Cantaloupe

Season Begins for Legend Produce’s Domestic Origami Cantaloupe

Tue, 12 May 2026 20:05:01 GMT

Legend Produce says its domestic Origami cantaloupe season has arrived and is off to an outstanding start.

Following several months of imports, Legend Produce says the arrival of this premium melon signals the return of fresh, U.S.-grown fruit. Fields are producing beautiful, high-quality melons with strong yields, vibrant appearance and exceptional flavor profile, according to the company.

Legend Produce says Origami continues to set itself apart as a unique variety, delivering both early-season durability and exceptional eating quality. It highlights that current harvests are measuring 15 to 16 Brix, offering high sugar levels that translate into bold sweetness. Origami consistently delivers a balanced profile of rich aroma, smooth texture and a clean, memorable finish that defines premium cantaloupe, the company says.

“There is no other variety on the market that performs like Origami this time of year,” says Barry Zwillinger, partner of Legend Produce. “We’ve seen other melons come in early with decent numbers, but they simply don’t match the flavor and aroma profile. Origami holds its integrity in the field and delivers the full eating experience customers expect. Year after year, retail data confirms it: Consumers choose Origami, and our customers are asking for it by name.”

Legend Produce says that with its production underway in Yuma, Ariz., and California, it is positioned to deliver a consistent, high-quality supply of Origami cantaloupes throughout the domestic season.

Legend Produce Co-Founder Retires After 27 Years

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 22:08:16 GMT

Pat Tucker, co-founder of Legend Produce, has retired from day-to-day operations after nearly three decades leading the commercial melon company.

Tucker established Legend Produce in 1999 with partners Barry Zwillinger and Jack Cancellieri. Over the last 27 years, the firm expanded from a local startup into a year-round operation with production sites across Arizona, California, Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean.

A lifelong member of the agricultural community, Tucker began working on his family’s farm in Litchfield Park, Ariz., at age 9. He spent his early career in retail and farming before launching the Legend brand. Under his tenure, the company shifted its primary focus toward melon production and large-scale regional distribution.

“The key to making a company successful is the connections you develop with people,” Tucker says regarding his management style. “When people become family, you build support for the challenging times.”

While stepping back from daily management, Tucker will remain involved with the company as a consultant. He also retains his positions on the California Cantaloupe Advisory Board and the Research Committee.

“Pat’s leadership and commitment to people have shaped who we are as a company,” Zwillinger says. “That impact will carry on for years to come.”

In retirement, Tucker plans to travel with his wife of 50 years, Debbie, with the goal of visiting all 50 states during the Christmas season.

Fresh-Cut, Processed Cantaloupe Recalled

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 17:58:50 GMT

The Food and Drug Administration says Wholesale Produce Supply of Minneapolis, Minn., has recalled its fresh-cut and processed cantaloupe due to a potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.

Wholesale Produce Supply sold its fresh-cut cantaloupe to distributors in Nebraska, North Dakota and Wisconsin, who may have distributed into other states under the “Harvest Cuts” and “Fresh & Finest” brand at traditional grocery locations, according to the FDA. The company packaged the fresh-cut cantaloupe in traditional plastic clamshell containers under the “Harvest Cuts” and “Fresh & Finest” label in both cantaloupe-only products, as well as mixed containers that include other fresh cut-fruits.

The FDA says no illnesses have been reported to date.

The company recalled its products following a routine sampling program, which revealed that the finished products potentially contained bacteria, according to the agency. The FDA says Wholesale Produce Supply has suspended production and distribution of the affected lots as the company continues its investigation into the cause of the contamination.

Visit the FDA’s recall notice for lot codes and UPCs of the recalled products.

Cantaloupe Growers Target Gen Z With New Social Media Campaign

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 18:51:27 GMT

California cantaloupe growers are meeting younger consumers where they gather — on social media. With fresh content and fun messaging, the new campaign puts this juicy fruit in the spotlight for a new generation.

The California Cantaloupe Advisory Board (CCAB) says it has launched a new social media campaign targeting Gen Z consumers with a colorful new logo, a refreshed website, a TikTok channel and a brand ambassador — all focused on positioning cantaloupe in a fresh and fun way that appeals to a younger audience.

“Traditionally, the largest consumer demographic group purchasing cantaloupe has been people 60 years and older,” says Garrett Patricio, president of Westside Produce and CCAB chairman. “That age group is purchasing 43%t of our cantaloupe, while just 15% of our customers are aged 18 to 29. It doesn’t take a marketing expert to know those numbers are not sustainable for increasing cantaloupe sales in the long term.”

To address the issue, this past winter a group of California cantaloupe growers — both younger and older — came together to create a new marketing strategy and direct its marketing agency, Farmers Communication Exchange, to make some changes.

Patricio notes that the kind of cantaloupe grown in California has also experienced some big changes in recent years. The old western-shipper type cantaloupes have been replaced by new long-shelf-life varieties that have a much different flavor and texture profile.

“Interestingly, what we’ve found is that younger consumers, especially children, have taken a liking to these new cantaloupe varieties,” Patricio says. “These younger shoppers aren’t familiar with how cantaloupes used to taste, and they like these new crisper varieties. This presents an opportunity for cantaloupe growers to capitalize on reaching a brand new audience.”

Cantaloupe growers are pushing this message out through their new website, californiacantaloupes.com , which has this to say about modern cantaloupe: “Today’s cantaloupe is not like it once was. The soft, mushy flesh and musky taste of older cantaloupe varieties have been updated to a cleaner, crisper, brighter, more refreshing sweetness with vibes of honey, cucumber and a splash of citrus. California cantaloupe is literally bursting with sunshine!”

“But where we plan to push this message even harder is through social media, where we’re targeting a younger audience with light-hearted content designed to make cantaloupe cool again,” says Marilyn Freeman, owner of Farmers Communications Exchange. “We’ve created a new TikTok channel to specifically target younger consumers along with our existing channels on Instagram, Facebook, X, Pinterest,YouTube and LinkedIn.

“We’re also involving cantaloupe farmers in our social media program,” Freeman adds. “And they are really having some fun with the latest TikTok video trends. It’s not uncommon to find them singing to their cantaloupe, dancing and even suntanning in the field — all with the goal of getting younger consumers to buy more cantaloupe.”

Freeman says the organization has also introduced a brand ambassador to further help build a following of younger shoppers.

“Tara Monreal is a young woman who works as a marketer for the cantaloupe industry,” Freeman says. “She’s a passionate advocate for cantaloupe, so the board is partnering with her to help reach more consumers through her TikTok and Instagram channels where she’s known as ‘GotMelonGirl.’ If you’re on social media, you’ll be seeing more of GotMelonGirl in the coming weeks and much, much more about California cantaloupe.”

“It’s been fun — if not a bit embarrassing — for us growers to give this social media thing a try,” Patricio says. “What’s become clear is this is the way to reach consumers directly with your message. There are so many farmers and farming organizations who are successfully using social media to educate people about farming, all that goes into growing safe, healthy food and, hopefully, bringing more consumers to the store looking for our products.”

New Cantaloupe Varieties Complicate Ripeness Rules

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 19:45:17 GMT

You might think you know how to pick a ripe cantaloupe, but recent data suggests you’d be an outlier. To make things more complex, new cantaloupe varieties come with different ripeness rules, meaning even those who think they know a ripe melon when they see one might be wrong.

Every year, The Packer conducts its Fresh Trends survey of American consumers on their fresh produce purchase behavior. The Fresh Trends 2025 Report asked consumers two questions about picking ripe fruit:

Do you feel comfortable selecting a ripe [fruit] for immediate consumption?
Do you know how to ripen [fruit] once you get them home?

The differences in answers across fruit could be extreme. Most survey respondents (72%) reported they were comfortable picking ready-to-eat bananas — the most familiar fruit in the lineup — and knew how to ripen unripe bananas at home (63%). Familiarity with fruit ripeness went down from there, however.

For cantaloupes, only a third of respondents said they were comfortable selecting a ripe, ready-to-eat melon. When it came to ripening know-how, only 21% of respondents said they knew how to ripen a cantaloupe at home.

There were some interesting demographic trends when it came to ripeness knowledge around cantaloupes.

Unlike many other fruit, there was no relevant increase in reported ripeness knowledge as household income grew. Instead, there was stark age-related ripeness knowledge differences reported, with 52% of the oldest respondents (60 years and older) reporting comfort with picking a ripe, ready-to-eat cantaloupe. This compares to 26% of respondents aged 18 to 29 years, and 23% of respondents aged 30 to 39 years.

The age-related ripeness knowledge trend did not continue when it came to ripening a cantaloupe at home. With the exception of respondents aged 30 to 39 years, only 16% of whom reported knowing how to ripen a cantaloupe at home, all other age groups reported knowing how at roughly the same rate (21% to 23%).

Confounding new cantaloupe varieties

Regardless where consumers think they stand on their cantaloupe ripeness knowledge, recent changes in the cantaloupe industry mean there are new rules for judging ripeness.

“The issue is that in within the past five years, older cantaloupe varieties have almost completely been replaced by newer varieties that ripen much differently,” explained Marilyn Freeman, owner of Farmers Communication Exchange, which handles consumer marketing for the California Cantaloupe Advisory Board. California grows roughly two-thirds of U.S. cantaloupes.

This industrywide shift to newer varieties “means that much of the information out there on how to select cantaloupe is outdated and, actually, adds to the confusion,” Freeman continued.

In an early 2022 post by CCAB , the board explained that most cantaloupes available to consumers in the past were the Western Shipper variety. These were the melons where the traditional ripeness tells of a smooth slipped stem, cream coloration between the webbing and a sweet smell applied. But the industry has increasingly moved toward new Long Shelf Life and Extended Shelf Life varieties.

Picking a ripe (new) cantaloupe

“These newer varieties don’t ripen much differently from the older varieties, other than the fact that they don’t emit ethylene, which gives them a longer shelf life,” the CCAB site explained. “This also means that they don’t give off the same traditional, sweet melon smell, even though they typically have higher sugar content than the old varieties.”

According to Freeman, new varieties must meet a minimum sugar level of 12 Brix before they can be harvested, meaning any melon a consumer picks up will be sweet.

New cantaloupe varieties can range in color from greenish to the traditional creamy yellow between the netting. Part of the stem might be retained and the netting may be present on the stem. Cracking and/or softness around the blossom end are no longer considered a fault but are actually signs of ripeness in the new varieties.

“Picking a ripe cantaloupe is easier today than ever before,” Freeman said. “No longer is there a need for smelling or thumping these new cantaloupes.”

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Morning Kiss kicks off its organic melon program

Tue, 13 May 2025 15:43:49 GMT

Morning Kiss Organic announced May 12 the return and expansion of its organic melon program, which includes mini seedless watermelons, cantaloupes and honeydews. The company said that — with its sourcing coming from Mexico, California and North Carolina — the program is designed to deliver melons throughout the summer and into early winter.

“Nothing captures the essence of summer like fresh organic melon,” Nelly Czajkowski, sales manager at Morning Kiss Organic, said in a news release. “These fruits are not only delicious and healthy but also a smart way for retailers to boost organic sales during the peak summer months.”

Morning Kiss Organic called the outlook for this summer’s melon crop very promising, saying it expects excellent volume out of California’s Central Valley. Such volume would support robust promotional activity throughout July and August, it added.

Morning Kiss Organic’s season will run from May through early December, with East Coast-grown mini seedless watermelons available from late June through early August. The company said it is looking forward to bringing in melons from a North Carolina grower.

Cantaloupe growers stitch together a steady supply through summer

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 19:45:01 GMT

Growing nearly three-quarters of America’s cantaloupe supply, California’s cantaloupe season is well underway, producing aromatic melons for shoppers to tuck into their carts and enjoy at summer picnics and gatherings across the U.S.

