Limes

Popularity of Consumer Packs Continues to Grow for Lemons and Limes

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 10:31:40 GMT

Suppliers of lemons and limes are going all out to come up with packaging that offers consumers both convenience
and value.

Medrano Produce

As Medrano Produce LLC, begins its 10th year in April, the Pharr, Texas-based company will introduce new packaging for its organic and conventional limes, says Franco Medrano, vice president of marketing and sales.

The new artwork will more fittingly display the cultural heritage of the company, according to Medrano, and will include one of the firm’s mottos: “Quality that honors family.”

New artwork for the company’s conventional lemons should be on store shelves by May.

The company offers 1- and 2-pound bags of conventional and organic limes and conventional lemons.

Medrano estimates that 20% of the company’s lemons and limes are sold in consumer packs.

Wonderful Citrus

The breakdown of retail bagged versus bulk sales for lemons at Los Angeles-based Wonderful Citrus LLC is approximately 60% bagged versus 40% bulk, says Zak Laffite, president.

The breakdown for limes is slightly more balanced.

“By offering 1-, 2-, 3- and 5-pound bags, Wonderful Seedless Lemons offer a great solution for heavy lemon users and consumers seeking convenience,” he says.

Wonderful Citrus also provides 1- and 2-pound bags of limes, with 5-pound bags to larger store formats and club stores.

Sunkist Growers

Valencia, Calif.-based Sunkist Growers Inc. offers a range of packaging options to meet varying retailer and consumer needs, says Cassie Howard, senior director of category management and marketing.

Those options include bulk cartons and consumer-ready packs.

“While bulk fruit continues to play an important role, there is strong demand for consumer packaging that delivers convenience and value,” Howard says.

For lemons and limes, Sunkist provides a variety of consumer pack formats, including pouch bags, netted “giro” bags and combination packs in multiple sizes, as well as bulk offerings, she says.

Quality and Opportunity Drive Year-Round Lemon and Lime Sales

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 19:54:43 GMT

Though peak citrus season in the U.S. is typically during the fall and winter, lemons and limes maintain strong, consistent demand year-round, says Cassie Howard, senior director of category management and marketing for Valencia, Calif.-based Sunkist Growers Inc.

“During the spring and summer months, usage often shifts more toward beverages, grilling and fresh applications, which helps support steady retail movement,” Howard explains.

Zak Laffite, president of Los Angeles-based Wonderful Citrus, agrees.

Consumption of lemons and limes increases during the warmer months, but sales remain steady year-round thanks to a variety of usage occasions across all seasons, he says.

Howard cited Circana data indicating that lemon volume increased 8% last spring over the previous year, making springtime an important selling period for lemons and a key opportunity for seasonal promotions at retail.

Strong Quality

Quality of lemons and limes is strong this season, with good color, firmness and juice content, Howard says.

“Fruit size is generally in line with expectations, allowing retailers to maintain a range of pack sizes and merchandising options depending on their programs,” she says.

Lemon prices are trending higher than last year because of an earlier-than-usual transition from the desert lemon crop, which was running two to three weeks ahead of schedule.

“Overall, the California lemon market is stronger than last year, supported by both volume and demand,” Howard says.

Laffite says the quality and sizing of this season’s crop of Wonderful Seedless Lemons also has been positive.

“It has been a strong year for Wonderful Seedless Lemons with year-round availability, favorable fruit sizing that skews slightly larger than normal, and distribution in some of the biggest retailers in America,” he says.

U.S., Mexico Sourcing

Wonderful Seedless Lemons are currently grown in Southern and Central California, as well as in Mexico.

“We continue to strengthen our operations in Mexico, with significant advancements in both Wonderful Seedless Lemons and conventional limes,” Laffite says. “These efforts enhance our ability to bridge seasonal gaps and maintain a consistent supply, complementing our California production.”

The company also partners with growers in South Africa for Wonderful Seedless Lemons.

Sunkist sources its lemons from California and Arizona and procures limes through a global supply network, primarily from Mexico, Howard says.

USDA reports California’s 2024 volume at 51.1 million boxes and 2025 at 53.8 million boxes.

The estimate for lemons in 2026 is 53.9 million boxes, but California Citrus Mutual says most shippers expect that number to increase.

(Photo: Mara Zemgaliete, Adobe Stock)

Lime Imports

Most limes sold in the U.S. are imported from Mexico, and Pharr, Texas-based Medrano Produce LLC is a big importer of those limes, says Franco Medrano, vice president of marketing and sales.

Limes have become increasingly mainstream in the U.S., driven by the growing influence of Latino culture and by consumers discovering their zesty flavor and versatility, he says.

Demand for limes during the spring and summer months has increased significantly in recent years, he says, and the volume of imported limes has risen.

A few years ago, 400 to 500 loads a week would supply the U.S. market, he says. Today, that number has risen to 500 to 600 loads.

Supplies were tight this February and March, he says, but that pattern was expected to change.

“Once we hit April and May, there should be an influx of limes, because that’s when the crops will be ready to harvest for the spring,” Medrano says.

Limes tend to take some of the market share from lemons, especially during the summer, because of their lower price point, he adds.

Sunkist’s lime supply is expected to remain relatively stable this season, supported by consistent sourcing from key growing regions, Howard says. Pricing is elevated because of tighter supplies, she adds.

Organic Sales Steady

Sales of organic limes have been steady, Medrano says, but the current market was tight, he said in late March.

“There’s not a lot of organics out there,” he says.

