Broccoli

North Carolina Growers Embrace Resilience Amid Extreme Drought, Spring Heat

Mon, 11 May 2026 00:22:06 GMT

Farmers in North Carolina are facing an uphill battle this spring as a severe drought combined with unseasonable heat has stunted early-season specialty crops from brassicas to berries.

As of early May, North Carolina was experiencing severe agricultural distress, with approximately 67 counties under extreme drought conditions and record-breaking dryness impacting 96% of the Southeast.

“These conditions are becoming quite apparent on our farms, with retention ponds getting extremely low, cracks in the soil, difficulty preparing land for summer production and reduced yields on many spring crops,” says Taylor Holenbeck, grower services coordinator for the Durham, N.C.-based Happy Dirt, a farmer-owned distributor of organic produce, specializing in connecting Southeast regional farmers with retailers and food hubs.

Spring greens have been hit particularly hard, says Holenbeck.

“One farm is seeing half the average yield on their broccolini crop, while others are seeing extremely slow growth on kales, collards, cabbage and other brassicas,” he says.

In the eastern part of the state, drought conditions and unseasonably hot temperatures that repeatedly reached the 90s during April have increased pest pressures in the area.

“Without the rain to help wash pest eggs off the crops, this has led to large hatchings of diamondback moths, compromising many of the tender spring greens,” he says.

Holenbeck says a number of Happy Dirt farms are behind on their spring plantings, with some delayed by at least two weeks due to dry conditions.

And it’s not only what’s already in the ground that struggles in drought conditions, says Holenbeck, who notes that preparing new beds when soil is extremely dry is also a challenge.

“Some farms are having to overhead water their land just to be able to prep beds, which is not how you want to be using your precious water resources in a drought,” he says.

Severe drought conditions in parts of North Carolina, like here at Randy Massey’s M&M Plant Farms, have led to retention ponds getting extremely low, cracks in the soil, difficulty preparing land for summer production, and reduced yields on many spring crops, says Taylor Holenbeck, grower services coordinator for the Durham, N.C.-based Happy Dirt.

(Photo courtesy of Happy Dirt)

‘Fast and Furious’ Strawberries

Weather conditions have also impacted the state’s strawberry production.

“Our strawberry season has been stunted as well, although this is due to not only drought, but [rather] the large swings in temperature this spring, causing the plants to be more vegetative rather than producing a lot of fruit consistently,” says Holenbeck.

Austin Hirsch, a strawberry farmer in Catawba, N.C., told AgDay’s Haley Bickelhaupt that while ripening usually takes a few weeks, in this year’s drought, it’s been “fast and furious.”

“The biggest challenge is trying to keep up with harvest,” says Hirsch of Bumble Berry Farms. The first-generation farmer says a hard winter followed by a warm week in early April accelerated picking of the farm’s early-season variety, which began April 8.

“We went out there maybe five or six days later, and the whole field was red … I’ve never seen anything like it,” says Hirsch.

Bumble Berry Farms grows five varieties of strawberries, all of which have been impacted by drought, he says.

But one silver lining for Hirsch has been sweeter berries.

“The conditions raise the sugar levels,” he says.

Bumble Berry Farms estimates it strawberry crop yields were about 50% of normal this season and is now turning its attention to its blackberry crop.

But Happy Dirt’s Holenbeck remains optimistic that there’s still time for some North Carolina strawberries.

“We still have the month of May to have a great strawberry season,” he says. “And so far, the sweet corn and summer squash crops are doing OK but will need rain soon.”

Altar Cross Farms’ Morgan Sykes and father Roy Sykes survey their North Carolina blueberry crop.

(Photo courtesy of Happy Dirt)

Blueberries in the Balance

Altar Cross Farms, a family-run organic blueberry farm in Ivanhoe, N.C., which tends more than 100 acres of certified organic blueberries between its own 40 acres and a lease on an additional 65 acres, says it’s managing the unusually dry conditions through strategic irrigation and a watchful eye on the weather.

“This has been a particularly dry start to the season, which is a change from what we typically see this time of year,” says Morgan Sykes, sales and packing manager for Altar Cross Farms and daughter of the farm’s owners, Roy and Donna Sykes. “We have been having to use our irrigation a lot more this year starting with the spring freezes to now this extreme dry weather.

“We are very blessed to have the irrigation system that we do, but nothing is as good as the natural rain,” she adds.

On the family’s 40 acres, they conserve as much water as possible using a ditching system connected to catch basins at the end of each row to flow the water back into its pond.

“Even with that, our pond is about 4 feet lower than what it should be,” she says.

On the farm’s leased acres, the pond system requires they pump water from a well into the pond, which costs more because it has to be hooked up to a generator, she says.

But a dryer blueberry growing season does have some benefits, says Sykes.

“The quality of blueberries on a dryish year are a little better because you really don’t have to worry as much about soft fruit,” she says. “It will impact the size of the berry; they will maybe not be as big. That is where we will be utilizing our irrigation to try and plump them up.”

Overall, Sykes says things are shaping up to be a “really good year.”

“We packed the highest number of berries we ever had last year,” she says. “This year we are hoping to do even more, [as] we have a few more fields that are just coming into production now.”

Sykes says this time of year usually presents the opposite weather problem — too much precipitation. To address this, Altar Cross Farms has planted varieties that can tolerate more water and still remain firm.

“We have some O’Neals that are drought tolerant, but if they get a little rain, they are bad about splitting,” she says.

While the family had been planning to move away from the variety as a result, this year, it looks as though they’ll be able to pack more of them.

“All of our other berries we are just having to keep an eye on and irrigate them to help the berries grow and size up,” she says. “We are praying for rain. We just don’t want it all at one time.”

Rising Input Costs vs. Market Realities

In North Carolina, the dust is rising just as fast as the overhead. While drought conditions have forced farmers to rely heavily on irrigation, global conflicts have driven diesel prices up by nearly 50%, making the cost of watering particularly steep.

Holenbeck says while irrigation methods vary widely from farm to farm in North Carolina, those that use diesel “are definitely feeling the effects of high prices.”

Soaring prices, not only for farms to run their irrigation pumps but also to operate tractors and on shipping costs for fertilizers and packaging, are putting a squeeze on the season.

“Higher fuel costs impact everything, down to the cost of the petroleum-based plastic used for mulch and clamshells that we pack small fruit into,” he says. “Unfortunately, our farmers are beholden to market pricing, so we are looking at the high end of pricing on each crop but have to balance being too high, otherwise sales slow, and that’s worse for the farms.

“Just because there is a drought here, doesn’t mean that the market isn’t low in other regions, so it’s a tricky balance,” he continues.

Farming for North Carolina’s Future

In the face of these soaring operational costs and a volatile climate, North Carolina’s specialty crop growers are no longer just reacting to the weather — they’re striving to outsmart it. By shifting toward heat-tolerant varieties they aim to transform drought from a seasonal crisis into a catalyst for long-term agricultural innovation.

“[The development of drought-resistant varieties] should be top of mind for both farmers and consumers, and there are some great initiatives in our region working toward more drought-resistant crops,” says Holenbeck, who says he’s never had more farmers ask him if they could grow okra for Happy Dirt than this year.

“Okra is a great example of a drought-tolerant crop, but unfortunately the market demand doesn’t match its utility for the farmers — yet,” he says. “Happy Dirt sees it as part of our work to help educate customers on what crops thrive in our increasingly warm climate in the South and why it’s important for consumers to learn how to integrate those fruits and vegetables into their diets.”

Holenbeck says Happy Dirt is looking to seed breeders to help Southeastern growers with more heat-tolerant varieties of vegetables.

“From lettuce to tomatoes, there are more and more heat-tolerant varieties available, which is giving our farmers the ability to stretch seasons and grow more of what eaters want locally,” he says. “This year we are implementing broccoli trials on two of our farms to observe which varieties do best in our quickly warming springs, and so far, despite the drought, we have seen some great results and plan to scale broccoli production if the varieties continue to perform.”

Happy Dirt says it has also conducted some smaller trials with regionally adapted varieties of butternut squash from Common Wealth Seed Growers and okra from Utopian Seed Project. This year it is also trialing and saving seeds from a specific okra variety grown by the Freed Seed Federation.

“All this seed work is important for farmers to be able to adapt over time and focus on what grows well here,” says Holenbeck. “We also see increased customer demand for the organic small fruit category, many of which are grown perennially, such as Asian persimmons, blackberries, figs, muscadines and blueberries to name a few. Due to the perennial nature of these crops, they can provide more resiliency to extreme weather and are a category that we plan to grow more of with our farmers.”

And when it comes to preventive measures, Holenbeck says one of the best things farmers can do is keep their soil consistently covered with cash crops and cover crops to help retain moisture and reduce erosion when there’s heavy rain.

“This effort pays off slowly, but as we face more erratic weather patterns, these types of practices become increasingly important,” he says. “We can’t fight nature, but we can try to learn from it and mimic it.”

Harps Food Stores Shares How Freshness Innovation Drives Nearly 10% Sales Growth

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 22:59:40 GMT

Mike Roberts, vice president of produce operations with Harps Food Stores, says his team noticed elevated shrinkage in its broccoli crowns due to moisture loss; the crowns had reduced firmness and a decline in quality.

However, fixing the issue required more than one approach.

“While temperature management is critical, it wasn’t fully addressing these challenges, so we needed an additional solution to better maintain product integrity,” he says.

Addressing Shrink, Improving Quality

This is where Roberts began working with the team at Verdant Technologies to trial the HarvestHold solution in its broccoli to address these issues. Roberts says the Harps team was aware of HarvestHold for a while, so they decided to implement a trial as he saw it was a fit with seeking to enhance performance in key categories.

Matthew Aronson, chief revenue officer of Verdant Technologies, says the conversation with Harps and adding HarvestHold stemmed from the need to extend the quality of the broccoli. Aronson says that HarvestHold’s technology blocks ethylene to address the water loss that the Harps team saw and that it helps the broccoli maintain firmness.

“We talked about seven extra days of shelf life with naked iceless broccoli and what that could mean to reducing shrink or food waste at the store and certainly at home for the shoppers,” Aronson says.

Verdant Technologies worked with Harps’ broccoli supplier, Ocean Mist, to implement this trial. Aronson says it was a team effort to get this trial in action, which spanned several months. Harps’ distribution partner, Associated Wholesale Growers, is also working to introduce HarvestHold across its retail network.

“Kudos, Ocean Mist, who has been a longtime partner of ours on the broccoli side and working with not just Harps but [also] the AWG team,” he says. “We executed this over not just a couple weeks. This is a few months to get a sizable enough data set.”

Measurable Gains in Sales and Sustainability

Roberts says that since implementing HarvestHold, broccoli volume at Harps stores has increased by 9.96%.

“While multiple factors can influence sales, we believe improved shelf life and better at-home performance are contributing to increased customer satisfaction and repeat purchases,” he says.

Roberts also acknowledges that part of the draw for using HarvestHold is its ease of use. He says the investment in adding HarvestHold is beneficial, based on what he’s seen from an improvement in quality and a reduction in shrink. He says the cost is minimal compared to the potential benefits of implementation.

“It’s easy to implement, cost-effective and doesn’t involve applying anything directly to the product; it’s simply a sheet placed in the box,” he says. “At the end of the day, it helps reduce waste, saves customers money and supports our mission of helping families enjoy fresh, healthy fruits and vegetables.”

Collaborative Supply Chain Blueprint

Roberts says that the reduction in food waste and keeping fresh produce out of landfills were key factors in adding HarvestHold technology. He says he also sees increased quality as an improved experience for the shopper.

“If a customer takes broccoli home and it lasts longer and maintains its quality, that creates a better overall experience,” he says. “That’s a win for the customer, a win for Harps and a win for reducing food waste. Those kinds of improvements can set us apart in a meaningful way.”

He says improving quality, reducing waste and improving customer satisfaction all contribute to the value customers see in the Harps brand, which in turn strengthens the financial performance and the company’s employee ownership.

Roberts says he’s deployed HarvestHold on Southern peaches successfully the past few seasons and is already looking ahead to the potential that HarvestHold might have in other commodities.

“Leafy greens would be at the top of the list, given their sensitivity and high shrink potential,” he says. “Beyond that, berries present a significant opportunity due to their volume and perishability.”

Bimi Baby Broccoli Expands Program Through Strategic Partnership with Cal-Organic Farms

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 21:02:33 GMT

Bimi Baby Broccoli, the branded business branch of Sakata Seed America, has formed a strategic partnership with Cal-Organic Farms, intended to significantly expand organic production capacity and North American distribution for the Bimi Baby Broccoli program.

The agreement brings one of the country’s largest organic growers into Sakata’s licensed network, supporting surging demand for premium specialty vegetables across retail and foodservice channels, according to the company.

As a division of Grimmway Produce Group, Cal-Organic Farms adds scale, geographic reach and year-round production expertise to the Bimi program. The partnership enhances supply-chain continuity at a time when retailers are increasingly prioritizing dependable organic programs and differentiated value-added vegetables to drive category growth.

“Cal-Organic Farms is an established leader in organic vegetable production, and their operational strength makes them an ideal partner for the continued expansion of the Bimi brand,” says Julie McElhaney, food chain manager for Bimi. “This collaboration positions us to meet rapidly growing demand with consistent quality, improved performance and dependable supply.”

Bimi, known for its sweet flavor profile, tender stems and strong consumer appeal, continues to gain momentum following its U.S. brand launch last year. The brand says retailers and consumers alike are embracing Bimi as a versatile, nutrient-dense, premium vegetable in a cook-ready format.

“Retailers are looking for consistent, premium organic offerings that differentiate their vegetable sets,” says Bob Borda, senior vice president of sales, organic vegetable category, for Grimmway Produce Group. “We’re excited for this partnership and the ability to deliver a high-quality, dependable program that drives value across the supply chain and brings a great experience to consumers.”

Under the expanded program, Cal-Organic Farms will produce organic Bimi in both branded retail-ready bags and traditional bunch formats. This strengthened supply network improves merchandising options and ensures consistent quality across North America.

Targeted marketing, shopper engagement and digital awareness initiatives will further support the program by building brand recognition and driving stronger retail velocity. With this partnership, Bimi says it reinforces its position as a leading premium vegetable offering and further establishes itself as a year-round organic solution for retailers and foodservice operators throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Sysco Reports 40% Customer Experience Boost With HarvestHold Pilot

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:05:14 GMT

Sysco Produce and Verdant Technologies have piloted a postharvest project with Verdant’s HarvestHold in broccoli to improve freshness. Sysco estimates the eight-week pilot across Sysco’s U.S. Broadline distribution sites saw a 40% improvement in customer experience at pilot sites and saw clear and meaningful reductions in spoilage.

What’s interesting, says Harlan Ewert, director of business development at Verdant Technologies, is that many of the conversations that surround integrating HarvestHold revolve around eliminating ice and potential slip and fall hazards as the ice melts.

But that’s not the case with Sysco. Ewert says Sysco has ice-free distribution centers. The company worked with Verdant Technologies to introduce HarvestHold to boost the freshness and quality of the broccoli supplied.

“I think it’s always important to look at your business and not always just say that what you’re doing is good, but what can you do that makes it better?” Ewert says.

Nick Hansen, director of category management in produce for Sysco, also notes the broccoli trial deploying HarvestHold technology also showed better turgidity, cleaner end cuts, and improved overall appearance compared to control samples.

Ewert, too, says this partnership helps Sysco stand out from its competitors by providing higher-quality produce.

“In the food service world, it’s about can they be the leaders in introducing this to their customers and, again, providing a difference from what is maybe out there from their competitors or also in providing something better?” Ewert says.

Hansen says Sysco evaluated the results of the pilot through its Sysco Quality Assurance and were also independently validated by the University of Florida, Michigan State University and Q Fresh.