In terms of production, it’s the same song, different verse compared with other California crops coming out of fields in the first half of 2023. Echoing a “new normal” pattern experienced across fruit categories in the Golden State this year, growers have confirmed that California cantaloupes are lagging a bit behind schedule due to heavy winter rains and cool spring temperatures.

Despite these delays, growers are creatively filling supply gaps and triaging irregular production and yields by leveraging harvest from Yuma, Ariz., where the domestic season begins.

A cold, wet winter and spring

“We’ve obviously had a very cold, very wet winter in the West,” Garrett Patricio, chairman of the California Cantaloupe Advisory Board and president of Westside Produce, told The Packer. “We started with our plantings in Arizona in January, February and March. [The wet weather] has persisted into California and our plantings in March, April and May. Obviously, the wet weather has slowed the crop considerably.”

These factors mean that California cantaloupe producers are seeing both a shortage of supply, as well as uncharacteristically irregular planting, Patricio said.

Related news: Mexican melon markets to stabilize for peak summer promotions, forecasts grower

“We were probably a week to 10 days behind getting started in Arizona, which is where the bulk of our crop begins and includes the Imperial Valley of California,” he said.

Growers have experienced a chaotic marketplace in part because these supply changes are impacting market conditions quickly, he continued.

“But on the growing side, it’s been favorable pricewise. Irregular weather typically brings irregular germination, rain and irregular crops. You tend to get lighter yields when you have periods of chaotic weather too,” Patricio said. “It all plays hand in hand. The produce supply chain is one that can be very volatile, and supplies aren’t static; they’re not widgets.”

One of the downstream challenges resulting from the irregular weather is that the melons are at times not the right size, not the right shape or not the right color for the specific time in which they are needed. Despite this, growers do the best they can to fill in the gaps, Patricio said.

Troubleshooting gaps as the season moves north

As the California cantaloupe season migrates from Yuma, Ariz., the Imperial Valley and Southern Desert area to the San Joaquin Valley, growers stitch together a steady supply to meet melon demand.

“Overall, I would say that we have typical or normal acres planted both in the desert regions of Imperial Valley and Arizona. We also have pretty regular plantings in Central California and Northern California as the deal shifts in July, August and September,” he said.

“The normal spring domestic season starts in mid-May and we’re about a week off the normal summer supply in California, which starts right around the first of July,” said Patricio. “I anticipate we’ll see a gap sometime in early July as well. It’ll be light production in the first weeks of July, but by the middle of July, everything should normalize as far as what I’m seeing and what we’re feeling.”

Compared with 2022 production, cantaloupe crops are likely five to 10 days later than last year, he continued.

Related news: Ripe or not? Solving the perfect melon puzzle

“Because of the erratic spring weather, we’ll see some supply still coming out of the Arizona and Imperial growing areas through the first until the middle of July. So, I’m not I’m not sure we’ll see big wholesale gaps or holes but there will be some, without a doubt.”

“Flooding is a big issue in the national news but in terms of cantaloupe growing regions, flooding doesn’t seem to be a problem,” said Patricio. “It’s not like we’re dealing with issues related to flooding. There are some areas where you might normally plant melons, vegetable crops or other crops that you’re not planting because the ground is not available either because it was too wet, or it was in a flood zone.”

When it comes down to acres planted, Patricio believes supply has normalized throughout the melon industry, across the board.

“There’s been a downward trend in terms of total acres and total production, but it’s kind of got us to a good place as growers because… yield obviously plays a big role in whether or not you can make profit,” he said. “You might be slightly off in terms of total yield, but overall, the prices make things normal, if you will.”

Ripe or not? Solving the perfect melon puzzle

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 18:48:39 GMT

Along with sunsets that stretch late into the evening, the hum of cicadas and the sudden switch to flip flops, the emergence of melons at prime spots in produce departments is a sign of summer throughout the U.S.

And watermelon and cantaloupes help anchor the summer melon category. These heavy hitters demand some extra effort to prepare, but their juicy, aromatic sweetness usually makes it worthwhile.

The work begins by selecting the best fruit, which can feel like as much of an art as a science. The Packer has picked up a few melon picking tips from experts so that retailers and shoppers are armed with a few surefire strategies to walk away with the perfect melon.

Mastering a new melon

For the 2023 California cantaloupe season, growers are rolling out new varieties of non-GMO cantaloupes that boast a longer shelf life. These new varieties coming out of the state this summer have been dubbed by breeders as “long shelf life” or “extended shelf life” cantaloupes. Because they have been bred to not ripen too quickly, these cantaloupes will sit on your kitchen counter for several days longer than older varieties, patiently waiting until the perfect moment to enjoy the sweet fruit.

The traditional Western shipper varieties grown in California in recent years had begun to get a bad rap for ripening too quickly and going bad before the consumer was ready to eat.

“It almost became like if they opened the back of the truck and it smelled like cantaloupe, [buyers] didn’t want it,” Marilyn Freeman of the California Cantaloupe Advisory Board told The Packer.

Another benefit of the new, longer shelf life varieties is reducing shrink and food waste overall.

“These new varieties are being bred to last longer on the shelf so they reduce food waste, and many retailers have food waste initiatives that they would like to meet,” Freeman said.

Picking the perfect long shelf life cantaloupe

The most important thing about these new varieties is to not overthink the selection process, Freeman said. Determining ripeness on these new melons is a bit different than traditional Western shipper varieties.

“We’ve been doing a lot about educating people on how to pick a cantaloupe, which in many ways is easier because there are fewer indicators of ripeness than there used to be,” Freeman said.

While the traditional varieties used to be known for their ripeness by the sweeter fragrance that was given off from the ethylene gas emitted throughout the ripening process, the new melons are bred not to release ethylene gas, thus slowing the ripening process, Freeman said. (This means it’s safe to stop sniffing cantaloupes!)

Instead, the most important sign to for assessing ripeness in the new cantaloupe varieties is a creamy or even green-tinged hue. Additionally, look for a blossom end — the end of the melon opposite the stem — that has slight cracking or gives slightly when you press on it gently.

You no longer must eye the end for netting or a slipped stem. According to Freeman, the new varieties of melon can retain a bit of stem even at peak ripeness, unlike older varieties.

How to assess a ripe watermelon

“The National Watermelon Promotion Board has many educational tools and point-of-sale materials available for retailers to educate customers on how to choose the best watermelon,” said Juliemar Rosado, director of retail and international marketing for The National Watermelon Promotion Board.

The key to selecting the perfect watermelon is by following a “look, lift and turn” approach, she said.

“First, look at the watermelon and make sure it’s free of any major dents, gashes or bruising. Second, lift it up; a watermelon should be fairly heavy for its size at 92% water,” Rosado told The Packer. “Last, turn it over and look for a creamy yellow spot — often referred to as the ground spot to show where it sat on the ground and ripened in the sun.”

Once you’ve pinpointed the yellow ground spot, it’s time to bring your watermelon home to enjoy — rind and all.

“Watermelon is also 100% edible, including the rind, making it a zero waste food,” Rosado said.

Law firm files class action lawsuit in Canada following salmonella outbreak in cantaloupes

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 20:42:43 GMT

Slater Vecchio, a legal firm specializing in personal injury claims, has filed a class action lawsuit in British Columbia on behalf of all persons in Canada, excluding residents of Québec, who purchased or claim to have fallen ill from consuming cantaloupes in the recent salmonella outbreak , according to a news release.

Slater Vecchio previously filed a class action lawsuit in Québec .

Slater Vecchio said Health Canada, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and other health authorities recalled whole and fresh-cut Malichita and Rudy-brand cantaloupes sold across Canada and the U.S. after some of the products tested positive for Salmonella.

According to data from Slater Vecchio, the Public Health Agency of Canada as of Dec. 22 said that there were 164 laboratory-confirmed cases of salmonella infections, 61 hospitalizations and seven deaths in Canada related to this outbreak.

Related: Another lawsuit filed in salmonella outbreak in cantaloupes

Mexican plant connected to salmonella outbreak tests negative for pathogen

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 18:56:32 GMT

Reuters reports that Mexican health officials say tests at the cantaloupe processing plant connected the salmonella outbreak in the U.S. and Canada came back negative for the pathogen.

Mexican officials closed the plant in December and took samples from surfaces and water, Reuters said . Mexican health and agriculture authorities said a laboratory did not detect the presence of salmonella in those samples and will do another round of samples of water, products and processing-plant surfaces next month.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the outbreak of salmonella, traced to fresh-cut and whole cantaloupes killed four and sickened 302 people in 42 states.

Two law firms in the U.S. filed lawsuits in the aftermath of the outbreak .

In Canada, Slater Vecchio a law firm specializing in personal injury claims, filed a lawsuit in Quebec and a class-action lawsuit in British Columbia on behalf of all persons in Canada .

Slater Vecchio said the outbreak led to seven deaths in the country, and Health Canada said it listed 164 laboratory-confirmed cases of salmonella.

Later start but good quality expected for California tree fruit, melons

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 12:26:10 GMT

Despite record rain, snow and some unusually cold weather this winter, California should have plenty of good-quality tree fruit, melons and other commodities this summer.

However, some items might get off to a later start than usual, and early volume on others may be off a bit.

“We had a lot of rain, but the rain really didn’t do any damage at all,” said Levon Ganajian, vice president of retail relations for Fresno, Calif.-based Trinity Fruit Sales Co. “We think the front end of the program is going to be light, but not very much.”

Early volume of peaches and nectarines will be off because rain prevented bees from pollinating the flowers, Ganajian said.

“Even when the flowers were out, the bees weren’t able to pollinate,” he said.

Ganajian was optimistic about the later part of the season.

“Once we get past the early part of the season in May and into the bulk of the season in June, July and August, we expect full crops and good volume on everything,” he said.

The combination of ample water, plenty of chill hours and little stress on the trees should result in good quality and good sizing.

An early freeze affected the apricot crop, so it will get a later start. Supplies during May will be lighter than usual.

“We’ll have promotable volume in June into the first part of September,” Ganajian said.

California’s melon crop escaped the wrath of the state’s cold, rainy winter, said Garrett Patricio, president of Firebaugh, Calif.-based Westside Produce . Patricio also is chairman of the California Cantaloupe Advisory Board and serves on the California Melon Research Board.

Though the California melon industry has had a reduction in acreage over the past 20 years, things seem to have stabilized during the past five years, he said. Volume has stayed the same, even as some acreage has fallen off.

“We’ve gotten much better with agronomy and farming practices,” he said. “While acres are decreasing, total volumes have managed to stay the same because yields are better.”

He said he expected to see as many cantaloupes, honeydews and mixed melons planted in 2022 as in 2023.

As with other commodities, the season may get a later start than usual for California’s Imperial Valley spring melon deal and the Westside summer program.

“We may not see an early May or a mid-May start,” Patricio said.

A late-May kickoff seemed more likely.

“I anticipate there will be some gaps throughout the spring, summer and fall based on the weather, water and environmental impacts we’ve seen,” he said.

Westside Produce recently joined with Fresno-based Classic Fruit Co. to offer melons year-round.

Fresno-based Crown Jewels Produce will start its melon program in late April, said salesman Stephen Thomason. The company offers cantaloupes, honeydews and watermelons as well as grapes, pears and pomegranates. All commodities will start 10-14 days later than usual because of rain and cold weather, he said, but size and quality should be good. Volume should be similar to last year.

Grapes will start middle to late May, pears will get underway the second week of July and pomegranates in September.

Another lawsuit filed in salmonella outbreak in cantaloupes

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 17:46:08 GMT

The food safety law firm of Ron Simon & Associates said in a press release that it filed another lawsuit in a Salmonella Sundsvall outbreak linked to Trufresh cantaloupe sold under the brand names Malichita and Rudy.

