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Persistent rain has cancelled harvesting in the Santa Maria/Oxnard, California, growing regions for Sunday, February 16 through Tuesday, February 18. Demand exceeds supply in all California growing regions, according to a news release from Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA.
The Santa Maria and Oxnard regions received almost two inches of rain in the last week. Suppliers did not harvest again until Wednesday, February 19.
Quality will be a challenge, with concerns including excessive bruising and pin rot.
Shippers will rely on transfers of Mexican-grown fruit to supplement California shipments through next week. Last week also saw days that were too rainy to harvest in the Santa Maria and Oxnard growing regions.
Mango producer and marketer Sembriexport is aiming to continue making strides in the Ecuadorian mango industry. With 1,606 producing acres and an additional 370 in development, the company is committed to fostering growth in Ecuador’s mango industry.
Last year was an off season with production of about 8 million boxes of mangoes. This year Ecuador is exporting a total of 15 million boxes.
The primary mango variety exported from Ecuador is Tommy Atkins, accounting for approximately 60% of shipments.
Two years ago, Ecuador’s exported 14 million boxes, with the recent increase coming from both higher production and the entry of new companies into the export market.
Sembriexport has exported 1.8 million boxes of mangoes this seaon with nearly all of its volume going to the U.S. This is in line with the national trend, as 97% of Ecuador’s mango exports are destined for the U.S., with the rest going to Canada and other countries.
Ecuadorian mango production has climbed from 12 million to 15 million boxes over the past six to seven years, reflecting a steady rise in Ecuador’s export business.
Since Peru, Mexico, and Brazil, compete in the same markets as Ecuador Sembriexport sees a need to export to other markets as well.
CASTROVILLE, CA– Ocean Mist Farms, North America’s leading grower and shipper of fresh artichokes, reports strong artichoke supplies from its winter growing region in Coachella, California.
“The quality looks good, and we expect ample supply of our seasonal Frost-Kissed artichokes over the next couple weeks,” said Commodity Account Manager, Ben Wilson.
Continuing, “This is a great opportunity for retailers to take advantage of these volumes and promote artichokes, especially sought-after Frost-Kissed® artichokes.”
Frosted artichokes develop their unique markings naturally when temperatures drop into the 30s °F or below, causing a slight blistering or darkening of the outer skin. Similar to a sunburn, this browning is purely cosmetic and peels away once cooked, revealing the familiar vibrant green artichoke.
The browning of the exterior petals in no way affects the eat-ability or quality of the artichoke, and actually enhances the nutty flavor, which many consumers prefer, making these winter gems a very desirable item that’s only available for a limited time.
About Ocean Mist Farms
Established in 1924, Ocean Mist Farms is a fourth-generation family-owned business located in Castroville, California. This company – the largest grower/shipper of fresh artichokes in No. America – celebrated their milestone 100-year anniversary in 2024. Committed to consistently delivering the highest standards in the industry for their Gold Standard artichokes, the company also offers a full line of 30+ premium fresh vegetable commodities and value-added products including their new award-winning Roastables Ready-to-Roast kits and Season & Steam lines.
Maersk has said that, even after the ceasefire agreement and the announcement from the Houthi organization to stop attacks on ships, the logistics organization will continue to avoid the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea.
Although Yemen’s Houthis said they would limit their attacks on the Red Sea corridor to only Israeli-affiliated ships after a ceasefire, uncertainty and tensions remain high.
The Houthis announcement was sent to shipping companies and other organizations last week.
The Danish company said the safety of its crew, vessels, and cargo is an utmost priority and that it will continue to sail around Africa via the Cape of Good Hope.
“Returning to the area without fully ensuring safe passage could result in our networks needing to be adjusted again, which would prove complicated both operationally and indeed for supply chain management,” the company added.
They also announced that the Gemini Cooperation and their East West network started phasing in via the Cape of Good Hope as planned on February 1, 2025.
Sun Pacific Marketing Cooperative Inc. of Pasadena, CA was launched in the Central San Joaquin Valley in 1969. It is looking forward to a good citrus shipping season this year.
The firm’s product line includes navel oranges, lemons, Cuties brand mandarins, Tinkled Pink cara cara oranges and Vintage Sweet heirloom navels.
Sun Pacific also has some organic citrus items, including navels and Cuties.