Since this pilot, Hansen says Sysco has expanded its use of HarvestHold to more than 30 Sysco locations and has fully implemented the technology across Sysco Broadline, FreshPoint and Asian Foods starting the week of Jan. 18.

Ewert, too, says HarvestHold’s benefits for Sysco go beyond just quality and into sustainability and food loss. He says the ability for Sysco to deliver more usable product to its customers has a broad value.

“In a lot of the operations, it’s all, you know, that food loss comes about in the amount of shrink that’s there,” he says. “And can you reduce that? Because now more usable product and what you deliver is a benefit.”

And in terms of working with Sysco, Ewert says this is a strong introduction into the foodservice industry and helping Sysco meet and exceed some of its initiatives.

“It continues to be another validation point of the benefit we bring into the industry and making product better, better utilization, less food waste, making a difference in sustainability efforts,” he says. “And so, it’s a recognition of bringing the best product to your customers.”

And Ewert says for Sysco’s grower-partners, HarvestHold is an extension of the work Sysco has already done with removing ice and other innovative practices.

“As you move into the supply base with Sysco, it’s with growers who are using HarvestHold,” he says. “Harvest Hold has always been a simple introduction into the operation, and it just becomes an extension of that.”

Marketing Firm Names 2026 Veggie of the Year, Honorable Mention

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 02:14:25 GMT

FullTilt Marketing, a Minot, N.D.-based produce and food marketing company, has named broccolini its Vegetable of the Year for 2026. The company says the recognition follows a comprehensive analysis of social conversations, consumer behavior and emerging culinary sentiment using Tastewise food intelligence.

Vegetables continue to grow in cultural significance, says the marketing firm, pointing to data that reveals broccolini is gaining disproportionate traction.

Broccolini has rapidly moved from a specialty item to a mainstream favorite, landing in the trending stage of the vegetable life cycle with a more than 25% year-over-year increase in social discussions, one of the strongest growth rates among established vegetables, says FullTilt.

Melinda Goodman, founder and principal of FullTilt Marketing, dishes on the top veggie trends for 2026.

(Photo courtesy of FullTilt Marketing)

“Broccolini is having a moment, and that moment is turning into a movement,” says Melinda Goodman, founder and principal of FullTilt Marketing. “Its growth is being driven by consumers who want foods that feel comforting and wholesome but also fresh, modern and globally inspired. Broccolini checks every box.”

Meanwhile, Tastewise data shows that consumers increasingly associate vegetables with claims like hearty, comfort, cozy and guilt-free, making broccolini a match for the emotional and nourishing eating experiences shaping 2026 food culture, the company says.

Honorable Mention: Sweetpotatoes

While broccolini leaves its veggie counterparts green with envy, sweetpotatoes undeniably earned a place on the podium, ranking as one of the most consistently rising vegetables with a more than 16% year-over-year increase in social conversation, the company says.

“Sweetpotato performance ties into dominant wellness themes, including hormone balance, anti-bloat, polyphenols and electrolytes underscoring the importance of the functional food movement making sweetpotatoes both emotionally comforting and nutritionally compelling,” the firm says in a news release.

FullTilt says to expect sweetpotatoes’ broad usage across meals, snacks, bakery items, and beverages to make them a continual growth engine for retailers and foodservice alike.

Vegetables to Watch for 2026-27

While the trending vegetables get all the attention, FullTilt’s research identified two strong emerging contenders that deserve attention and should be watched throughout the coming year in the emerging conversation category: kabocha and endive, the release says.

FullTilt says it expects both will be rising stars in the emerging stage of trend adoption, receiving more experimentation from restaurants and culinary creators.

“Social media has changed the conversation about how we see and use food, particularly fruits and vegetables,” says Goodman. “It will be exciting to watch these trending and emerging vegetables reflect the accelerating consumer desire for produce that is functional, aesthetically unique and globally inspired.”

What Consumers Want From Vegetables in 2026

In addition to broccolini, Tastewise intelligence reveals several powerful trend drivers shaping produce consumption including emotional eating, functional foods and culinary exploration, according to FullTilt.

“The insights are clear and brands that lean into these trends now will shape category leadership for years to come,” Goodman says. “Trend intelligence is a powerful tool for growers and brands who want to elevate demand and strengthen their category story.

“Understanding the nuances of how consumers talk about vegetables unlocks smarter promotional campaigns, more compelling storytelling and better alignment with what shoppers value most,” she adds.

Your Fresh Market Broccoli Florets Recalled in Canada

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 15:32:00 GMT

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency says broccoli florets from Fresh Taste Produce Ltd. that were sold under the Your Fresh Market label have been recalled due to a potential contamination with salmonella. The florets were distributed in the provinces of New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island and Quebec.

The recall includes the 907-gram Your Fresh Market broccoli florets with a 627735270548 UPC and lot code of 25318.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency says the recall was triggered by its inspection activities. The agency says it has begun a food safety investigation, which may lead to the recall of other products.

There have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of this product, the agency says.

Weather Dominates in California’s Winter Desert Vegetables

Sun, 16 Nov 2025 23:34:41 GMT

The “cool” in “cool-season crops” means something different when it comes to California’s deserts in winter.

For example, winter highs average 69°F to 80°F from December through March in the Palm Desert of southeastern California. Lows average 45°F to 54°F during the same time. In the more arid southern tip of the San Joaquin Valley, winter highs usually average 60°F to 71°F and winter lows average 41°F to 46°F.

Garret Powell, general manager of sales at Peter Rabbit Farms, likens California’s deserts in winter to summers for most of the rest of the country’s farming regions.

“Sunny days and cool nights create an ideal growing region for wintertime,” he says.

Speaking specifically of the Coachella Valley, where Peter Rabbit has been a seasonal grower of bell peppers, leafy greens, and eggplant for 75 years now, Powell adds that there is little rain and ample available water in the form of reliable aquifers.

“It means that we’re able to grow all sorts of vegetables here,” he says.

Steve Adlesh, director of sales and marketing of Beachside Produce, describes California winter desert growing as an essential element for any company that wants to provide vegetables to customers year-round. Powell similarly describes the time and place as the natural transition point for growers and distributors that grow in Mexico and South America in early spring and elsewhere in the U.S. in summer.

For cool-season vegetable crops like broccoli, cauliflower, celery, Brussels sprouts, cilantro and kale, the unique winter climate of California’s deserts is beneficial, Adlesh adds.

“Those have to be in a climate where you’re not going to have much rain, and in the desert region, there’s really little to no rain during December, January and February,” he says.

Weather is Everything in the Desert

Despite being essential to a year-round vegetable strategy, winter growing in California’s deserts comes with potentially unexpected weather-related challenges.

“The thing we worry about in the desert are the freezes and freezing temperatures,” Adlesh explains. “It can get into the 20s when you get into late November to late December.”

While most cool-season crops can tolerate a freeze, it results in logistical difficulties.

“[A freeze] curtails the harvest because you have to let the produce, especially the lettuces, thaw out before you can harvest them, or you damage the tissue, and it’s just no good for the customer,” Adlesh says. “If you have ice in the morning and you can’t start harvesting until 11, obviously the production is going to decline and there’s going to be a lack of supply. So that can be a deal breaker if we have a really cold, cold winter.”

However, this winter looks like it will potentially be warmer than usual. In early October, the National Weather Service announced a weak La Niña condition , which usually means drier and warmer winters for Southern California, had been confirmed. At the end of October, it projected higher-than-average temperatures will likely exist for the area through the end of January.

This fits with what Peter Rabbit Farms has experienced in the Coachella Valley, according to Powell.

“This is a peculiar fall, we’ve had about 12 [degrees] to 15 degrees of higher-than-average temperatures for the last two weeks,” Powell reported during the first week of November. “This season has been getting much warmer temperatures than average. So, it’s really brought all the crops forward a little bit. I think this year we started our red peppers maybe 15 days earlier than normal.”

Desert Weather Giveth and It Taketh Away

What the weather does in the desert can have outsized impacts on winter vegetable markets.

For example, Powell explained that while Peter Rabbit Farms was able to start its fall bell peppers early and get good color on them earlier; so too were all the other fall and early-winter pepper growers in the desert.

“The guys in Central California were allowed to keep going, and it has created a pepper market where you have a lot of suppliers that are either ending their season and then you have a lot of suppliers who are now starting earlier and getting started,” Powell says. “So, there’s been high availability of peppers out there, and that’s the challenge.”

The inverse is also true.

“Right now, the markets are so high due to Mother Nature,” says Adlesh, speaking of the hail that hit some greens-growing regions. “It’s crazy. There’s lettuce, $40, $50; romaine, $40, $50; green leaf, $40, $50. That’s because of what Mother Nature threw at us here about a month ago.”

While the success of all agriculture rests on the whims of weather, Adlesh says that is especially true in the California deserts in winter given the extremes in play and what that weather can mean for markets.

“It’s hard to make money in the desert, period. We go down there to keep our customers in supply year-round, but it’s a huge risk for all the shippers that do year-round programs,” he explains. “You just plan what you need for your contract and, outside of that, don’t take any chances, because if the if the weather is nice all winter and the supplies are heavy, it can be an absolute nightmare.”

Different Sort of ‘Winter’ Desert Vegetable

While sweetpotatoes aren’t grown in California’s deserts in the winter, with harvest usually wrapping up at the end of October, they are in highest demand during winter holiday meals and are grown in California’s deserts. These deserts are uniquely well suited to sweetpotatoes’ growing needs, according to Jeremy Fookes, director of sales at AV Thomas Produce.

Fookes explains that the massive day-to-night temperature swings, sometimes as much as 40 degrees to 50 degrees, common in California’s deserts are essential to sweetpotatoes’ ability to develop the best flavor. The nature of the desert soil is also important, he adds, describing a small patch of California’s Central Valley between southern Stanislaus County down through northern Merced County as perfect “for producing good looking sweet potatoes.”

“The soft, sandy soil allows for the shape of the potatoes to develop the clean look to them that makes for high-quality, aesthetically pleasing potatoes,” he says. “There are certain regions throughout the country or even the world that produce good quality wines. Well, it’s the same thing with sweetpotatoes and a lot of other crops.”

Bimi Baby Broccoli to Showcase Versatility, Flavors at IFPA Show

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 20:24:18 GMT

Bimi Baby Broccoli says visitors to Sakata America’s International Fresh Produce Association Global Produce and Floral Show booth, No. 4363, will have a chance to sample live tastings from chef Thai Dang of HaiSous Kitchen, an acclaimed chef, restaurateur and Bimi brand ambassador.

The company says Dang will prepare two dishes that highlight the versatility and flavor of Bimi Baby Broccoli. Dang will also serve as a judge for the 2026 World Food Photography Awards, which celebrates food imagery and of which Bimi Baby Broccoli is a global sponsor.

“I’m proud to represent Bimi Baby Broccoli, both in the kitchen and as part of the World Food Photography Awards judging panel,” Dang says. “Food tells a story that connects us all — whether through flavor, photography, or farming — and Bimi inspires me to share that story with others.”

Bayer and DNO Put Broccoli Stems to the Test in School Lunch Menus

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 19:21:46 GMT

Getting kids excited about vegetables isn’t easy, but Vegetables by Bayer and DNO Produce have teamed up for the challenge. The two companies are bringing broccoli stems, the often-overlooked part of the plant, into K-12 cafeterias in four schools.

This collaboration aims to empower schools to offer fresh vegetables while reducing food waste through maximizing the full production potential of the crop, according to a news release. The collaboration also addresses the needs of processors and consumers while creating opportunities for vegetable growers.

Vegetables by Bayer, along with DNO Produce, the exclusive provider of FresHealth fresh-cut produce, are helping to make nutrition enjoyable and accessible by introducing new fresh-cut broccoli chips to K-12 school children. These chips are the sweet-tasting snack of the future, the release says, offering a tasty and wholesome option that is also fun to eat.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to transform something often overlooked — like broccoli stems — into a delicious, nutritious snack for kids,” says Jenny Maloney, director of industry relations for Bayer Vegetable Seeds. “Through our collaboration with DNO Produce and the innovation behind High Rise broccoli, we’re making healthy eating more fun and accessible in schools. It’s a powerful example of how creativity in agriculture can support better habits and brighter futures.”

“Our school district is committed to both nutrition and innovation, and we’re always looking for ways to get kids excited about fresh fruits and vegetables,” says Jessica Shelly, director of student dining services for Cincinnati Public Schools. “The broccoli chip pilot was a hit with our students across all grade levels. Collaborating with industry partners who share our passion for innovating school meals makes all the difference.”

Experts from the R&D team at Seminis, a brand of Vegetables by Bayer, are continuously driving innovation in vegetable breeding, developing advanced seed solutions to help meet the evolving needs of growers and consumers, leading to the development of the long-stem High Rise broccoli series, the company says. Unlike traditional compact broccoli, High Rise broccoli features tall stems, uniform heads and few large leaves, resulting in clean stems and a product that overall helps with ease of harvest. FresHealth then processes these stems to create ready-to-eat products for K–12 schools, which has already received a positive reception in early in-school pilots. This approach generates a new market for growers, reduces on-farm waste and improves access to healthy foods in schools, the release says.

“There’s no better place to launch a new vegetable variety than in a school cafeteria. Kids are honest, adventurous eaters and their feedback is second to none,” says Alex DiNovo, president of DNO Produce. “Our mission has always been to increase access, exposure, education and excitement around fresh fruits and vegetables. We know the green vegetable subgroup can be one of the hardest to fill, and these broccoli chips help create a crunchy, creative, compliant option for school foodservice operators.”

“Our broccoli chip collaboration is a powerful example of what we can achieve when innovation and mission align across the produce industry,” says Marissa Dake, vice president of brand and partnerships for DNO Produce. “With Vegetables by Bayer, we share a commitment to nourishing the next generation of produce consumers. We are excited to bring solutions that are as tasty as they are impactful and expand what’s possible for fresh produce in school foodservice and beyond.”

What was once an underused byproduct in broccoli production, the tall and uniform stems can be used in multiple culinary applications. The tender and sweet-tasting stems can be processed into not only chips but sticks, stars and coin shapes. The versatility means it can also be processed into rice and noodles or used in slaw and other dishes to add texture while adding flavor. Broccoli chips are currently in the pipeline for future school foodservice offerings, with plans underway to expand availability, the release says. However, harvest timing and supply are still being finalized.

“Stay tuned for updates as we work to bring this exciting new product to more students nationwide,” the company says.

Altar Produce expands specialty vegetable programs

Fri, 02 May 2025 17:42:18 GMT

Altar Produce says it is significantly expanding its specialty vegetable offerings with plans for green onions, Brussels sprouts and broccoli.

As part of the initiative, the Calexico, Calif.-based company has announced growth on its year-round green onion program, designed to meet the rising global demand with consistent supply, scalable volume and tailored presentations. With operations rooted in strategic growing regions, the program ensures continuous availability and optimal freshness for retail, foodservice and wholesale partners, according to a news release.

“Our ability to pack in any presentation format requested by our clients — from consumer-ready retail packs, foodservice to customized bulk solutions — reflects our deep commitment to flexibility and customer service 52 weeks per year,” said Rodrigo Torres, director of global sales for Altar Produce. “We’re focused on delivering value beyond the field.”

Altar Produce says the program is supported by its investment in infrastructure and production capacity, enabling the company to scale up volume without compromising quality. Each step in the supply chain is reinforced by stringent quality controls and industry certifications, guaranteeing premium, uniform product standards year-round, the company says.

Beyond green onions, Altar Produce is expanding its portfolio with a strong focus on Brussels sprouts and broccoli. These categories reflect consumer trends and market opportunities where the company’s expertise in field operations, postharvest management and logistics can deliver exceptional results, according to the release.

