Author Archive
California’s Ventura County’s crop value grew by 2.87 percent in 2015 over 2014, despite increasing water, pest and labor issues. The 2015 Crop and Livestock Report released by the Ventura County Agricultural Commissioner’s Office shows Ventura County has an estimated 2,150 farms, with a crop value that ranks 11th among all U.S. counties.
Ventura County has approximately 95,802 acres of irrigated cropland with a total acreage of 293,549 (197,747 is rangeland), according to the report.
In 2015, Ventura County crops generated $2.199 billion in gross revenue, up from $2.137 billion a year earlier.
The county’s top three crops remained strawberries, lemons and raspberries, respectively, again this year, but each of the big three saw at least a $10 million decrease from the 2014 report:
- Strawberries, the county’s top crop by far, had an estimated value of $617.8 million in 2015 ($10 million less than in 2014).
- Lemons, Ventura County’s most valuable crop from the 1930s to 1990s, dipped to $259.5 million last year ($10 million less than in 2014).
- Raspberries dropped to $228.2 million in 2015 ($12 million less than in 2014).
Despite the value decreases, growth in other crops helped county crop values increase as a whole. Growth was seen in nursery stock, cut flowers, celery, avocados, peppers, tomatoes and kale in 2015.
Avocados experienced the largest increase in 2015, growing 32 percent from the previous year and grossing nearly $189 million.
Ventura County, like many ag regions in California, was in an “extreme” or “exceptional” area of the U.S. Drought Monitor for much of 2015 and received about half its average rainfall during the 2015-16 water year. Along with the water issues, the cost and availability of labor remains a constant issue for Central Coast growers.
Ventura County agricultural commissioner Henry Gonzales said the region’s dedication to science, technology, engineering and mathematics has helped Ventura County growers overcome those challenges.
“In Ventura County we have some of the most expensive row-crop land in the state with a scarcity of water and a regulatory structure second to none,” Gonzales noted in the report. “Farmers in Ventura County use (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) on a daily basis in order to continue to produce at the levels essential to stay in business. As the world’s population approaches 8 billion, farmers will need to continue innovating using agriculture.
Ventura County’s Top 10 Crops in 2015
1. Strawberries
$617,832,000
2. Lemons
$259,539,000
3. Raspberries
$228,217,000
4. Nursery Stock
$195,817,000
5. Celery
$194,756,000
6. Avocados
$188,818,000
7. Peppers
$54,163,000
8. Tomatoes
$50,474,000
9. Cut Flowers
$48,522,000
10. Kale
$38,088,000
by Allen Lund Company
La Cañada Flintridge Calif. – The Allen Lund Company (ALC) partnered with Navidad en el Barrio in its 11th consecutive year with joint efforts of a Toy Drive benefiting the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. This event is an addition to ALC’s ongoing goal of 40 Acts of Kindness in celebration of our 40th year in business. The event held on Saturday, December 17 was well attended with over 700 families in need. Families’ received toys, shoes and Christmas meals provided through Navidad en el Barrio.
“We are so blessed to be able to give back. To be at St. Vincent de Paul and meet with the families who are benefiting from the gifts provided by such a great team of caring people, leaves me at a loss for words.” stated Kenny Lund, VP Support Services, continuing “This is the third year ALC has partnered with SVDP, and I am confident this will continue to be an annual day of giving for ALC.”
ALC Denver, San Francisco, Portland, Los Angeles Dry/Reefer and Orlando offices were able to secure fresh produce and dry goods to be donated for the Christmas meals. Transportation was offered by ALC All Star carrier Wanship Enterprises. A special thanks to Wada Farms, Grimmway Farms, Rainier Fruit Company, Garofalo Pasta, Dayka & Hackett, Wonderful Citrus, Mission Produce, Kagome USA, Penguin Foods and Taylor Farms. This year’s food donations included: carrots, potatoes, grapes, avocados, oranges, apples, mixed salad, spaghetti, chicken glaze, couscous, pancake mix and cornbread mix.
About Allen Lund Company:
Specializing as a national third-party transportation broker with nationwide offices and over 400 employees, the Allen Lund Company works with shippers and carriers across the nation to transport dry, refrigerated (specializing in produce), and flatbed freight; additionally, the Allen Lund Company has a logistics and software division, ALC Logistics, and an International Division licensed by the FMC as an OTI-NVOCC #019872NF.
Established in 1976, the Allen Lund Company was selected as the 2015 Coca-Cola Challenger Carrier of the Year, 2016 Top IT Provider by Inbound Logistics, 2015 Top Private Company in Los Angeles by the Los Angeles Business Journal, 2015 Top 100+ Software and Technology Providers, 2015 Top 100 Logistics IT Provider by Inbound Logistics, a 2014 Supply & Demand Chain Executive 100, a 2014 Great Supply Chain Partner, and was placed in Transport Topics’ “2014 Top 25 Freight Brokerage Firms.” The company managed over 310,000 shipments in 2015, and received the 2013 “Best in Cargo Security Award.” In 2011 the company received the TIA 3PL Samaritan Award, and the NASTC (National Association of Small Trucking Companies) named Allen Lund Company the 2010 Best Broker of the Year. More information is available at www.allenlund.com.