Organic citrus volume is up year compared to the same time last year, and is led by organic grapefruit, easy-peel mandarins and navel oranges.
Quality is reported excellent this season for most of the company’s items, although sizing for oranges and lemons will be a bit smaller than last year.
IRVINE, CA – The 2025 California avocado harvest is now projected to be in the range of 375 million pounds, which is the largest crop estimate for the locally grown fruit since 2020.
Recent extremely high winds in California slightly dampened very early season projections, but the industry is still optimistic for a particularly good season. Investment by California avocado growers who have increased planting of new trees and improved the average per acre yield is contributing to this optimism.
Fruit sizing and the actual harvest total will be influenced by natural factors, and growers are hoping for beneficial rain and sunshine to come. Meanwhile some growers started picking now in time to support Super Bowl promotions with retailers. However, peak availability of California avocados is expected to occur spring through summer this year.
About the California Avocado Commission
Created in 1978, the California Avocado Commission strives to enhance the premium positioning of California avocados through advertising, promotion and public relations, and engages in related industry activities. CAC represents about 3,000 growers in the Golden State. The California Avocado Commission serves as the official information source for the California avocado industry.
Mexico is currently experiencing extremely long border crossing delays into the U.S. at most entry points due to a scheduled customs system update this past weekend, according to Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA.
In a press release, the company reports crossing delays began Monday, February 10, as Mexican customs agents began having problems generating documents as a result of the update. A contingency plan is in place to clear loads and cross shipments; however, the process is very slow going.
The result is long truck lines on Wednesday, February 12, with reports of trucks waiting as long as eight hours at South Texas points of entry. Expect late shipments into the McAllen, Texas, area this week, and in some instances, products arriving into U.S. warehouses a day late.
Outbound produce shipments in major points of entry cities, such as Nogales, AZ, and McAllen, TX, will be delayed for the rest of this week. It’s recommended to notify domestic carriers of potential delays in advance.
YUMA, AZ – With the impending New Moon, Natural Delights is preparing their retailers with two, five, and eleven-pound date boxes to satisfy the demand driven by Muslim shoppers preparing for Ramadan.
Based on the lunar calendar, the observance starts on February 28th this year, but stores are advised that celebrators will start acquiring dates mid-February to have a surplus for the month of festivities ahead.
Last Ramadan, average weekly Medjool date sales increased by 31% for the category, while Natural Delights average weekly sales increased by 44%, according to Circana data. The growth of the Muslim community in the U.S. has contributed to an increased visibility of Ramadan practices and traditions across the country. Additionally, with the rise of social media, more Americans are becoming aware of and acknowledging Ramadan.
“Dates are traditionally eaten as a quick energy source before sunrise during Ramadan, and they pair wonderfully with complementary foods to help sustain energy throughout the day. Coffee, for example, is a beloved morning ritual that, when combined with dates and heart-healthy nuts like almonds or walnuts, provides a boost of caffeine without the crash,” explained Amy Davis, RDN.
A recently published report shows that increasing consumer demand for healthy snacks, rising awareness of nutritional benefits, and the growing popularity of plant-based diets drive the market expansion of dry fruits in the U.S.
The market is forecast to reach an estimated US$4.89 billion by 2033, compared to US$3.14 billion in 2024. This growth signifies a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate of 5.08% from 2025 to 2033.
Almonds, walnuts, pistachios, cashews, raisins, apricots, and dates are among the most popular dry fruits. These fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.
Dry fruits are increasingly popular in the USA as convenient and healthy snacks because of their numerous health benefits. These include boosting heart health by lowering cholesterol, improving digestion due to their high fiber content, and supporting weight management by promoting satiety.
Due to their easy-to-eat format and packaging, dry fruits are becoming increasingly popular among American consumers. They are drawn to their convenience, portability, and ability to provide sustained energy.
Dry fruits are widely embraced in fitness circles for boosting energy and aiding post-workout recovery, making them a staple in health-conscious households.
According to the report, the shift toward plant-based eating is another key growth driver in the dry fruits market. Many consumers opt for vegetarian or vegan diets, increasing the demand for plant-derived nutrient sources. They are often used as meat substitutes in recipes or as an energy-dense snack.