Quebec wholesaler moves to iceless broccoli shipments

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 18:55:22 GMT

Gaétan Bono Fruits et Légumes, a wholesaler of fresh produce in Eastern Canada, recently announced a partnership with Verdant Technologies to introduce its HarvestHold Fresh product into fresh broccoli shipments.

Samuel Fasulo, senior produce and sales buyer for Gaétan Bono Fruits et Légumes, said the company began to engage with Verdant Technologies following conversations with retailers about new initiatives or innovations and Fasulo said HarvestHold came to mind.

“They had just an open discussion about new initiatives that the chain stores are looking into to try to eliminate ice and water damage in their facilities,” he said.

Also of keen interest, Fasulo said, was eliminating slips and calls and damage to the company’s epoxy floors from water.

Fasulo said Francis Carruthers, food safety director at Gaétan Bono Fruits et Légumes, worked with Verdant Technologies to understand which growers already used HarvestHold, and he said the team at Gaétan Bono Fruits et Légumes was pleased to learn that a large grower partner already worked with Verdant Technologies.

Gaétan Bono Fruits et Légumes did trial HarvestHold Fresh against the traditional method of shipping with ice, but Fasulo said workers don’t necessarily want handle 50-pound boxes of broccoli and ice. Then there are security issues with water safety and integrity.

“Our industry is getting a little bit more delicate with what’s in the water, what’s in the ice,” he said. “We’re [also] finding it harder to get people to want to work and pick up a 25- or 50-pound box. It’s tough to get just employees wanting to do that manual labor today. You know? The other thing is security; ... [T] he list was on and on and on.”

Fasulo said the additional benefits include less freight, especially when shipping from California to Canada and more boxes per truckload. He said receivers handling the product also enjoy the benefit of not handling melting ice and any damage that water might present or risks of falls from staff. He said retailers that work Gaétan Bono Fruits et Légumes also had positive feedback.

“We did see a good initial interest from our customer base, at a retail standpoint,” he said, noting independent retailers are more accustomed to the traditional broccoli shipped on ice. “I think the more that we grow in carrying this product, ... there will be more of a trust factor. Knowing that everybody’s got it. Everybody trusts it. If all the chain stores, all the big wholesalers have it, then this product should be working.”

Matthew Aronson, chief revenue officer at Verdant Technologies, said the partnership with Gaétan Bono Fruits et Légumes is part of a broader expansion of Verdant Technologies in Canada, including a partnership with Sobeys last year, and that awareness of HarvestHold is starting to take off in the country. He said it’s been a natural progression from retailer to grower-partners to wholesale.

“From some of that initial adoption on the retail side, as that has continued to grow, and the grower base comes along with that, and then that natural next domino is the wholesale part of the market as wholesalers serve those retailers,” he said.

Aronson said as Verdant Technologies continues to add partners in Canada, the company seeks to expand HarvestHold use in the U.S.

“That’s where we see a lot of opportunity,” he said. “We have some great partners that have used and experienced the benefits of our product. I think the U.S. presents its own kind of unique challenges and opportunities with, in many cases, a lot of the same growers involved. There’s a lot of good overlap there, but how the product is sourced? You’ve got a much more fragmented retail environment in the U.S. compared to the more consolidated market in Canada.”

Sakata introduces Bimi baby broccoli to U.S. market

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 16:23:22 GMT

Sakata Seed America has launched Bimi, a new consumer brand of baby broccoli now available in the U.S. and Canada.

Bimi’s debut marks a new chapter for Sakata’s proprietary baby broccoli seed program, which was previously licensed exclusively to Mann Packing and Del Monte and sold as Broccolini, according to a news release. That agreement officially ended on Feb. 1, and once existing seed inventories have been used, Mann Packing and Del Monte will no longer be using Sakata’s genetics to grow Broccolini, the company said.

“The excellence of Bimi is already recognized by consumers,” said Julie McElhaney, food chain manager for Sakata. “As we launch this brand in the U.S., we are committed to working with trusted partners to deliver a consistent, high-quality supply, ensuring Bimi becomes a staple for retailers and consumers alike.”

Sakata says it is building on the consumer familiarity with its seed by introducing Bimi directly to the U.S. retail and foodservice markets, backed by a new network of licensed growers committed to delivering outstanding quality and consistency. The product will be offered in branded packaging including 10- and 12-ounce conventional and organic bags, as well as a 200-gram bunch.

The brand launch will be supported by a robust marketing campaign, including partnerships with the James Beard Foundation and the World Food Photography Awards, alongside digital activations, original recipes, brand ambassador collaborations, in-store retail promotions and more, the release said.

“We are grateful for our successful 20-year partnership with Mann Packing,” said John Nelson, executive vice president of Sakata Seed America. “Now, we’re excited to take the next step — bringing Bimi Baby Broccoli directly to U.S. consumers. This marks a new chapter in our commitment to delivering exceptional quality and growing the legacy of this premium vegetable.”

Podcast: New innovations in produce shipping

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 19:23:05 GMT

Imagine you’re shipping a 40-pound box of broccoli, of which, 20 pounds of it is ice and another 20 pounds of it is the broccoli itself. Wouldn’t it be more efficient if you were able to ship more broccoli and reduce the ice?

That’s exactly what Verdant Technologies is hoping to solve with its HarvestHold product, a 1-methylcyclopropene-based postharvest solution that extends the usable product life of fruits, vegetables and flowers by an average of 40-50%. HarvestHold is

Matthew Aronson, chief revenue officer of Verdant Technologies, joined the “Tip of the Iceberg” podcast to discuss the move away from ice in shipping fresh produce and the residual effects it can have.

Aronson said that HarvestHold’s use extends far beyond fresh broccoli into other fresh produce, and floral, commodities.

One thing he said many broccoli growers and shippers will see is freight savings. When a 40-pound box of broccoli is filled with 40 pounds of broccoli and not just half, it cuts down on the number of boxes and also reduces the weight.

“You’re paying to ship water and ice thousands of miles,” he said. “If you go from a full truckload with ice and broccoli — about, 1,000 cases — you take that ice out, you can now fill up that truck, so you go from about 1,000 cases to 1,500, and you pick up another 400 or 500 cases in the same truck that you’re paying for.”

Aronson said Verdant Technologies’ HarvestHold is an easy product to apply in the field as workers harvest the crop, which means workers also don’t have to handle ice when harvesting.

“It just really integrates very seamlessly with their operation,” he said.

Aronson said there’s a great sustainability story, too, with reduced carbon footprint and water use.

There’s also the added benefit of eliminating a potential contaminant as the ice melts and the potential for slips and falls, which is a major selling point for retailers.

“The average payout for a slip falls instant in the U.S. is about $50K,” he said. “When you zoom out a little bit, 60% of all grocery retail claims are from slips and falls. And what does that mean from a dollar standpoint? On an annual basis retailers are spending upward of $450 million a year to defend slips and falls.”

The Broccoli Family and Its Many Vegetable Cousins

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 19:17:32 GMT

While a versatile, heavy hitter veggie — suitable for stir fry, crudités, soup and everything in between — broccoli isn’t the only cruciferous vegetable you can get shoppers to grab from the wet rack and toss into the grocery cart for dinner.

Far from it. Produce managers and merchandisers can build gorgeous displays by adding some of broccoli’s more exotic cousins. Enter broccolini, romanesco, broccoli rabe and cauliflower to complement the merchandising of broccoli stalks, crowns and bags of pre-cut florets. Cruising by the brassicas, if you’re ever scratching your head wondering what’s cozied up next to the broccoli, we’ve got the lowdown.

Broccoli rabe

Also known as rapini, this leafy green plant packs a bitter punch. And while it looks like a leafier, baby broccoli, it’s in fact a brassica plant that’s more closely related to mustard greens or turnips. All parts of the broccoli rabe—the leaves, buds and stems—can be eaten when the plant is young. Rapini’s sharp, bitter flavor means it pairs well with decadent, creamy pastas and rich Italian dishes.

(Farm Journal)

Broccolini

While these leafy broccoli bunches look more akin to broccoli rabe, broccolini tastes more like an earthy broccoli plant than the bitter rapini. But don’t be mistaken: Broccolini isn’t immature broccoli. It’s not baby or teenager broccoli.

Broccolini is a cross-bred variety of broccoli and Chinese broccoli, also known as gai lan orjie lan. Capturing the best of both worlds, broccolini offers crunchy florets along with willowy, edible stems and leaves and a mild, sweet flavor.

(Farm Journal)

Romanesco

Don’t leave behind one of the wildest brassicas! With the appearance of a pointy, chartreuse cauliflower, romanesco is sometimes called romanesco broccoli or broccoflower, but it’s a cruciferous vegetable in its own right. Romanesco offers a nuttier flavor than broccoli and a similar texture to cauliflower. It can be used interchangeably in recipes with both. What’s more, the vibrant lime-colored crowns can enliven even the drabbest merchandising sets.

Have you ever seen a naturally occurring fractal in nature? A fractal is a never-ending pattern that’s infinitely complex yet self-similar across different scales.

(Farm Journal)

Cauliflower

Once slighted, this cousin of broccoli has now been enjoying its day in the sun, especially with the popularity of low-carb and plant-based eating lifestyles. Product merchandising can include pre-cut florets all the way to bags of cauliflower rice for this produce chameleon. Place heads of this creamy white vegetable strategically in wet rack displays for an inviting color break from the vast sea of green.

(Farm Journal)

Broccoli brainstorm: It's raining broccoli statistics over here

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 07:26:59 GMT

About 46% of consumers said they’ve purchased broccoli within the last 12 months, up 2% from 2021, according to The Packer’s 2022 Fresh Trends.

Those numbers are promising, considering how many consumers express concern about grocery price increases.

“In total, 42% of shoppers are extremely concerned about the price increases they are seeing across the store, which means food inflation has more people on high alert than COVID-19 as of January 2022,” according to the January 2022 primary shopper survey series by marketing research company IRI in partnership with Anne-Marie Roerink, president of 210 Analytics.

Luckily, produce is the fourth-least volatile market on Datasembly’s grocery price index, just behind alcohol, dairy (eggs) and cereal.

Still, the Midwest is the only region not experiencing broccoli price hikes that other U.S. regions are facing.

Per-bunch, crown-cut broccoli in the Northeast had an average price of $1.92 in the week ending March 4, according to the USDA’s National Retail Report. In the Southeast, the same bunch was priced at $2.69, and in the Midwest, $2.28. When compared to the same week in 2021, broccoli was $1.39, $2.45 and $2.28, respectively.

In the South Central U.S., broccoli had an average retail price of $1.74 that same week, $1.88 in the Southwest and $1.93 in the Northwest, according to the USDA. When compared to the same week in 2021, prices were $1.55, $1.54 and $1.49, respectively.

Broccoli tends to be more popular among households with an annual income between $50,000 and $100,000 with three or more dependents.

Age also played a determining role in broccoli purchases. People 60 and older are fans of this cruciferous vegetable. The biggest surprise when analyzing the Fresh Trends data was there was a 12% increase in shoppers aged 18-29 purchasing broccoli.

EPA issues warning on DCPA herbicide

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 17:45:55 GMT

The EPA warning about the herbicide dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate , or DCPA or Dacthal, says its use presents significant health risks to pregnant individuals and their developing babies if exposed.

The agency says it issued a letter to DCPA’s manufacturer, AMVAC, noting the risks posed by exposure.

DCPA is an herbicide registered to control weeds in both agricultural and non-agricultural settings but is primarily used on crops such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and onions, according to EPA.

“DCPA exposure represents a serious risk to pregnant workers and their children, so it’s imperative that we warn people about those risks now,” Michael Freedhoff, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention, said in a statement. “We’re committed to taking action to protect the health of children, workers, and others who are exposed to DCPA.”

The EPA says DCPA is undergoing registration review and that it released its occupational and residential exposure assessment of the herbicide following a review of data. The review found concerning evidence of health risks associated with DCPA use and application, even when applicators use personal protective equipment and engineering controls, the EPA said, adding that the most serious risks extend to the developing babies of pregnant individuals.

The EPA estimates that some pregnant individuals handling DCPA products could be subjected to exposures from four to 20 times greater than estimated on the DCPA product label. The agency says it is concerned that pregnant women exposed to DCPA could experience changes to fetal thyroid hormone levels, and these changes are generally linked to low birth weight, impaired brain development, decreased IQ, and impaired motor skills later in life.

Also of concern, the EPA said, are risks to developing babies of pregnant individuals entering or working in areas where DCPA has already been applied (especially post-application workers involved in tasks such as transplanting, weeding and harvesting). Current product labels specify that entry into treated fields must be restricted for 12 hours after application, according toe the agency.

EPA said its evidence indicates that, for many crops and tasks, levels of DCPA in the previously treated fields remained at unsafe levels for 25 days or more. Spray drift from pesticide application could also put developing babies at risk for pregnant individuals living near areas where DCPA is used.

EPA said AMVAC proposed several changes to the DCPA registrations, including the recent cancelation of all DCPA products registered for use on turf. The agency said the changes do not address the health risks for people who work with and around DCPA in agriculture.

Pandemic kills Cold Connect service serving Western shippers

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 20:00:04 GMT

Cold Connect, a Union Pacific Railroad program that shipped fresh produce and other perishables across the country, has fallen victim to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The program, a service through Union Pacific’s Loop Logistics subsidiary, moved fresh products including apples and onions . Union Pacific offered the service in 2017, when the company acquired the assets of Railex, renaming the refrigerated transport service Cold Connect.

Union Pacific notified employees on May 8 that Cold Connect was closing down permanently and all positions had been eliminated, according to a statement from the railroad.

May 8 was the last day Cold Connect accepted inbound orders.

“This decision was not made lightly,” according to the statement. “Since acquiring the Railex assets in 2017, employees diligently worked to grow volumes and create a platform for the future; however, with COVID-19 impacting volume and truck prices, it is no longer sustainable to continue operations.”

The service carried fresh produce from western terminals in Delano., Calif. , and Wallula, Wash. , and delivered them to Union Pacific’s warehouse in Rotterdam, N.Y.
According to the Cold Connect website, the service was designed to also move pears , potatoes , citrus , broccoli , stone fruit and cantaloupes .

To see more coverage of how the pandemic is affecting the industry, see The Packer’s COVID-19 webpage .

Related stories:

Union Pacific expands cross-country shipments

Union Pacific acquires Railex assets

California grower-shippers embracing Railex

Wild, wet weather batters some of Georgia’s crops

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 18:36:29 GMT

A warm winter and rainy spring with a few hail storms and tornadoes have put a damper on some of Georgia’s crops, which peak in marketable volume mid-May to mid-June.

The wild, wet weather could mean as much as 20% of the Vidalia onion crop will be lost, said Bob Stafford, manager of the Vidalia Onion Committee .

“But it’s hard to tell right now,” Stafford said April 27, while harvest was underway since April 16 shipping began.

“They sat in the water for awhile. It did stop the sizing, but we’re still going to have a marketable amount.”

At Baker Farms at Norman Park in southwestern Georgia, two to three inches of rain have fallen every week for several weeks on the farm’s kale, turnip greens, mustard greens, collards, turnip roots, beet roots, chard, cilantro, cabbage and broccoli, said Heath Wetherington, director of operations.

But Baker Farms grows year-round and benefits from warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico, helping crops avoid deep freezes in winter and droughts in summer.

Some crops came in early during “extremely warm” temperatures in January and February, but the heavy rains in February made the younger plants sit still for awhile.

“What I’m seeing in our fields is a split season,” Wetherington said. He expects volume to remain the same as previous years.

A&M Farms, Lyons, Ga., will have a 15% to 20% reduction in yield of Vidalia onions, said owner Aries Haygood. He’s also president of the Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association and chairman of the Vidalia Onion Committee.