As California grape shipments wind down there’s still a lot more fruit to be hauled than at this time a year ago.
California table grape remaining to be shipped is about 79 percent more than at this same period last year, according to the USDA.
There were about 2.43 million packages of the California grapes in cold storage as of December 15th. This compares to 1.36 million on the same date in 2015. The current amount is about 30 percent lower than the 3.44 million total packages in 2014.
The autumn royal variety totaled 255,255 packages in storage in mid-December, compared to 59,867 a year earlier — an increase of about 326 percent — although the current total was down by about 4.7 percent from the 267,867 of two years ago.
Crimson seedless packages in storage totaled 1.02 million packages, an increase of about 95 percent over the 524,336 in 2015, but a 38 percent less from the 1.66 million 2014.
There were 669,470 packages of other red seedless varieties in storage, about a 287 percent increase over the 173,000 in 2015 and a 121 percent increase over the 303,000 packages in 2014.
By contrast, the inventory of autumn king trailed totals from 2015 and 2014 — this year’s 154,341 packages are down 47 percent from a year ago and down 60 percent from 2014.
Flame seedless grapes in storage totaled 1,985 packages this year, compared to 4,505 last year and 18,701 in 2014. That marked a 56 percent decline from 2015 and 89 percent from two years earlier.
While grape supplies are now low, current volume and shipments are similar to where they have been the last couple of years.
There also have been some reports of discoloration, especially with red grapes and storage quality has not been as good. So extra caution is recommended by drivers when loading product.
Imports of grapes from Peru are underway in light, but increasing volume and Chilean grapes will soon be arriving at East Coast ports and soon to be followed by arrivals on the West Coast.
San Joaquin Valley grapes – grossing about $3800 to Dallas.
by FirstFruits Marketing of Washington
YAKIMA, Wash. – Opal®, the highly-acclaimed apple creating a frenzy in the category, is offering an opportunity for fans to both give and receive an Opal this holiday season. A digital print-at-home coupon for $1 off their purchase of Opal apples will be available to consumers for a limited time. Additionally, recipients are encouraged to share a link to the coupon to “give and Opal” to friends and family.
“Part of what makes this apple so great is the amazing response we see it receive from those who try it,” said Chuck Zeutenhorst, general manager of FirstFruits Marketing of Washington. “We thought that creating an opportunity for those who have never had one to enjoy Opal while allowing current fans to share their love was a perfect fit.”
Coupons are available through a simple form on the Opal Apple webpage at http://www.opalapples.com/get-an-opal. Those interested simply sign up to receive the Opal Apple newsletter and the first message to arrive in their inbox is one with a link to a $1 off coupon toward their next purchase of Opal apples. In the spirit of the season, recipients are encouraged to share a link with friends and family so they can get their own coupon. Consumers will be directed to the sign-up through targeted digital advertising.
Available in both conventional and organic varieties, Opals are known for their distinctive crunch, sweet yet tangy flavor and natural resistance to oxidation – making them the perfect apple for snacking and for holiday entertaining and recipes.
About FirstFruits Marketing of Washington
FirstFruits Marketing is a collaborative apple marketing company owned by Ralph and Cheryl Broetje. Their growers share a commitment to producing high quality fruit while balancing the demands of purpose, people, planet and profit so that a portion of profits can be donated to non-profit missions supporting the underserved. For more Information, visit www.firstfruits.com.
About Opal Apple
Opal apple is known as the apple with a purpose. Grown only in Washington by Broetje Orchards, this Golden Delicious-Topaz cross apple variety was introduced by FirstFruits Marketing in 2010 to wide consumer and media acclaim. Its distinctive color, flavor and texture are not the only qualities that make this product unique: Opal apple was created to make a difference in communities across the nation. Every year, FirstFruits Marketing donates a percentage of sales of every case of apples to worthy organizations that address issues like hunger, food safety, sustainability and the environment. UEB 32642 variety apples are grown exclusively by Broetje and Congdon Orchards and distributed under the OPAL® brand name by FirstFruits Marketing in North America.
The outlook for California citrus shipments continues to be good despite recent freezes. Meanwhile, pomegranate shipments have ended with limited exceptions.
California’s Central San Joaquin Valley had temperatures in the high 20s to low 30s a couple of weeks ago, but this is ideal for most citrus varieties for this point in the season. Navel oranges and lemons are generally more cold tolerant than mandarin, or easy-peel, varieties such as Clementines, Murcotts, and Tangos, but with frost protection by wind machines the weekend temperatures proved favorable for all varieties. The cold weather will actually cause the maturation process of the fruit to slow, allowing for the fruit to store longer on the tree and maintain its flavor, external quality and color.