The report also notes that the rise of e-commerce platforms has revolutionized the U.S.’s dry fruit market. Consumers now have easy access to a diverse range of dry fruit products, including organic, flavored, and exotic varieties, with the convenience of doorstep delivery.
Online platforms often provide detailed product information, reviews, and competitive pricing, encouraging informed purchasing decisions. Subscription services and bulk-buying options have also made it easier for consumers to integrate dry fruits into their daily diets.
As e-commerce grows, it is expected further to increase the sales and visibility of dry fruits nationwide.
The Arizona/California desert growing region began a warming trend over the past week with daytime highs peaking February 3 at 85°F. Temperatures will decline through this week but will remain in the upper 70°s to low 80°s, according to a press release by Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA.
Although the higher temperatures will aid plant growth that had stalled after three weeks of strong winds and morning freeze events, Markon inspectors still expect to see quality challenges through February. In particular, epidermal peeling is expected to increase in iceberg and lettuces such as romaine and green leaf. Other challenges for lettuce and tender leaf items include but are not limited to:
- Dehydration/wilting
- Decreased or inconsistent case weights
- Wind damage
- Epidermal blistering & peeling
- Shortened shelf-life potential
- Yellowing leaves
Markon inspectors continue to monitor desert row crops closely and are working with growers to secure the best product for Markon orders.
Green Leaf
- Markon First Crop (MFC) Premium Green Leaf is available
- Quality is very good
- Yellowing outer leaves are being removed at the field level
- Harvesting crews are avoiding uneven heads
- Demand is strengthening; industry supplies vary from supplier to supplier following consecutive weeks of freezing temperatures that slowed growth
Iceberg
- MFC Premium Iceberg Lettuce is sporadic due to low weights; Markon Best Available (MBA) is being substituted as needed
- Quality is good
- Epidermal blistering/peeling, growth cracks, and lower weights are being observed in many lots
- This week’s warmer weather will further exacerbate blister and peel quality issues
- Demand is strong; industry supplies are tighter, pushing markets higher
Romaine
- Markon First Crop (MFC) Premium Romaine is available
- Quality is strong; epidermal blistering and peeling are present following consecutive lettuce ice events but reduced compared to prior seasons
- Demand is strengthening; however, supplies remain ample
Persistent rain has cancelled harvesting in the Santa Maria/Oxnard, California, growing regions for Sunday, February 16 through Tuesday, February 18. Demand exceeds supply in all California growing regions, according to a news release from Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA.
The Santa Maria and Oxnard regions received almost two inches of rain in the last week. Suppliers did not harvest again until Wednesday, February 19.
Quality will be a challenge, with concerns including excessive bruising and pin rot.
Shippers will rely on transfers of Mexican-grown fruit to supplement California shipments through next week. Last week also saw days that were too rainy to harvest in the Santa Maria and Oxnard growing regions.
Mango producer and marketer Sembriexport is aiming to continue making strides in the Ecuadorian mango industry. With 1,606 producing acres and an additional 370 in development, the company is committed to fostering growth in Ecuador’s mango industry.
Last year was an off season with production of about 8 million boxes of mangoes. This year Ecuador is exporting a total of 15 million boxes.
The primary mango variety exported from Ecuador is Tommy Atkins, accounting for approximately 60% of shipments.
Two years ago, Ecuador’s exported 14 million boxes, with the recent increase coming from both higher production and the entry of new companies into the export market.
Sembriexport has exported 1.8 million boxes of mangoes this seaon with nearly all of its volume going to the U.S. This is in line with the national trend, as 97% of Ecuador’s mango exports are destined for the U.S., with the rest going to Canada and other countries.
Ecuadorian mango production has climbed from 12 million to 15 million boxes over the past six to seven years, reflecting a steady rise in Ecuador’s export business.
Since Peru, Mexico, and Brazil, compete in the same markets as Ecuador Sembriexport sees a need to export to other markets as well.
CASTROVILLE, CA– Ocean Mist Farms, North America’s leading grower and shipper of fresh artichokes, reports strong artichoke supplies from its winter growing region in Coachella, California.
“The quality looks good, and we expect ample supply of our seasonal Frost-Kissed artichokes over the next couple weeks,” said Commodity Account Manager, Ben Wilson.
Continuing, “This is a great opportunity for retailers to take advantage of these volumes and promote artichokes, especially sought-after Frost-Kissed® artichokes.”