Related content: Rain, hail take out some of the Vidalia onion crop

“I think what I see is probably a good snapshot for the industry,” Haygood said.

“It’s been a challenging year. Our crop is not as big as it has been in the past, and then you throw in the coronavirus — you don’t know what’s going to happen.”

Haygood said his farm received back-to-back heavy rains during growing season, which kept the ground saturated while onions were trying to bulb, creating size issues and more seed stems. Also, heavy rain on growing onions leads to more disease, such as center rot.

Expect more medium-sized Vidalia onions this season, Haygood and Stafford said.

Hail at the start of April at Generation Farms , Vidalia, Ga., damaged a few fields, causing a loss of about 85 acres, or 10% of the Vidalia onion crop, said Lauren Dees, sales and marketing manager.

Rainfall delayed harvest several times at Bland Farms, Glennville, Ga., said Delbert Bland, president and owner.

Like other Vidalia onion growers, Bland’s acreage hasn’t increased this year, but volume is good because more onions are being grown on less land.

However, John Shuman, president and CEO of Shuman Farms , Reidsville, Ga., said the Vidalia onion industry will see lower yields per acre compared to the past three to four years, as well as a smaller size profile.

“This year, we experienced record rainfall throughout the winter along with warmer temperatures, which has put a tremendous amount of stress on the crop,” Shuman said. “However, we will still have a markable crop; the quality is sound.”

The extra-wet spring has caused trouble getting into the fields and more disease, but overall, crops look like they’re doing OK, agreed Charles Hall, executive director of Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association.

Related content on Georgia Produce

Corbett Bros. Farms , Lake Park, Ga., part of the Grower Network, had some tornado damage in mid- to late April, said Eric Bolesta, Grower Network salesman. The farm, situated in the southern-central part of Georgia close to the Florida border, produces cabbage, cucumbers, bell peppers, eggplants, hot peppers and citrus.

On April 23, a storm with hail and tornadoes damaged blueberries during harvest, and one farm in the southwest lost parts of a squash field from a tornado the week before, Hall said.

“What percentage of the crop it got, we don’t know yet. These were the early crops,” Hall said about highbush blueberries, adding that he wasn’t sure if the later season variety, rabbiteye, was hurt as well. “But we haven’t had a good blueberry crop in awhile.”

Late freezes in 2017, 2018 and 2019, plus hurricanes Irma and Michael, tore into the crop.

“We’ve just had a lot of Mother Nature problems down here,” Hall said.

By farm gate value, blueberries are the biggest Georgia fruit crop, followed by the state’s official fruit, the peach.

Most other crops, such as squash and cucumbers, come in April, but peppers in start early to mid-May.

There don’t seem to be any major shifts in crop acreage from last year.

Related content on V idlia Onions

Hitchcock Farms back in Salinas Valley

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 19:00:20 GMT

Salinas, Calif.-based Hitchcock Farms has completed its transition from the Southern California desert region to its spring/summer/fall home in Salinas, said Dan Holt, vice president of sales and marketing.

The company is harvesting romaine, romaine hearts, Iceberg Babies — softball-size heads of lettuce — leeks, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cilantro, parsley and kale, he said.

Hitchcock Farms began its second year of napa cabbage in late April.

The company launched the napa deal in the Salinas growing region in 2019.

“We’re making a full cycle starting with the Salinas crop,” Holt said.

In mid-May, the company will be back into its fava bean program, and in July, white sweet corn will be back for its second year.

“We’re looking to build on it this year,” he said.

Some new products also are on the agenda for summer, Holt said.

Related content:
Salinas Valley suppliers look to sustainable packaging options
Organic going strong among Salinas growers
Salinas Valley grower-shippers cope with COVID-19

Marketscope — Vegetable f.o.b.s as of June 1

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 07:37:40 GMT

This information, provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service, shows week-by-week shipments and f.o.b.s for commodities from shipments for the fresh market. Protective services are extra unless otherwise stated. Shipments, in 1,000 cwt., are for weeks ending: 1st no. = May 16; 2nd no. = May 23; 3rd no. = May 30. Expected movement is for June 21 to July 4. F.o.b. prices are as of June 1.

Artichokes

CENTRAL DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments (19-17-16) — Movement expected about the same. Supply 12-18s fairly light. Trading 12-18s active, 24-36s moderate. Prices 12-18s higher, 24s slightly lower, 30-36s generally unchanged. Cartons Globe 12s mostly 18.55-18.75, 18s mostly 17.05-18.75, 24s mostly 14.75-16.65, 30s mostly 12.65-14.75, 36s 12.65-14.65; ORGANIC 12s 26.55, 18-24s 22.55, 30s 20.55. Quality variable.

Asparagus

PERU IMPORTS — PORTS OF ENTRY SOUTH FLORIDA Imports (18-33-27) — Movement expected to remain about the same this week, decrease next week. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Large Much Lower, Standard and Jumbo Lower, Extra Large and Small Slightly Lower. From Peru. 11 pound cartons bunched jbo mostly 15.75-16.75, xlge mostly 15.75, lge mostly 14.75-16.75, std mostly 15.75-16.75, sml mostly 10.00-13.00.

MICHIGAN — Shipments (2-15-22) — Movement expected about the same. Trading opened active, closed fairly active. Prices Lower. Pyramid cartons 28 pound bunched Green large and std size mostly 48.00-52.95, 11 pound cartons bunched large and std size mostly 19.75-21.75. Quality good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH ARIZONA, CALIFORNIA AND TEXAS 2020 CROP — Crossings (23-18-19) — Expected to remain the same. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Lower. 11 pound cartons/crates bunched green standard and large 16.75-17.75. Extra services included.
WALLA WALLA DISTRICT AND LOWER YAKIMA VALLEY WASHINGTON — Shipments (17-9-8) — Movement expected to decrease sharply as most handlers have finished marketing the crop. Washington Extra Fancy 28 pounds pyramid cartons/crates bunched large and standard supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. 11 pound cartons/crates bunched large and standard supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. Light — Shipments expected to continue thru June 12. LAST REPORT

Broccoli

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (122-113-83) — Movement expected to decrease slightly. Available supply fairly light. Trading early active, late very active. Prices much higher. Cartons bunched 14s mostly 14.35-15.65, 18s mostly 14.85-16.15; 20 pound cartons loose Crown Cut mostly 16.35-18.85, Short Trim mostly 17.45-19.85. ORGANIC cartons bunched 14s mostly 30.55-32.95; 20-pound cartons loose Crown Cut mostly 32.55-34.50. Quality variable. Most present shipments from previous commitments and/or prior bookings.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS Crossings — (66-64-79) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early fairly slow, late very active. Prices much higher. 20 pound cartons loose Crown Cut Short Trim 13.50-14.50. Quality variable.

SANTA MARIA CALIFORNIA — Shipments (53-44-38) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early active, late very active. Prices much higher. Cartons bunched 14s 14.00-15.85, 18s mostly 14.50-16.35; 20 pound cartons loose Crown Cut mostly 15.85-17.75, Short Trim mostly 17.85-20.85. ORGANIC Cartons bunched 14s 30.00-34.50. Quality generally good.

Carrots

KERN DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments (173-185-231) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices 50 pound jumbo slightly lower, others generally unchanged. 48 1-lb film bags medium-large mostly 15.30-15.40; 50 lb sacks loose jumbo mostly 12.65-16.40; 25 lb sacks loose jumbo mostly 6.65-8.20; cartons 30 1-lb film bags Baby Peeled 18.20-18.85. ORGANIC 48 1-lb film bags and 24 2-lb film bags medium-large mostly 20.00-26.35, 10 5-lb film bags medium-large mostly 20.00-20.70. Cartons 24 1-lb film bags Baby Peeled 20.00-22.50, cartons 12 2-lb film bags Baby Peeled 20.00-22.50, cartons 4 5-lb film bags Baby Peeled 20.00-22.50. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS Crossings — (59-72-68) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early fairly slow, late moderate. Prices Lower. 50 pound sacks loose jumbo mostly 9.50-10.00. Quality variable.

Cauliflower

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (100-86-83) — Movement expected to decrease slightly. Supply fairly light. Trading early active, late fairly active. Prices 9-12s slightly higher, 16s generally unchanged. Cartons film wrapped White 12s mostly 15.35-17.65, 9s mostly 14.45-16.50, 16s mostly 13.55-15.65; ORGANIC 12s mostly 22.50-24.55, 9s mostly 22.00-22.55, 16s mostly 22.50-22.55. Quality generally good.

SANTA MARIA CALIFORNIA — Shipments (41-35-36) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Active. Prices Slightly Higher. Cartons film wrapped White 12s mostly 12.85-16.85, 9s and 16s 11.00-13.00. Quality generally good.

Celery

OXNARD DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments (256-272-220) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading moderate. Prices slightly lower. Cartons 2-3 dozen mostly 9.45-11.55; Hearts film bags 18s mostly 13.65-15.55. ORGANIC cartons 2-2 1/2 dozen 32.56-32.85; Hearts film bags 18s mostly 21.56-22.55. Quality variable.

SANTA MARIA CALIFORNIA — Shipments (62-60-54) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early fairly active, late fairly slow. Prices much lower. Cartons 2 dozen 8.00-9.85, 2 1/2 dozen mostly 8.85-9.85, 3 dozen mostly 8.00-9.00. Quality generally good.

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (2-3-8) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market. Quality generally good. The first F.O.B. report is expected to be issued by June 5.

Corn, sweet

SOUTH GEORGIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (51-200-147) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Fairly Active. Prices many shipments under contract prices. Wirebound crates 4-dozen Yellow, White and Bi-Color 20.95-20.95. Quality generally good.

IMPERIAL AND COACHELLA VALLEYS CALIFORNIA — Shipments (207-161-80) — Movement expected to decrease. Trading Active. Prices Slightly Higher. Cartons/crates 4 dozen minimum White, Yellow and Bi color mostly 18.95-20.95. Quality generally good.

SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA — Harvest expected to begin the week of June 7. Quality expected to be generally good. The first FOB report is expected to be issued by June 12. FIRST REPORT

Cucumbers

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA Crossings — (171-142-126) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading early moderate, late fairly slow. Prices small much lower, 24s generally unchanged, others lower. 1 1/9 bushel cartons medium mostly 8.95, fair quality mostly 6.95; small 5.95, large mostly 6.95. Cartons 24s 3.95-4.95, 36s mostly 4.95-5.95. Quality variable.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (103-88*-92) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early active, late moderate. Prices large generally unchanged, others slightly lower. 1 1/9 bushel cartons medium 9.95-10.95, fair quality 7.95-8.95; large 8.95-9.95. Quality variable. Most present shipments from prior bookings and/or previous commitments. (* revised)

SOUTH GEORGIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (10-26-33) — Movement expected to increase. Trading Moderate. Prices Higher. Waxed 1 1/9 bushel cartons/crates medium 20.35-20.85 fair quality 8.35-8.85, cartons 24s 6.35-6.85. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH OTAY MESA — Crossings (29-39*-28) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Trading Fairly Active. Prices GREENHOUSE 1 1/9 bushel cartons medium 10.95-12.95, fair quality 8.95-10.95, large mostly 8.95. Quality generally good. (*revised)

CENTRAL AND SOUTH FLORIDA — Shipments (37-23-11) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Active. Prices Generally Unchanged. Includes palletizing and precooling. 1 1/9 bushel cartons/crates Pickles 150-200s 16.90, 200-300s mostly 20.00-21.90. Quality generally good.

Lettuce, iceberg

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (456-435-426) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early active, late moderate. Prices 24s slightly higher, 30s slightly lower. Cartons 24s film lined mostly 14.35-15.00, filmwrapped mostly 15.35-16.00; 30s filmwrapped mostly 10.65-12.45; ORGANIC 24s filmwrapped 14.50-16.50, 12s filmwrapped 8.50-10.50. Quality variable.

SANTA MARIA CALIFORNIA — Shipments (74-82-72) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Active. Prices Higher. Cartons 24s film lined mostly 12.00-15.25, filmwrapped mostly 13.00-16.25. Quality generally good.

Lettuce, romaine

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (373-360-365) — Movement expected about the same. Trading fairly slow. Prices Hearts 12 3-count slightly lower from market high on Friday, May 29; Hearts 48s generally unchanged from market high on Friday, May 29; 24s generally unchanged. Cartons 24s mostly 7.45-8.65; Hearts cartons 12 3-count packages mostly 11.56-12.85, Hearts film lined 48s mostly 13.45-14.75. ORGANIC cartons 24s mostly 20.55-23.25; Hearts cartons 12 3-count packages mostly 16.55-18.25. Quality variable.

SANTA MARIA CALIFORNIA — Shipments (60-58-41) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices 24s slightly higher, Hearts generally unchanged. Cartons 24s 8.50-11.25; Hearts cartons 12 3-count packages mostly 12.85-13.50. Quality generally good.

Onions, dry

U.S. — Shipments (1,169*-1,213*-1,056) — The top shipping areas for the week, in order, were California, New Mexico, Georgia, Columbia Basin Washington, and Mexico. (* revised)

IMPERIAL VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (296*-333*-242) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading Moderate. Prices Unchanged. Yellow Grano Type 50-pound sacks super colossal 9.00-10.00, colossal 8.00, jumbo 7.00-8.00, medium mostly 9.00; White 50-pound sacks jumbo mostly 12.00 medium 10.00-11.00; Red Globe Type 25-pound sacks jumbo 6.00-7.00, medium mostly 6.00. (* revised)

SOUTHERN NEW MEXICO 2020 CROP — Shipments (0-25-150) — Movement expected to increase as more shippers receive onions. Trading Moderate. Prices Reds higher, Yellow super colossal and jumbo lower, others generally unchanged Yellow Grano 50-pound sacks super colossal 12.00-14.00, colossal 11.00-12.00, jumbo mostly 9.00-10.00, medium 10.00-11.00; Red Globe Type 25-pound sacks jumbo 8.00-9.00, medium mostly 9.00.

VIDALIA DISTRICT GEORGIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (162-156-131) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Active. Prices Higher. Yellow Granex - Marked Sweet 40-pound cartons jumbo mostly 21.00-24.00; Organic 40-pound cartons jumbo 27.00-31.00.

LOWER RIO GRANDE VALLEY, TEXAS 2020 CROP — Shipments (239-134-127) — Movement is expected to decrease seasonally. Trading Active. Prices Unchanged. Yellow Grano-Type Marked Sweet 40-pound cartons jumbo 16.00-18.00, Yellow Grano - Type 50-pound sacks colossal mostly 10.00, jumbo mostly 9.00, medium 10.00-12.00, White 50-pound sacks jumbo 14.00-16.00, medium 12.00-14.00, Red 25-pound sacks jumbo mostly 8.00, medium mostly 8.00.

COLUMBIA BASIN WASHINGTON AND UMATILLA BASIN OREGON — Shipments (176-152-111, Includes exports 31-15-19) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Remaining supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH SOUTH TEXAS 2020 CROP Crossings — (153-249*-91) — Movement is expected to be about the same. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market. (* revised)

SAN ANTONIO-WINTER GARDEN-LAREDO DISTRICT TEXAS — Shipments (41-57-46) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Unofficial prices fro Monday, June 01, 2020 Yellow Grano 50-pound sacks colossal 10.00-11.00, jumbo 9.00-10.00, medium 9.50-11.00; Red Globe Type 25-pound sacks jumbo 8.00-9.00, medium 7.75-9.00.

ARIZONA DISTRICT — Shipments (49-49-37) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (6-6-18) — Movement expected to increase as shippers receive more onions. FOB price report expected next week (June 8, 2020). First report.

CENTRAL WISCONSIN 2019 CROP — Shipments (10-9-6) — Movement expected to seasonally decrease. Too few open market sales to establish a market.