Much of the Central Valley’s mandarin crop is concentrated in Kern County, where temperatures hovered around 31 degrees the night of Dec. 18, which with the aid of wind machines is an ideal temperature point. Similarly, in Tulare and Fresno Counties temperatures were well within preferable ranges.
Navel oranges, by contrast, can withstand cooler temperatures for longer durations. Wind machines were used on roughly one-third of the Central Valley navel crop — covering 44,000 acres — for an average of five hours on Saturday and Sunday nights.
California citrus – grossing about $5800 to New York City.
Pomegranates
California pomegranate shipments this season are nearly over and, sooner than most had initially expected. Simonian Fruit of Fowler, CA had just a few hundred boxes left Dec. 19th and were expected to be finished shipping by Christmas.
Heavy rains in late October took a toll on unharvested pomegranates significantly reducing volume. Pom Wonderful of Los Angeles experienced a decrease in volume of about 40 percent due to the weather. The company, which started shipping in mid-October completed its season earlier in December, with the exception of its arils variety, that will continue through January. Another exception is Trinity of Fresno, CA, which is shipping the arils variety through February. Trinity, as well as King Fresh of Dinuba, CA and are both down about 35 percent.
Avocados From Mexico and Old El Paso have teamed up for a third time to make the Big Game one for the guacamole consumption record books with Guac Nation. Running Dec. 26 to Feb. 5, 2017 (ending the day of the Super Bowl) , the program will offer a full spectrum of support while leveraging the excitement of Super Bowl festivities and get-togethers to highlight delicious snacks and party food featuring fresh Avocados From Mexico and Old El Paso.
The campaign will be bolstered with consumer incentives and retailer support, such as recipe inspiration through social media, in-store radio, merchandising focused on molcajete-shaped display bins, and the Guac Center Pallet bin. The Guac Center Pallet bin is unique in that it has separate side pockets allowing retailers to merchandise everything a shopper would need to build their own guacamole, like tomatoes, onions, jalapeños or limes. Approximately 73 percent of people, hosts and guests alike, make grocery store trips specifically for the Big Game, and these inspirational posts and display bins make game-day shopping that much easier.
“The Big Game is the perfect broad-reaching platform to promote avocado consumption surrounding the traditions of in-home entertaining for people of all backgrounds,” Stephanie Bazan, market development director of AFM, said in a press release. “Hosts of Big Game parties want to create simple crowd-pleasing dishes and with the Big Game ranking as one of the top occasions where avocados — especially guacamole — are served, the Guac Nation program will reinforce the relationship between guacamole and football.”
Guac Nation is an example of how the continued collaboration between Avocados From Mexico and Old El Paso is using a total market approach at the shopper level. Designed with how today’s shopper consumes media in mind, the Guac Nation program includes four strong digital components to reach shoppers along the entire path to purchase: Catalina Buyer Vision, Ibotta, Pinterest and Facebook.
Two-thirds of the nation’s potatoes have yet to be shipped for the 2016-17 season. Meanwhile, Argentina lemons will be permitted to enter the U.S., with first arrivals next spring.
About 34 percent of the U.S. potato crop has been shipped thus far this season as of December 1st. The 13 major potato shipping states had 269 million cwt. of potatoes in storage at the beginning of the month, up 2 percent from a year ago.
The nation’s largest potato shipper, Idaho, had 72 percent of its fall crop — 100 million cwt. — remaining in storage on December 1st. Washington state, which is a distant second to Idaho in volume, had 57 million cwt. of potatoes in storage December 1st, which was 54 percent of its crop.
Idaho potato shipments – grossing about $5100 to New York City.
San Luis Valley, Colorado potatoes – grossing about $4300 to Chicago.
Argentina Lemon Imports
The USDA has ruled fresh lemons from Argentina will be permitted to be imported into the U.S., which has greatly upset California citrus leaders. The rule is the result of 10 years of study on pest risks. The agriculture department projects Argentina may export between 15,000 and 20,000 metric tons of fresh lemons to the U.S. annually, or about 4 percent of the average total U.S. lemon volume (based on shipments from 2008 to 2014) of 535,244 metric tons.
Most Argentina lemons are expected to be arriving at U.S. ports between April 1st and August 31st. Based on imports of 18,000 metric tons, the USDA estimates that the effect of Argentina lemon exports to the U.S. will be a lemon price reduction of about 4 percent. This is not the first time Argentina has been approved to ship lemons to the U.S. Argentina had shipped close to 1.5 million cartons of lemons to the U.S. in 2000-01 before U.S. grower concerns about pest and disease threats — including canker — were upheld in a California court.
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO THE NEARLY 700 SUBSCRIBERS OF HAULPRODUCE.COM AND MANY OTHER VISITORS TO OUR WEBSITE.
IN A WORLD THAT SEEMS TO BECOME CRAZIER BY THE DAY, WE TAKE TIME THIS HOLIDAY SEASON TO RENEW HOPE AND PRAY FOR PEACE. AS WE CELEBRATE THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST, SEEK WAYS TO TURN SOMETHING INTO GOOD.