The firm said it filed the lawsuit on behalf of a Texas resident who became ill after eating cantaloupe at a restaurant in Burleson, Texas, and remained in the hospital for six days. The lawsuit claims the resident was rushed to the hospital after suffering severe gastrointestinal illness and cognitive decline

“This outbreak has grown quickly, with Trufresh recalling Malichita and Rudy branded contaminated cantaloupe which, in some cases, was pre-cut and served in grocery stores and restaurants nationwide,” Ron Simon, food safety attorney, said in the release. “The outbreak victim count has now exceeded 300, with nearly half being hospitalized due to the severity of their illnesses.”

As of Dec. 15, 2023 , the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 302 cases from 42 states.

Related: First lawsuit filed in cantaloupe salmonella outbreak

Whole cantaloupe recalled due to possible salmonella contamination

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 16:03:29 GMT

The Food and Drug Administration says Eagle Produce LLC of Scottsdale, Ariz., initiated a recall of 224 cases of whole cantaloupe after a routine sample testing by the state of Michigan revealed the presence of salmonella in cantaloupe sold at retail.

The products were distributed between Aug. 13-17 in Michigan, Missouri, Ohio, Texas and Virginia and were sold in retail supermarkets, according to the announcement.

The recalled cantaloupe features a red and white sticker with “Kandy” and UPC 4050, according to the FDA, which added that Eagle Produce did not recall any other product or lot codes.

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

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 07:37:40 GMT

Apples

YAKIMA VALLEY AND WENATCHEE DISTRICT WASHINGTON 2019 CROP — Shipments (1,146-1,149-992, Includes exports 261-265-269) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Active. 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 23.00-24.00, 80s 21.00-24.00, 88s mostly 19.00-20.00, 100s mostly 16.00-17.00, 113s mostly 14.00-16.00, 125s mostly 14.00-15.00; 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 and Fuji 2 1/2” minimum mostly 16.95-18.95; Gala and 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.

CHILE IMPORTS — PORT OF ENTRY PHILADELPHIA AREA 2020 CROP — Imports via Boat (45-40-67) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Moderate. 18 kg cartons tray pack Gala Marked Extra Fancy 70s-80s 26.00-28.00, 90s 24.00-26.00, 100s 20,00-22.00. FIRST REPORT.

NEW YORK 2019 CROP — Shipments (55-57-46) — Movement expected to seasonally decrease. Trading Moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. Fuji Cartons Tray Pack U.S. Extra Fancy 80s-88s mostly 26.00-27.00; McIntosh Cartons Tray Pack U.S. Extra Fancy 80s-88s mostly 27.00-28.00. 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; McIntosh U.S. Extra Fancy 2 1/2 inch minimum mostly 18.00-22.00; Empire U.S. Extra Fancy 2 1/2 inch minimum mostly 18.00-22.00.

MICHIGAN — Shipments (38-49*-36) — Movement expected to continue seasonal decline. Trading Moderate. Prices Unchanged. cartons 12 3-pound film bags U.S. Extra Fancy Gala mostly 18.00-20.00, Red Delicious mostly 17.00-19.00, Fuji mostly 19.00-21.00, Tray pack 88s Gala and Fuji 24.00-28.00, Red Delicious mostly 20.00-22.00. Supplies of Fuji light, others fairly light. (* revised)

NEW ENGLAND 2019 CROP — Shipments (3-4-2) — Movement expected to seasonally decrease. Too few open market sales to establish a market.

Apricots

SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (2-5*-5) — Movement expected to increase. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Lower. Carton 2 layer Various Varieties 64s mostly 20.95-22.95, 72s mostly 18.95-20.95, 84s mostly 16.95-18.95 Carton 3 layer 162s mostly 14.95-16.95. Primary variety Kylese. Extra services included. (* revised)

Avocados

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS 2019 CROP Crossings — (221-315-338) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading 32-48s fairly slow at higher prices, others fairly slow. Prices 32-48s higher, others lower. Cartons 2 layer Hass 32-36s mostly 40.25-42.25, 40s mostly 38.95-40.25, 48s mostly 38.25-40.25, 60s mostly 27.25-29.25, 70s mostly 21.25-22.25, 84s mostly 16.25-17.25. Extra services included.

SOUTH DISTRICT CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (153-171-U) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Conventional 40-48s and 70s higher, 32-36s, 60s and 84s lower, Organic generally unchanged. Carton 2 layer Hass 32-36s mostly 42.25-44.25, 40-48s mostly 40.25-42.25, 60s mostly 33.25-34.25, 70s mostly 21.25-23.25, 84s mostly 17.25-19.25. Carton 2 layer Hass ORGANIC 40s mostly 54.25-56.25, 48s mostly 56.25-57.25, 60s mostly 52.25, 70s mostly 38.25-40.25. Extra services included. (U = unavailable)

Blueberries

SOUTH AND CENTRAL DISTRICT CALIFORNIA Shipments — (54-71*-77, Shipments -*-) — Movement expected to increase. Trading early fairly slow, late slow. Prices Lower. Flats 12 1-pint cups with lids mostly 18.00-20.00. Flats 12 6-ounce cups with lids mostly 10.00-12.00. Cartons 8 18-ounce containers with lids mostly 20.00-22.00. ORGANIC flats 12 6-ounce cups with lids mostly 12.00-14.00. Quality variable. (* revised)

SOUTH GEORGIA 2020 CROP Shipments — (38-35-31) — Movement expected to remain about the same current week, decrease the following week as some hardest hit growers finish for the season. Trading Moderate. Prices ORGANIC pints higher, conventional lower. Flats 12 1-pint cups with lids large 16.00-18.00, ORGANIC 12 1-pint cups with lids medium large mostly 24.00-26.00, 6 ounce cups with lids medium-large 14.00-16.00. Quality variable.

EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA Shipments — (15-20-30) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Lower. Flats 12 1-pint cups with lids medium-large 18.00-22.00. Quality variable. Some present shipments include prior commitments. Includes palletizing and cooling.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH ARIZONA, CALIFORNIA AND TEXAS Crossings — (24-20*-15) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading Slow. Prices Generally Unchanged. Flats 12 6-oz cups with lids mostly 8.00-10.00. Quality and condition variable. (* revised)

Cantaloupes

GEORGIA — Shipments (0-2-22) — Movement expected to increase. Trading Active. Prices 24 inch bins Athena type 120s mostly 210.00-220.00, 150s 195.00, 180s 175.00. Includes palletizing and precooling. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (41-33-14) — Movement expected to decrease sharply as mostly shippers are finished for the season. Trading Slow. 1/2 cartons 9-12s supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. Quality variable. Lighter — Shipments expected to continue through June 13. LAST REPORT.

IMPERIAL AND PALO VERDE VALLEYS CALIFORNIA AND CENTRAL AND WESTERN ARIZONA — Shipments — (AZ 18-156-173) (CA 34-82-57) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Trading Moderate. Prices Lower. Oversized 1/2 cartons 9s (6 size) mostly 12.95-13.95. ½ cartons 6s 8.95, 9s mostly 12.95-13.95, 12s mostly 8.95. Quality generally good.

NORTH CAROLINA AND SOUTH CAROLINA Light — Shipments expected to start by week of June 14 with sufficient volume and number of shippers for first F.O.B. report by week of June 21.

Cherries

SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (326-327-220) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading Active. Prices Slightly Higher. 16 pound containers/bagged various red sweet varieties; 9 1/2 row size mostly 48.00-52.00, 10 row size mostly 45.00-48.00, 10 1/2 row size mostly 45.00-46.00, 11 row size mostly 44.00-45.00, 11 1/2 row size mostly 34.00-36.00, 12 row size 20.00-28.00. Extra services included. Wide range in quality. Some Shipments being booked at previously committed prices.

YAKIMA VALLEY AND WENATCHEE DISTRICT WASHINGTON — Harvest expected to begin in early areas the week of May 31. The first F.O.B. report is expected to be issued the week of June 21.

Grapes

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (87-200-400) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Trading early active, late moderate. Prices Perlette and Flame much lower, others lower. 18 pound containers bagged U.S. One large Perlette mostly 16.95-18.95, White Seedless 20.95-22.95, Flame mostly 22.95, Black Seedless mostly 18.95. Quality generally good.

COACHELLA VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (0-0-24) — Movement expected to increase. Sporadic harvesting has begun in the region. F.O.B. expected to begin on or around June 4th.

CHILE IMPORTS — PORT OF ENTRY LOS ANGELES AREA 2020 CROP Imports via Boat — (5-0-0) — 18 lb containers bagged Supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. LAST REPORT.

CHILE IMPORTS — PORT OF ENTRY PHILADELPHIA AREA 2020 CROP Imports via Boat — (20-5-0) — 18 lb containers bagged Supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. LAST REPORT.

Lemons

SOUTH AND CENTRAL DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments Moderate — Movement expected about the same. Trading Fairly Active. Prices Shippers First Grade 75-200s and Choice 75s, 140s, slightly higher, others generally unchanged. 7/10 bushel cartons Shippers First Grade 75s mostly 27.18-30.20, 95-115s mostly 29.18-32.20, 140s mostly 28.18-32.20, 165s mostly 25.18-27.20, 200s 24.18-27.20, 235s mostly 20.18-23.20; Shippers Choice 75s mostly 17.18-20.20, 95s mostly 19.18-22.20, 115s mostly 20.18-22.20, 140s mostly 21.18-25.20, 165-200s mostly 22.18-25.20, 235s mostly 19.18-21.20. ORGANIC 7/10 bushel Shippers First Grade 75s mostly 31.18-35.20, 95-115s mostly 45.18-49.20, 140s mostly 42.18-47.20; Shippers Choice 95-115s mostly 28.18-35.20, 140s 25.18-35.20.

Nectarines

CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (18-38*-51) — Movement expected to increase. Trading Fairly Slow. Various Yellow Varieties carton 2 layer 48-50s mostly 24.95-26.95, 54-56s mostly 20.95-23.95, 25 lb carton loose 60-64 size mostly 20.95, 70-72 size mostly 16.95-18.95. Various White Varieties carton 2 layer 48-50s mostly 24.95-26.95, 54-56s mostly 21.95-22.95, 25 lb carton loose 60-64 size 16-95-18.95, 70-72 size mostly 14.95-16.95. Primary Varieties See fire, Red Ryan and Polar Light. Extra services included. (* revised)

Oranges

FLORIDA — Shipments (90-84-78, Includes exports 0-3-2) — Prices not reported. — Shipments are for weeks ending May 2, May 9 and May 16 in that order.

SOUTH AND CENTRAL DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments Moderate — Movement expected to decrease slightly. Supplies Navel 113-138s light. Trading Active. Prices Higher. 7/10 bushel cartons Navel Shippers First Grade 40s 19.18-21.20, 48-56s 21.18-23.20, 72-88s mostly 24.18-27.20, 113-138s mostly 22.18-23.20; Shippers Choice 40s mostly 13.18-16.20, 48s mostly 16.18-18.20, 56s mostly 17.18-19.20, 72-113s mostly 18.18-20.20, 138s mostly 19.18-20.20. Valencia Shippers First Grade 48s mostly 17.18-21.20, 56s mostly 18.18-22.20, 72-88s mostly 21.18-25.20, 113-138s mostly 20.18-23.20; Shippers Choice 48s mostly 15.18-16.20, 56s mostly 15.18-17.20, 72s mostly 16.18-19.20, 88s mostly 17.18-19.20, 113s mostly 18.18-20.20, 138s mostly 19.18-20.20.