Frosted artichokes develop their unique markings naturally when temperatures drop into the 30s °F or below, causing a slight blistering or darkening of the outer skin. Similar to a sunburn, this browning is purely cosmetic and peels away once cooked, revealing the familiar vibrant green artichoke.
The browning of the exterior petals in no way affects the eat-ability or quality of the artichoke, and actually enhances the nutty flavor, which many consumers prefer, making these winter gems a very desirable item that’s only available for a limited time.
About Ocean Mist Farms
Established in 1924, Ocean Mist Farms is a fourth-generation family-owned business located in Castroville, California. This company – the largest grower/shipper of fresh artichokes in No. America – celebrated their milestone 100-year anniversary in 2024. Committed to consistently delivering the highest standards in the industry for their Gold Standard artichokes, the company also offers a full line of 30+ premium fresh vegetable commodities and value-added products including their new award-winning Roastables Ready-to-Roast kits and Season & Steam lines.
Maersk has said that, even after the ceasefire agreement and the announcement from the Houthi organization to stop attacks on ships, the logistics organization will continue to avoid the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea.
Although Yemen’s Houthis said they would limit their attacks on the Red Sea corridor to only Israeli-affiliated ships after a ceasefire, uncertainty and tensions remain high.
The Houthis announcement was sent to shipping companies and other organizations last week.
The Danish company said the safety of its crew, vessels, and cargo is an utmost priority and that it will continue to sail around Africa via the Cape of Good Hope.
“Returning to the area without fully ensuring safe passage could result in our networks needing to be adjusted again, which would prove complicated both operationally and indeed for supply chain management,” the company added.
They also announced that the Gemini Cooperation and their East West network started phasing in via the Cape of Good Hope as planned on February 1, 2025.
Sun Pacific Marketing Cooperative Inc. of Pasadena, CA was launched in the Central San Joaquin Valley in 1969. It is looking forward to a good citrus shipping season this year.
The firm’s product line includes navel oranges, lemons, Cuties brand mandarins, Tinkled Pink cara cara oranges and Vintage Sweet heirloom navels.
Sun Pacific also has some organic citrus items, including navels and Cuties.
Organic citrus volume is up year compared to the same time last year, and is led by organic grapefruit, easy-peel mandarins and navel oranges.
Quality is reported excellent this season for most of the company’s items, although sizing for oranges and lemons will be a bit smaller than last year.
IRVINE, CA – The 2025 California avocado harvest is now projected to be in the range of 375 million pounds, which is the largest crop estimate for the locally grown fruit since 2020.
Recent extremely high winds in California slightly dampened very early season projections, but the industry is still optimistic for a particularly good season. Investment by California avocado growers who have increased planting of new trees and improved the average per acre yield is contributing to this optimism.
Fruit sizing and the actual harvest total will be influenced by natural factors, and growers are hoping for beneficial rain and sunshine to come. Meanwhile some growers started picking now in time to support Super Bowl promotions with retailers. However, peak availability of California avocados is expected to occur spring through summer this year.
About the California Avocado Commission
Created in 1978, the California Avocado Commission strives to enhance the premium positioning of California avocados through advertising, promotion and public relations, and engages in related industry activities. CAC represents about 3,000 growers in the Golden State. The California Avocado Commission serves as the official information source for the California avocado industry.
Mexico is currently experiencing extremely long border crossing delays into the U.S. at most entry points due to a scheduled customs system update this past weekend, according to Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA.
In a press release, the company reports crossing delays began Monday, February 10, as Mexican customs agents began having problems generating documents as a result of the update. A contingency plan is in place to clear loads and cross shipments; however, the process is very slow going.
The result is long truck lines on Wednesday, February 12, with reports of trucks waiting as long as eight hours at South Texas points of entry. Expect late shipments into the McAllen, Texas, area this week, and in some instances, products arriving into U.S. warehouses a day late.
Outbound produce shipments in major points of entry cities, such as Nogales, AZ, and McAllen, TX, will be delayed for the rest of this week. It’s recommended to notify domestic carriers of potential delays in advance.
YUMA, AZ – With the impending New Moon, Natural Delights is preparing their retailers with two, five, and eleven-pound date boxes to satisfy the demand driven by Muslim shoppers preparing for Ramadan.
