totaled as much as three to four inches in some regions.
Fruit that was hit by the rains won’t reach U.S. shores until later in February and March. Congestion at U.S. port has been resulting in distribution delays. Not only is it common for boat transit times from Chile to take up to 3 weeks, but port delays have been adding an additional week or two. (see January 29 report)
Importers reports the rains are resulting in grapes splitting, particularly for the green/white seedless.
Good volumes from Peru may, and possibly better quality, is expected to help lessen the shortfall from Chile.
Little to no effect from the rain is anticipated for the Chilean red crimson seedless grapes, which are in good supply from March to April.
Pandol Bros. Inc. of Delano, CA reports generally there will be a shortage of good whites, while red seedless will be plentiful.
Unifrutti Chile points out there will definitely be fewer shipments to the U.S.
The late January rains were the biggest for that month since 1933.
AFC Global Sourcing of Chile notes the rain was very hard from San Felipe and south, hitting tree fruit, grapes and stone fruit.
BAKERSFIELD, CA — Cal-Organic Farms, the largest producer of organic vegetables in the US, is now shipping organic red bunch carrots and celery from Coachella, CA. A division of Grimmway Farms, Cal-Organic is shipping its exclusive red bunch carrots for a limited time and supplies are expected to last through the Easter holiday (April 4). Additionally, they expect to ship seasonal celery through the end of this month.
“Outstanding sweet flavor is what makes our red carrot variety truly unique. These specialty carrots feature vibrant red color through the root and make for beautiful plate presentation,” said Bob Borda, Vice President of Organic Sales at Grimmway Farms.
Red carrots are an excellent source of vitamin A and contribute to a balanced diet. Favored by shoppers for their colorful appearance, these ruby-colored roots are among the dozens of fresh carrot products available from Grimmway and Cal-Organic Farms.
“Celery quality looks great as well, with bright green color and firm, crisp texture,” added Borda.
Cal-Organic’s seasonal red carrot and celery programs are integrated with their year-round vegetable program and Grimmway’s category-leading carrot business.
About Grimmway Farms
Headquartered in Bakersfield, California, Grimmway Farms traces its roots to a produce stand opened by the Grimm brothers in the early 1960s. Grimmway is a global produce leader and the world’s largest producer of carrots. Grimmway supplies more than 65 organic, USA-grown crops and brands include Cal-Organic Farms and Bunny-Luv.
DALLAS — It’s a green victory for Avocados From Mexico (AFM), the No. 1 selling brand of avocados in the U.S. After six years of successful advertising in the Big Game, the company decided to not to air a commercial and shift its strategy to help drive retail sales during the fall season in order to prepare the market for the brand’s boldest Super Bowl promotion ever.
This new strategic approach paid off leading to new historic records. Despite pandemic challenges, the U.S. imported a historic record of 277 million pounds of Mexican avocados in the first four weeks of the year leading up to the most important guacamole consumption event. This represents a 19% increase vs the same period in 2020, with yet another incredible record of 78 million pounds of Mexican avocado imports in a single week for the first time ever.
From October to December (OND), the market sustained an amazing 49+ million lb. weekly average in 2020 of Mexican fruit compared to 46+ million lb. weekly average in 2019. “Since we decided to reinforce the promotional strategy for OND two years ago, Mexican avocado imports have grown 27% during this three-month period, a clear indication that we are on the right path,” said Luque.
With 97% market share in OND, AFM established this time frame as a major tentpole within its annual marketing strategy, with hyper-focused shopper and trade marketing efforts to drive consumption. Given the pandemic’s impact on the foodservice sector, AFM pivoted its strategy to focus on driving demand in retail. AFM’s trade and shopper marketing activities in OND supported strong retail demand with programs such as a national shopper marketing campaign featuring a $500k home giveaway, a national incentive contest with over 35 participating retail accounts, consumer and loyalty offers, and an important emphasis on bagged fruit programs. This paid off in 2020: per Nielsen, avocado consumption during OND was up double digits across the U.S, with an increase of 16.5% in lb. volume compared to OND 2019.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers trounced the Kansas City Chiefs 31 – 9 to win Super Bowl LV.
About Avocados From Mexico Company – Avocados From Mexico, based in Dallas (AFM), is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Mexican Hass Avocado Importers Association (MHAIA), formed for the purpose of advertising, promotion, public relations and research for all stakeholders of Avocados From Mexico. Under agreements, MHAIA and the Mexican Avocado Exporter Producers and Packers (APEAM) have combined resources to fund and manage AFM, with the intent to provide a focused, highly- effective and efficient marketing program in the United States. AFM is headquartered in Irving, Texas.
Imports of Peruvian table grapes were increasing throughout January but may decline in February.
Volumes from Peru are up this year in comparison to the average of the past five seasons. Capespan North America reports Peruvian quality has been mostly very good and has avoided serious weather issues from orchards north of Lima, unlike Chile to the south.
Because of labor and social unrest throughout the growing regions, Peru’s volume is expected to be lower in February.
Capespan is concerned there may be some irregular arrival patterns. Because of congestion at container vessel ports between Long Beach and Los Angeles, CA, some Peruvian shipments are being redirected to Port Hueneme.