Organic lemons and limes are a small but important part of Sunkist’s citrus portfolio, Howard says.

“Organic citrus sales remain steady, with continued interest from consumers seeking organic options,” she says.

How Retail Collaboration and Supply Strategies Drive Citrus Marketing Success

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 20:33:42 GMT

With the U.S. in the middle of its winter citrus season, season, recent weather issues have complicated long-running labor, water and import pressure challenges on the supply side, but there’s a lot to celebrate and anticipate on the marketing side.

Citrus demand has been growing recently; most of the familiar citrus varieties rank in consumers’ top 10 most purchased fruits, and the vitamin-C-heavy citrus offerings are well positioned to meet consumers’ growing interest in healthy, nutrient-dense foods.

Marketing in this mature fruit segment has its challenges, but experts on both the supplier and retailer sides stress the importance of product differentiation, point-of-sale information and collaborative strategies to increase citrus demand.

Supply-side Challenges

You can’t market what you don’t have, so supply-side issues play into citrus marketing even if the consumer knows nothing about it.

Dave Rooke, senior vice president of sales for Wonderful Citrus, highlights supply chain volatility as an overarching challenge for the citrus industry, pointing to the ongoing issues of rising costs of
labor, water and inputs. However, part of the most immediate issues facing the winter citrus crop has been the weather.

“We’ve had significant weather challenges in the month of December with foggy weather in the valley for four weeks,” Rooke said Jan. 7.

Fog has contributed to low temperature differentials, with both highs and lows being in the 40s. This, combined with a lot of rain, has made it challenging, he says.

“Then you add rain to the fog, and it just makes it very, very difficult from a supply standpoint,” he adds.

But it’s not just weather that’s challenging the supply side. Vince Mazzetti, vice president of Blue Banner Citrus — a Riverside, Calif.-based grower-packer-shipper of California citrus — adds import pressure to the list of challenges facing his company, which deals heavily with grapefruit.

“We get a lot of pressure from imports from Mexico, Chile, Argentina, South Africa,” he explains of California grapefruit.

Increasing import pressure on domestic citrus producers is a growing issue . According to the USDA’s Economic Research Service’s Fruit and Tree Nuts Yearbook records on trade, in 2023 (the most recent complete data) imported grapefruit made up 11.4% of the domestic supply, with the largest volumes coming from South Africa. This was down from 16% in 2022 but up considerably from 2% to 5% that predominated from the early 2000s.

In general, imports are growing as a proportion of available citrus in the U.S. For example, in 2013, 9.35% of available fresh oranges in the U.S. were imported, while in 2023 the number was 17.96%. Similarly, imported lemons represented just under 9% of total lemon availability
in the U.S. in 2013, compared to 22.74% in 2023.

Cassie Howard, senior director of category management and marketing for Sunkist Growers Inc., highlights the growth of citrus imports as an interesting trend among consumers who voice strong support for local produce. She says the trend reinforces “that when shoppers find something they enjoy, they are looking to consume it all year-round.”

(Photo: siewwy84, Adobe Stock)

Consumers Love Citrus and Its Health Benefits

On the demand side, the citrus industry today has much to celebrate. Noting that the past two months have been a bit
chaotic due to recent weather issues, Rooke reports that last year was good with demand for citrus overall being up.

“The citrus industry as a whole was up between about 5% to 6%, which is positive,” he says, adding that citrus overall is “a health-first product,” something that is increasingly of interest to consumers.

Dennis Payne, director of merchandising produce and floral for Greensboro, N.C.-based grocery chain The Fresh Market, says health is front of mind for shoppers, especially early in the year when the domestic citrus season is in full swing.

“During this time, we consistently see an increase in demand driven by healthy eating goals and consumers seeking the nutritional benefits of citrus, particularly during the winter months and flu season,” Payne says.

According to The Packer’s Fresh Trends 2026 report, 55% of respondents said they are eating more fruit now compared to two years ago. Those respondents overwhelmingly reported health concerns and seeking more nutrients as the top reason, at 77%.

Additionally, most citrus varieties perform well with surveyed consumers. For example, oranges were the No. 6 most purchased fruit, with 77% of respondents reporting such a purchase in the past 12 months. Lemons came in at a close No. 7, with 76% of respondents saying they bought lemons. Limes were No. 9, with 66% of respondents indicating a purchase.

Rates of reported purchases dropped off with other varieties, with 61% of respondents reporting clementine or mandarin purchases in the past 12 months, for example. Grapefruit saw the lowest rate of reported citrus purchases at only 40%. Still, these reported purchase rates are higher than in past Fresh Trends surveys.

Every citrus category also showed higher rates of reported purchase among younger respondents (Gen Z and millennials) than with older consumers (Gen X, baby boomers and traditionalists) in the Fresh Trends 2026 report. For example, 85% of Gen Z respondents reported buying oranges, compared to only 66% of baby boomers. Similarly, 52% of millennials reported buying grapefruit, compared to only 25% of traditionalists.

Product Differentiation and Consumer Education are Key

While citrus remains popular among consumers, and especially younger consumers, marketing citrus is not without its challenges today. For instance, price can be a marketing problem for citrus in the current economic environment, according to Howard, but she is optimistic.

“What’s interesting is that even as many shoppers feel price-stressed, particularly younger consumers, they are still willing to trade up when the value proposition is clear,” she says.

“The opportunity lies in the fact that produce remains a strong value proposition overall, and citrus has a unique ability to deliver nutrition, versatility and familiarity at a price point consumers still trust. When brands and retailers clearly communicate quality, flavor and usage, citrus can win both trial and repeat purchases — even in a cautious-spending environment.”