AT A RECENT CHRISTMAS PARTY ARTIST DARREL CHRISTOPHER WAS PERFORMING AND TOLD THE AUDIENCE HIS DADDY USED TO TELL HIM, “SON ALWAYS LOOK FOR A WAY TO TURN SOMETHING BAD INTO GOOD.” Darrel then began to sing one of the most beloved hymns of all time, “Amazing Grace.” However, he used the melody of the famous blues/rock song about a house of prostitution – “House of the Rising Sun.” Here are lyrics to both songs. To see Darrell performing Amazing Grace go to: Blues Society of Tulsa Facebook page.
“The House Of The Rising Sun”
There is a house in New Orleans
They call the Rising Sun
And it’s been the ruin of many a poor boy
And God, I know I’m one
My mother was a tailor
She sewed my new blue jeans
My father was a gamblin’ man
Down in New Orleans
Now the only thing a gambler needs
Is a suitcase and trunk
And the only time he’s satisfied
Is when he’s on a drunk
[Organ Solo]
Oh mother, tell your children
Not to do what I have done
Spend your lives in sin and misery
In the House of the Rising Sun
Well, I got one foot on the platform
The other foot on the train
I’m goin’ back to New Orleans
To wear that ball and chain
Well, there is a house in New Orleans
They call the Rising Sun
And it’s been the ruin of many a poor boy
And God, I know I’m one
Amazing Grace (original version)
Amazing grace! (how sweet the sound)
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.
‘Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears relieved;
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed!
Through many dangers, toils, and snares,
I have already come;
‘Tis grace that brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home.
The Lord has promised good to me,
His word my hope secures;
He will my shield and portion be
As long as life endures.
Yes, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess, within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.
The earth shall soon dissolve like snow,
The sun forbear to shine;
But God, who called me here below,
Will be for ever mine.
Amazing grace! (how sweet the sound)
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.
(1779)
By Chiquita Brands International
DALLAS – Beginning Jan. 1, 2017, Chiquita Brands International will roll out its new global banana boxes, designed more structurally sound and with cooling design to improve the freshness of its bananas, while allowing for the most stable transport on pallets.
Chiquita’s commitment to quality is extended with their new consistent cooling design, which allows for bananas to ripen evenly. According to market tests supported by the company’s ripening facility, there were more equal ripening temperatures, better color uniformity, and better ABC scores when using the new boxes – a potential energy savings of 20%.
“Our goal is to continue to provide the highest quality products to people all over the world, which is why we are committed to creating more efficient transportation methods of our fruit,” said vice president of North America Chris Dugan for Chiquita Brands. “We’re excited to see improvements in the quality of fruit that arrives to our partners, as well as the cost efficiencies that these new boxes will create.”
The new banana boxes will create less food waste by avoiding unnecessary damage and over-ripening of the fruit during transport – offering more fresh fruit to people across the globe. The boxes will also include new imagery and a cleaner look to represent Chiquita’s newest brand messaging and colors, giving shoppers and buyers a consistent look and feel from the brand they’ve known and loved for years.
About Chiquita Brands International
Chiquita Brands International grows, procures, markets, and sells bananas and other fresh fruits under the Chiquita name and others. Chiquita is a leading global company with 20,000 employees across 30 countries being present in nearly 70 countries, mainly in North America and Europe. They are passionate about their nutritious, high-quality, energy-rich and value-added bananas. But they’re also passionate about upholding the values which is at the very core of the company – integrity, respect, opportunity and responsibility. The company believes what they do day in and day out reflects these values, our brand and their purpose
With the arrival of the holiday season, here is some interesting information about the products that the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service buys.
AMS purchases a variety of domestically produced and processed fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and other products through a competitive process among approved vendors. The wholesome, high quality products are delivered to schools, food banks, and households in communities across the country. Different divisions of the Specialty Crops Inspection Service (SCIS), such as the Promotion & Economics Division (PED) and Specialty Crops Inspection Division (SCID) play vital roles in helping the USDA provide quality products to its most valued customers: schools and children.
AMS buys a lot of fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts from U.S. produce companies – about 40 kinds in various tasty forms. In fiscal year 2016, it purchased over 1.4 billion pounds of product for over $864 million for the regular entitlement and bonus buy programs. For example, for the recent Thanksgiving season, here are some facts about the federal purchases…
- 1.4 million pounds of pumpkin products for $1.2 million
- 152 million pounds of apples & apple products for $70 million
- 57 million pounds of cranberry and cranberry products for $34 million
- 51 million pounds of green beans for $22 million
- 252 million pounds of potatoes for $46 million
- 19 million pounds of sweet potatoes for $5 million
- 15 million pounds of walnuts for $31 million
Additionally, a lot of juice was purchased.