Peppers, bell

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS Crossings — (86-81-80) — Movement expected to decrease slightly. Trading yellow large fairly active at lower prices, others fairly active at slightly lower prices. Prices Yellow large lower, others slightly lower. GREENHOUSE 11 pound cartons Red jumbo and extra large 15.95-17.95, large 14.95-15.95; Yellow jumbo and extra large mostly 16.95-17.95, large 14.95; Orange jumbo and extra large 18.95-19.95, large 17.95. Red 1 1/9 bushel carton irregular size fair quality 18.95-20.95. Quality generally good.

COACHELLA VALLEY CALIFORNIA — Shipments (97-84-62) — Movement of Green expected to decrease seasonally, Red about the same. Trading early very active, late moderate. Prices Green slightly higher, Red lower. 1 1/9 bushel cartons Green extra large mostly 26.95-28.95, large 24.95-26.95; irregular size fair quality Green mostly 18.95-20.95, Red mostly 16.95-18.95. 1/2 bushel cartons Red extra large and large mostly 16.95. Quality generally good.

SOUTH GEORGIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (29-58-55) — Movement expected to increase. Trading Moderate. Prices Slightly Higher. 1 1/9 bushel cartons Green jumbo 22.35-22.85 extra large 22.35-22.85 fair quality 16.35-18.85 large 18.35-18.85. Quality generally good.

SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA — Harvest of Green expected to begin the week of May 31. Quality expected to be generally good. The first F.O.B. report is expected to be issued by June 5. FIRST REPORT.

Potatoes

U.S. — Shipments (1,722*-1,800*-1,482) — The top shipping states, in order, were Idaho, San Luis Valley Colorado, Columbia Basin Washington, California and Florida. (* revised)
UPPER VALLEY, TWIN FALLS-BURLEY DISTRICT IDAHO 2019 CROP — Shipments — (718-781-642, Includes exports 9-6-6) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Carton 50-70s active, others moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. Russet Burbanks U.S. One baled 5-pound film bags non size A mostly 6.50-7.00; 50-pound sacks 40-70s mostly 12.00-13.00, 80s mostly 10.00, 90s 8.00-9.00, 100s mostly 7.00-7.50; U.S. Two 6 ounce minimum 4.00-5.00, 10 ounce minimum mostly 7.00-8.00.

SAN LUIS VALLEY COLORADO 2019 CROP — Shipments (224-243*-151, Includes exports 13-14*-12) — Movement expected to be about the same. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Unchanged. U.S. One baled 5 10-lb film bags sz A 9.00-9.50, baled 10 5-lb film bags sz A mostly 10.00; 50 lb cartons 40-70s 15.00-16.00, 80s 14.00-15.00, 90-100s 12.00-14.00. (* revised)

COLUMBIA BASIN WASHINGTON AND UMATILLA BASIN OREGON 2019 CROP — Shipments (159-152-149, Includes exports 37-36-38) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading carton 50-70s active, others moderate. Prices carton 50-70s higher, carton 40s lower, others generally unchanged. Russet Norkotah U.S. One baled 10 pound film bags size A mostly 7.00-8.00, baled 5 pound film bags size A mostly 8.00-9.00; 50 pound cartons 40s mostly 11.00-12.00, 50-70s 13.00-14.00, 80s 11.00-13.00, 90s 10.00-12.00. 100s 9.00-11.00, U.S Two 50 pound sacks 10 ounce minimum mostly 6.00-7.00.

FLORIDA 2020 CROP — Shipments (141-126-111) — Movement expected to seasonally decrease. Trading Fairly Active. Prices U.S. One Round Red size A higher, others generally unchanged. Round Red U.S. One 50 pound cartons size A mostly 19.00-23.50, size B mostly 26.00-27.50, Creamers 3/4-1 5/8 inches mostly 30.50-35.75; 50 pound sacks size A mostly 17.50-21.75, size B mostly 24.50-24.75, U.S. Two 50 pound sacks size A mostly 12.75-16.50, size B mostly 16.75-18.75. Yellow Type U.S. One 50 pound cartons size A mostly 32.50, size B mostly 18.50; 50 pound sacks size A mostly 30.75, size B mostly 16.75.

CENTRAL WISCONSIN 2019 CROP — Shipments (109-107-104) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Generally Unchanged. Russet Norkotah U.S. One baled 5 10-pound film bags size A mostly 10.00-11.00, baled 10 5-pound film bags size A mostly 11.00-12.00; 50 pound cartons 40s-70s mostly 18.00-19.00, 80s mostly 17.00-18.00, 90s mostly 14.00-15.00, 100s 13.00-14.00.

HEREFORD-HIGH PLAINS TEXAS — Shipments (62-69-69) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market.
ARIZONA DISTRICT 2020 CROP — Shipments (22-29-27) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

MICHIGAN — Shipments (43*-45*-27) — Movement expected to continue seasonal decline. Trading Slow. Prices Unchanged. U.S. 1 size A baled 5 10-pound bags Russet Norkotah 11.50-12.50, baled 10 5-pound bags mostly 12.50-13.50. Supplies in few hands. (* revised)

NEBRASKA 2019 CROP — Shipments (36-31-18) — Movement expected to be about the same. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

KLAMATH BASIN OREGON AND NORTHERN CALIFORNIA DISTRICT — Shipments (22-14*-15) — Movement expected to remain about the same. supplies in too few hands to establish a market. (*revised)

MINNESOTA-NORTH DAKOTA (RED RIVER VALLEY) 2019 CROP — Shipments (15-12-10) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Remaining supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

NORTHERN COLORADO DISTRICT 2019 CROP — Shipments (7-0-0) — Movement expected decrease seasonally. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

CANADA (NEW BRUNSWICK) CROSSINGS THROUGH MAINE POINTS — Movement expected to decrease slightly. Trading Slow. Prices Unchanged. USOne/CDOne baled 10 5-pound film bags size A mostly 11.00, baled 5 10-pound film bags non-size A mostly 10.00.

COLUMBIA BASIN WASHINGTON AND UMATILLA BASIN OREGON 2019 CROP — Shipments (159-152-149, Includes exports 37-36-38) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading carton 50-70s active, others moderate. Prices carton 50-70s higher, carton 40s lower, others generally unchanged. Russet Norkotah U.S. One baled 10 pound film bags size A mostly 7.00-8.00, baled 5 pound film bags size A mostly 8.00-9.00; 50 pound cartons 40s mostly 11.00-12.00, 50-70s 13.00-14.00, 80s 11.00-13.00, 90s 10.00-12.00. 100s 9.00-11.00, U.S Two 50 pound sacks 10 ounce minimum mostly 6.00-7.00.

FLORIDA 2020 CROP — Shipments (141-126-111) — Movement expected to seasonally decrease. Trading Fairly Active. Prices U.S. One Round Red size A higher, others generally unchanged. Round Red U.S. One 50 pound cartons size A mostly 19.00-23.50, size B mostly 26.00-27.50, Creamers 3/4-1 5/8 inches mostly 30.50-35.75; 50 pound sacks size A mostly 17.50-21.75, size B mostly 24.50-24.75, U.S. Two 50 pound sacks size A mostly 12.75-16.50, size B mostly 16.75-18.75. Yellow Type U.S. One 50 pound cartons size A mostly 32.50, size B mostly 18.50; 50 pound sacks size A mostly 30.75, size B mostly 16.75.

CENTRAL WISCONSIN 2019 CROP — Shipments (109-107-104) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Generally Unchanged. Russet Norkotah U.S. One baled 5 10-pound film bags size A mostly 10.00-11.00, baled 10 5-pound film bags size A mostly 11.00-12.00; 50 pound cartons 40s-70s mostly 18.00-19.00, 80s mostly 17.00-18.00, 90s mostly 14.00-15.00, 100s 13.00-14.00.

HEREFORD-HIGH PLAINS TEXAS — Shipments (62-69-69) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

ARIZONA DISTRICT 2020 CROP — Shipments (22-29-27) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

MICHIGAN — Shipments (43*-45*-27) — Movement expected to continue seasonal decline. Trading Slow. Prices Unchanged. U.S. 1 size A baled 5 10-pound bags Russet Norkotah 11.50-12.50, baled 10 5 pound bags mostly 12.50-13.50. Supplies in few hands. (* revised)

NEBRASKA 2019 CROP — Shipments (36-31-18) — Movement expected to be about the same. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

KLAMATH BASIN OREGON AND NORTHERN CALIFORNIA DISTRICT — Shipments (22-14*-15) — Movement expected to remain about the same. supplies in too few hands to establish a market. (*revised)

MINNESOTA-NORTH DAKOTA (RED RIVER VALLEY) 2019 CROP — Shipments (15-12-10) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Remaining supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

NORTHERN COLORADO DISTRICT 2019 CROP — Shipments (7-0-0) — Movement expected decrease seasonally. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

CANADA (NEW BRUNSWICK) CROSSINGS THROUGH MAINE POINTS — Movement expected to decrease slightly. Trading Slow. Prices Unchanged. USOne/CDOne baled 10 5-pound film bags size A mostly 11.00, baled 5 10-pound film bags non-size A mostly 10.00.

Squash

SOUTH GEORGIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (20-24-17) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Yellow Crookneck small lower, medium unchanged, others higher. ½ and 5/9 bushel cartons Zucchini small 14.35-16.85 medium 12.35-14.85, Yellow Straightneck small 16.35-16.85 medium 14.35-14.85; 3/4 bushel cartons Yellow Crookneck small 14.35-14.85 medium 8.35 8.85. Quality generally good.

CENTRAL AND SOUTH FLORIDA — Shipments (10-6-4) — Supply insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. LAST REPORT.

VIRGINIA — Shipments very light. Movement expected to increase as more growers begin harvesting. Current supplies are very light and insufficient to establish market. FIRST REPORT.

Squash, spaghetti

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA Crossings — (19-19-12) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading Moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. 1 1/9 bushel cartons small mostly 12.95, medium mostly 16.95-18.95, large mostly 18.95. Quality generally good.

Squash, yellow straightneck

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA Crossings — (23-17-8) — Movement expected to decrease sharply as most shippers are finished for the season. 4/7 bushel cartons supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. Quality variable. Light and sporadic crossings expected to continue through June 6. LAST REPORT

Squash, zucchini

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA Crossings — (73-65-40) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading Moderate. Prices small-medium generally unchanged, other higher. 4/7 bushel cartons small and small-medium mostly 10.95, medium mostly 8.95. Quality variable.

Tomatoes

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS Crossings (158-155-152) — Movement expected to decrease slightly. Trading fairly active. Prices Generally Unchanged. Vine Ripes cartons 2 layer 4x4-4x5s mostly 16.95-18.95, 5x5s mostly 14.95; 25 pound cartons loose 4x5 -5x5 size mostly 13.95-14.95, 5x6 size mostly 12.95. Quality generally good. Most present shipments from prior booking and/or previous commitments.

CENTRAL AND SOUTH FLORIDA — Shipments (213-155-141) — Movement expected to remain about the same as most growers finish for the season. Trading Active. Prices Generally Unchanged. Extra services included. Mature Greens 85% U.S.One or better 5x6 size 17.95, 6x6 size 17.95, 6x7 size 17.95. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA Crossings — (78-49-83) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early very active, late moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. Vine Ripes cartons 2 layers 4x4-4x5s 16.95-18.95, 5x5s 14.95-16.95, 5x6s mostly 12.95. Quality generally good.

U.S. SHIPPING POINTS — Shipments (30-29*-10) — Greenhouse. No prices reported. (* revised)

FLORIDA WEST DISTRICT AND SOUTH CAROLINA DISTRICT — Shipments (0-0-3) — Light harvest has begun and expected to continue for the next 5 days. Expect sufficient number of shippers for first F.O.B. within 7 days.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH OTAY MESA Crossings — (6-7*-2) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. Quality generally good. The first F.O.B. report is expected to be issue the week of June 14. (*revised)

CENTRAL DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Harvest expected to begin the week of May 31. Most shippers expect to be fully underway the week of June 14. Quality expected to be generally good. The first F.O.B. report is expected to be issue the week of June 21.

Tomatoes, cherry

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH OTAY MESA Crossings — (3-3*-2) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. Quality generally good. The first F.O.B report is expected to be issue the week of June 14. (* revised)

CENTRAL AND SOUTH FLORIDA — Shipments (3-2-1) — Movement expected to remain about the same as most growers finish for the season. Trading Active. Prices Generally Unchanged. Extra services included. Flats 12 1-pint basket with lids 16.95-17.95. Quality generally good.

Tomatoes, grape

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA Crossings— ( 17-15-15) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Available supplies very light. Trading Active. Prices Higher. Flats 12-1 pint containers with lids medium-large supplies 16.95. 20 pound cartons loose medium-large supplies insufficient to establish a market. Quality generally good.

CENTRAL AND SOUTH FLORIDA — Shipments (26-18-11) — Movement expected to remain about the same as most growers finish for the season. Trading Active. Prices Higher. including palletizing and cooling. Flats 12 1-pint containers with lids 15.95-16.95. 20 pound cartons loose 29.95-33.95. Quality generally good.

FLORIDA WEST AND SOUTH CAROLINA DISTRICT — Shipments (0-2-10) — Light harvest has begun and expected to continue for the next 5 days. Expect sufficient volume for first F.O.B. within 7 days.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS Crossings — (5-3-7) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early very active, late active. Prices pints higher, cartons slightly higher. Flats 12 1-pint containers with lids medium-large mostly 9.95-10.95 and 20 lb carton loose medium-large mostly 16.95-17.95. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH OTAY MESA Crossings — (#-#-0) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Most shippers expect to be fully underway the week of June 7. Supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. Quality generally good. The first F.O.B. report is expected to be issue the week of June 14. (# less than 50,000 lbs)

Tomatoes, plum

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (267-162-189) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading early very active, late active. Prices much higher. 25 pound cartons loose Roma extra large and large mostly 16.95, medium 12.95-14.95. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS Crossings — (99-89-105) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early fairly active, late active. Prices much higher. Roma 25 pound cartons loose extra large mostly 16.95-17.95, large mostly 13.95-14.95, medium 12.95-13.95. Quality generally good.

CENTRAL AND SOUTH FLORIDA — Shipments (64-58-45) — Movement expected to remain about the same as most growers finish for the season. Trading Active. Prices Higher. Extra services included. 25 pound cartons loose extra large 17.95, large 17.95, medium 17.95. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH OTAY MESA — Crossings (51-39*-35) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Trading Active. Prices 25 pound cartons loose Roma extra large and large mostly 18.95. Quality generally good. (* revised)

CENTRAL DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Harvest expected to begin the week of June 7. Most shippers expect to be fully underway the week of June 14. Quality expected to be generally good. The first F.O.B. report is expected to be issue the week of June 21.

Top crops retain standings in Monterey County production

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 06:40:31 GMT

Monterey County’s top four most valuable crops remained unchanged from 2018 to 2019, led by leaf lettuce, which saw an increase of almost 15%, boosted by better pricing for romaine.

Overall, the county’s ag production value increased 3.5% in 2019, to almost $4.41 billion, according to the Monterey County 2019 Crop Report , issued by the county’s agricultural commission.

Of the top 10 crops, ranked by production value, seven categories are vegetables, with the exception being strawberries, in the No. 2 slot again, and wine grapes and nursery products. All 10 crops are the same crops from the 2018 list.

Strawberries saw an increase of about 5%, with a bump of more than $34 million, to $732.76 million, mostly due to improved fresh strawberry prices, according to the report.

Head lettuce, Monterey County’s third-most valuable crop, increased almost 12% to $514.09 million. Increased production and higher average prices for carton-packed lettuce are the main reasons for the increase, according to the report.