Peaches

CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (8-35*-56) — Movement expected to increase. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Lower. Various Yellow Varieties Cartons 2 layer tray pack 54-56s mostly 18.95-20.95, 25 lb carton loose 60-64 size mostly 14.95-16.95, 70-72 size mostly 10.95-13.95. Various White Flesh Varieties 25 lb carton loose 60-64 size 16.95-18.95, 70-72 size 8.95-10.96. Extra services included. Primary yellow flesh varieties Mat Princess and Krista. (* revised)

SOUTH CAROLINA 2020 CROP — Shipments (18-53-54) — Movement expected to remain about the same as new varieties start to come in. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Lower. 1/2 bushel cartons Various Yellow Flesh varieties 2 3/4 inch minimum 20.85-22.85 2 1/2 inch min 16.85-18.85 and 2 1/4 inch min 10.85-12.85. Some (all sizes) shipped with price to be determined later. Varieties include: Ruby Prince, June Prince, MayLady, Crimson Lady and Gold Prince. Quality generally good.

Raspberries

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH ARIZONA, CALIFORNIA AND TEXAS — Crossings (42-36*-24) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading early moderate, late slow. Prices Generally Unchanged. Flats 12 6-ounce cups with lids mostly 18.00. Quality generally good. Most present shipments from prior bookings and/or previous commitments. (* revised)

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (5-10-16) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Trading early moderate, late fairly slow. Prices Generally Unchanged. Flats 12 6-ounce cups with lids mostly 18.00-20.00. Quality generally good. Most present shipments from prior bookings and/or previous commitments.

Strawberries

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (296-307-390) — Movement expected to increase slightly. Trading Very Slow. Prices Conventional lower, Organic generally unchanged. Flats 8 1-lb containers with lids large-extra large mostly 6.00-7.00. Quality variable. ORGANIC flats 8 1-pound containers with lids large-extra large mostly 9.00-10.00. Some sales booked open with price to be established later.

SANTA MARIA DISTRICT — Shipments (361-358-314) — Movement expected to decrease. Trading Very Slow. Prices Conventional lower, Organic slightly lower. Flats 8 1-pound containers with lids medium large mostly 6.00. ORGANIC Flats 1-pound containers with lids medium-large mostly 8.00-10.00. Quality and condition variable. Some berries being diverted to freezer and/or processor. Some sales booked open with price to be established later.

EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA — Shipments (6-4-2) — Movement expected to continue decreasing as most shippers are finished for the season. Supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. LAST REPORT.

Watermelons

FLORIDA — Shipments (1,204-1,186-869, Seeded 54-83-48; Seedless 1150-1103-821) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Red Flesh Seeded Active, Red Flesh Seedless Very Active. Prices Red Flesh Seeded Lower, Red Flesh Seedless Higher. 24 inch bins. Red Flesh Seeded type 35s 119.00; Seedless type 36s 154.00-168.00, 45s 154.00-168.00, 60s 154.00-168.00. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (881-680-615) — Movement expected about the same. Trading approximately 35-60 counts active at slightly lower prices, others moderate. Prices approximately 35-60 counts slightly lower, others generally unchanged. Red Flesh Seedless type 24 inch bins approximately 35-45 counts mostly 140.00-147.00, approximately 60 count mostly 140.00. Miniature cartons 6s 11.95-12.95, 8-9s mostly 13.95-14.95, 11s mostly 9.95-10.95. Quality variable.

LOWER RIO GRANDE VALLEY, TEXAS — Shipments (361-533*-212) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Trading very active. Prices generally unchanged. Red Flesh Seedless type 24 inch bins per pound approximately 35 mostly .23-.24, approximately 45 count mostly .24, approximately 60 count mostly .22. Quality generally good. Harvest curtailed by rain and wet fields May 22-25 and May 28-31. (*revised)

GEORGIA — Shipments (0-0-0) — Light harvest expected to start current week. Expect sufficient volume for first F.O.B. within 14 days.

IMPERIAL AND COACHELLA VALLEYS CALIFORNIA AND WESTERN ARIZONA — Shipments (AZ 11-47-70, CA 13-51-55) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Trading Very Active. Prices approximately 35-60 counts higher, others generally unchanged. 24 inch bins Red Flesh Seedless type approximately 35 count mostly 168.00, approximately 45 count mostly 168.00-182.00, approximately 60 count mostly 168.00-175.00. ORGANIC 24 inch bins Red Flesh Seedless type approximately 35-60 counts mostly 245.00, Seeded type approximately 35-60 counts 150.00-175.00. Quality generally good.

SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA — Harvest expected to begin the week of June 21. Quality expected to be generally good. FIRST REPORT

SOUTH CAROLINA — Light Shipments expected to begin week of May 31 with sufficient volume and number of shippers for first F.O.B. report by week of June 14.

California melon marketer expands exports with AgroFresh

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 06:36:44 GMT

Blythe, Calif.-based Fisher Ranch has expanded melon exports by extending the commodity’s storage window with the use of SmartFresh.

Philadelphia-based AgroFresh Solutions Inc. partnered with Fisher Ranch to provide SmartFresh SmartTabs on cantaloupes and Golden Dewlicious honeydew melons, according to a news release. AgroFresh’s post-harvest solution enables the melons to ripen on the vine, allowing the fruit to retain firmness and sugar content despite longer transit time.

SmartFresh SmartTabs have been proven to help control skin disorders on melons for 26 days in cold storage, according to the release.

“After the successful completion of our commercial trials last year, SmartFresh enabled us to deliver great-tasting, aromatic, high quality melons to global markets, which was a new achievement for us,” Mike Farrage, sales manager at Fisher Ranch, said in the release. “With this success in mind, we’ve increased our export volume this year and we’ll now apply SmartFresh to our entire shipment of export melons.”

SmartFresh technology uses 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) to control the ripening process to improve freshness. SmartTabs are designed for use in transport containers or small storage rooms, according to the release.

“We’re excited to help our customers optimize the quality of their fresh produce and grow their business, at potentially higher margins, in distant markets that they otherwise could not access,” AgroFresh commercial development manager Fernando Edagi said in the release. “We’re thrilled to help growers such as Fisher Ranch deliver melons that provide a great eating experience with consistently high quality, flavor, sweetness and firmness.”

The Packer’s Coverage of Produce Tech

The Packer’s Melon Coverage

Brian Faseler returns to Legend Produce in sales

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 06:44:34 GMT

Melon grower and marketer Legend Produce , Scottsdale, Ariz., has hired Brian Faseler as a sales associate.

He previously worked at Custom Pak, a Lipman Family Farms division, where he specialized in its melon program for more than 12 years. He started his career at Legend Produce, according to a news release.

Faselar will support the company’s expansion plans, and will immediately be involved in the transition from Central California production to the desert for the fall domestic crop.

“He brings a wealth of experience in marketing melons and we couldn’t be more excited to have him back as part of the Legend family,” Barry Zwillinger, co-founder of Legend Produce, said in the release. “His experience and values align perfectly with our mission.”

Related story:

COVID upends equilibrium of produce sales in Southwest marketplace

Meijer recalls fresh-cut, whole cantaloupe after salmonella test

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 07:35:32 GMT

Meijer is recalling whole and fresh-cut cantaloupe products after a sampling program in Michigan detected salmonella.

The fruit was supplied by Eagle Produce LLC , doing business as Martori Farms, Aguila, Ariz., according to a news release from Meijer. The products were sold between Sept. 26 and Oct. 5 in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky and Wisconsin.

No illnesses have been reported in connection with the recall, according to the release.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development reported the positive test during a routine sampling program.

The whole cantaloupes are labelled with a Kandy Brand sticker from Eagle Produce, according to the release. If a whole cantaloupe from Meijer doesn’t have a label and was purchased Sept. 26-Oct. 5, it should be considered part of the recall, according to the retailer.

The 26 products include fresh-cut cantaloupe, some with other fruit, in a variety of clear plastic packaging under the Meijer brand, along with three items from Meijer gas stations. The list is on Meijer’s website .

BASF acquires melon breeder ASL

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 06:51:23 GMT

On Wednesday, October 28, 2020 BASF has formally agreed to acquire ASL, one of the most innovative melon breeding companies in the world, to continue expanding its position as a preferred partner in the fruit and vegetable value chain.

The transaction with the privately-owned French company based near Avignon, covers all assets, including seed production, intellectual property rights, germplasm, research and development facilities as well as staff.

ASL is specialized in orange flesh type melons, such as the Cantaloup and Charentais types. To guarantee an efficient know-how transfer it is planned to close the acquisition on January 1, 2023. The owners’ decision to pursue the divestment of their company to their long-term partner, BASF, will secure the continuation of the most innovative melon breeding program.

“For the global vegetable seeds industry, melon is an important crop. BASF’s vegetable seeds portfolio marketed under the Nunhems® brand already covers hybrid melon seeds,” said Vicente Navarro, Senior Vice President of BASF’s vegetable seeds business. “By acquiring ASL, we continue offering a highly Page 2 P343/20e innovative melon pipeline to our value chain partners and consumers. They are the ultimate motive of all our business activities and the reason why we want to make healthy eating enjoyable and sustainable by breeding new varieties that meet their expectations in taste and convenience.”

The seed production and breeding facilities near Avignon will complement BASF’s existing network of 23 breeding stations for vegetable seeds worldwide and will be the first station for R&D activities, such as breeding and screening, located in France.
Financial details of the transaction are not disclosed.

Salt on the watermelon

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 06:05:02 GMT

A couple of weeks ago, somebody in a Facebook group I’m part of shared an article on the proper (and Southern) way to eat watermelon — with salt. The post garnered 50+ comments from folks all around the country, many of whom loved salting their watermelon ... and many who said they “couldn’t stand it.”

As someone who perks up at any sign of a produce controversy, I was intrigued.

I knew that salting certain fruits was a norm for some people in my family — as kids my mom and her siblings salted luscious wedges of black diamond watermelon and put salt and pepper on cantaloupe , and my grandma has been known to salt grapefruit — but the salt shaker never comes out when it’s watermelon time at our house, so I’d never had this taste experience myself.

But, I thought, maybe my family and Facebook friends are the weird outliers on this issue and other people don’t eat their watermelon this way. So I posed the question to my LinkedIn followers: Do you salt your melon? Watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew , or any other variety? Do any of your family or friends?

I was surprised at the number of responses that quickly rolled in.

“Grew up eating watermelon with salt thanks to my Grandpa!” one produce industry member said. “My mom and dad sprinkle salt on their watermelon too ... isn’t that normal?!?”

Well, I guess it is.

“My wife and boys are from Colombia; they salt much of their fruit. Mangoes, watermelons for sure,” someone else said.

“Always salt my melons and oranges,” another replied.

“I had a co-worker who was from Georgia and she salted EVERY piece of fruit,” a former colleague shared. “Peaches, plums ... would even salt lemons and eat them whole (without the peels).”

OK, produce industry folks must know what they’re doing, right? I decided to try this taste sensation for myself ... and I roped Produce Retailer editor Ashley Nickle into trying it with me for an episode of Millennials Eat.

You can watch our reactions for yourself on video here , but I have to say that salted watermelon was a lot more delicious than I’d expected, and it didn’t really even taste salty, as I’d feared it might. The important point, of course, is to not go overboard with the salt — it’s just meant to enhance the flavor and bring out the juicyness of the fruit.

The next day I had two slices of cantaloupe with breakfast — I salted one and put salt and pepper on the other, like my mom did. Again, the salt seemed to heighten the natural sweetness of the melon. The pepper, though, didn’t add much. Maybe I’ll try a little more next time.

Another way many of my LinkedIn commenters said they ate their fruit was with chili-lime seasoning. Ashley and I wanted to compare this topping to the plain salt version, but as I wasn’t able to find any in my store, I guess we’ll save that for another episode.

Until then, I might be the newest convert to melon salting.