- 79 million pounds of grape juice for $28 million
- 91 million pounds of orange juice for $47 million
- 20 million pounds of grapefruit juice for $7 million
California’s Ventura County’s crop value grew by 2.87 percent in 2015 over 2014, despite increasing water, pest and labor issues. The 2015 Crop and Livestock Report released by the Ventura County Agricultural Commissioner’s Office shows Ventura County has an estimated 2,150 farms, with a crop value that ranks 11th among all U.S. counties.
Ventura County has approximately 95,802 acres of irrigated cropland with a total acreage of 293,549 (197,747 is rangeland), according to the report.
In 2015, Ventura County crops generated $2.199 billion in gross revenue, up from $2.137 billion a year earlier.
The county’s top three crops remained strawberries, lemons and raspberries, respectively, again this year, but each of the big three saw at least a $10 million decrease from the 2014 report:
- Strawberries, the county’s top crop by far, had an estimated value of $617.8 million in 2015 ($10 million less than in 2014).
- Lemons, Ventura County’s most valuable crop from the 1930s to 1990s, dipped to $259.5 million last year ($10 million less than in 2014).
- Raspberries dropped to $228.2 million in 2015 ($12 million less than in 2014).
Despite the value decreases, growth in other crops helped county crop values increase as a whole. Growth was seen in nursery stock, cut flowers, celery, avocados, peppers, tomatoes and kale in 2015.
Avocados experienced the largest increase in 2015, growing 32 percent from the previous year and grossing nearly $189 million.
Ventura County, like many ag regions in California, was in an “extreme” or “exceptional” area of the U.S. Drought Monitor for much of 2015 and received about half its average rainfall during the 2015-16 water year. Along with the water issues, the cost and availability of labor remains a constant issue for Central Coast growers.
Ventura County agricultural commissioner Henry Gonzales said the region’s dedication to science, technology, engineering and mathematics has helped Ventura County growers overcome those challenges.
“In Ventura County we have some of the most expensive row-crop land in the state with a scarcity of water and a regulatory structure second to none,” Gonzales noted in the report. “Farmers in Ventura County use (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) on a daily basis in order to continue to produce at the levels essential to stay in business. As the world’s population approaches 8 billion, farmers will need to continue innovating using agriculture.
| 1. Strawberries | $617,832,000 |
| 2. Lemons | $259,539,000 |
| 3. Raspberries | $228,217,000 |
| 4. Nursery Stock | $195,817,000 |
| 5. Celery | $194,756,000 |
| 6. Avocados | $188,818,000 |
| 7. Peppers | $54,163,000 |
| 8. Tomatoes | $50,474,000 |
| 9. Cut Flowers | $48,522,000 |
| 10. Kale | $38,088,000 |
by Allen Lund Company
La Cañada Flintridge Calif. – The Allen Lund Company (ALC) partnered with Navidad en el Barrio in its 11th consecutive year with joint efforts of a Toy Drive benefiting the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. This event is an addition to ALC’s ongoing goal of 40 Acts of Kindness in celebration of our 40th year in business. The event held on Saturday, December 17 was well attended with over 700 families in need. Families’ received toys, shoes and Christmas meals provided through Navidad en el Barrio.
“We are so blessed to be able to give back. To be at St. Vincent de Paul and meet with the families who are benefiting from the gifts provided by such a great team of caring people, leaves me at a loss for words.” stated Kenny Lund, VP Support Services, continuing “This is the third year ALC has partnered with SVDP, and I am confident this will continue to be an annual day of giving for ALC.”
ALC Denver, San Francisco, Portland, Los Angeles Dry/Reefer and Orlando offices were able to secure fresh produce and dry goods to be donated for the Christmas meals. Transportation was offered by ALC All Star carrier Wanship Enterprises. A special thanks to Wada Farms, Grimmway Farms, Rainier Fruit Company, Garofalo Pasta, Dayka & Hackett, Wonderful Citrus, Mission Produce, Kagome USA, Penguin Foods and Taylor Farms. This year’s food donations included: carrots, potatoes, grapes, avocados, oranges, apples, mixed salad, spaghetti, chicken glaze, couscous, pancake mix and cornbread mix.
About Allen Lund Company:
Specializing as a national third-party transportation broker with nationwide offices and over 400 employees, the Allen Lund Company works with shippers and carriers across the nation to transport dry, refrigerated (specializing in produce), and flatbed freight; additionally, the Allen Lund Company has a logistics and software division, ALC Logistics, and an International Division licensed by the FMC as an OTI-NVOCC #019872NF.
Established in 1976, the Allen Lund Company was selected as the 2015 Coca-Cola Challenger Carrier of the Year, 2016 Top IT Provider by Inbound Logistics, 2015 Top Private Company in Los Angeles by the Los Angeles Business Journal, 2015 Top 100+ Software and Technology Providers, 2015 Top 100 Logistics IT Provider by Inbound Logistics, a 2014 Supply & Demand Chain Executive 100, a 2014 Great Supply Chain Partner, and was placed in Transport Topics’ “2014 Top 25 Freight Brokerage Firms.” The company managed over 310,000 shipments in 2015, and received the 2013 “Best in Cargo Security Award.” In 2011 the company received the TIA 3PL Samaritan Award, and the NASTC (National Association of Small Trucking Companies) named Allen Lund Company the 2010 Best Broker of the Year. More information is available at www.allenlund.com.