Based on the lunar calendar, the observance starts on February 28th this year, but stores are advised that celebrators will start acquiring dates mid-February to have a surplus for the month of festivities ahead.
Last Ramadan, average weekly Medjool date sales increased by 31% for the category, while Natural Delights average weekly sales increased by 44%, according to Circana data. The growth of the Muslim community in the U.S. has contributed to an increased visibility of Ramadan practices and traditions across the country. Additionally, with the rise of social media, more Americans are becoming aware of and acknowledging Ramadan.
“Dates are traditionally eaten as a quick energy source before sunrise during Ramadan, and they pair wonderfully with complementary foods to help sustain energy throughout the day. Coffee, for example, is a beloved morning ritual that, when combined with dates and heart-healthy nuts like almonds or walnuts, provides a boost of caffeine without the crash,” explained Amy Davis, RDN.
A recently published report shows that increasing consumer demand for healthy snacks, rising awareness of nutritional benefits, and the growing popularity of plant-based diets drive the market expansion of dry fruits in the U.S.
The market is forecast to reach an estimated US$4.89 billion by 2033, compared to US$3.14 billion in 2024. This growth signifies a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate of 5.08% from 2025 to 2033.
Almonds, walnuts, pistachios, cashews, raisins, apricots, and dates are among the most popular dry fruits. These fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.
Dry fruits are increasingly popular in the USA as convenient and healthy snacks because of their numerous health benefits. These include boosting heart health by lowering cholesterol, improving digestion due to their high fiber content, and supporting weight management by promoting satiety.
Due to their easy-to-eat format and packaging, dry fruits are becoming increasingly popular among American consumers. They are drawn to their convenience, portability, and ability to provide sustained energy.
Dry fruits are widely embraced in fitness circles for boosting energy and aiding post-workout recovery, making them a staple in health-conscious households.
According to the report, the shift toward plant-based eating is another key growth driver in the dry fruits market. Many consumers opt for vegetarian or vegan diets, increasing the demand for plant-derived nutrient sources. They are often used as meat substitutes in recipes or as an energy-dense snack.
The report also notes that the rise of e-commerce platforms has revolutionized the U.S.’s dry fruit market. Consumers now have easy access to a diverse range of dry fruit products, including organic, flavored, and exotic varieties, with the convenience of doorstep delivery.
Online platforms often provide detailed product information, reviews, and competitive pricing, encouraging informed purchasing decisions. Subscription services and bulk-buying options have also made it easier for consumers to integrate dry fruits into their daily diets.
As e-commerce grows, it is expected further to increase the sales and visibility of dry fruits nationwide.
The Arizona/California desert growing region began a warming trend over the past week with daytime highs peaking February 3 at 85°F. Temperatures will decline through this week but will remain in the upper 70°s to low 80°s, according to a press release by Markon Cooperative of Salinas, CA.
Although the higher temperatures will aid plant growth that had stalled after three weeks of strong winds and morning freeze events, Markon inspectors still expect to see quality challenges through February. In particular, epidermal peeling is expected to increase in iceberg and lettuces such as romaine and green leaf. Other challenges for lettuce and tender leaf items include but are not limited to:
- Dehydration/wilting
- Decreased or inconsistent case weights
- Wind damage
- Epidermal blistering & peeling
- Shortened shelf-life potential
- Yellowing leaves
Markon inspectors continue to monitor desert row crops closely and are working with growers to secure the best product for Markon orders.
Green Leaf
- Markon First Crop (MFC) Premium Green Leaf is available
- Quality is very good
- Yellowing outer leaves are being removed at the field level
- Harvesting crews are avoiding uneven heads
- Demand is strengthening; industry supplies vary from supplier to supplier following consecutive weeks of freezing temperatures that slowed growth
Iceberg
- MFC Premium Iceberg Lettuce is sporadic due to low weights; Markon Best Available (MBA) is being substituted as needed
- Quality is good
- Epidermal blistering/peeling, growth cracks, and lower weights are being observed in many lots
- This week’s warmer weather will further exacerbate blister and peel quality issues
- Demand is strong; industry supplies are tighter, pushing markets higher
Romaine
- Markon First Crop (MFC) Premium Romaine is available
- Quality is strong; epidermal blistering and peeling are present following consecutive lettuce ice events but reduced compared to prior seasons
- Demand is strengthening; however, supplies remain ample