Overall, vegetable crops saw an increased production value in 2019 of about $228 million, at just under $3.1 billion. The fruits and nuts category dropped about $15.7 million in value to $1.03 billion, according to the report, but that includes a 25% drop in wine grape crop value. Dropping wine grapes from the category gives fruit and nuts a $46 million (5.7%) boost from 2018 to 2019.

Monterey County’s top crop values, followed by 2019 and 2018 rankings, are:

Leaf lettuce : $840.56 million, 1/1;
Strawberries : $732.76 million, 2/2;
Head Lettuce : $514.09 million, 3/3;
Broccoli : $457.39 million, 4/4;
Cauliflower $212.38 million, 5/6;
Misc. vegetables: $196.84 million, 6/7;
Celery $186.39 million, 7/9
Wine Grapes: $186.1 million; 8/5
Nursery: $143.98 million, 9/8; and
Spinach : $127.12 million, 10/10.

Church Brothers adds five Green Giant Fresh value-added items

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 07:36:10 GMT

Church Brothers Farms, Salinas, Calif., is adding five Green Giant Fresh value-added products.

The products are Sweet Baby cauliflower and broccoli , and cubed butternut and spaghetti squashes and sweet potatoes .

“Our goal is to deliver fresh, healthy food that is prepped and ready to use for consumers looking to bring restaurant-style dishes into their home,” Rick Russo, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Church Brothers, said in a news release. “The cubed veggies are a fresh take on favorite fall vegetables. We are excited to deliver nutrition and flavor to shoppers at affordable prices.”

Details on products include:

Sweet baby cauliflower: six 10-ounce pouches per carton, with a 16-day shelf life;
Sweet baby broccoli: available in 1-pound pouches with handles, 12 to a carton, 8-ounce overwrap trays, 12 to a carton, 8-ounce pouches, six to a carton, 18-count iced bunches, and 18-count iceless bunches, with 18-day shelf lives (8-ounce pouch has 16 days);
Sweet potato cubes: half-inch cubes, six 16-ounce bags per carton, with a 16-day shelf life;
Spaghetti squash cubes: 1 ½-inch cubes, six 16-ounce bags per carton, with a 16-day shelf life; and
Butternut squash cubes: ¾-inch cubes, six 16-ounce bags per carton, with a 16-day shelf life.

The sweet baby Green Giant Fresh items reduce prep time and food waste at home, according to the release.
“These new items give retailers the opportunity to build a Sweet Baby category,” Russo said in the release. “Their uniform stand-up pouches look great side by side on the shelf.”

Related stories:

Church Brothers Farms expands Green Giant line

Church Brothers introduces sweet baby broccoli, cauliflower

Church Brothers acquires Green Giant Fresh value-added line

Inc. Magazine recognizes Cece’s Veggies for skyrocketing growth

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 07:41:25 GMT

Vegetable “pasta” maker Cece’s Veggie Co. , Austin, Texas, made Inc. Magazine’s annual list of fastest-growing private companies, with a three-year revenue growth of 23,880% to put it at No. 3.

The company, established in 2015 with two stock-keeping units available at one retailer, first exhibited to the industry at the Produce Marketing Association’s Fresh Summit in Oct. 2016, displaying spiralized zucchini , butternut squash , sweet potato and beet products.

Additions since then include organic riced broccoli and cauliflower, organic meal kits with vegetable pasta and cheese or marinara sauce, and Grillerz, which are carrots, sweet potatoes and summer squash, fresh-cut with ridges.

“The company’s mission is to make it easier — and more fun — for everyone to eat more veggies, more often,” according to a news release from Cece’s.

“Cece’s started as a hare-brained scheme in my kitchen involving my kids (who have gluten allergies), power tools, and a lot of mangled sweet potatoes,” Mason Arnold, Cece’s Veggie Co. founder, said in the release. “ … We were confident that the brand would resonate with consumers, but for a produce company to be ranked at the top of this list is completely bananas.”

In 2018, the company moved to a new 42,500-square-foot processing facility, and production is five times what it was since the move, according to the release.

Cece’s Veggie products are available at Whole Foods Markets and Sprouts stores nationwide, and regionally at Target, Kroger stores, Albertsons, Safeway, H-E-B and other retailers.

The company’s Veggiccine line received Best New Vegetable Product at the 2017 United Fresh Produce Association show, and in 2018, United Fresh presented Arnold with its Achievement Award for innovation.

Related stories:

Cece’s launches crinkle-cut veggies

Cece’s Veggie Co. finalist for innovation award at United

United Fresh to honor Veggie noodle, indoor tech wizards

Marketscope — Fruit f.o.b.s as of May 4

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 18:44:12 GMT

Apples

YAKIMA VALLEY AND WENATCHEE DISTRICT WASHINGTON 2019 CROP — Shipments (1,053-1,133-1,147, Includes exports 265-256-279) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Gala active, others moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. Washington Extra Fancy Carton tray pack Red Delicious 72-88s mostly 14.00-16.00, 100-113s mostly 13.00-15.00; Golden Delicious fine appearance 72s mostly 25.00- 28.00, 80s mostly 24.00-26.00, 88s mostly 22.00-26.00, 100s mostly 18.00-22.00; Fuji 64-88s mostly 18.00-20.00, 100s mostly 16.00- 18.00, 113s mostly 14.00-17.00; Granny Smith 64s mostly 18.00-20.00, 72-80s mostly 18.00-22.00, 88s 18.00-20.00, 100s mostly 17.00- 19.00, 113-125s mostly 16.00-18.00; Gala 64-72s mostly 22.00-24.00, 80s 20.00-24.00, 88s mostly 18.00-20.00, 100s mostly 15.00-17.00, 113s 13.00-16.00, 125s mostly 13.00-15.00; Honeycrisp 56s mostly 28.00-34.90, 64s mostly 32.00-38.90, 72-80s 34.00-40.90, 88s mostly 32.00-38.90, 100s mostly 30.00-36.90. Cartons 12 3-pound film bags Red Delicious Washington Extra Fancy 2 1/2" minimum mostly 15.95-17.95; Golden Delicious, Fuji, and Gala 2 1/2" minimum mostly 16.95-18.95; Granny Smith 1/2" minimum mostly 18.95-20.95; Honeycrisp 2 1/2" minimum mostly 30.95-34.95. ORGANIC cartons tray pack Gala Washington Extra Fancy 64s mostly 22.00-26.00, 72- 80s mostly 20.00-26.00, 88s mostly 18.00-24.00, 100s mostly 18.00-20.00; cartons 12 3 pound film bags Gala 2 1/2" minimum mostly 16.95-20.95.

NEW YORK 2019 CROP — Shipments (68-72-69) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. Fuji Cartons Tray Pack U.S. Extra Fancy 80s-88s mostly 26.00-27.00; Gala Cartons Tray Pack U.S. Extra Fancy 80s-88s mostly 26.00-30.00; McIntosh Cartons Tray Pack U.S. Extra Fancy 80s-88s mostly 27.00-28.00; Empire Cartons Tray Pack U.S. Extra Fancy 80s-88s mostly 23.50-26.00; Cortland Cartons Tray Pack U.S. Extra Fancy 80s-88s mostly 24.00-28.00. Cartons 12 3-pound Film Bags Red Delicious U.S. Extra Fancy mostly 16.00-19.00; Fuji U.S. Extra Fancy mostly 20.00-22.00; Gala U.S. Extra Fancy 2 1/2 inch minimum mostly 20.00-23.00; McIntosh U.S. Extra Fancy 2 ½ inch minimum mostly 18.00-22.00; Empire U.S. Extra Fancy 2 1/2 inch minimum mostly 18.00-22.00.

MICHIGAN — Shipments (61-68-51) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. cartons 12 3- pound film bags U.S. Extra Fancy Gala and McIntosh mostly 18.00-20.00, Red Delicious mostly 17.00-19.00, Jonagold mostly 17.00- 18.00, Fuji and Golden Delicious mostly 19.00-21.00, Tray pack 88s Gala and Fuji 24.00-28.00, Red Delicious mostly 20.00-22.00, Golden Delicious 21.00-24.00. Supplies of Golden Delicious and McIntoshlight and in few hands, Fuji fairly light.

APPALACHIAN DISTRICT 2019 CROP — Shipments (22-19-20) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Fairly Active. Prices Unchanged. Cartons traypack U.S. Extra Fancy Red Delicious 72s-88s $20.00-21.00, 100s $19.00-20.00; Golden Delicious 72s-88s $25.00-26.00; Fuji 80s-88s $27.00-28.00; Gala 80s-88s $27.00-30.00; and McIntosh 80s-88s $26.00-28.00 cartons 12-3 pound filmbags U.S. Extra Fancy 2 1/2" minimum Red Delicious mostly $18.00-19.00, Golden Delicious $20.00-22.00, Fuji $21.00-23.00, Gala $22.00-24.00 and McIntosh $19.00-21.00.

NEW ENGLAND 2019 CROP — Shipments (2-2-3) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Too few open market sales to establish a market.

Apricots

SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (U-U-U) — Light and sporadic has harvesting has begun. Rain and cooler then normal temperatures have postponed harvest. First F.O.B. expected week of May 10, 2020. (U = unavailable)

Avocados

MEXICO — CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS 2019 CROP — Crossings (353-543-437) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Lower. Cartons 2 layer Hass 32-36s mostly 38.25-40.25, 40-48s mostly 38.25-40.25, 60s mostly 36.25-38.25, 70s mostly 27.25-29.25, 84s mostly 21.25-22.25. Extra services included.

SOUTH DISTRICT CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (112-140-U) — Movement expected to increase. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices 60-84s lower, others generally unchanged. Carton 2 layer Hass 32-36s mostly 44.25-46.25, 40-48s mostly 42.25-44.25, 60s mostly 39.25-41.25, 70s mostly 29.25-30.25, 84s mostly 22.25-23.25. Carton 2 layer Hass ORGANIC 48s mostly 58.25-60.25, 60s mostly 56.25-58.25, 70s mostly 42.25-45.25. Extra services included. (U = unavailable)

Blueberries

SOUTH GEORGIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (17-38-52) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Fairly Active. Prices Higher. Flats 12 1-pint cups with lids large 20.00-22.00, ORGANIC 12 1-pint cups with lids medium large 25.00-28.00, 6 ounce cups with lids medium-large 14.00-18.50. Quality variable.

MEXICO — CROSSINGS THROUGH ARIZONA, CALIFORNIA AND TEXAS — Crossings (56-53*-48) — Movement expected to decrease. Trading early moderate, late slow. Prices Generally Unchanged. Flats 12 6-oz cups with lids mostly 10.00. Quality and condition variable. (* revised)

SOUTH AND CENTRAL DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments (12-18-27) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Trading Slow. Flats 12 1- pint cups with lids 18.00-28.00 mostly 22.00-24.00 occasional higher flats 12 6-ounce cups with lids 10.00-16.00 mostly 12.00-14.00 occasional higher. ORGANIC flats 12 6-ounce cups with lids 12.00-16.00 mostly 14.00-16.00 few 10.00 occasional higher.

CENTRAL AND NORTH FLORIDA 2020 CROP — Shipments (33-18-14) — Movement expected to decrease sharply as nearly all growers have finished for the season. Expect very light — Shipments for 1-2 more weeks. LAST REPORT

EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA — Light harvest expected during the current trade week (May 03-09, 2020). Currently, no F.O.B. is being issued. FIRST REPORT.

Cherries

SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (0-0-47) — Movement expected to increase. Harvesting has begun in the Southern portion of the district. First F.o.b expected to begin on or around May 7th.

Grapes

CHILE IMPORTS — PORT OF ENTRY PHILADELPHIA AREA 2020 CROP Imports via Boat — (44-205-38) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading White Seedless Type Moderate, others Slow. Prices Generally Unchanged. 18 lb containers bagged Red Seedless exlge 16.00-18.00, lge 14.00- 16.00, med 12.00-14.00 Black Seedless exlge mostly 16.00, lge 14.00-16.00, med-lge mostly 12.00-14.00 Red Globe jbo mostly 16.00, exlge 14.00-16.00, lge 12.00-14.00 SPECIAL STORAGE White Seedless Type exlge 34.00-36.00, lge mostly 32.00-34.00, med-lge mostly 28.00-30.00.

MEXICO — CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (6-13-31) — Movement from Jalisco expected to increase slightly. Harvest in Hermosillo is expected to begin the week of May 2. The Hermosillo Grape Growers Association estimates the 2020 crop at 19.7 million 18 -pound cartons, down 20 percent from 23.6 million in 2019. Harvest of White, Red and Black varieties expected to begin the week May 3 from Sonora, Mexico. Quality generally good. The first F.O.B report is expected to be issued the week of May 10, when most shippers expect to be fully underway.

CHILE IMPORTS — PORT OF ENTRY LOS ANGELES AREA 2020 CROP Imports via Boat — (13-29-23) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading White Seedless Type Moderate, others Slow. Prices Red Seedless Slightly Lower, others Generally Unchanged. 18 lb containers bagged Red Seedless exlge mostly 16.00, lge 14.00- 16.00, med-lge 12.00-14.00 Black Seedless exlge mostly 16.00, lge 14.00- 16.00, med-lge mostly 12.00-14.00 Red Globe jbo mostly 16.00, exlge 14.00-16.00, lge 12.00-14.00 SPECIAL STORAGE White Seedless Type exlge mostly 34.00-36.00, lge mostly 32.00-34.00, med-lge mostly 30.00-32.00.

COACHELLA VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (0-0-0) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Light harvesting is expected to get underway the week of May 11th. F.O.B. expected to begin on or around May 18th. FIRST REPORT

Lemons

SOUTH AND CENTRAL DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments Moderate — Movement expected about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Shippers First Grade 75-115s and 165s slightly higher, others generally unchanged. 7/10 bushel cartons Shippers First Grade 75s mostly 24.18-26.20, 95-115s mostly 25.18-28.20, 140s mostly 24.18-27.20, 165s mostly 24.18-26.20, 200s mostly 23.18-26.20, 235s mostly 19.18-22.20; Shippers Choice 75s mostly 16.18-19.20, 95s mostly 17.10-20.20, 115s mostly 18.18-20.20, 140s mostly 19.18-23.20, 165s mostly 21.18-24.20, 200s mostly 20.10-24.20, 235s mostly 18.18-21.20. ORGANIC 7/10 bushel Shippers First Grade 75s mostly 28.18- 32.20, 95-115s mostly 37.18-42.20, 140s mostly 37.18-41.20; Shippers Choice 95-115s mostly 22.18-26.20, 140s mostly 24.18-30.20.

Oranges

FLORIDA — Shipments (85-96-84, Includes exports 2-3-2) — Prices not reported. — Shipments are for weeks ending April 4, April 11 and April 18 in that order.

MEXICO — CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (12-15-17) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Active. Prices Slightly Higher. 7/10 bushel cartons Valencia No Grade Marks 72-88s mostly 13.95-15.95, 113s 13.95-15.95, 138s 13.95-14.95. Quality variable.

SOUTH AND CENTRAL DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments 113-138s Fairly Light, others Moderate — Movement expected about the same. Trading Active. Prices First Grade 40s and 113s generally unchanged, others slightly higher. 7/10 bushel cartons Navel Shippers First Grade 40s mostly 17.18-19.20, 48-56s mostly 19.18-20.20, 72s mostly 17.18-20.20, 88-138s mostly 17.18-19.20; Shippers Choice 40s mostly 13.20-14.20, 48-72s mostly 14.18-15.20, 88s 14.18-16.50, 113s mostly 15.18-16.20, 138s mostly 14.18-16.20. ORGANIC 7/10 bushel cartons Navel Shippers First Grade 48-72s mostly 26.18-32.20, 88s 24.18-28.20, 113s mostly 24.18-28.20; Shippers Choice 56s mostly 18.18-22.20, 72-88s mostly 16.18-22.20.