Differentiation can also be a marketing issue. During citrus import season, generally summer through early fall for all citrus but limes, Payne says citrus faces stiff competition from stone fruit and apples.

“During this time, it’s critical for The Fresh Market to differentiate citrus by sourcing the best-quality fruit globally and clearly communicating that value to customers,” Payne says. “Strategic merchandising, compelling storytelling around origin and flavor, and targeted promotions can help citrus stand out and maintain consumer interest during highly competitive seasonal transitions.”

Consumer education on varieties is another key challenge that plays into differentiation, Rooke says.

“If a consumer doesn’t know that lemons can be seedless, then they don’t go and ask for them,” he offers as an example, referencing Wonderful Citrus’ seedless lemons. “So, it’s this idea of educating consumers to know what’s available and know what they should even begin to ask for.”

Rooke also gives the example of navel oranges versus mandarins as it relates to health messaging.

“Naval oranges have been around forever in the U.S. Mandarins haven’t been. So, how do we continue to educate consumers that mandarins can be every bit as healthy and packed with vitamin C as the navel orange that everyone grew up with eating?” he asks, adding that he’s often surprised navels are still being sold when compared to the convenience of mandarins.

“If you look at retail price per pound, the price per pound is actually not that different, and so it becomes, ‘what separates that from a consumer standpoint?’” he says.

Grapefruit

(Photo: akepong srichaichana, Adobe Stock)

Focus on Grapefruit Education

Mazzetti also highlights the need for consumer education, particularly when it comes to grapefruit.

“There’s a huge challenge with grapefruit, as it hasn’t really been promoted a lot the last 10, 15 years,” he says.

He says the lack of familiarity with grapefruit among younger consumers is a challenge, but one about which he is quite optimistic. He shares a personal anecdote about bringing grapefruit as part of a rotating class snack system at his oldest son’s elementary school a couple of years ago.

“And for about three weeks, I’d go pick up my kids at school … and I had all these parents coming to me asking, ‘Where do we get this grapefruit? Little Cindy, little Johnny, little Timmy, they all came home screaming that they had this grapefruit at school and they love it,’” Mazzetti recalls.

“If you can get kids to want it, our problems are solved,” he adds.

Rooke also reports that Wonderful
Citrus has also rebranded its Texas grapefruit program, historically known as Sweet Scarlets, in an effort to stand out and differentiate the product.

“We’ve renamed it Sweet Grapefruit, really to highlight the product offering and try to capture a consumer that maybe doesn’t historically interact with grapefruit,” he says.

Direct Consumer Engagement in Stores is a Winning Strategy

Blue Banner Citrus, which just recently parted from Sunkist, now finds itself in the exciting but challenging position of marketing its grapefruit how it wants. Mazzetti says the company is excited to do point-of-sale and direct-to-consumer marketing strategies, such as tastings in stores as an independent packer-shipper.

“At the right time of year, with the right box of grapefruit, we can really do some good promotion on California grapefruit,” Mazzetti says.

According to the Fresh Trends 2026 report, 34% of respondents said sampling would make them more likely to purchase a new produce item or more of a certain familiar item. This reporting rate was equal with “tried it at a restaurant” and just behind the most popular factor, “word of mouth,” at 39%.

Rooke also notes the value of POS information and accessories like bin bases. He says Wonderful has had success with having citrus items outside of the produce section along with special, smaller bins with interchangeable header cards. He gives the example of having these small hexagonal bins of the seedless lemons
in the seafood section, with the header card showing a piece of salmon, as having good results.

“We need to make sure that we continue to have multiple points of offering of the products to a consumer,” he says. “Sometimes it’s maybe not on their list, and we want to make sure that they’re reminded of it, and having those different points of differentiation is important.”

According to Fresh Trends 2026, respondents preferred produce information be close to or on the produce itself when they purchase it. A quarter of respondents listed in-store signage as the most important source for information about that produce, including origin, preparation and proper storage and recipe tips. Another quarter of respondents listed produce packaging as the most important.

Other options, which saw much lower importance ratings from respondents, were growers’ or retailers’ websites, social media and news outlets.

But strategies like tastings, special POS materials and distribution throughout the store take considerable effort and good relations with retailers. Speaking from The Fresh Market’s perspective, Payne notes the most effective of these efforts are built through direct collaboration with growers with customers in mind.

“When POS, tastings and cross-merchandising are thoughtfully executed, they enhance the shopping experience and help bring the citrus story to life,” he says, adding that since each retailer operates differently, a one-size-fits-all strategy is rarely effective.

“Citrus suppliers can make these efforts easier and more appealing by developing customized programs tailored to each retailer’s brand, customer base and operational capabilities. Flexibility, simplicity of execution and clear value to both store teams and shoppers go a long way in building strong, successful partnerships.”

Driving Demand for the Future

Partnerships and cross-industry collaboration are also needed when it comes to growing citrus demand overall, according to sources. Rooke says that starts with growers and suppliers putting the best-quality citrus in the market, day in and day out.

“When we look to put something that’s inferior from a quality standpoint, it doesn’t help any citrus grower, shipper or packer,” he says. “So, learning to have that discipline is one of the key things that citrus growers as a whole need to do broadly.”

Also citing quality concerns, in part, Mazzetti calls for greater protection of the domestic citrus industry.

