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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.
During the recent Peruvian Agroexports 2024 webinar organized by intelligence firm Fluctuante, ProHass General Manager Arturo Medina presented key figures achieved by the country’s avocado industry.
Medina discussed the global landscape of Hass avocado production, highlighting that Mexico leads production surface with 600,000 acres. The nation is followed by Peru with 190,000 acres, Colombia (96,000 acres), Chile (67,000 acres) and California (50,000 acres).
Medina noted that Peru shares commercial sales with Mexico, Colombia, the United States, Kenya, and Australia. He pointed out that, in recent years, the sector has not experienced significant growth in cultivated acres; instead, it has shown modest increases. However, he did mention that there has been an increase in cultivation in the Peruvian highlands.
One key aspect he highlighted was the structure of the Peruvian avocado industry, which comprises 29,000 Hass avocado producers. He explained that 26,000 of these producers cultivate less than 12 acres, and 21,000 have less than 2.5 acres.
Regarding production, Medina indicated that Peru’s total output last year surpassed 1.1 million tons. He added that there are approximately 25,000 acres not yet in production, suggesting that growth will continue. Additionally, he mentioned that 21,000 acres are six years old and can further increase production.
The main production areas include La Libertad with 44,500 acres, followed by Lima and Ica with 32,000 acres each, and Lambayeque with 29,600 acres. Medina also emphasized the importance of Ancash, Ayacucho, and Huancavelica as emerging areas with favorable conditions for cultivation.
In 2024, Peru exported 550,000 tons of avocados, achieving an average yield of 22.5 tons per acre, with certain companies projecting yields of up to 82 tons per acre. Medina described the previous year as challenging, noting that while quality was good, the fruit was smaller in size.
Trade
The growth of the Peruvian avocado sector is not only about cultivated acres and production; business projections are crucial for strategizing and maintaining profitability. Medina projected a 20% growth for the current year, stating, “I honestly believe it will be much more.” He confidently stated that by 2030, they aim to reach 2.2 billion pounds of production.
While this growth is promising, he cautioned the industry to consider its strategy for handling increased volumes, emphasizing that quality will be essential for differentiation in the market, particularly regarding dry matter content.
From 2011 to 2024, Peru’s avocado crop volume increased by 619%. Analyzing export markets, Medina noted that Europe has maintained a 62% share of exports over the last three years, followed by the United States at 13%. He regarded Chile as a significant market, calling it “our local market.”
For the current year, he pointed out that production is down 10% compared to 2023, leading to an 11% reduction in exports to the United States, an 8% decrease in shipments to Chile, and a 28% decline in exports to China. This shift occurred as prices in Europe improved, prompting some exporters to focus on that market instead.
“The consumption of Peruvian avocado in Europe is spectacular,” he stated.
Peak season for Peruvian avocados is June, July, and August, when 70% of the volume is shipped to Europe. He stressed the importance of organization and quality during this peak period.
For the U.S. market, Mexico dominates as the primary supplier, accounting for 80% of the volume, with Peru holding a mere 5%. Medina expressed the goal of expanding Peru’s presence in this competitive market, noting improvements in fruit quality this year.
As for Asia, shipments decreased by 29% in 2024 due to a preference for European markets. He explained that early in the previous season, many export shipments to Asia were made, but concerns over dry matter led to numerous rejections of fruit.
Currently, Peruvian avocados have access to 67 different markets, and there are hopes for improved shipping times via the Port of Chancay, which could significantly reduce transfer times. Additionally, efforts continue to open new markets in Taiwan, Vietnam, the Philippines, Australia, and New Zealand.
U.S. potato growers continue to ship a strong 2024 crop out of storage as the year progresses, and they anticipate an equally solid crop for 2025.
Potatoes USA of Denver, total grocery store fresh potato sales were up 3% last year to about 4.8 billion pounds. Dollar sales were down about 5%, however, to just over $4 billion.
Russet potatoes were the top-selling variety, accounting for 64% of potato sales, followed by yellow (16%), red (11%) and white (4%).
The Idaho Potato Commission of Eagle, ID describes the crop this year a “beautiful.”
Eagle Eye Produce of Idaho Falls, ID reports growing and harvest conditions were excellent. The grower/shipper wrapped up harvest faster than ever, breaking records for acres harvested per day.
The company already is planning for the upcoming 2025 crop saying it should be similar to the current one.