Peaches

CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (U-U-U) — Light and sporadic has harvesting has begun. Rain and cooler then normal temperatures have postponed harvest. First F.O.B. expected week of May 10, 2020. (U = unavailable)

Strawberries

SANTA MARIA DISTRICT — Shipments (218-286-352) — Movement expected to increase. Trading Conventional active, Organic moderate. Prices Higher. Flats 8 1-pound containers with lids medium-large mostly 8.00-10.00. ORGANIC Flats 1-pound containers with lids medium-large mostly 10.00-12.00. Quality and condition variable. Most present — Shipments from prior bookings and/or previous commitments.

OXNARD DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments (224-240-198) — Movement expected to decrease. Trading Moderate. Prices Unchanged. Flats 8 1-pound containers with lids small-medium mostly 8.00. Quality and condition variable. Most present — Shipments from prior bookings and/or previous commitments. Some berries being diverted to to freezer and/or processor.

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (37-82-168) — Movement expected to increase. Trading Conventional active, Organic moderate. Prices Higher. Flats 8 1-lb containers with lids large-extra large mostly 9.00-10.00. Quality variable. ORGANIC flats 8 1-pound containers with lids large-extra large mostly 10.00-12.00.

MEXICO — CROSSINGS THROUGH OTAY MESA CALIFORNIA — Crossings (43-33-22) — Movement expected to decrease sharply. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market. Quality and condition variable. Some berries being diverted to freezer and/or processor. Light and sporadic — Crossings expected to continue through May 9. LAST REPORT.

EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA — Shipments (5-6-6) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. Flats 8 1-pound containers with lids large 12.00-14.50. Includes palletizing and cooling.

Watermelons

FLORIDA SOUTH DISTRICT — Shipments (381-537-733, Seeded 46-54-56; Seedless 335-483-677) —Movement expected to increase. Trading Red Flesh Seedless 60s Very Active, Others Active. Prices Red Flesh Seedless 36s and 45s Slightly Lower, Others Generally Unchanged. 24 inch bins. Red Flesh Seeded type 35s mostly 105.00; Seedless type 36s 126.00-133.00, 45s mostly 147.00, 60s mostly 147.00. Quality generally good.

MEXICO — CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (318-408*-558) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Active. Prices Miniature 6s and 11s generally unchanged, others slightly higher. Red Flesh Seedless type 24 inch bins approximately 35-45 counts mostly 140.00-147.00, approximately 60 count mostly 133.00; Miniature (supplies light) cartons 6s 10.95-12.95, 8s mostly 13.95, 9s mostly 12.95-13.95, 11s 8.95-9.95. Quality variable. (* revised)

MEXICO — CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (111-100-43) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Generally Unchanged. Red Flesh Seedless type 24 inch bins per pound approximately 35 and 45 counts mostly .17-.18. Quality variable.

LOWER RIO GRANDE VALLEY, TEXAS — Shipments (5*-13-8) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. Quality generally good. The first F.O.B. report is expected to be issued the week of May 10. (* revised)

CENTRAL AND WESTERN ARIZONA — Harvest expected to begin in Western Arizona the week of May 10, followed by Central Arizona the week of May 17. Quality expected to be generally good.

IMPERIAL AND COACHELLA VALLEYS CALIFORNIA — Harvest expected to begin the week of May 3. Quality expected to be generally good.

A&A Organic shipping full line of spring vegetables

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 06:33:24 GMT

A&A Organic Farms, Watsonville, Calif., is busy with a full line of spring crops.

The company ships organic produce exclusively. Crops shipping this spring include artichokes , sugar snap peas , broccoli , kales , chards and turmeric, from the company’s Central California hub, according to a news release.

A&A Organic Farms also has a steady supply of strawberries from California’s Central Coast and Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico. President Andy Martin said strawberry pack options are 1-pound clamshells, 1-pound ReadyCycle package and open pint ReadyCycle containers.

The company has the open pint ReadyCycle packs and 1-pound boxes for a variety of items. The ReadyCycle packaging uses vegetable-based inks, food grade adhesives and a water-based coating.

“This packaging enables us to follow our commitment to help provide customers with options for environmentally sustainable and earth-friendly packaging,” according to the release.

The company’s citrus line includes limes and Valencia oranges .

“We are sending a container per week of organic limes from the Jalisco area,” Martin said in the release. “Organic lime production will be steady all year.”

Related stories:

A&A Organic Farms ships organic lemons

A&A Organic noted for recyclable packaging

Salinas Valley crops look promising, growers say

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 19:00:24 GMT

Good growing weather this winter should result in some exceptional fruit and vegetable crops out of California’s Salinas Valley this season.

Monterey County, which encompasses the valley, produced about $2.8 billion worth of vegetables in 2018, the latest year for which statistics are available from the county agricultural commissioner’s office, and just over $1 billion worth of fruit.

Salinas-based Coastline Family Farms will ship about 25 kinds of mixed vegetables, including iceberg lettuce, romaine, romaine hearts, leaf lettuces, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, green onions, kale and spinach this season, said Tami Gutierrez, vice president sales and marketing.

Wet weather during planting and again during harvesting in April could reduce early-season yields and result in scattered quality issues that should be resolved as the season progresses, she said.

Volume at Coastline should be about the same as last year early in the season but likely will be down during the summer as the company cuts back planting because of competition from other growing areas during the peak growing season and because of the impact of COVID-19.

“Due to COVID-19, we have reduced our summer planting because we don’t know what the recovery period is going to be like,” she said.

Related content: Helping growers safeguard workers from the coronavirus

Gonzalez, Calif.-based Misionero Vegetables LLC has year-round programs for salads, value-added lettuces and mostly organic vegetables, said Nicole Zapata, marketing manager.

Like many Salinas grower-shippers, the company grows in the desert during the fall and winter and transitions back to the Salinas Valley for spring and summer.

“Given the current circumstances happening across the globe, we are being mindful of our planting schedule,” Zapata said.

“We’re maintaining retail distribution and anticipating potential bounce back for foodservice sales throughout the summer and fall.”

There were a few weather challenges this winter, Zapata said, but overall, quality is good.

Iceberg lettuce, romaine, romaine hearts, broccoli, cauliflower, green leaf and red leaf are shipping from Salinas-based Bengard Ranch Inc., said Steve Koran, general manager.

The company now has a celery deal in Oxnard that will switch to Salinas in June.

Quality is excellent, he said.

“We didn’t have any disruption with any weather events.”

Product is plentiful, he said, but he added that retail and especially foodservice demand was uncertain in light of the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Related content: Salinas volume lighter due to rain

“Everybody is rolling along, but the distribution avenues are going to change drastically until restaurants open again,” said Gib Papazian, president of Lucky Strike Farms , Burlingame, Calif.

Although restaurants in California were closed because of the outbreak, more than half were open for takeout orders, he said.

“They’re not doing a brisk business, but they’re doing enough business to keep their place on life support,” Papazian said.

He said he was concerned for independent restaurants.

“Several of them are having a terrible struggle right now,” he said.

Lucky Strike’s foodservice business is “within acceptable risk tolerances,” Papazian said.

“It is still a daily financial challenge collecting money and paying our growers in accordance with our historical practices,” he said. “But we’ll get through it.”

The company handles a full line of vegetables, citrus, some melons and fruit.

“I expect quality is going to be top-notch through the summer,” he said.

The berry deal also was progressing well.

In an April 10 crop update, The Buzz, from Watsonville, Calif.-based California Giant Berry Farms , the company said that Salinas berries should be good quality despite some mid-April showers.

With no rain forecast for the rest of April, Cal Giant was looking forward to “a very rapid increase in production.”

“Our blackberry and raspberry season will also kick off come May and into June,” the company said.

Raspberries were set to begin in the middle of May, and blackberries should be ready for harvest by the middle of June.

Related content: Salinas Valley Produce

Marketscope — Vegetable f.o.b.s as of May 18

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 20:34:20 GMT

This information, provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service, shows week-by-week shipments and f.o.b.s for commodities from shipments for the fresh market. Protective services are extra unless otherwise stated. Shipments, in 1,000 cwt., are for weeks ending: 1st no. = May 2; 2nd no. = May 9; 3rd no. = May 16. Expected movement is for May 24 to June 6. F.o.b. prices are as of May 18.

Artichokes

CENTRAL DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments (20-20-19) — Movement expected about the same. Trading moderate. Prices 18-36s slightly lower, 12s generally unchanged. Cartons Globe 12s mostly 14.50-14.75, 18s mostly 16.55-16.75, 24s mostly 16.55-16.65, 30s mostly 14.65-14.75, 36s 14.65-14.75; ORGANIC 12s 26.55, 18-24s 22.55, 30s 20.55. Quality variable.

Asparagus

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH ARIZONA, CALIFORNIA AND TEXAS 2020 CROP Crossings — (30-20-23) — Expected to remain the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Lower. 11 pound cartons/crates bunched green standard and large mostly 28.75-30.75. Extra services included.

WALLA WALLA DISTRICT AND LOWER YAKIMA VALLEY WASHINGTON — Shipments (25-20-17) — Movement expected about the same. Available supplies light. Trading Very Active. Prices 28 pounds pyramid cartons/crates slightly higher, 11 pound cartons/crates generally unchanged. Washington Extra Fancy 28 pounds pyramid cartons/crates bunched large and standard mostly 66.75-68.75; 11 pound cartons/crates bunched large and standard mostly 30.75-32.75. Most present Shipments from previous commitments and/or prior bookings.

MICHIGAN — Shipments (0-1-2) — expected to increase sharply. Harvest has resumed in Southern region following freeze and expected to get underway in West Central region current week. Expect first FOB Shipping Point Prices later in current week.

PERU IMPORTS — PORTS OF ENTRY SOUTH FLORIDA Imports — (U-U-U) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Large and Standard Moderate, others Fairly Slow. Prices Much Lower. From Peru. 11 pound cartons bunched jbo mostly 22.75-23.75, xlge mostly 21.75-23.75, lge 23.75-25.75, std mostly 22.75-24.75, sml supply in too few hands to establish a market. (U = unavailable)

Broccoli

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (126-124-122) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Crown Cut fairly active, bunched moderate. Prices Crown Cut higher, bunched slightly higher. Cartons bunched 14s mostly 7.35-8.65, 18s mostly 7.85-9.15; 20 pound cartons loose Crown Cut mostly 8.15-9.65, Short Trim mostly 9.15-10.65. ORGANIC cartons bunched 14s mostly 12.50-12.85; 20 pound cartons loose Crown Cut mostly 14.50-14.85. Quality variable.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (79-59*-66) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early moderate, late active. Prices Slightly Higher. 20 pound cartons loose Crown Cut Short Trim 10.35-12.50. Quality variable. (* revised)

SANTA MARIA CALIFORNIA — Shipments (56-69-53) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Fairly Active. Prices Higher. Cartons bunched 14s mostly 8.00-9.00, 18s mostly 8.50-9.50; 20 pound cartons loose Crown Cut mostly 9.00-10.00. Quality generally good.

SOUTH GEORGIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (1-12-7) — Volume expected to remain about the same. No F.O.B. issued. Insufficient number of shippers to establish market. No F.O.B. issued.

Carrots

KERN DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments (179-161-173) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Slightly Higher. 48 1-lb film bags medium-large mostly 15.30-15.40; 50 lb sacks loose jumbo mostly 13.30-16.85; 25 lb sacks loose jumbo mostly 6.65-8.85; cartons 30 1-lb film bags Baby Peeled 18.20-18.85. ORGANIC 48 1-lb film bags and 24 2-lb film bags medium-large mostly 20.00-26.35, 10 5-lb film bags medium-large mostly 20.00-20.70. Cartons 24 1-lb film bags Baby Peeled 20.00-22.20, cartons 12 2-lb film bags Baby Peeled 20.00-22.20, cartons 4 5-lb film bags Baby Peeled 20.00-22.50. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS Crossings — (57-52*-57) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Fairly Active. Prices Higher. 50 pound sacks loose jumbo 12.00-13.00. Quality variable. (*revised)

SOUTH GEORGIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (23-19-23) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Unchanged. Sacks 48-1 lb film bags, 24-2 lb film bags, and 10 5-lb film bags medium-large $15.00-16.00; 50 pound sacks loose jumbo $14.00-15.00. Extra services not included. Quality generally good.

Cauliflower

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (102-105-100) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early fairly active, late active. Prices higher. Cartons film wrapped White 12s mostly 9.50-10.85, 9s mostly 8.50-9.75, 16s mostly 8.35-9.75; ORGANIC 12s mostly 14.50-16.55, 9s and 16s mostly 13.50-16.50. Quality generally good.

SANTA MARIA CALIFORNIA — Shipments (54-50-41) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early moderate, late active. Prices Higher. Cartons film wrapped White 12s mostly 11.00-12.00. Quality generally good.

Celery

OXNARD DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments (270-254-256) — Movement expected about the same. Trading moderate. Prices slightly lower. Cartons 2 dozen mostly 10.65-11.95, 2 1/2 dozen mostly 11.55-12.50, 3 dozen mostly 11.65-12.50; Hearts film bags 18s mostly 14.65- 15.65. ORGANIC cartons 2-2 ½ dozen mostly 25.55-25.56; Hearts film bags 18s mostly 22.55-25.56. Quality variable.

SANTA MARIA CALIFORNIA — Shipments (45-63-62) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices 2 dozen slightly higher, others generally unchanged. Cartons 2-3 dozen mostly 9.85-11.85. Quality generally good.

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Harvest expected to begin the week of May 31. Quality expected to be generally good. The first F.O.B. report is expected to be issued by June 5.

Corn, sweet

CENTRAL AND SOUTH FLORIDA — Shipments (336-396-346) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Very Active. Prices Higher. Includes palletizing and cooling. Wire bound crates Yellow 4-4 1/2 dozen 14.95, White 14.95, Bi-Color 14.95 Quality generally good.

IMPERIAL AND COACHELLA VALLEYS CALIFORNIA — Shipments (99-207-161) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Active. Prices Slightly Higher. Cartons/crates 4 dozen minimum White mostly 13.95-15.95, Yellow and Bi-color mostly 14.95-15.95. Quality generally good.

SOUTH GEORGIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (0-0-51) — Movement expected to increase. Trading Moderate. Wirebound crates 4-dozen Yellow, White and Bi-Color 12.95-14.95. Quality generally good.

Cucumbers

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (230-187-171) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading early fairly slow, late moderate. Prices 36s much higher, others higher. 1 1/9 bushel cartons medium mostly 8.95-10.95, fair quality 6.95-7.95, ordinary quality mostly 3.95-4.95; small mostly 4.95-5.95, large mostly 6.95. Cartons 24s 3.95-4.95, 36s mostly 6.95-7.95. Quality variable.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (151-119*-95) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early fairly slow, late active. Prices Higher. 1 1/9 bushel cartons medium 8.95-10.95, fair quality 6.95-9.95; large 6.95-8.95. Quality variable. Most present — Shipments from prior bookings and/or previous commitments. (* revised)

CENTRAL AND SOUTH FLORIDA — Shipments (53-55-37) — Movement expected to decrease. Trading Pickles Very Active. Prices Pickles 200- 300s Higher, 150-200s Generally Unchanged. Includes palletizing and precooling. 1 1/9 bushel cartons/crates Pickles 150-200s 16.90, 200 -300s mostly 20.90-21.90. WAXED supply insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH OTAY MESA — Crossings (16-18*-20) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. Quality generally good. The first F.O.B report is expected to be issue the week of May 24. (* revised)

SOUTH GEORGIA — Shipments (0-2-10) — Movement expected to increase as more shippers begin to harvest. Prices Unchanged. Waxed 1 1/9 bushel cartons/crates medium 14.35-16.85 fair quality 8.35-10.85, cartons 24s 5.35-6.85. Quality generally good.