Amelia Freidline is The Packer’s designer and copy chief. E-mail her at afreidline@farmjournal.com .

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Tomatoes: Fruit or vegetable?
A yam by any other name (is still not a sweet potato)
Behold, the beloved cranberry

Marketscope — Fruit f.o.b.s as of July 6

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 06:40:18 GMT

What the numbers mean

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. = June 20; 2nd no. = June 27; 3rd no. = July 4. Expected movement is for July 5-18. F.o.b. prices are as of July 6.

Apples

YAKIMA VALLEY AND WENATCHEE DISTRICT WASHINGTON 2019 CROP — Shipments (1,034-953-935, Includes exports 265-248-233) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Fairly Active. 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 mostly 18.00-20.00, 100s mostly 17.00-19.00, 113-125s mostly 16.00-18.00; Gala 64-72s mostly 21.00-24.00, 80s 22.00-24.00, 88s mostly 19.00-20.00, 100s mostly 15.00-17.00, 113s mostly 14.00-16.00, 125s mostly 14.00-15.00; Honeycrisp 56s mostly 30.00-36.90, 64s mostly 34.00-40.90, 72-80s 36.00-42.90, 88s mostly 34.00-40.90, 100s mostly 32.00-38.90. Cartons 12 3-pound film bags Red Delicious Washington Extra Fancy 2 1/2" minimum mostly 15.95-17.95; Golden Delicious 2 1/2" minimum mostly 16.95-18.95; Fuji 2 1/2" minimum mostly 16.95-19.95; Granny Smith 1/2" minimum mostly 18.95-20.95; Gala 2 1/2" minimum mostly 17.95-19.95; Honeycrisp 2 1/2" minimum mostly 30.95-34.95. ORGANIC cartons tray pack Gala Washington Extra Fancy 64s mostly 22.00-26.00, 72s mostly 20.00-26.00, 80s mostly 22.00-26.00, 88s mostly 20.00-24.00, 100s mostly 20.00-22.00; cartons 12 3-pound film bags Gala 2 1/2" minimum mostly 20.95-24.95.

CHILE IMPORTS — PORT OF ENTRY PHILADELPHIA AREA 2020 CROP — Imports via Boat (104-32*-62) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading Moderate. Prices Unchanged. 18 kg cartons tray pack Gala Marked Extra Fancy 70s 26.00-28.00, 80s mostly 26.00, 90s mostly 24.00, 100s 20,00-22.00. (*revised)

NEW YORK 2019 CROP — Shipments (36-23-20) — Movement expected to seasonally decrease. Too few open market sales to establish a market.

Apricots

YAKIMA VALLEY AND WENATCHEE DISTRICT WASHINGTON — Shipments (1-3-9) — Movement expected about the same. Supplies light. Trading Fairly Active. Prices cartons 2 layer tray pack 60-64s mostly 32.95-34.95, 70-72s mostly 30.95-32.95, 80-84s mostly 28.95-30.95. 24 lb cartons loose 1 7/8" min 28.95-30.95. Varieties include Rival, Robada, Perfection, Tomcot, Goldbar, Goldstrike, Patterson, and Riland. Quality generally good.

SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (5-4*-#) — Movement expected to decrease. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Generally Unchanged. Carton 2 layer Various Varieties 64s mostly 20.95-22.95, 72s mostly 18.95-20.95, 84s mostly 16.95-18.95 Carton 3 layer 162s mostly 16.95-18.95. Primary variety Kylese. Extra services included. (* revised, # less than 50,000 lbs)

Avocados

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS 2019 CROP — Crossings (413-365-273) — Movement expected to decrease slightly. Trading Slow. Prices 32-48s lower, others generally unchanged. Cartons 2 layer Hass 32-36s mostly 28.25-30.25, 40-48s mostly 28.25-30.25, 60s mostly 26.25-28.25, 70s mostly 24.25-25.25, 84s mostly 20.25-21.25. Extra services included.

PERU IMPORTS — PORTS OF ENTRY PHILADELPHIA AREA AND NEW YORK CITY AREA 2020 CROP — Imports via Boat (24*-82*-38) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Lower. Cartons 2 layer Hass 32s-36s mostly 22.00-24.00, 40s 25.00-26.00, 48s mostly 26.00. (* revised)

FLORIDA SOUTH DISTRICT — Shipments (7*-12*-14) — Movement expected to increase. Trading Active. Prices Lower. Various Green Skin Varieties, mainly Donnie and Simmonds; few Arue; Cartons one layer 9-12s 10.00-11.00; Cartons two layers 18-24s- 18.00-20.00. (*revised)

SOUTH DISTRICT CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (143-153-U) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Conventional 32-40s and 84s lower, others generally unchanged. Carton 2 layer Hass 32-36s mostly 38.25-40.25, 40s mostly 38.25-40.25, 48s mostly 38.25-40.25, 60s mostly 34.25-36.25, 70s mostly 26.25-28.25, 84s mostly 20.25-21.25. Carton 2 layer Hass ORGANIC 40s mostly 53.25-56.25, 48s mostly 58.25-60.25, 60s mostly 52.25-54.24, 70s mostly 40.25-42.25. Extra services included. (U =unavailable)

Blueberries

SOUTH NEW JERSEY 2020 CROP — Shipments (26-96*-91) — Movement expected to decrease slightly. Trading Very Active. Prices Slightly Lower. Flats 12 1-pint cups with lids large mostly 21.00-22.00, ORGANIC flats 12 6-ounce cups with lids 18.00-20.50. Quality good. (*revised)

OREGON AND WASHINGTON — Shipments (7-39-66) — Movement expected about the same. Trading active at lower prices. Prices Lower. Wide range in prices. Includes palletizing and cooling. Some present Shipments represent previous commitments and/or prior bookings. Mostly Duke variety. Prices flats 12 1-pints cups with lids medium-large mostly 20.00-22.00. Flats 12 6-ounce cups with lids medium-large 12.00-14.00. ORGANIC flats 12 1-pints cups with lids medium-large mostly 26.00-30.00. Flats 12 6-ounce cups with lids medium-large 17.50-20.50. Quality good.

SOUTH AND CENTRAL DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments (28-6-6) — Movement expected to decrease sharply. Supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. Quality and condition variable. Light and sporadic Shipments expected to continue through July 10. LAST REPORT.

MICHIGAN — Shipments (0-0-1) — Movement expected to increase. Expect first FOB Shipping Point prices within the period.

BRITISH COLUMBIA CANADA CROSSINGS THROUGH NORTHWEST WASHINGTON — Harvest expected to begin the week of July 5. Movement expected to increase the week of July 12 as additional growers begin. The first F.O.B. report is expected to be issued by July 15. Quality and condition expected to be generally good. FIRST REPORT.

Cantaloupes

GEORGIA — Shipments (101-99-89) — Movement expected to decrease as some shippers finish the season. Supply light. Too few new sales to establish a market.

SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA — Shipments (0-13-85) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Trading Moderate. Prices ½ cartons 9s mostly 12.95, 12s mostly 12.95-13.95; ORGANIC 9-12s mostly 16.95. Oversized 1/2 cartons 9s (6 size) mostly 12.95. Quality generally good. FIRST REPORT.

NORTH CAROLINA AND SOUTH CAROLINA — Shipments (1-11-20) — Very light shipments have begun. Expect sufficient volume and number of shippers for first F.O.B. report within 7-10 days.

SOUTHWEST INDIANA AND SOUTHEAST ILLINOIS — Shipments (0-0-5) — Light Shipments have begun. Expect sufficient volume and number of shippers for first F.O.B. report within 7-10 days.

IMPERIAL AND PALO VERDE VALLEYS CALIFORNIA AND CENTRAL AND WESTERN ARIZONA — Shipments (AZ 189-142-93, CA 68-76-74) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading Moderate. Prices Lower. 1/2 cartons 6-9s mostly 12.95. Oversized 1/2 cartons 6s (5 size) mostly 11.95-12.95, 9s (6 size) mostly 12.95. Quality generally good.

Cherries

YAKIMA VALLEY AND WENATCHEE DISTRICT WASHINGTON — Shipments (418-745-454) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Very Active. Prices Generally Unchanged. Most present — Shipments from previous commitments and/or prior bookings. 15 pound cartons bagged Rainier Washington One 9 1/2 row size mostly 70.95-75.95, 10 row size mostly 65.95-70.95, 10 1/2 row size mostly 55.95-60.95. 18 pound cartons bagged and cartons 8 2.25-pound film bags Various Red Sweet Varieties Washington One 9 1/2 row size mostly 60.95-70.95, 10 row size mostly 55.95-60.95, 10 1/2 row size 45.95-55.95, 11 row size mostly 35.95-45.95, 11 1/2 row size mostly 35.95-40.95, 12 row sz 30.95-35.95.

Grapes

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (647*-490*-182) — Movement expected to decrease sharply. Trading Flame and Red Globe fairly slow, others moderate. Prices Red Globe lower, others slightly lower. 18 pound containers bagged U.S. One Sugraone large mostly 12.95-14.95, Flame large mostly 10.95-12.95, Red Seedless and Sweet Celebration large mostly 16.95. 18 pound containers bagged Red Globe large mostly 14.95, medium-large mostly 12.95. Quality generally good. (* revised)

COACHELLA VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (84-69-69) — Movement expected to decrease. Trading Active at lower prices. Prices Slightly Lower. 18 pound containers bagged U.S.One White Seedless large mostly 20.95-22.95; Flame Seedless large 18.95-20.95. Extra services included. Most shipments being booked at previously committed prices. Very few spot market sales.

KERN DISTRICT CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (0-0-0) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Very light harvesting has begun in the district. F.O.B. expected to begin on or around July 20th. FIRST REPORT.

Lemons

SOUTH AND CENTRAL DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments Moderate — Movement expected about the same. Supplies Fancy fairly light. Trading Active. Prices Generally Unchanged. 7/10 bushel cartons Shippers First Grade 75s mostly 31.18-34.20, 95s mostly 36.18-39.20, 115s mostly 35.18-39.20, 140s mostly 34.18-38.20, 165s mostly 30.18-32.20, 200s mostly 29.18-32.20, 235s mostly 26.18-28.20; Shippers Choice 75s mostly 18.18-22.20, 95-115s 23.18-25.20, 140s mostly 25.18-26.20, 165s mostly 25.18-27.20, 200s mostly 24.18-26.20, 235s mostly 22.18-24.20. ORGANIC 7/10 bushel Shippers First Grade 75s mostly 42.18-45.20, 95-115s mostly 52.18-56.20, 140s mostly 51.18-56.20; Shippers Choice 95-115s mostly 28.18-35.20, 140s 25.18-35.20.