Eagle Eye Produce grows and packs russet, red and yellow potatoes. Norkotah russets are the top sellers followed by Burbanks. Red and yellow potatoes make up about 20% of the company’s volume.
The firm ships potatoes year-round by transitioning through key growing regions across the U.S.
Wada Farms Marketing Group of Idaho Falls, ID, offers primarily russet, red and yellow varieties.
Quality of the current storage supply remains sound, the company notes.
Wada supplies potatoes year-round due to its diverse network of growers and will soon plant its 2025 storage crop.
Volume in 2025 should be similar to the 2024 crop.
In the North Dakota/Minnesota region, red potatoes have been a favorite since they were first planted in 1946, reports the Northland Potato Growers Association, East Grand Forks, MN.
This current crop is a good with the red and yellow fresh market varieties holding up well. The current season is pretty much a mirror what the valley had last year.
A small number of suppliers are now harvesting iceberg and leaf lettuce in the Huron, California growing region, according to a news release from Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA.
Desert supplies will remain available through the week of April 7, but Salinas will become a bigger player starting next week. Current iceberg supplies in Huron are exhibiting high weights and strong quality.
Markon First Crop (MFC) Premium Iceberg Lettuce is available. Leaf lettuces such as romaine and green leaf are struggling with elevated insects at the base of the heads (mostly small black gnats). Harvesting crews will be trimming heavily to reduce insects but cannot eliminate them all.
Heading towards the final weeks of the Chilean table grape export season of 2024-25, plenty of volume is expected although it appears the market will not be as saturated as it has been in previous weeks.
Portal Agro Chile reports about 66 million boxes will be exported, a growth of 2.3 percent compared to the previous season. By week 6 of the current season, exports had already reached 14 million boxes, driven by the implementation of the “System Approach” in the regions of Atacama, Coquimbo, and Valparaíso, which has allowed for more efficient delivery of fruit to destination markets, according to Trading Logistics Management (TLM).
There was an increase in volume resulting in the accumulation of 8 million boxes due to fear of a port strike resulting in market saturation. Additionally, there was strong competition from Peru, South Africa, and India, whose harvests have flooded both the North American and European markets with fruit.
Grape volumes are expected to be more down and more manageable in April 2025, as arrival volumes make possible better management of supply and demand.
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.
During the recent Peruvian Agroexports 2024 webinar organized by intelligence firm Fluctuante, ProHass General Manager Arturo Medina presented key figures achieved by the country’s avocado industry.
Medina discussed the global landscape of Hass avocado production, highlighting that Mexico leads production surface with 600,000 acres. The nation is followed by Peru with 190,000 acres, Colombia (96,000 acres), Chile (67,000 acres) and California (50,000 acres).
Medina noted that Peru shares commercial sales with Mexico, Colombia, the United States, Kenya, and Australia. He pointed out that, in recent years, the sector has not experienced significant growth in cultivated acres; instead, it has shown modest increases. However, he did mention that there has been an increase in cultivation in the Peruvian highlands.
One key aspect he highlighted was the structure of the Peruvian avocado industry, which comprises 29,000 Hass avocado producers. He explained that 26,000 of these producers cultivate less than 12 acres, and 21,000 have less than 2.5 acres.
Regarding production, Medina indicated that Peru’s total output last year surpassed 1.1 million tons. He added that there are approximately 25,000 acres not yet in production, suggesting that growth will continue. Additionally, he mentioned that 21,000 acres are six years old and can further increase production.
The main production areas include La Libertad with 44,500 acres, followed by Lima and Ica with 32,000 acres each, and Lambayeque with 29,600 acres. Medina also emphasized the importance of Ancash, Ayacucho, and Huancavelica as emerging areas with favorable conditions for cultivation.
In 2024, Peru exported 550,000 tons of avocados, achieving an average yield of 22.5 tons per acre, with certain companies projecting yields of up to 82 tons per acre. Medina described the previous year as challenging, noting that while quality was good, the fruit was smaller in size.
Trade
The growth of the Peruvian avocado sector is not only about cultivated acres and production; business projections are crucial for strategizing and maintaining profitability. Medina projected a 20% growth for the current year, stating, “I honestly believe it will be much more.” He confidently stated that by 2030, they aim to reach 2.2 billion pounds of production.
While this growth is promising, he cautioned the industry to consider its strategy for handling increased volumes, emphasizing that quality will be essential for differentiation in the market, particularly regarding dry matter content.