As California grape shipments wind down there’s still a lot more fruit to be hauled than at this time a year ago.
California table grape remaining to be shipped is about 79 percent more than at this same period last year, according to the USDA.
There were about 2.43 million packages of the California grapes in cold storage as of December 15th. This compares to 1.36 million on the same date in 2015. The current amount is about 30 percent lower than the 3.44 million total packages in 2014.
The autumn royal variety totaled 255,255 packages in storage in mid-December, compared to 59,867 a year earlier — an increase of about 326 percent — although the current total was down by about 4.7 percent from the 267,867 of two years ago.
Crimson seedless packages in storage totaled 1.02 million packages, an increase of about 95 percent over the 524,336 in 2015, but a 38 percent less from the 1.66 million 2014.
There were 669,470 packages of other red seedless varieties in storage, about a 287 percent increase over the 173,000 in 2015 and a 121 percent increase over the 303,000 packages in 2014.
By contrast, the inventory of autumn king trailed totals from 2015 and 2014 — this year’s 154,341 packages are down 47 percent from a year ago and down 60 percent from 2014.
Flame seedless grapes in storage totaled 1,985 packages this year, compared to 4,505 last year and 18,701 in 2014. That marked a 56 percent decline from 2015 and 89 percent from two years earlier.
While grape supplies are now low, current volume and shipments are similar to where they have been the last couple of years.
There also have been some reports of discoloration, especially with red grapes and storage quality has not been as good. So extra caution is recommended by drivers when loading product.
Imports of grapes from Peru are underway in light, but increasing volume and Chilean grapes will soon be arriving at East Coast ports and soon to be followed by arrivals on the West Coast.
San Joaquin Valley grapes – grossing about $3800 to Dallas.
by FirstFruits Marketing of Washington
YAKIMA, Wash. – Opal®, the highly-acclaimed apple creating a frenzy in the category, is offering an opportunity for fans to both give and receive an Opal this holiday season. A digital print-at-home coupon for $1 off their purchase of Opal apples will be available to consumers for a limited time. Additionally, recipients are encouraged to share a link to the coupon to “give and Opal” to friends and family.
“Part of what makes this apple so great is the amazing response we see it receive from those who try it,” said Chuck Zeutenhorst, general manager of FirstFruits Marketing of Washington. “We thought that creating an opportunity for those who have never had one to enjoy Opal while allowing current fans to share their love was a perfect fit.”
Coupons are available through a simple form on the Opal Apple webpage at http://www.opalapples.com/get-an-opal. Those interested simply sign up to receive the Opal Apple newsletter and the first message to arrive in their inbox is one with a link to a $1 off coupon toward their next purchase of Opal apples. In the spirit of the season, recipients are encouraged to share a link with friends and family so they can get their own coupon. Consumers will be directed to the sign-up through targeted digital advertising.
Available in both conventional and organic varieties, Opals are known for their distinctive crunch, sweet yet tangy flavor and natural resistance to oxidation – making them the perfect apple for snacking and for holiday entertaining and recipes.
About FirstFruits Marketing of Washington
FirstFruits Marketing is a collaborative apple marketing company owned by Ralph and Cheryl Broetje. Their growers share a commitment to producing high quality fruit while balancing the demands of purpose, people, planet and profit so that a portion of profits can be donated to non-profit missions supporting the underserved. For more Information, visit www.firstfruits.com.
About Opal Apple
Opal apple is known as the apple with a purpose. Grown only in Washington by Broetje Orchards, this Golden Delicious-Topaz cross apple variety was introduced by FirstFruits Marketing in 2010 to wide consumer and media acclaim. Its distinctive color, flavor and texture are not the only qualities that make this product unique: Opal apple was created to make a difference in communities across the nation. Every year, FirstFruits Marketing donates a percentage of sales of every case of apples to worthy organizations that address issues like hunger, food safety, sustainability and the environment. UEB 32642 variety apples are grown exclusively by Broetje and Congdon Orchards and distributed under the OPAL® brand name by FirstFruits Marketing in North America.
The outlook for California citrus shipments continues to be good despite recent freezes. Meanwhile, pomegranate shipments have ended with limited exceptions.
California’s Central San Joaquin Valley had temperatures in the high 20s to low 30s a couple of weeks ago, but this is ideal for most citrus varieties for this point in the season. Navel oranges and lemons are generally more cold tolerant than mandarin, or easy-peel, varieties such as Clementines, Murcotts, and Tangos, but with frost protection by wind machines the weekend temperatures proved favorable for all varieties. The cold weather will actually cause the maturation process of the fruit to slow, allowing for the fruit to store longer on the tree and maintain its flavor, external quality and color.