Limes

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (277-239*-262) — Movement expected to increase slightly. Trading early fairly active, late moderate. Prices 110-150s slightly lower, others generally unchanged. 40 pound cartons Seedless type 110-150s mostly 10.00-11.00, 175s mostly 9.00-10.00, 200s mostly 8.00-9.00, 230s mostly 7.00-8.00, 250s mostly 6.50-7.50. Quality variable. (* revised)

Mangoes

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (238-208*-231) — Movement expected about the same. Crossings include light supplies of Hadens. Trading Moderate. Prices Ataulfo 12-14s slightly higher, others generally unchanged. Cartons 1 layer Tommy Atkins 6s 3.75-4.25, 7s 4.00-4.25, 8s mostly 3.75-4.00, 9s mostly 3.00-3.50, 10s mostly 2.75-3.00, 12s mostly 2.50-2.75; Kent 6s 3.75-4.25, 7-8s 3.75 4.00, Ataulfo 12s mostly 8.00-8.50, 14s mostly 7.50-8.00, 16s mostly 5.50-6.50, 18s 4.00-5.00, 20s 3.50-4.50, 22s 3.50-4.00. Quality variable. (*revised)

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (98-92*-99) — Movement expected about the same. Volume includes light crossings of Keitt variety. Trading early fairly slow, late moderate. Prices Kent, Tommy Atkins 10-12s and Ataulfo 14s slightly higher, Ataulfo 16s generally unchanged, others lower. Cartons 1 layer Kent 6-8s mostly 4.25, 9s mostly 3.75, 10s mostly 3.25-3.50, 12s 3.25; Tommy Atkins 6-7s mostly 4.00, 8s mostly 3.75-4.00, 9s mostly 3.50-3.75, 10s mostly 3.25-3.50, 12s mostly 3.25; Ataulfo 14s mostly 6.50-7.00, 16s mostly 6.00, 18s mostly 4.00-4.25, 20-22s mostly 3.50 4.00. Quality Variable. (* revised)

CARIBBEAN IMPORTS — PORTS OF ENTRY SOUTH FLORIDA Imports via Boat (16-24*-24) — Movement expected to decrease. Trading Fairly Active. Prices Generally Unchanged. From Haiti. Flats 1 layer Francis (Francine) 8-11s mostly 8.00-9.00;12s mostly 8.00. (* revised)

Nectarines

CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (71-90*-84) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Generally Unchanged. Various Yellow Varieties carton 2 layer 54-56s mostly 16.95-18.95, 25 lb carton loose 60-64 size mostly 12.95-14.95, 70-72 size mostly 11.95-13.95. Various White Varieties carton 2 layer 48-50s mostly 18.95-
20.95, 54-56s mostly 16.95-18.95, 25 lb carton loose 60-64 size 15.95-16.95, 70-72 size mostly 13.95-14.95. Primary Varieties See fire, Red Ryan and Polar Light. Extra services included. (* revised)

Oranges

FLORIDA — Shipments (36-34-29, Includes exports 1-0-0) — Prices not reported. — Shipments are for weeks ending June 6, June 13 and June 20 in that order.

SOUTH AFRICA IMPORTS — PORT OF ENTRY PHILADELPHIA AREA 2020 CROP — Imports via Boat (0-0-0) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Unchanged. 15 kg cartons Navel 40s-56s 24.00-26.00, 64s mostly 24.00, 72s-88s mostly 22.00.

SOUTH AND CENTRAL DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments Moderate — Movement of Valencia expected about the same. Trading Fairly Active. Prices Generally Unchanged. 7/10 bushel cartons Valencia Shippers First Grade 48-56s mostly 19.18-22.20, 72s mostly 21.18-25.20, 88s mostly 22.18-26.20, 113-138s mostly 21.18-24.20; Shippers Choice 48-56s mostly 16.18-18.20, 72s mostly 17.18-19.20, 88s mostly 18.18-19.20, 113-138s 18.18-20.20. ORGANIC 7/10 bushel cartons Valencia Shippers First Grade 56-88s mostly 24.18-28.20, 113s mostly 22.18-26.20. Navel supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market.

Peaches

CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (90-111*-105) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Various Yellow Flesh 25 lb carton loose higher, others generally unchanged. Various Yellow Varieties Cartons 2 layer tray pack 48-50s mostly 18.95-20.95, 54-56s mostly 15.95-16.95, 25 lb carton loose 60-64 size mostly 13.95-15.95. Various White Flesh Varieties 25 lb carton loose 54-56 size mostly 14.95-16.95, 60-64 size 13.95-15.95, 70-72 size 9.95-11.96. Extra services included. Primary yellow flesh varieties Mat Princess and Krista. (*revised)

SOUTH CAROLINA 2020 CROP — Shipments (74-89-90) — Movement expected to remain about the same Trading Moderate. Prices Unchanged. 1/2 bushel cartons Various Yellow Flesh varieties 2 3/4 inch minimum mostly 18.85, 2 1/2 inch min mostly 15.85 (some shipped with price to be determined later) and 2 1/4 inch min mostly 10.85. Varieties include July Prince, Scarlet Prince, Red Top. Quality generally good.

SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY 2020 CROP — Shipments (0-0-1) — Movement expected to increase. Trading fairly active for light supplies. Various Yellow Flesh Varieties mostly Sentry and Glenglo 1/2 bushel cartons 2 3/4 inch and up $20.85-22.85.

Plums

CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (30-43-51) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. Black Splendor 28 lb carton loose 30-35 size mostly 30.95-32.95, 40-45 size mostly 30.95, 50-55 size mostly 22.95-24.95, 60-65 size mostly 22.95. Extra services included.

Raspberries

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (42-33-29) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Fairly Active. Prices Generally Unchanged. Flats 12 6-ounce cups with lids mostly 12.00-14.00. Quality generally good.

Strawberries

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (390-334-322) — Movement about the same. Trading early very active, late active. Prices Generally Unchanged. Flats 8 1-lb containers with lids medium mostly 12.00-14.00. Quality variable. ORGANIC flats 8 1-pound containers with lids medium mostly 14.00. Most present — Shipments from prior bookings and/or previous commitments.
SANTA MARIA DISTRICT — Shipments (163-144-134) — Movement expected to decrease. Trading early very active, late active. Prices Generally Unchanged. Flats 8 1-pound containers with lids small-medium mostly 12.00-14.00. ORGANIC Flats 1-pound containers with lids small-medium mostly 14.00. Quality and condition variable. Most present shipments from prior bookings and/or previous commitments. Some berries being diverted to freezer and/or processor.

Watermelons

GEORGIA — Shipments (1,005-1,713-1,820) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Red Flesh Seeded (46-102-90; Red Flesh Seedless 959-1611-1730) Trading Very Active. Prices Higher. Red Flesh Seeded 35s 105.00; Red Flesh Seedless 36s 161.00-168.00, 45s 161.00-168.00, 60s 161.00-168.00. Quality generally good.

SOUTH CAROLINA — Shipments (57-154-207 Seeded -4-11-10; Seedless 53-143-197) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Exceeds Supply. Prices 60s About Steady, Others Slightly Higher. Red Flesh Seedless 36s mostly 161.00, 45s mostly 161.00-168.00, 60s 154.00-161.00. Quality generally good.

SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA — Shipments (100-164-205) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Seedless 35-60 counts active at slightly lower prices, others active. Prices Seedless 35-60 counts slightly lower, others generally unchanged. 24 inch bins Red Flesh Seedless type approximately 35 count mostly 168.00, approximately 45-60 counts mostly 168.00-175.00; ORGANIC approximately 35-60 counts mostly 245.00; Red Flesh Seeded type approximately 35-45 counts mostly 126.00-140.00; ORGANIC approximately 35-45 counts mostly 200.00. ORGANIC cartons Red Seedless type Miniature 6 9s mostly 17.95-18.95. Quality generally good.

LOWER RIO GRANDE VALLEY, TEXAS — Shipments (288-270-175) — Movement expected to increase. Trading Active. Prices 60 count generally unchanged, others slightly higher. Red Flesh Seedless type 24 inch bins per pound approximately 35 and 45 counts mostly .25-.26, approximately 60 count mostly .21-.22. Quality generally good.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI — Shipments (0-0-28, Seeded 0-0-0; Seedless 0-0-28) — Light harvest has begun. Expect significant number of growers for first F.O.B. within 10 day.

SOUTHWEST INDIANA AND SOUTHEAST ILLINOIS — Shipments (0-0-15, Seeded 0-0-7; Seedless 0-0-8) Light harvest has begun and expected to continue for the next 14 days. Expect significant number of growers for first F.O.B. within 21 days.

DELAWARE, MARYLAND AND EASTERN SHORE VIRGINIA Light — Shipments are expected to begin by week of July 12 with sufficient volume and number of shippers for first F.O.B. report by week of July 19.

IMPERIAL VALLEY CALIFORNIA AND CENTRAL AND WESTERN ARIZONA — Shipments (AZ 230-239-136, CA 19-42-43) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading active at slightly lower prices. Prices Slightly Lower. 24 inch bins Red Flesh Seedless type approximately 35 count mostly 168.00, approximately 45-60 counts mostly 168.00-175.00. Quality generally good.

NORTH CAROLINA — Light shipments are expected to begin by week of June 28 with sufficient volume and number of shippers for first F.O.B. report within 7-10 days.

Marketscope — Fruit f.o.b.s as of July 6

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 06:40:14 GMT

What the numbers mean

Apples

Apricots

Avocados

Blueberries

Cantaloupes

Cherries

Grapes

Lemons

Limes

Mangoes

Nectarines

Oranges

Peaches

Plums

Raspberries

Strawberries

Watermelons

Ayco Farms prepares for offshore melon season

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 07:35:32 GMT

Ayco Farms Inc. , Pompano Beach, Fla., is starting its 15th offshore melon season in November.

The company imports large seedless watermelons , MiniMe branded personal-sized seedless watermelon, cantaloupe , honeydews and two specialty melons that it had discontinued growing, galia and juan canary .

“With overwhelming positive feedback and demand from our customers, we have decided to integrate these flavorful varieties into our production again,” Ben Nir, who is on the sales team, said in a news release.

“Within these 15 years of growing, shipping and packing, Ayco has faced many challenges that as a team they have overcome, but none have been as challenging as the ongoing and unpredictable effects of COVID-19,” according to a news release from the company.

Ayco Farms has implemented changes in packinghouses to ensure employees maintain safe distances, with increased sanitation at both facilities.

“I am so proud of my team on how they are handling things at our farms post-COVID,” President Avi Nir said in the release. “Our managers and our employees have worked hard to make our farms as safe as possible.”

Related story:

Ayco Farms introduce asparagus bag as pandemic changes norms

Companies help out during COVID-19 pandemic

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 20:00:04 GMT

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect industry companies in different ways, and they are responding with everything from donations to frontline employees to rolling out plans to keep employees safe.

Recent news from the industry include the following stories.

California Table Grape Commission

The California Table Grape Commission , Fresno, is promoting grapes ’ nutritional value and immunity-boosting qualities as the pandemic places a greater focus on the health properties of food.

According to a news release from the association, research has shown grapes’ benefits to the brain, heart and colon, and two professors at Tufts University’s Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy have written a paper showing that diets with grapes and other fresh produce can help “flatten the COVID-19 curve. ”

The paper was written by Dariush Mozaffarian, dean of the Friedman School, Simin Nikbin Meydani, a professor at the school, and former U.S. Agriculture Secretary Dan Glickman.

Other media have highlighted grapes’ health attributes: a Good Housekeeping article, “10 Health Benefits of Grapes That’ll Make You Want to Eat the Whole Bunch,” highlights how grapes regulate blood pressure, lower the risk of diabetes and can help with weight loss. A Men’s Health article,

“Feast Upon the 100 Best Foods For Men,” highlights the antioxidant power of grapes to help fight disease, according to the release.

Divine Flavor

Divine Flavor Repackers, which is affiliated with Divine Flavor LLC ., reports that employees have tested positive for COVID-19, but the company acted quickly and sent all employees, including management, to health clinics to be tested.

The company paid for the tests and asked employees who worked near the employees who tested positive to self-quarantine, even if they were negative for the disease, according to a news release.

The company “has been on a mission to be an example for how to respond” for when employees test positive, according to a news release.

“As a company, our employees are always the number-one priority,” Jose Antonio Martinez, general manager of Divine Flavor, said in the release. “Because we took swift action with all of our employees, this allowed us to verify no other departments were affected by this situation.”

The company had already adopted preventive measures, including temperature screenings, increased sanitation and stay-at-home guidelines for employees with COVID-like symptoms.

“Starting at the very beginning of this pandemic, our company has implemented very stringent measures all designed to protect our workers the best ways possible,” Sergio Cienfuegos, warehouse manager, said in the release.