“We should probably get some heavier tariffs on these offshore companies because it’s killing domestic farmers,” Mazzetti says. “You can get fruit from all these other countries, and maybe the quality is as good or not, but a lot of people buy it with their wallet, especially on an item that’s not a staple. Lemons might be a staple because of foodservice, but citrus in general is a luxury.”

Howard also stresses the value of the fruit itself and expands on what value can mean.

“To grow citrus consumption, the industry needs to make citrus easy, dependable and relevant in everyday routines,” she says. “A consistent eating experience is foundational, but convenience, pack formats and the use of inspiration are increasingly important.”

Howard, along with other sources, also emphasizes the importance of quality communication strategies to growing citrus demand. For example, while acknowledging citrus-growing states have their own state-level citrus groups, Mazzetti recommends the formation of a citrus
industrywide promotional board. Currently, Texas and Florida have federal marketing committees for their produce industry, but there is
no nationwide group .

“I think, collectively, someone’s got to lead this charge to promote U.S. citrus and the seasonality of it and the uniqueness of what we have,” he says.

Payne echoes the sentiment, if not in exact terms: “The citrus industry and retailers should collaborate on a comprehensive, multichannel marketing strategy designed to drive consumption. By aligning messaging across all media platforms and clearly communicating citrus health benefits, flavor profiles and usage occasions, we can strengthen consumer engagement, expand demand and maximize category growth.”

Howard voices optimism on the future for citrus, even in light of spending-cautious consumers.

“Looking ahead over the next five years, we believe citrus has a strong opportunity to grow alongside broader produce trends, especially as health, wellness and fresh food remain priorities for consumers,” she says. “The brands and categories that succeed will be those that build trust through quality, adapt to where consumers shop and evolve their messaging to stay relevant with the next generation of shoppers.”

East Coast Produce Expo 2026 Rocks Hot Trends, Cool Produce and Olympic Gold

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 21:34:58 GMT

AVENTURA, Fla. — From mushrooms to Persian limes to murasaki sweetpotatoes to microgreens and more, exhibitors at East Coast Produce Expo 2026 showcased some of the hottest trends in produce at the JW Marriott Turnberry Resort and Spa, Jan. 12-13.

Highline Mushroom’s Janis Deschenes and Sabrina Pokomandy pose with colorful and whimsical signage at ECPE 2026.

(Photo: Jennifer Strailey)

Canada’s first certified mushroom company, Highline Mushrooms, invited attendees to “Eat Super. Feel Super.” It’s colorful and creative campaign featuring mushroom-headed people in fun poses continues to capture attention.

Robin Narron of Nash Produce says the new crop of sweetpotatoes “looks very good.”

(Photo: Jennifer Strailey)

Nash Produce shared the good news about this year’s sweetpotato crop.

“It looks very good,” says Robin Narron. “This is the best our potatoes have looked in a while.”

She also points to the increasing popularity of murasaki sweetpotatoes, a Japanese variety celebrated for its distinctive purple skin and creamy white flesh that offers a sweet, nutty flavor with a drier, starchier texture than orange sweetpotatoes.

Narron says Nash aims to meet increased demand and is planting additional murasaki acreage this spring.

Topline Farms’ Nick DiCarlo and Brian DiCarlo shared what it means to be Canadian greenhouse grown.

(Photo: Jennifer Strailey)

Topline has added 40 acres to its Canadian greenhouse-grown roma tomatoes farm in the past two years, says Brian DiCarlo.

“With greenhouses, you get quality and consistency,” he says, adding that Topline has steadily grown its retail and foodservice business.

From left, Eric Rosales, Jorge Aguirre and Juan Baechli of D Produce showcased the company’s year-round supply of limes from Mexico.

(Photo: Jennifer Strailey)

Growers and packers of Persian limes from Mexico, D Produce has packing facilities in three regions along the Gulf Coast. The company says packing in Veracruz, Oaxaca and Tabasco, allows it to produce the best quality organic and conventional limes and offer year-round availability to its retail and foodservice customers.

The Packer’s Denise Sundvold and Wada Farms Vice President Joe Esta strike a pose and chat potatoes.

(Photo: Jennifer Strailey)

“Wada Farms sweetpotato crop is right where it needs to be to be a good year for the grower,” says Vice President Joe Esta.

Russets are long this season, he adds.

Thankfully, a solid customer base and strong retail partnerships with grocers including Walmart and Kroger, will move crop along to the consumer, Esta says.

“During COVID people learned to cook, which has been great for potatoes,” he says. “Unlike other commodities, we thrived. I hope the interest in cooking continues because it’s been good for the industry.”

Sunswell Green’s John Halle and Daniela Alvarez say their greens are sold through 85% of Publix stores in Florida.

(Photo: Action Event Photography)

All of Sunswell’s greens are grown hydroponically indoors and reach retail shelves within 24 to 48 hours of harvest, says John Halle.

The Florida-based company with two facilities in Lake Worth and the Fort Myers area started growing nutrient-dense microgreens late last year, says Halle, who adds the interest in microgreens is being spurred by chefs using them in dishes.

Debbie Roger and Therese Mauch of Zespri Kiwifruit showcased RubyRed Kiwifruit, known for its vibrant color and high vitamin C content.

(Photo: Jennifer Strailey)

Zespri’s Debbie Roger says she’s excited for RubyRed kiwifruit season. RubyRed kiwifruit from New Zealand will be available nationwide beginning in mid- to late April, she says.

A naturally sweet, red-fleshed kiwi with a distinct berry-like flavor, Zespri RubyRed kiwifruit offers a colorful alternative to green or gold kiwis.