Southern Specialties of Pompano Beach, FL 8is ramping up its expanded Mexican asparagus shipments, according to a news release.
The grower/shipper/importer is expanding its volume of asparagus from Mexico to supply retail, club store and foodservice customers. It will be shipping asparagus, grown in Caborca, Mexico until mid-April.
“The northern Mexico deal is a vital portion of our year-round asparagus program.” Kristen Francisco, the company’s director of sales, said in the release. “We continue to grow year-over-year volumes, from this region, and increase our customer base. We are looking forward to an active season.”
Mexican asparagus from Southern Specialties is hauled in less than truckload and straight loads, from San Luis, AZ., and Pompano Beach, FL. shipping points.
The firm’s Mexican asparagus is available in both 11-pound and 28-pound cases and packed in all sizes from small to jumbo. The company is also shipping organic asparagus in 11-pound cartons.
Oppy, a leading grower, marketer and distributor of fresh produce from around the world, announced a new grape program building on its exclusive partnership with Ocean Spray®, the agricultural cooperative owned by more than 700 farmer families.
The fruit comes from the Southern Hemisphere, which expands Oppy’s footprint, offering retailers a powerful 12-month consumer brand for the grape category from Peru, Chile and Brazil as well as South Africa, Mexico and California. Oppy’s overall program is well balanced across several global growing regions and a wide range of proprietary varieties, with an emphasis on high-quality, consistency and excellent flavor.
Ocean Spray® grapes are offered in a variety of packaging options, including high-graphic bags as well as 2 lb. and 3 lb. clamshells. Promotional volumes are available through February to support various retailer needs.
“Oppy’s grape program continues to evolve in exciting ways to meet the market demand,” Oppy’s Director of Import Grapes and Stone Fruit Bill Poulos said. “Our program is incredibly varied and comprises a mixture of new, exciting varieties that help attract new consumers, as well as tried and trusted favorites that are always a hit. Now offered under the immediately familiar and top-quality Ocean Spray® brand, our customers can truly refresh and reenergize their grape category.”
Import grapes continue to deliver healthy results, with 2020 volume increasing by 6% over 2019 in their January-May season, despite overall unpredictability across markets.
Since the U.S. is the top market by volume for grapes from Peru, where Oppy has recently broadened its decades-long presence, the 162-year-old fresh produce company will also offer its first ever organic Fair Trade Certified green and red seedless grapes, in keeping with growing consumer demand for produce that helps communities as well as the environment.
A Fair Trade partner since 2004, the program’s premiums go toward supporting essential infrastructure in grower communities including healthcare, education, fresh water access and more. The workers who produce Fair Trade Certified produce determine the allocation of premiums, thus empowering communities toward sustainable development. Oppy’s sales of Fair Trade grapes have already experienced meteoric growth, increasing by 137% from the first half of 2018 to the first half of 2019.
Combined with its offerings from Chile, where Oppy enjoys decades of on-the-ground expertise, promotable grape volumes are expected this season, allowing for greater choice and flexibility at retail. Earlier this year, Oppy further developed its grape offerings by becoming the first ever importer of the organic green seedless Arra 15 variety from Peru, continuing to chart new avenues of growth for the category.
About Oppy
Growing, marketing and distributing fresh produce from around the globe for more than 160 years, Vancouver, BC-based Oppy discovers and delivers the best of the world’s harvest. With over 50 million boxes of fresh fruits and vegetables grown on every continent moving through its supply chain annually, Oppy offers popular favorites from avocados and berries to apples and oranges year-round, alongside innovative seasonal specialties.
About Ocean Spray: Founded in 1930, Ocean Spray is a vibrant agricultural cooperative owned by more than 700 cranberry farmers in the United States, Canada and Chile who have helped preserve the family farming way of life for generations. The Cooperative’s cranberries are currently featured in more than a thousand great-tasting, nutritious products in over 100 countries worldwide.
A new variety that was developed in the Midwest and grown in Michigan is now being shipped.
The EverCrisp is a late-season apple and a cross between Honeycrisp and Fuji which stores well and is long-lasting, with the ability to last for weeks without refrigeration.
The Michigan Apple Committee of Lansing reports it is a rosy-colored, crisp apple that is a fairly new variety grown across the Midwest, including Michigan.
The committee notes many Michigan growers have invested in EverCrisp tree plantings that have now come into bearing. The variety can be found at many retailers and grocery chains across Michigan and throughout the United States. It is most widely available after the New Year when it comes out of storage.
The EverCrisp was originally developed in 1998 as part of the Midwest Apple Improvement Association (MAIA), an apple breeding project in which growers of all sizes were invited to participate in developing new varieties.
MAIA was co-founded by Mitch Lynd of Lynd Fruit Farms in Pataksala, Ohio, who hoped to develop flavorful apple varieties despite the region’s unpredictable winter and spring weather patterns.
The Evercrisp or MAIA-1 variety, as it’s also called, came from a cross made in spring 1998 when Lynd collected apple blossoms from a Fuji tree, removed the pollen, and used it to pollinate Honeycrisp tree flower.