The company has been in contact with local health agencies.

They are fully aware of our COVID-19 protocols and actions, and have recognized them as being thorough and consistent with the recommended guidelines,” Martinez said in the release.

According to Nolages Internatonal , four employees at the company tested positive.

The Fibre Box Association

The Fibre Box Association , Itasca, Ill., which represents corrugated cardboard box manufacturers, has created a video to thank the industry’s essential workers .

There are 1,183 box plants in the U.S., according to a news release from the association, employing more than 100,000 people.

“FBA salutes the front-line employees of the corrugated industry,” according to the release. “The association is grateful for the dedication and commitment of corrugated industry companies, their employees and suppliers, for making corrugated packaging. FBA extends a thank you for the work the industry is doing to keep the supply chain moving.”

Disruption in the availability of the goods that are shipped in corrugated cardboard would cause “significant hardship to consumers across the country,” according to the Fibre Box Association. Close to 40% of all corrugated packaging each year is used to package food and beverages, according to the release.

Hy-Vee/Sol Group

Hy-Vee , in partnership with melon supplier Sol Group , is donating more than 1,200 cantaloupes to Just Food, a Lawrence, Kan., food bank.

On May 15, the retailer delivered two pallets of cantaloupes to the food bank.

“Hy-Vee has always been about giving back to the communities they serve,” Adam Lazo, head of sales for Sol Group Marketing, said in a news release. “We want to make sure we are doing everything we can to help them take care of those in need.”

The donation is part of a series of donations Hy-Vee and Sol Group are making to food banks in the retailer’s eight-state region.

“We are extremely grateful for Sol Group’s partnership in helping us care for our communities during this difficult time,” Tina Potthoff, Hy-Vee’s senior vice president of communications, said in the release. “We are committed to helping our local food banks and hope this donation will provide some relief for them and our communities.”

Olive Hill Greenhouses

Fallbrook, Calif.-based Olive Hill Greenhouses is donating thousands of plants to first responders and others on the front line of in the health care field contending with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Olive Hill Greenhouses, a multi-generation family owned company, is working with Irvine-based Plantscapers Inc. to provide flowering plants to health care workers in Southern California communities. The company has donated of thousands of bromeliads, a slow-growing and long-lived house plant.

“We can see how much this pandemic is affecting our neighbors and our state, and we want to help as much as we can,” Denise Godfrey, with Olive Hill Greenhouses, said in a news release. “While we know that first responders are incredibly absorbed in this crisis and caring for people, it’s just as important for us to take care of our community members struggling emotionally at this time, as well as help really brighten the days those on the front lines fighting this outbreak.”

SFL Cos.

SFL Cos., Rochester, Mich., offered free freight services to Feeding America for a local food bank shipment.

The shipment, on April 29, came as supplies to food banks dipped with skyrocketing demand during the pandemic, according to a news release. SFL Cos. regularly provides freight services for Feeding America, which has a network of member food banks across the U.S.

“SFL wanted to make a positive impact during this challenging time with COVID-19, and donated their freight services to Feeding America for a local food bank shipment,” according to the release.

For more information on how companies are helping out during the pandemic, see The Packer’s COVID-19 webpage .

Related stories:

Companies donate, offer new services during pandemic

Game night and wine: companies respond to COVID-19 pandemic

Produce companies react to pandemic with donations, focus on safety

Arkansas sweet potato season shaping up well

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 18:41:55 GMT

There should be no gap between old crop and new crop sweet potato shipments in Arkansas, one leading marketer reports.

New crop harvest typically begins in July or August and usually continues into November. Sweet potatoes can be marketed from storage year-round.

The 2019 sweet potato crop has moved out in good fashion and the outlook for the 2020 crop is strong, said Autumn Campbell, sales manager for Matthews Ridgeview Farms, Wynne, Ark.

“Our storage crop looks great and our plants look beautiful; we do not foresee any issues with shortages or a gap,” she said May 12.

Campbell said the company has been “blessed” through the pandemic and has kept its team safe and healthy with appropriate precautions.

“We are proud to be a part of an industry that is so essential to our country and the entire world,” she said.

For the 2020 crop, planting season has been going great and plants look beautiful, Campbell said.

“It’s warming up here in Arkansas and we are looking at a nice crop for this year,” she said. “We are growing every year and excited about it.”

Big footprint

The USDA does not report annual acreage numbers for Arkansas sweet potatoes.

The Census of Agriculture reported sweet potatoes accounted for 4,598 acres in 2017, or about 42% of total vegetable acreages. 2017 acreage was way up compared with 2012, when 2,410 acres of sweet potatoes were harvested.

The report said 75 operations grew sweet potatoes in 2017, up from just 17 in 2012.

The biggest sweet potato region is in Cross County in northeastern Arkansas, and Rick Wimberley, extension agent for the county, said growers there have been receiving big rains this spring.

While that may delay some planting, rains haven’t hurt the crop potential, he said. Wimberley said acreage in the county could be close to about 3,000 acres.

Sweet potatoes represent the biggest part of Arkansas vegetable acreage.

The Census of Agriculture reported Arkansas growers harvested 11,062 acres of vegetables that year in 2017, nearly the same as 11,111 acres in 2012.

The Census of Agriculture reported 748 operations in Arkansas harvested vegetable acreage in 2017, compared with 625 operations in 2012. The state does not report annual vegetable acreage reports; 2017 is the most recent year available.

Watermelons also are a big crop in Arkansas, according to USDA statistics, with 1,822 acres harvested in 2017, compared with 1,880 in 2012.

The Census of Agriculture reported tomatoes also ranked high, with 952 acres grown on 398 operations in 2017. That is down slightly compared with 2012, when 373 operations grew just over 1,100 ares of tomatoes in the state.

2017 Arkansas vegetable and melon statistics:

Fresh market vegetables: 9,500 acres;

Sweet potatoes: 4,598 acres, 3,492 fresh market acres;
Watermelon: 1,822 acres;
Tomatoes: 952 acres;
Turnip greens: 734 acres;
Summer squash: 578 acres;
Snap beans: 403 acres, 107 fresh market acres;
Pumpkins: 363 acres;
Sweet corn: 341 acres;
Southern peas (cowpeas): 284 acres;
Bell peppers: 128 acres;
Lettuce: 100 acres;
Cucumbers: 118 acres;
Okra: 82 acres;
Mustard greens: 68 acres;
Cabbage: 64 acres;
Cantaloupes: 56 acres; and
Potatoes: 62 acres.

Realted content:
Grapes and pecans gain ground
Arkansas sweet potato acreage rises, but tomato acres fall
Arkansas Produce

Classic Fruit achieves Rainforest Alliance certification

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 19:02:11 GMT

Deerfield Beach, Fla.-based Classic Fruit Co. ’s Guatemalan farm, Classic Guatemala, has earned the Rainforest Alliance certification.

The certification shows the farm’s commitment to supporting long-term sustainability and the quality of life for its farm workers, their families, communities and the global environment.

“We look forward to prominently displaying the exclusive Rainforest Alliance tree frog logo on our cartons and PLU stickers to provide confidence to our customers and the end user that Classic Fruit prioritizes sustainably produced melons and is committed to being environmentally, socially and economically responsible,” Paul Raggio, president, said in the release.

Being a Rainforest Alliance-certified melon producer means:

Producing melons with respect for the environment and providing good and fair working conditions for employees;
Good agricultural practices, such as strict control of agrochemicals, conservation of water and soils and integrated waste management;
Protection of ecosystems and biodiversity;
Health and safety requirements and compliance with labor rights requirements; and
Employees and their families have access to health care, education and recreational facilities.

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

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 06:34:49 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.

Apples

YAKIMA VALLEY AND WENATCHEE DISTRICT WASHINGTON 2019 CROP — Shipments (1,147-1,127-1,146, Includes exports 279-269-261) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Fairly Active. 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 23.00-24.00, 80s 21.00-24.00, 88s mostly 19.00-20.00, 100s mostly 16.00-17.00, 113s mostly 14.00-16.00, 125s mostly 14.00-15.00; 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 (69-56-55) — Movement expected to seasonally decrease. Trading Moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. Fuji Cartons Tray Pack U.S. Extra Fancy 80s-88s mostly 26.00-27.00; McIntosh Cartons Tray Pack U.S. Extra Fancy 80s-88s mostly 27.00-28.00. 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; McIntosh U.S. Extra Fancy 2 1/2 inch minimum mostly 18.00-22.00; Empire U.S. Extra Fancy 2 1/2 inch minimum mostly 18.00- 22.00.

MICHIGAN — Shipments (51-43-36) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices 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 McIntosh light and in few hands, Fuji fairly light.

APPALACHIAN DISTRICT 2019 CROP — Shipments (20-22-21) — Supplies in few hands as many shippers have finished for the season and a couple shippers will continue for several more weeks. LAST REPORT.

NEW ENGLAND 2019 CROP — Shipments (3-2-3) — Movement expected to seasonally decrease. Too few open market sales to establish a market.

Apricots

SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (U-U-U) — Movement expected to increase. Trading Moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. Carton 2 layer Various Varieties 64s mostly 28.95-30.95, 72s mostly 28.95-30.95, 84s mostly 24.95 Carton 3 layer 162s mostly 22.95. Primary variety Kylese. Extra services included. (U = unavailable)

Avocados

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS 2019 CROP — Crossings (269-476*-221) — Movement expected to remain increase. Trading Moderate. Prices Lower. Cartons 2 layer Hass 32-36s mostly 39.25-40.25, 40s mostly 37.95-39.25, 48s mostly 36.25-38.25, 60s mostly 30.25-32.25, 70s mostly 21.25-23.25, 84s mostly 17.25-18.25. Extra services included. (* revised)

SOUTH DISTRICT CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (161-139-U) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Conventional 40-84s lower, others generally unchanged. Carton 2 layer Hass 32-36s mostly 40.25-42.25, 40-48s mostly 38.25- 40.25, 60s mostly 35.25-37.25, 70s mostly 20.25-22.25, 84s mostly 18.25-20.25. 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 AND CENTRAL DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments (27-45-52) — Movement expected to increase. Trading Moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. Flats 12 1-pint cups with lids mostly 22.00. Flats 12 6-ounce cups with lids mostly 12.00. Cartons 8 18-ounce containers with lids 24.00-26.00. ORGANIC flats 12 6-ounce cups with lids mostly 14.00.

SOUTH GEORGIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (52-46-38) — Movement expected to increase. Trading Fairly Active. Prices Slightly Higher. Flats 12 1-pint cups with lids large 22.00-24.00, ORGANIC 12 1-pint cups with lids medium large 26.00-28.00, 6 ounce cups with lids mediumlarge mostly 16.00-18.50. Quality variable.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH ARIZONA, CALIFORNIA AND TEXAS — Crossings (51-26*-21) — Movement expected to decrease. Trading Slow. Prices Generally Unchanged. Flats 12 6-oz cups with lids mostly 10.00. Quality and condition variable. (* revised)

EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA — Shipments (0-3*-15) — Movement expected to continue increasing. Trading Moderate. Prices flats 12 1-pint cups with lids medium-large 20.00-24.00. Quality variable. Some present — Shipments include prior commitments. Includes palletizing and cooling. (* revised)

Cantaloupes

FLORIDA — Shipments (0-84-49) — Supply in too few hands and too few new sales reported to establish a market.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (39-71-41) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices 9s higher, others generally unchanged. 1/2 cartons 9s (supplies light) 12.95-14.50, 12s mostly 9.95, 15s 5.00-6.00. Quality variable.

IMPERIAL VALLEY CALIFORNIA — Shipments (0-0-34) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Supplies very light. Trading Moderate. Prices 1/2 cartons 12s mostly 16.95, 15s mostly 7.95-8.95. Quality generally good.