Much of the Central Valley’s mandarin crop is concentrated in Kern County, where temperatures hovered around 31 degrees the night of Dec. 18, which with the aid of wind machines is an ideal temperature point. Similarly, in Tulare and Fresno Counties temperatures were well within preferable ranges.
Navel oranges, by contrast, can withstand cooler temperatures for longer durations. Wind machines were used on roughly one-third of the Central Valley navel crop — covering 44,000 acres — for an average of five hours on Saturday and Sunday nights.
California citrus – grossing about $5800 to New York City.
Pomegranates
California pomegranate shipments this season are nearly over and, sooner than most had initially expected. Simonian Fruit of Fowler, CA had just a few hundred boxes left Dec. 19th and were expected to be finished shipping by Christmas.
Heavy rains in late October took a toll on unharvested pomegranates significantly reducing volume. Pom Wonderful of Los Angeles experienced a decrease in volume of about 40 percent due to the weather. The company, which started shipping in mid-October completed its season earlier in December, with the exception of its arils variety, that will continue through January. Another exception is Trinity of Fresno, CA, which is shipping the arils variety through February. Trinity, as well as King Fresh of Dinuba, CA and are both down about 35 percent.
Avocados From Mexico and Old El Paso have teamed up for a third time to make the Big Game one for the guacamole consumption record books with Guac Nation. Running Dec. 26 to Feb. 5, 2017 (ending the day of the Super Bowl) , the program will offer a full spectrum of support while leveraging the excitement of Super Bowl festivities and get-togethers to highlight delicious snacks and party food featuring fresh Avocados From Mexico and Old El Paso.
The campaign will be bolstered with consumer incentives and retailer support, such as recipe inspiration through social media, in-store radio, merchandising focused on molcajete-shaped display bins, and the Guac Center Pallet bin. The Guac Center Pallet bin is unique in that it has separate side pockets allowing retailers to merchandise everything a shopper would need to build their own guacamole, like tomatoes, onions, jalapeños or limes. Approximately 73 percent of people, hosts and guests alike, make grocery store trips specifically for the Big Game, and these inspirational posts and display bins make game-day shopping that much easier.
“The Big Game is the perfect broad-reaching platform to promote avocado consumption surrounding the traditions of in-home entertaining for people of all backgrounds,” Stephanie Bazan, market development director of AFM, said in a press release. “Hosts of Big Game parties want to create simple crowd-pleasing dishes and with the Big Game ranking as one of the top occasions where avocados — especially guacamole — are served, the Guac Nation program will reinforce the relationship between guacamole and football.”
Guac Nation is an example of how the continued collaboration between Avocados From Mexico and Old El Paso is using a total market approach at the shopper level. Designed with how today’s shopper consumes media in mind, the Guac Nation program includes four strong digital components to reach shoppers along the entire path to purchase: Catalina Buyer Vision, Ibotta, Pinterest and Facebook.
Two-thirds of the nation’s potatoes have yet to be shipped for the 2016-17 season. Meanwhile, Argentina lemons will be permitted to enter the U.S., with first arrivals next spring.
About 34 percent of the U.S. potato crop has been shipped thus far this season as of December 1st. The 13 major potato shipping states had 269 million cwt. of potatoes in storage at the beginning of the month, up 2 percent from a year ago.
The nation’s largest potato shipper, Idaho, had 72 percent of its fall crop — 100 million cwt. — remaining in storage on December 1st. Washington state, which is a distant second to Idaho in volume, had 57 million cwt. of potatoes in storage December 1st, which was 54 percent of its crop.
Idaho potato shipments – grossing about $5100 to New York City.
San Luis Valley, Colorado potatoes – grossing about $4300 to Chicago.
Argentina Lemon Imports
The USDA has ruled fresh lemons from Argentina will be permitted to be imported into the U.S., which has greatly upset California citrus leaders. The rule is the result of 10 years of study on pest risks. The agriculture department projects Argentina may export between 15,000 and 20,000 metric tons of fresh lemons to the U.S. annually, or about 4 percent of the average total U.S. lemon volume (based on shipments from 2008 to 2014) of 535,244 metric tons.
Most Argentina lemons are expected to be arriving at U.S. ports between April 1st and August 31st. Based on imports of 18,000 metric tons, the USDA estimates that the effect of Argentina lemon exports to the U.S. will be a lemon price reduction of about 4 percent. This is not the first time Argentina has been approved to ship lemons to the U.S. Argentina had shipped close to 1.5 million cartons of lemons to the U.S. in 2000-01 before U.S. grower concerns about pest and disease threats — including canker — were upheld in a California court.
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO THE NEARLY 700 SUBSCRIBERS OF HAULPRODUCE.COM AND MANY OTHER VISITORS TO OUR WEBSITE.
IN A WORLD THAT SEEMS TO BECOME CRAZIER BY THE DAY, WE TAKE TIME THIS HOLIDAY SEASON TO RENEW HOPE AND PRAY FOR PEACE. AS WE CELEBRATE THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST, SEEK WAYS TO TURN SOMETHING INTO GOOD.