Lettuce, iceberg

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (451-433-456) — Movement expected about the same. Trading fairly active. Prices much higher. Cartons 24s film lined mostly 12.85-13.75, filmwrapped mostly 13.85-14.75; 30s filmwrapped mostly 9.65-11.45; ORGANICS 24s filmwrapped mostly 16.00-16.50, 12s filmwrapped mostly 8.00-10.55. Quality variable.

SANTA MARIA CALIFORNIA — Shipments (73-78-74) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early moderate, late fairly active. Prices Higher. Cartons 24s film lined 8.85-11.65, filmwrapped 10.85-12.65. Quality generally good.

Lettuce, romaine

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (370-365-373) — Movement expected about the same. Trading moderate. Prices 24s higher, Hearts slightly higher. Cartons 24s mostly 7.65-8.75; Hearts cartons 12 3-count packages mostly 10.65-11.75, Hearts film lined 48s mostly 11.65-12.75. ORGANIC cartons 24s mostly 18.00-20.55; Hearts cartons 12 3-count packages mostly 14.50-16.75. Quality variable.

SANTA MARIA CALIFORNIA — Shipments (44-63-60) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early moderate, late fairly active. Prices Hearts higher, 24s generally unchanged. Cartons 24s 8.85-9.50; Hearts cartons 12 3-count packages 10.85-13.50. Quality generally good.

OXNARD DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments (7-5-3) — Movement expected to decrease sharply as most shippers are finished for the season. Supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. Quality generally good. Lighter — Shipments expected to continue through May 30. LAST REPORT

Onions, dry

U.S. — Shipments (1,122*-1,178*-1,141) — The top shipping areas for the week, in order, were California, Texas, Columbia Basin Washington, Georgia, and Mexico crossings. (* revised)

IMPERIAL VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (149-269*-282) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Unchanged. Yellow Grano Type 50-pound sacks super colossal 9.00-10.00, colossal 8.00, jumbo 7.00-8.00, medium mostly 9.00; White 50-pound sacks jumbo mostly 12.00 medium 10.00-11.00; Red Globe Type 25-pound sacks jumbo 6.00-7.00, medium mostly 6.00. (* revised)

LOWER RIO GRANDE VALLEY, TEXAS 2020 CROP — Shipments (280-280*-239) — Movement is expected to decrease seasonally. Trading Moderate. Prices Whites higher, others generally unchanged. Yellow Grano-Type Marked Sweet 40-pound cartons jumbo 16.00-18.00, Yellow Grano - Type 50-pound sacks colossal mostly 10.00, jumbo mostly 9.00, medium 10.00-12.00, White 50-pound sacks jumbo 14.00 -16.00, medium 12.00-14.00, Red 25-pound sacks jumbo mostly 8.00, medium mostly 8.00. (* revised)

COLUMBIA BASIN WASHINGTON AND UMATILLA BASIN OREGON — Shipments (260-204-176, Includes exports 25-29-31) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Remaining supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

VIDALIA DISTRICT GEORGIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (171-159-162) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Active. Prices Higher. Yellow Granex - Marked Sweet 40-pound cartons jumbo mostly 20.00-22.00; Organic 40-pound cartons jumbo 27.00-30.00.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH SOUTH TEXAS 2020 CROP — Crossings (95-84-140) — Movement is expected to be about the same. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

ARIZONA DISTRICT — Shipments (0-29-49) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

SAN ANTONIO-WINTER GARDEN-LAREDO DISTRICT TEXAS — Shipments (3-31-41) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

IDAHO AND MALHEUR COUNTY OREGON — Shipments (133-86-38, Includes exports 5-4-2) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Remaining supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

CENTRAL WISCONSIN 2019 CROP — Shipments (9-8-10) — Movement expected to seasonally decrease. Too few open market sales to establish a market.

Peppers, bell

COACHELLA VALLEY CALIFORNIA — Shipments (59-80-97) — Movement of Green expected about the same, Red expected to increase seasonally. Trading active at slightly lower prices. Prices Slightly Lower. 1 1/9 bushel cartons Green jumbo and extra large mostly 24.95- 26.95, large 22.95-24.95; irregular size fair quality Green mostly 16.95, Red mostly 24.95. 1/2 bushel cartons Red extra large and large mostly 18.95-20.95. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (105-89*-79) — Movement expected to decrease slightly. Trading Active. Prices slightly higher. GREENHOUSE 11 pound cartons Red and Yellow jumbo and extra large 16.95-18.95, large 14.95-16.95; Orange jumbo and extra large 18.95-20.95, large 17.95-19.95. Red 1 1/9 bushel carton irregular size fair quality 17.95-20.95. Quality generally good. (* revised)

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (125-118*-67, Field Grown 102-95-52, Greenhouse 23-23*-15) — Movement of Red expected to decrease sharply as most shippers are finished for the season. Trading Active. Prices Red slightly higher, irregular size much higher. Red 15 pound extra large mostly 18.95-20.95, large mostly 18.95. Red 1 1/9 bushel cartons irregular size mostly 20.95-22.95. Quality generally good. (* revised)

SOUTH GEORGIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (0-0-29) — Movement expected to increase. Trading Moderate. 1 1/9 bushel cartons Green jumbo 22.35-24.85 extra large 22.35-24.85 fair quality 16.35-18.85. FIRST REPORT.

CENTRAL AND SOUTH FLORIDA — Shipments (63-68-25) — Supply insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market.

Potatoes

U.S. — Shipments (1,556*-1,591*-1,715) — The top shipping states, in order, were Idaho, San Luis Valley Colorado, Columbia Basin Washington, Florida and Wisconsin. (* revised)

UPPER VALLEY, TWIN FALLS-BURLEY DISTRICT IDAHO 2019 CROP — Shipments (606-717-718, Includes exports 3-7-9) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Carton 40-70s active, others moderate. Prices bales higher, carton 90-100s lower, others generally unchanged. Russet Burbanks U.S. One baled 5-pound film bags non size A mostly 6.50-7.00; 50-pound sacks 40-70s mostly 12.00, 80s mostly 10.00, 90s 8.00-9.00, 100s mostly 7.00-7.50; U.S. Two 6 ounce minimum 4.00-5.00, 10 ounce minimum mostly 7.00-8.00; Russet

SAN LUIS VALLEY COLORADO 2019 CROP — Shipments (208-191*-226, Includes exports 10-14*-15) — Movement expected to be about the same. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices USONE baled 10 5 -pound and 5 10-pound lower, others unchanged. U.S. One baled 5 10-lb film bags sz A 9.00-10.00, baled 10 5-lb film bags sz A mostly 10.00; 50 lb cartons 40-70s 15.00-16.00, 80s 14.00-15.00, 90-100s 12.00-14.00. (*revised)

COLUMBIA BASIN WASHINGTON AND UMATILLA BASIN OREGON 2019 CROP — Shipments (141-141-159, Includes exports 32-34-37) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading carton 40-70s active, others moderate. Prices carton 40-70s higher, bales and U.S. twos lower, others generally unchanged. Russet Norkotah U.S. One baled 10 pound film bags size A mostly 7.00-8.00, baled 5 pound film bags size A mostly 8.00-9.00; 50 pound cartons 40s mostly 12.00, 50-70s mostly 12.00-14.00, 80s mostly 10.00-11.00, 90- 100s mostly 9.00-10.00, U.S Two 50 pound sacks 10 ounce minimum mostly 6.00-7.00.

FLORIDA 2020 CROP — Shipments (197-168-141) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Fairly Active. Prices Generally Unchanged. Round Red U.S. One 50 pound cartons size A mostly 19.00-22.50, size B mostly 26.00-27.50, Creamers 3/4-1 5/8 inches mostly 30.50-35.75; 50 pound sacks size A mostly 17.50-20.75, size B mostly 24.50-24.75, U.S. Two 50 pound sacks size A mostly 12.75- 16.50, size B mostly 16.75-18.75. Round White U.S. One 50 pound cartons size B mostly 18.50-20.00, Creamers 3/4-1 5/8 inches mostly 35.75-40.75; 50 pound sacks size A mostly 25.75-30.75, size B mostly 16.75-18.50. Yellow Type U.S. One 50 pound cartons size A mostly 32.50, size B mostly 18.50; 50 pound sacks size A mostly 30.75, size B mostly 16.75

CENTRAL WISCONSIN 2019 CROP — Shipments (96-93-109) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Fairly Active. Prices Generally Unchanged. Russet Norkotah U.S. One baled 5 10-pound film bags size A mostly 10.00-11.00, baled 10 5-pound film bags size A mostly 11.00-12.00; 50 pound cartons 40s-70s mostly 18.00-19.00, 80s mostly 17.00-18.00, 90s mostly 14.00-15.00, 100s 13.00-14.00.

HEREFORD-HIGH PLAINS TEXAS — Shipments (53-54-62) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

MICHIGAN — Shipments (49-39-36) — Movement expected to continue seasonal decline. Trading Slow. Prices Unchanged. U.S. 1 size A baled 5 10-pound bags Russet Norkotah 11.50-12.50, baled 10 5-pound bags mostly 12.50-13.50. Supplies in few hands.

NEBRASKA 2019 CROP — Shipments (0-0-36) — Supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

NORTHERN COLORADO DISTRICT 2019 CROP — Shipments (23-30-31) — Movement expected decrease seasonally. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

KLAMATH BASIN OREGON AND NORTHERN CALIFORNIA DISTRICT — Shipments (22-18-20) — Movement expected to remain about the same. supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

MINNESOTA-NORTH DAKOTA (RED RIVER VALLEY) 2019 CROP — Shipments (35-19-15) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Remaining supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

CANADA (NEW BRUNSWICK) CROSSINGS THROUGH MAINE POINTS — Movement expected about the same. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Unchanged. USOne/CDOne baled 10 5-pound film bags size A mostly 11.00, baled 5 10-pound film bags non-size A mostly 10.00.

Squash, yellow straightneck

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (44-30-23) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading Moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. 4/7 bushel cartons small 8.95-10.95, small-medium mostly 10.95, medium mostly 6.95. Quality variable.

Squash, zucchini

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (136-116-73) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading Moderate. Prices Higher. 4/7 bushel cartons small and small-medium 8.95-10.95, medium mostly 6.95-7.95. 1 1/9 bushel cartons medium-large 3.00-4.95. Quality variable.

Sweet potatoes

EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA — Shipments (101*-103*-92) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. 40 pound cartons Orange Types U.S. No. 1 15.50-17.00, U.S. No. 1 Petite 12.00-13.00, U.S. No. 2 8.00-10.00, No Grade Marks jumbo 10.00-12.00. (* revised)

MISSISSIPPI 2019 CROP — Shipments (27-23-25) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Unchanged. 40 pound cartons Orange Types U.S. Number One mostly 21.00 U.S. Number Two mostly 14.00 No Grade Marks jumbo 14.00-15.00. Quality generally good.

ATWATER LIVINGSTON CALIFORNIA 2019 CROP — Shipments (16-15-16) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Supplies are getting light. Trading Moderate. Prices Unchanged. 40 pound cartons Orange Type U.S. Number One mostly 32.00-36.00 No Grade Marks medium mostly 18.00-20.00 jumbo 20.00-22.00; White Types U.S. Number One 34.00-36.00 No Grade Marks medium 20.00-22.00 jumbo 18.00-22.00; Japanese Types U.S. Number One mostly 35.00-38.00. Organic 40 pound cartons supplies in too few hands to quote. Quality generally good.

LOUISIANA 2019 CROP — Shipments (8-9-7) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Unchanged. 40 pound cartons U.S. Number One 22.00-24.00 U.S. Number Two 14.00-16.00 No Grade Marks jumbo 14.00-16.00. Quality generally good.

Tomatoes

CENTRAL AND SOUTH FLORIDA — Shipments (219-196-213) — Movement expected to decrease. Trading Moderate. Prices 6X7 size Lower, Others Generally Unchanged. Extra services included. Mature Greens 85% U.S.One or better 5x6 size 27.95, 6x6 size 27.95, 6x7 size 19.95-23.95. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (169-166*-154) — Movement expected to decrease slightly. Trading early moderate, late fairly slow. Prices 4x4-4x5s much lower from market high on Friday, May 15, others slightly lower. Vine Ripes cartons 2 layer 4x4-4x5s mostly 14.95-16.95, 5x5s mostly 12.95-13.95; 25 pound cartons loose 4x5 size mostly 14.95, 5x5 size mostly 12.95-14.95. Quality generally good. Most present — Shipments from prior booking and/or previous commitments. (* revised)

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (73-120-78) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices much lower. Vine Ripes cartons 2 layers 4x4-4x5s mostly 16.95-18.95, 5x5s mostly 10.95-12.95, 5x6s mostly 10.95. Quality generally good.

U.S. SHIPPING POINTS — Shipments (30*-29*-5) — Greenhouse. No prices reported. (* revised)

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH OTAY MESA — Crossings (3-3*-2) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. Quality generally good. The first F.O.B. report is expected to be issue the week of May 24. (* revised)

CENTRAL DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Harvest expected to begin the week of May 31, as most shippers expect to be fully underway the week of June 7. Quality expected to be generally good. The first F.O.B. report is expected to be issue the week of June 14. FIRST REPORT

FLORIDA WEST DISTRICT AND SOUTH CAROLINA DISTRICT — Light harvest expected to start within 20 days. Expect sufficient number of shippers for first F.O.B. within 25 days.

Tomatoes, cherry

CENTRAL AND SOUTH FLORIDA — Shipments (3-3-3) — Movement expected to decrease. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Generally Unchanged. Extra services included. Flats 12 1-pint basket with lids mostly 7.95. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH OTAY MESA — Crossings (2-3*-2) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. Quality generally good. The first F.O.B report is expected to be issue the week of May 24. (* revised)

Tomatoes, grape

CENTRAL AND SOUTH FLORIDA — Shipments (23-26-26) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Lower. including palletizing and cooling. Flats 12 1-pint containers with lids 8.95. 20 pound cartons loose 15.95. Organic flats 12 1-pint containers with lids Insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (25-20-17) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading early fairly slow, late active. Prices much higher. Flats 12-1 pint containers with lids medium-large supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. 20 pound cartons loose medium-large 22.95-24.95. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (8-6*-5) — Movement expected about the same. Flats 12 1-pint containers with lids medium-large and 20 lb carton loose medium-large supplies insufficient to establish a market. Quality generally good. (* revised)

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH OTAY MESA — Crossings (#-#-0) — Movement expected to increase as most shippers begin the week of May 24. Supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. Quality generally good. The first F.O.B. report is expected to be issue the week of May 31. FIRST REPORT (# less than 50,000 lbs)

Tomatoes, plum

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (258-317*-267) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early slow, late moderate. Prices medium generally unchanged, other slightly lower. 25 pound cartons loose Roma (supplies heavy) extra large and large mostly 8.30, medium 8.30. Quality generally good. (* revised)

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (91-104-91) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early fairly slow, late fairly active. Prices Generally Unchanged. Roma 25 pound cartons loose extra large mostly 8.95-9.95, large mostly 8.30-8.95, medium 8.30- 8.95. Quality generally good.

CENTRAL AND SOUTH FLORIDA — Shipments (63-67-64) — Movement expected to decrease. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Lower. Extra services included. 25 pound cartons loose extra large 11.95-13.95, large 11.95, medium 9.95. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH OTAY MESA — Crossings (20-31*-32) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. Quality generally good. The first F.O.B report is expected to be issue the week of May 17. (* revised)