CENTRAL AND WESTERN ARIZONA — Shipments (0-#-18) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Trading Fairly Active. Prices 1/2 cartons 9s 16.00-16.95, 12s 14.95-16.95, 15s mostly 8.50-9.50. Quality generally good. (# less than 50,000 lbs)

CENTRAL AMERICA IMPORTS — PORTS OF ENTRY SOUTH FLORIDA Imports via Boat — (138-37-U) — Movement expected to decrease sharply as shippers finish the season. Trading Active. Prices Higher. From Guatemala and Honduras. Prices 1/2 cartons 9-15s and Oversized 1/2 cartons 9s (6 size) supply in too few hands to establish a market. Lighter supply expected to continue the next 7-10 days. (U = unavailable)

GEORGIA — Light Shipments expected to begin within 7-10 days with sufficient volume and number of shippers for first F.O.B. report by week of May 31. FIRST REPORT.

Cherries

SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (47-161-326) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading active at lower prices. Prices Lower. 16 pound containers/bagged various red sweet varieties; 9 1/2 row size mostly 50.00-52.00, 10 row size mostly 45.00-48.00, 10 ½ row size mostly 43.00-46.00, 11 row size mostly 42.00-45.00, 11 1/2 row size mostly 34.00-36.00, 12 row size 20.00-25.00. Extra services included. Wide range in quality.

YAKIMA VALLEY AND WENATCHEE DISTRICT WASHINGTON — Harvest expected to begin early areas the week of May 31. The first F.O.B. report is expected to be issued the week of June 21. Crop expected to be of good quality and condition. FIRST REPORT.

Grapes

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (39-73*-87) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Trading Active. Prices 18 pound containers bagged U.S. One large Perlette mostly 26.95, White Seedless mostly 28.95-30.95. Quality generally good. (* revised)

CHILE IMPORTS — PORT OF ENTRY PHILADELPHIA AREA 2020 CROP Imports via Boat — (40*-45-20) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading Fairly 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 mostly 34.00 lge mostly 30.00-32.00, med-lge mostly 28.00- 30.00. (* revised)

CHILE IMPORTS — PORT OF ENTRY LOS ANGELES AREA 2020 CROP Imports via Boat — (23-7-5) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Generally Unchanged. 18 lb containers bagged Red Seedless exlge mostly 16.00, lge 14.00- 16.00, med-lge mostly 12.00-13.00 Black Seedless exlge mostly 16.00, lge mostly 14.00, 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, lge mostly 30.00-32.00, med-lge mostly 28.00- 30.00.

COACHELLA VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (0-0-0) — Movement expected to increase. Light harvesting is expected to get underway the week of May 18th. F.O.B. expected to begin on or around May 25th.

Lemons

SOUTH AND CENTRAL DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments Moderate — Movement expected about the same. Trading Fairly Active. Prices Slightly Higher. 7/10 bushel cartons Shippers First Grade 75s mostly 25.18-28.20, 95-140s mostly 27.18-30.20, 165s-200s mostly 24.18- 26.20, 235s mostly 20.18-23.20; Shippers Choice 75s mostly 17.18-19.20, 95-115s 19.18-21.20, 140s mostly 20.18-23.20, 165-200s mostly 22.10-25.20, 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.

Mangoes

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS Crossings — (225-205-197) — Movement expected about the same. Crossings include Haden and light supplies of Kent varieties. Trading Tommy Atkins 6-8s and Ataulfo 12-16s moderate, others fairly slow. Prices Slightly Lower. Cartons 1 layer Tommy Atkins 6s 5.50, 7s 5.00-5.50, 8s mostly 4.75-5.00, 9s mostly 4.00-4.50, 10s 3.50-4.00, 12s mostly 3.00; Ataulfo 12s mostly 7.50, 14s mostly 7.00-7.50, 16s mostly 6.00-6.50, 18s mostly 4.50-5.00, 20s mostly 4.50, 22s mostly 4.00. Quality variable.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (77-72-73) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Ataulfo 14s and 18-24s higher, 16s generally unchanged; Tommy Atkins lower. Cartons 1 layer Tommy Atkins 6-7s mostly 5.50, 8s mostly 5.00-5.50, 9s mostly 5.00, 10s mostly 4.00, 12s mostly 3.50; Ataulfo 14s 7.00, 16s mostly 6.00, 18s mostly 5.50-6.00, 20s mostly 5.00, 22s 4.50-5.00, 24s mostly 4.00. Quality Variable.

CARIBBEAN IMPORTS — PORTS OF ENTRY SOUTH FLORIDA Imports via Boat — (25-23-U) — Movement expected to decrease. Trading Fairly Active. Prices Higher. From Haiti. Flats 1 layer Francis (Francine) 8-12s mostly 10.00-11.00. (U = unavailable)

CENTRAL AMERICA IMPORTS — PORTS OF ENTRY SOUTH FLORIDA Imports via Boat — (29*-27-U) — Movement expected to decrease sharply as shippers wind down for the season. Trading Moderate. Prices 6-9s Slightly Lower, 10s Lower. From Guatemala and Nicaragua. Flats 1 layer Tommy Atkins 6-9s mostly 5.00-5.50, 10s mostly 4.00-4.50, 12s supply in too few hands to establish a market. Supply light. (*revised, U = unavailable)

Nectarines

CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (U-U-U) — Movement expected to increase. Light and sporadic harvesting has begun. Supplies in too few hands to establish market. First F.O.B. expected week of May 25 , 2020. (U = unavailable)

Oranges

FLORIDA — Shipments (84-88-90, Includes exports 2-3-0) — Prices not reported. Shipments are for weeks ending April 18, April 25 and May 2 in that order.

SOUTH AND CENTRAL DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments Fairly Heavy—Movement expected about the same. Supplies 113-138s light. Trading Fairly Active. Prices Shippers First Grade 40-48s and Choice 40-56s generally unchanged, others slightly higher. 7/10 bushel cartons Navel Shippers First Grade 40s 18.18-20.20, 48-56s 20.18-21.20, 72s mostly 21.18-23.20, 88s mostly 20.18-23.20, 113s mostly 20.18-22.20, 138s mostly 19.18-21.20; Shippers Choice 40s mostly 13.20-14.20, 48-56s mostly 15.18-16.20, 72s mostly 16.18-18.20, 88s 16.18-18.20, 113s mostly 17.18-19.20, 138s mostly 18.18-19.20. ORGANIC 7/10 bushel cartons Navel Shippers First Grade and Choice supplies light and in too few hands to establish a market.

Peaches

SOUTH CAROLINA 2020 CROP — Shipments (0-0-18) — Movement expected to increase as more volume gets ready for harvest. Expected F.O.B. to be issued by May 19. FIRST REPORT.

CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (U-U-U) — Expected to increase. Trading Moderate. Cartons 2 layer tray pack 54-56s mostly 28.95-30.95, 60-64s mostly 24.95-26.95, 70-72s mostly 15.95-18.95. Extra services included. Primary yellow flesh varieties Mat Princess and Krista. (U = unavailable)

Pears

YAKIMA VALLEY AND WENATCHEE DISTRICT WASHINGTON — Shipments (67-67-62, Includes exports 16-15-14) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. 4/5 bushel cartons wrapped D’Anjou U.S. One 70-90s mostly 25.00-26.90, 100s mostly 21.00-23.90, 110s mostly 19.00-22.90, 120s mostly 19.00-20.90.

ARGENTINA IMPORTS — PORT OF ENTRY PHILADELPHIA AREA 2020 CROP Imports via Boat — (11*-3-1) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Generally Unchanged. 18 kb cartons tray pack Bartlett 70 sz-80 sz mostly 26.00, 90 sz mostly 22.00- 24.00, 100 sz mostly 18.00, 110 sz 16.00 18.00 Bosc 60 sz 22.00-24.00, 70 sz-80 sz 24.00-26.00, 90 sz 22.00-24.00, 100 sz 16.00- 20.00, 110 sz 16.00-18.00. (* revised)

Raspberries

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH ARIZONA, CALIFORNIA AND TEXAS — Crossings (46-45*-39) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading early fairly active, late active. Prices Higher. Flats 12 6-ounce cups with lids mostly 18.00. Quality generally good. Most present — Shipments from prior bookings and/or previous commitments. (* revised)

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (0-2-5) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Quality variable. The first F.O.B. report is expected to be issued by May 29.

Strawberries

SANTA MARIA DISTRICT — Shipments (352-377-361) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Conventional slightly higher, Organic generally unchanged. Flats 8 1-pound containers with lids medium-large 8.00-10.00. ORGANIC Flats 1-pound containers with lids medium-large mostly 12.00. Quality and condition variable. Most present — Shipments from prior bookings and/or previous commitments. Some berries being diverted to freezer and/or processor.

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (168-235-296) — Movement expected to increase. Trading Moderate. Prices Conventional slightly higher, Organic generally unchanged. 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 12.00.

OXNARD DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments (198-125-89) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Generally 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.

EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA — Shipments (7-5-6) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. Flats 8 1-pound containers with lids medium-large 13.75-14.50. Includes palletizing and cooling.

Watermelons

FLORIDA SOUTH DISTRICT — Shipments (733-1,253-1,204, Seeded 56-69-54; Seedless 677-1184-1150) —Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Very Active. Prices Higher. 24 inch bins. Red Flesh Seeded type 35s 112.00; Seedless type 36s 154.00, 45s 154.00-161.00, 60s 154.00-161.00. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (558-748-881) — Movement expected about the same. Trading 35-60 counts active at slightly lower prices, others fairly active. Prices 35-60 counts slightly lower, others generally unchanged. Red Flesh Seedless type 24 inch bins approximately 35-45 counts mostly 140.00-147.00, approximately 60 count mostly 133.00-140.00; Miniature (supplies light) cartons 6s 10.95-12.95, 8s mostly 13.95, 9s mostly 12.95-13.95, 11s 9.95-10.95. ORGANIC Red Flesh Seedless type 24 inch bins approximately 35-45 counts mostly 175.00; Miniature cartons 6s 13.95-14.95, 8s 15.95-16.95, 9s 14.95-16.95. Quality variable.

LOWER RIO GRANDE VALLEY, TEXAS — Shipments (8*-123-361) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Trading early fairly active, late very active. Prices Generally Unchanged. Red Flesh Seedless type 24 inch bins per pound approximately 35 and 45 counts mostly .24, approximately 60 count mostly .21-.22. Quality generally good. (* revised)

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (43-32-39) — Movement expected to decrease as most shippers are finished for the season. Red Flesh Seedless type supplies insufficient to establish a market. Quality variable. Light crossings expected to continue through May 23. LAST REPORT

IMPERIAL AND COACHELLA VALLEYS CALIFORNIA AND WESTERN ARIZONA — Shipments (AZ 0-0-11, CA 0-0-13) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Prices 24 inch bins Red Flesh Seedless Type approximately 35-45 counts mostly .23-.24, approximately 60 count mostly .21-.23. Quality generally good.

SOUTH CAROLINA — Light Shipments expected to begin within 7-10 days with sufficient volume and number of shippers for first F.O.B. report by week of June 14. FIRST REPORT.

Cherries inch their way up on Produce Market Guide

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 07:37:50 GMT

Haitian mangoes maintained their lead on The Packer’s PMG the week of May 18th. Cherries climbed from No. 7 to No. 2. Oranges are also of note, they climed from No. 8 to No. 3 on PMG. Cucumbers stayed in the top 5 on PMG, moving from No. 5 to No. 4. Take a look at all the rest of top searched commodities on Produce Market Guide.

The PMG platform connects produce buyers and sellers. Below, find the top 20 searched commodities on PMG during the week of May 18.