Here is a quick overview of this coming week in the fruit and vegetable markets. You should expect:
Apples: Washington is still short on 88 and larger Granny-smith apples.
Avocados: Some of Mexico’s disputing municipalities did begin harvesting on Monday. Dispute is not fully resolved, and some further shut down by some still could occur. Current supplies are tight and looking light supplies into next week.
Bell Peppers (Eastern): More supplies of bell pepper are showing up.
Berries (Blueberries): Steady but limited supplies with good demand and firm markets.
Berries (Raspberries): We expect to see markets firm up and availability become increasingly limited over the next 3-4 weeks.
Berries (Strawberries): Quality in California continue to be a struggle due to weather. Soft and wet berries are being reported. This will continue until new winter crop harvest starts in Oxnard.
Cauliflower: Supplies are decreasing as we head into a small supply gap that looks to last two weeks. This is causing the market to trend higher.
Lemons: Demand exceeds supplies.
Oranges: Demand exceeds on 88s/113s/138s
Cucumbers: Good Supplies
Eggplant: Georgia eggplant are not the best quality. Shippers should finish this week.
Onions: Transportation very limited
Pears: Bosc, Bartletts, and D’anjous are all peaking on large fruit so the availability of 110 size and smaller is light.
Potatoes: Transportation is very limited
Squash (Eastern): Cooler Temperatures could slow production
Tomatoes (Eastern): There is a shortage of Tomatoes across North America with expectation for relief to occur the week of Christmas
Tomatoes (Western): There is a shortage of Tomatoes across North America with expectation for relief to occur the week of Christmas
Hopefully, this market information will help you to plan specials, promotions, and make menu adjustments in advance of the rapidly changing produce markets.