Roger says last season’s West Coast trial of RubyRed was a success with all incremental sales.

Misionero’s Hana Mohsin featured the company’s Garden Life washed and trimmed, field grown conventional lettuce.

(Photo: Jennifer Strailey)

The line, which recently received a brand refresh, includes lettuce wraps, romaine, green leaf, red leaf and deli leaf.

EV Produce International expands import, shipping operations

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 19:02:17 GMT

EV Produce International , an importer of Mexican-grown limes and chayote, said in a news release that it has strategic expansion plans to bolster its import and shipping operations. This will diversify its product portfolio and extend its distribution network to encompass the entire continental U.S.

While limes and chayote have been core products, EV Produce International recently integrated new offerings through a strategic partnership to produce and export chiles (jalapeño, serrano and habanero) and tomatillos.

The company began this import and distribution in December on the West Coast, using warehouses in Tijuana, Mexico as well as Los Angeles and will grow its presence in the U.S.

“We are now expanding our reach to serve the entire U.S. market through our distribution centers in California and McAllen, Texas,” said Erick Carranza, vice president of EV Produce International.

The company also exports its limes to South Korea and Japan.

Carranza said there has been a significant increase in consumption among diverse demographics, driven by the growing popularity of Mexican cuisine.

“While chiles have traditionally been a staple within the Latino community, the widespread appreciation of Mexican food has fueled increased consumption nationwide,” he said in the release.

There has also been a surge in demand for limes as consumption continues to grow, Carranza added. EV Produce International said it established itself as a reliable supplier of premium limes with its Mexican partner, which maintains operations in Martínez de la Torre, Veracruz, Yucatan and Jalisco.

“Initially, lime consumption was largely concentrated within the Latino market, which prompted us to establish a distribution center in California,” Carranza said. “However, over time, we have observed a consistent increase in consumption, attributed to the prevalence of limes in cocktails, desserts and various Mexican culinary preparations.”

Now's the time for lemons and limes to shine

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 13:13:05 GMT

Citrus marketers say spring is an ideal time for retailers to capitalize on lemon and lime promotions.

With Easter, Mother’s Day, Cinco de Mayo and graduation celebrations on the horizon, lemons make a great addition to displays. Cassie Howard, senior director of Category management and marketing for Sunkist Growers Inc., says lemons pair well with many items across the store.

“Lemons are a consumer favorite due to their multiple uses, ranging from drinks and dishes to DIY projects, and they are always in season,” Howard said.

All-around addition

Given that versatility, retailers have ample opportunities to showcase lemons and limes with many different displays.

“Placing limes alongside complementary products — such as fresh seafood, cocktail mixers, herbs, and grilling essentials — encourages impulse purchases by reinforcing their role in popular spring and summer recipes,” said Zak Laffite, president of Wonderful Citrus. “Creating visually appealing displays near produce sections, liquor aisles and checkout areas can further drive sales.”

Howard encouraged retailers to think of other cross-promotional opportunities such as flavored water.

“Sunkist research has shown that nearly two-thirds of lemon shoppers use lemons to flavor water at home, helping to keep themselves refreshed and hydrated,” she said. “With the upcoming summer season, this becomes even more top of mind for consumers. Cross-promotion in the water aisle is a great way to increase impulse purchases.”

Laffite said eye-catching POS displays in secondary locations, such as seafood and liquor departments, will also help capitalize on impulse purchases.

“Retailers should place lemons and limes beyond the produce aisle, cross-promoting them in key departments such as seafood, alcohol, bakery and even household cleaning,” he said. “Positioning citrus near fresh seafood and meats highlight their use in marinades and grilling, while placing them in the alcohol section inspires cocktail creations like margaritas and mojitos.”

With Memorial Day, Cinco de Mayo and other summer holidays as peak lime consumption, Laffite encourages retailers to cross-promote limes with other popular items.

“Bundling limes with avocados, fresh tortillas, salsas and tequila or margarita mixes enhances convenience for shoppers,” he said.

Seafood is but one department prime for cross-promoting lemons.

(Photo courtesy of Sunkist Growers Inc.)

Current availability

The latest USDA crop forecast estimated lemon production for the 2024-25 crop to be about 1.1 million tons, with California expected to produce about 1 million tons, which is up about 6% from the 2023-24 season. Arizona lemon production is slightly down about 5% this season at 36,000 tons.

The USDA estimates fresh lemon imports are up about 8% through January but will settle at lower levels similar to last year’s import of 423 million pounds due to increased domestic production.

The availability and quality of lemons and limes have been good, marketers say, which builds toward consumers’ higher demand in spring and summer. Howard said Sunkist’s lemon crop size is up 10% this season. She said conventional lemons continue to drive the majority of sales, with bulk and bag volume up this year.

“We are noticing an increased demand for both seedless and organic lemons,” Howard said. “Our organic lemon crop size is up by over 30% this year, helping to meet demand.”

Laffite said Wonderful Citrus has also expanded its production to capitalize on the demand during peak season.

“Wonderful Citrus has prioritized operations in Mexico and has made major developments throughout the region in terms of both Wonderful Seedless Lemons and conventional limes,” he said. “These new developments will fill in gaps during peak seasonal transitions with complements from our California supply.”

What’s trending

Seedless limes continue to experience exponential growth, with Wonderful Seedless Lemons noting 300% volume growth since 2021 and bagged seedless lemons accounting for significant growth for three consecutive years. Laffite said consumption and household penetration grew by 40% in the past year, limited only by supply constraints.