AT A RECENT CHRISTMAS PARTY ARTIST DARREL CHRISTOPHER WAS PERFORMING AND TOLD THE AUDIENCE HIS DADDY USED TO TELL HIM, “SON ALWAYS LOOK FOR A WAY TO TURN SOMETHING BAD INTO GOOD.” Darrel then began to sing one of the most beloved hymns of all time, “Amazing Grace.” However, he used the melody of the famous blues/rock song about a house of prostitution – “House of the Rising Sun.” Here are lyrics to both songs. To see Darrell performing Amazing Grace go to: Blues Society of Tulsa Facebook page.
“The House Of The Rising Sun”
There is a house in New Orleans
They call the Rising Sun
And it’s been the ruin of many a poor boy
And God, I know I’m one
My mother was a tailor
She sewed my new blue jeans
My father was a gamblin’ man
Down in New Orleans
Now the only thing a gambler needs
Is a suitcase and trunk
And the only time he’s satisfied
Is when he’s on a drunk
[Organ Solo]
Oh mother, tell your children
Not to do what I have done
Spend your lives in sin and misery
In the House of the Rising Sun
Well, I got one foot on the platform
The other foot on the train
I’m goin’ back to New Orleans
To wear that ball and chain
Well, there is a house in New Orleans
They call the Rising Sun
And it’s been the ruin of many a poor boy
And God, I know I’m one
Amazing Grace (original version)
Amazing grace! (how sweet the sound)
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.
‘Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears relieved;
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed!
Through many dangers, toils, and snares,
I have already come;
‘Tis grace that brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home.
The Lord has promised good to me,
His word my hope secures;
He will my shield and portion be
As long as life endures.
Yes, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess, within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.
The earth shall soon dissolve like snow,
The sun forbear to shine;
But God, who called me here below,
Will be for ever mine.
Amazing grace! (how sweet the sound)
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.
(1779)
By Chiquita Brands International
DALLAS – Beginning Jan. 1, 2017, Chiquita Brands International will roll out its new global banana boxes, designed more structurally sound and with cooling design to improve the freshness of its bananas, while allowing for the most stable transport on pallets.
Chiquita’s commitment to quality is extended with their new consistent cooling design, which allows for bananas to ripen evenly. According to market tests supported by the company’s ripening facility, there were more equal ripening temperatures, better color uniformity, and better ABC scores when using the new boxes – a potential energy savings of 20%.
“Our goal is to continue to provide the highest quality products to people all over the world, which is why we are committed to creating more efficient transportation methods of our fruit,” said vice president of North America Chris Dugan for Chiquita Brands. “We’re excited to see improvements in the quality of fruit that arrives to our partners, as well as the cost efficiencies that these new boxes will create.”
The new banana boxes will create less food waste by avoiding unnecessary damage and over-ripening of the fruit during transport – offering more fresh fruit to people across the globe. The boxes will also include new imagery and a cleaner look to represent Chiquita’s newest brand messaging and colors, giving shoppers and buyers a consistent look and feel from the brand they’ve known and loved for years.
About Chiquita Brands International
Chiquita Brands International grows, procures, markets, and sells bananas and other fresh fruits under the Chiquita name and others. Chiquita is a leading global company with 20,000 employees across 30 countries being present in nearly 70 countries, mainly in North America and Europe. They are passionate about their nutritious, high-quality, energy-rich and value-added bananas. But they’re also passionate about upholding the values which is at the very core of the company – integrity, respect, opportunity and responsibility. The company believes what they do day in and day out reflects these values, our brand and their purpose
With the arrival of the holiday season, here is some interesting information about the products that the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service buys.
AMS purchases a variety of domestically produced and processed fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and other products through a competitive process among approved vendors. The wholesome, high quality products are delivered to schools, food banks, and households in communities across the country. Different divisions of the Specialty Crops Inspection Service (SCIS), such as the Promotion & Economics Division (PED) and Specialty Crops Inspection Division (SCID) play vital roles in helping the USDA provide quality products to its most valued customers: schools and children.
AMS buys a lot of fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts from U.S. produce companies – about 40 kinds in various tasty forms. In fiscal year 2016, it purchased over 1.4 billion pounds of product for over $864 million for the regular entitlement and bonus buy programs. For example, for the recent Thanksgiving season, here are some facts about the federal purchases…
- 1.4 million pounds of pumpkin products for $1.2 million
- 152 million pounds of apples & apple products for $70 million
- 57 million pounds of cranberry and cranberry products for $34 million
- 51 million pounds of green beans for $22 million
- 252 million pounds of potatoes for $46 million
- 19 million pounds of sweet potatoes for $5 million
- 15 million pounds of walnuts for $31 million
Additionally, a lot of juice was purchased.
- 79 million pounds of grape juice for $28 million
- 91 million pounds of orange juice for $47 million
- 20 million pounds of grapefruit juice for $7 million