From 2011 to 2024, Peru’s avocado crop volume increased by 619%. Analyzing export markets, Medina noted that Europe has maintained a 62% share of exports over the last three years, followed by the United States at 13%. He regarded Chile as a significant market, calling it “our local market.”
For the current year, he pointed out that production is down 10% compared to 2023, leading to an 11% reduction in exports to the United States, an 8% decrease in shipments to Chile, and a 28% decline in exports to China. This shift occurred as prices in Europe improved, prompting some exporters to focus on that market instead.
“The consumption of Peruvian avocado in Europe is spectacular,” he stated.
Peak season for Peruvian avocados is June, July, and August, when 70% of the volume is shipped to Europe. He stressed the importance of organization and quality during this peak period.
For the U.S. market, Mexico dominates as the primary supplier, accounting for 80% of the volume, with Peru holding a mere 5%. Medina expressed the goal of expanding Peru’s presence in this competitive market, noting improvements in fruit quality this year.
As for Asia, shipments decreased by 29% in 2024 due to a preference for European markets. He explained that early in the previous season, many export shipments to Asia were made, but concerns over dry matter led to numerous rejections of fruit.
Currently, Peruvian avocados have access to 67 different markets, and there are hopes for improved shipping times via the Port of Chancay, which could significantly reduce transfer times. Additionally, efforts continue to open new markets in Taiwan, Vietnam, the Philippines, Australia, and New Zealand.
U.S. potato growers continue to ship a strong 2024 crop out of storage as the year progresses, and they anticipate an equally solid crop for 2025.
Potatoes USA of Denver, total grocery store fresh potato sales were up 3% last year to about 4.8 billion pounds. Dollar sales were down about 5%, however, to just over $4 billion.
Russet potatoes were the top-selling variety, accounting for 64% of potato sales, followed by yellow (16%), red (11%) and white (4%).
The Idaho Potato Commission of Eagle, ID describes the crop this year a “beautiful.”
Eagle Eye Produce of Idaho Falls, ID reports growing and harvest conditions were excellent. The grower/shipper wrapped up harvest faster than ever, breaking records for acres harvested per day.
The company already is planning for the upcoming 2025 crop saying it should be similar to the current one.
Eagle Eye Produce grows and packs russet, red and yellow potatoes. Norkotah russets are the top sellers followed by Burbanks. Red and yellow potatoes make up about 20% of the company’s volume.
The firm ships potatoes year-round by transitioning through key growing regions across the U.S.
Wada Farms Marketing Group of Idaho Falls, ID, offers primarily russet, red and yellow varieties.
Quality of the current storage supply remains sound, the company notes.
Wada supplies potatoes year-round due to its diverse network of growers and will soon plant its 2025 storage crop.
Volume in 2025 should be similar to the 2024 crop.
In the North Dakota/Minnesota region, red potatoes have been a favorite since they were first planted in 1946, reports the Northland Potato Growers Association, East Grand Forks, MN.
This current crop is a good with the red and yellow fresh market varieties holding up well. The current season is pretty much a mirror what the valley had last year.
A small number of suppliers are now harvesting iceberg and leaf lettuce in the Huron, California growing region, according to a news release from Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA.
Desert supplies will remain available through the week of April 7, but Salinas will become a bigger player starting next week. Current iceberg supplies in Huron are exhibiting high weights and strong quality.
Markon First Crop (MFC) Premium Iceberg Lettuce is available. Leaf lettuces such as romaine and green leaf are struggling with elevated insects at the base of the heads (mostly small black gnats). Harvesting crews will be trimming heavily to reduce insects but cannot eliminate them all.
Heading towards the final weeks of the Chilean table grape export season of 2024-25, plenty of volume is expected although it appears the market will not be as saturated as it has been in previous weeks.
Portal Agro Chile reports about 66 million boxes will be exported, a growth of 2.3 percent compared to the previous season. By week 6 of the current season, exports had already reached 14 million boxes, driven by the implementation of the “System Approach” in the regions of Atacama, Coquimbo, and Valparaíso, which has allowed for more efficient delivery of fruit to destination markets, according to Trading Logistics Management (TLM).
There was an increase in volume resulting in the accumulation of 8 million boxes due to fear of a port strike resulting in market saturation. Additionally, there was strong competition from Peru, South Africa, and India, whose harvests have flooded both the North American and European markets with fruit.
Grape volumes are expected to be more down and more manageable in April 2025, as arrival volumes make possible better management of supply and demand.