(Photo courtesy of Wonderful Citrus)

Laffite said Wonderful Seedless Lemons launched a significant marketing campaign, “Lemons With Seeds Are Annoying,” to capitalize on that growth. The campaign highlights the small frustrations caused by lemons with seeds and touts the benefits of seedless lemons.

Howard said Sunkist offers recipe cards and header cards to help consumers maximize the use of seedless lemons.

“Retailers can promote seedless lemons as a convenience to save time in the kitchen,” she said.

With the continued growth in organic lemon and lime demand, retailers should use signage and displays to help drive more sales, Howard said.

“Featuring a prominent display area with clear signage indicating organic produce is beneficial to shoppers,” she said. “It is also essential to educate consumers about the benefits of organic products using in-store materials, along with special promotions or discounts, to encourage purchasing.”

David Villasenor, president of Villamex Farms, said he’s seen continual interest in organic limes.

“Organic limes are becoming more and more in demand, especially in big cities where the consumption of organic products has grown in its majority,” he said.

Another trend Laffite said has been a focus for Wonderful Seedless Lemons is online shopping, which continues to grow.

“Since consumers are not able to interact with produce items when online shopping and instead must rely on product images and their perceptions of the brand, it is important to have branded images on grocery e-commerce sites,” he said. “Branded produce outsells private label online by double-digits. It’s truly an opportunity for brands to shine.”

Laffite said Wonderful has seen strong growth among all citrus subcategories thanks to consumers’ continued focus on health.

“Healthier lifestyles continue to be top of mind post-pandemic, and citrus offers the functional benefits and convenience consumers are seeking,” he said. “Lemons can be easily integrated into everyday meals to add color and flavor, with no fat, cholesterol or sodium. Like many citrus, lemons add a healthy burst of bright flavor to meals and drinks, making it a great swap for added sugar or salt.”

And Howard said research by a master chef at Johnson and Wales University shows that lemons can reduce salt in recipes by up to 75%.

Villasenor encourages retailers to work closely with suppliers to best capitalize on lemons and limes building into spring and summer.

“Sales strategies can be done in collaboration with your suppliers and depending on the different markets and cities to maximize and promote more sales of limes,” he said. “The best way to promote limes is to have a closer relationship with the supplier and take the time to plan together a supplier-to-retailer sales strategy, which is very rare nowadays.”

Laffite said visibility is critical as even smaller footprint displays have been shown to drive more than 24% velocity lifts compared to stores without POS displays.

“To maximize their impact, retailers can feature our lemonade stand POS display that will bring nostalgia to the grocery store aisles,” he said. “Additionally, they can utilize our versatile hexagon bins with culinary-themed header cards, which are a perfect option for merchandising in the produce department or secondary locations, such as the seafood and alcohol sections. The rotatable header cards showcase usages from seafood and cocktails to salads, hot tea and even lemon water — which is one of the top uses for lemon purchases.”

Sunkist, too, offers interactive POS materials tailored to store goals and designed to engage consumers as well as cross-merchandising display bins to help lemons stand out.

“Our interactive point-of-sale materials are available for every variety within Sunkist’s robust portfolio, along with data-driven pack sizes, limited-edition cartons, and interchangeable bin header and header cards that illustrate innovative ways for retailers to integrate citrus during key promotional periods,” Howard said. “The variety-specific lineup features interchangeable messaging that promotes flexibility and in-store education, allowing retailers to utilize limited floor space effectively.”

Farm Direct Partners’ new executives to debut at IFPA Foodservice Conference

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 17:57:18 GMT

Jupiter, Fla.-based fresh produce grower-packer-importer Farm Direct Partners has appointed produce industry specialists Jackie Carrillo and Dan Acevedo as key executives in what the company says is a strategic move to advance its growth in the imported lime category.

USDA data shows U.S. lime imports by value have risen 69.5% since 2020, reaching nearly $860 million U.S. dollars for the 2023-24 market year, however, U.S. imports by volume have grown a mere 3.6% during the same period, according to a news release. The discrepancy highlights the market’s need to expand its sourcing capabilities and add new regions of production, the company says.

“What we’ve seen in the lime space is truly incredible,” Dax Cooke, head of sales for Farm Direct Partners, said in the release. “The push for origin diversification has grown tremendously. There’s a widespread understanding in the market that new regions of production need to be integrated into the supply chain.”

Farm Direct Partners, which brings in fresh lime from its subsidiaries in Colombia, Peru, and elsewhere, says it has seen exponential growth over the past few years.

“Our customers have been able to increase their unit sales significantly by diversifying their sourcing strategies to include lime from South America,” Cooke said. “To continue this momentum, we’ve added new key executives Jackie Carrillo and Dan Acevedo.”

Carrillo will serve as executive vice president of sales.

“Jackie has been both the largest buyer of limes in the world during her time as sourcing manager for Walmart and one of the largest sellers of limes during her time at Sicar Farms,” Cooke said. “By leveraging Jackie’s category knowledge, we will be able to improve pricing for our customers by placing the right fruit with the right clients.”

“Farm Direct Partners is at the forefront of an industrywide evolution,” Carrillo said in the release. “While Mexico will continue to be a key supplier for the U.S. market, maintaining security of supply will require a multi-origin approach. With Farm Direct Partners, my goal is to continue to work to reduce price volatility and improve stability for customers.”

Acevedo will serve as director of business development.

