Here is a quick overview of this coming week in the fruit and vegetable markets. You should expect:
Apples: Granny-smith apples are still in a demand exceeds supplies situation in Washington and California.
Asparagus: Due to Hurricane Irma, inbounds will be delayed from Peru starting Friday 9/8.
Avocado: Demand exceed supplies
Blackberries: Supplies are lighter. Expect some soft berries due to heat.
Blueberries: Supplies will become increasingly limited over the next 2 weeks as the PNW season comes to an end.
Raspberries: New Central Mexico harvest is expected to start by the end of September.
Strawberries: Quality will be effected by the recent weather in all growing regions.
Carrots: Limited supplies of Jumbo Carrots
Lemons: Lemon sizing shifting heavily to the smaller fruit at pack-out
Oranges: Extreme heat in the California Valencia Orange growing regions exacerbating an already historically tight market.
Cucumbers (Eastern): Number one product is tight and some quality issues persist.
Squash (Eastern): Keep your eyes on the Tropics, these storms could change everything, Squash would be the first commodity affected.
Stonefruit: Import kiwi will continue to be in short supply until California starts in late September/early October.
Hopefully, this market information will help you to plan specials, promotions, and make menu adjustments in advance of the rapidly changing produce markets.