“Dan has extensive experience with developing new-origin products into national and regional programs,” Cooke said. “Dan will be spearheading our business development and national marketing programs, leveraging his knowledge of retail, food service, and wholesale markets across North America to allow us to better serve customers and improve pricing.”

“For years I’ve been closely following the growth of Farm Direct Partners and the leading role that the company has played in developing Colombian lime exports,” Acevedo said in the release. “Colombia is a country with incredible agricultural potential, and it’s exciting to be a part of a company that’s playing a leading role in bringing Colombian produce to U.S. consumers.”

Acevedo said he’s also been conscious of the need for origin diversification, not only in lime but across many product categories.

“Over my 25 years of experience in fresh produce, including Colombian lime and avocado most recently, I’ve come to understand that markets can’t come to over-rely on a single supplier, which in the case of lime is Mexico,” Acevedo said. “Colombia and other countries can be a great hedge against volatility.”

Carrillo and Acevedo will be supporting Farm Direct Partners at the International Fresh Produce Association’s Foodservice Conference, set for July 25-26 in Monterey, Calif., the release said.

Sales show a steady rise for lemons and limes

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 18:03:49 GMT

Lemons and limes are on the rise.

Expanding per capita consumption, increasing imports and moderate retail growth in sales point to a strong category, data and industry leaders indicate.

“We’re still seeing an increased demand for lemons at retail, with lemon volume up 30% compared to pre-COVID season year to date, and lime demand is up 45%,” said Cassie Howard, senior director of category management and marketing at Sunkist Growers Inc. “Foodservice is continuing to regain its footing following the pandemic and inflation, and lemons are one of the most demanded items in the category.”

Both total sales and volume were up for lemons and limes for the 52 weeks ending Jan. 28, 2024, according to Circana retail scan data.

Limes rising

Fueled entirely by imports (the USDA reports no significant lime production in the U.S.), retail per capita available of limes has surged from 1.3 pounds in 2000 to 4.4 pounds in 2022.

Circana data showed that total dollar sales of limes for the 52 weeks ending Jan. 28 were $801.3 million, up 2.4% compared with the previous year. Conventional lime sales rose 2.6%, while organic lime sales were down 1.9%, according to retail scan data.

Volume sales of all limes was 398.2 million pounds for the year ending Jan. 28, up 7.6% compared with the previous year. Conventional lime volume was up 7.6%, while organic lime volume sold was up 9.1% for the period, according to Circana.

The price per pound for all limes was $2.01 for the period, a 4.8% decrease compared with year-ago numbers. Conventional limes saw a 4.6% decrease, while organic lime per unit pricing was off 10.1%, according to Circana data.

The USDA reported the average annual shipping point price for all limes in 2023 was $26.80 per carton, 17% lower than 2022’s average of $32.24 per carton but up 20% from the 2021 average shipping point price of $22.34 per carton. From January through March 2024, the average shipping point price for limes was $24.57 per carton, according to USDA numbers.

Survey says

The Packer’s Fresh Trends 2024 survey indicated 1 in 3 consumers (33%) said they purchased limes in the previous 12 months. The research revealed households with annual income over $100,000 reported the highest percentage (46%) of lime purchases.
Households with kids (36%) also reported a higher percentage of lime purchases compared to households without kids (31%).

The West region (37%) had the highest percentage of lime purchases, according to Fresh Trends 2024, while the Northeast (30%) had the lowest percentage.

Fresh Trends 2024 showed that the 50-59 (37%) and 40-49 (37%) age groups reported the highest percentages of lime purchases, while the 18-29 age group (28%) had the lowest purchase percentage.

In terms of ethnicity, Hispanic consumers (44%) reported the highest percentage of lime purchases, compared with White/Caucasian (32%), Black/African American (31%) and Asian (31%) consumers.

Lemon bright

Over the past 20 years, the USDA has reported a doubling of retail per capita availability of lemons, from 2.3 pounds in 2000 to 4.7 pounds by 2022. Imports have played an increasingly important role for the fresh lemon supply in the U.S., rising from 3% of total U.S. supply in 2000 to 26% in 2022.

Total retail lemon sales were $879.5 million for the 52-week period ending Jan. 28, according to Circana retail data, 1.5% higher than the previous year. Organic lemon sales were up 2.5% over the previous year, and conventional lemon sales were up 1.5%, according to Circana data.

Volume sales of lemons for the year ending Jan. 28 were pegged at 427.6 million pounds, up 2.6% compared with the previous year. Organic volume sales of lemons were up 3.1%, and conventional lemon volume sales were up 2.5%.

The average price per pound for all lemons for the period was $2.06, a 1% decline compared with the previous year. That same 1% decline in volume was noted for both conventional and organic lemons, according to Circana data.

The average shipping point price for lemons in 2023 was $28.06 per pound, according to the USDA. That represented a gain of 12% over 2022. From January through March 2024, the average shipping point price for lemons was $26.25 per carton, according to the USDA.

Data from The Packer’s Fresh Trends 2024 consumer survey shows that 48% of shoppers reported lemon purchases in the past year.

The survey of more than 1,100 consumers, conducted in mid-October 2023, revealed that the demographic characteristics associated with the highest self-reported percentage of lemon purchases in the past year were households with an annual income over $100,000, with kids, located in the West or South regions, as well as consumers aged 40-49 years old and those of Hispanic ethnicity.

Households with annual income over $100,000 reported the highest percentage (60%) of lemon purchases. In fact, the data shows that self-reported purchases increased with higher income levels.

Fresh Trends 2024 data shows that households with kids (50%) reported a higher percentage of lemon purchases compared to households without kids (45%).

The 40-49 age group (53%) reported the highest percentage of lemon purchases, while Fresh Trends 2024 data shows that purchase percentages were lower for younger (38% for 18-29 age group) and older (48% for 60 years or older) age groups.

Trade flow

U.S. exports of fresh lemons were rated at $134.3 million in 2023, down 12% from 2022, according to USDA trade numbers.

U.S. imports of lemons and limes (the citrus varieties are combined in USDA trade data) were rated at $1.01 billion in 2023, up 11% from $906.2 million in 2022.

Mexico is by far the top supplier for the lemon/lime citrus category, shipping $811.3 million to the U.S. in 2023, up from $739.3 million in 2022. Colombia, Argentina, Chile and Peru followed Mexico as top suppliers of the lemon/lime citrus category to the U.S., according to USDA trade numbers.

Sunkist ready for peak lemon demand

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 17:02:02 GMT

As one of the largest lemon suppliers in California, Sunkist Growers is expanding its program offerings and adding multiple organic lemon growers this season to meet consumer and customer demand for year-round supply, says Cassie Howard, senior director of category management and marketing.

Sunkist has year-round conventional and meyer lemon programs.

Howard also said the marketer continues to see the overall importance of limes in the citrus category and has expanded its partnerships to enhance its supply.

Noting increasing lemon and lime demand compared with pre-COVID levels, Howard said foodservice demand continues to regain its footing following the pandemic; there are plenty of strategies to raise awareness for the lemon and lime category.

“We continue to monitor current trends within the category,” she said. “According to a recent study by FMI on the 2024 ‘Power of Seafood,’ more consumers are enjoying seafood at home, which provides an opportunity for lemons and limes due to their authentic natural pairing for a variety of dishes.”

Among packaging changes, Howard said Sunkist last season revamped its 2-pound lemon bag offerings, now providing an eye-catching pouch bag design.

“This season, with bigger lemon sizes, we’ve remained flexible to meet our retailer’s needs,” Howard said. “Many retailers have expanded their offerings this season, providing multiple bag options and engaging shoppers. We have seen added interest in the 3-pound and 5-pound bags, increasing volume sales this season versus last year while not negatively impacting bulk lemon volume.”

Marketing shine

Spring and summer are when lemons are top of mind for shoppers, Howard said.

“It is when we see the highest household penetration for lemons,” she said. “With our influencer programs, we’re able to show consumers new and exciting ways to beat the heat with quick and easy recipes for making lemons the must-have ingredient this summer.”

Sunkist’s Instagram and TikTok accounts provide recipe inspiration, as does the Sunkist Matchmaker recipe generator on its website, she said.

With a year-round program, Sunkist’s lemons are available for key promotions from Memorial Day to Independence Day to Labor Day.

“Sunkist’s 5-pound lemon bag is a terrific way for retailers to give their consumers the value they are looking for when making lemonade or baking while not impacting sales in other SKUs,” Howard said.

In addition to strong bag programs, Sunkist’s merchandising program features interactive POS materials with scannable QR codes that provide real-time recipe inspiration to shoppers, she said. A recent Sunkist-commissioned study revealed that when consumers were asked what advertisements incentivized direct citrus purchases, recipe inspiration and utilization tips were at the top of their lists, Howard said.

“We know that lemons drive recipe inspiration, with two-thirds of lemon shoppers using lemons to flavor water and more than two-thirds purchasing lemons for recipes,” she said. “Sunkist has extra lifestyle bins for lemons, perfect for cross-promotional opportunities with seafood and cocktails/liquor and lemonade stands, keeping lemons top-of-mind throughout the shoppers’ store journey this summer season.”

Wonderful Citrus introduces new display bins for seedless lemons

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 12:07:39 GMT

Wonderful Citrus will continue to support marketing efforts for its Wonderful Seedless Lemons with a new element this season, says Zak Laffite, president.

“This season we introduced new secondary display bins — perfect for multiple locations throughout any store format,” Laffite said. “These new displays have a small footprint and feature beautiful recipes and cocktails to inspire new usage occasions and demonstrate how Wonderful Seedless Lemons can enhance any dish or beverage and save consumers time in the kitchen.”

In addition, Laffite said Wonderful Citrus has launched a digital campaign on Pinterest with culinary-led creative to generate brand affinity and emphasize the ease that comes with cooking and baking with no seeds.

Wonderful Seedless Lemons, a naturally seedless, non-GMO Project-verified lemon variety, are available nationally in Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, Kroger and select grocery retailers, he said.

The variety is in its fourth year, with volume available from November through June this year.

Laffite said Wonderful Citrus is the largest single grower and shipper of lemons in North America, with a year-round portfolio and a strong presence in the major California growing districts and Mexico.

Wonderful Citrus has packing facilities in California and Mexico, with forward distribution centers in Florida and New Jersey.

“Our current lemon supply is on a similar pace to last season, and retailers should have confidence to plan their bulk and bagged lemon promotions through June,” he said. “The Mexican crop is also shaping up to be similar to last season, and we are planning for good supply and quality from summer through November.”

Wonderful Citrus also offers a robust import lemon program to supplement any gaps, Laffite said.

Laffite said lemon demand — up 20% from 2019 — remains elevated compared with pre-COVID time periods.

“Consumers continue to cook at home and use lemons on more occasions,” he said.

Growth in the lemon category has come from bagged sales, he said. Household penetration of bagged lemon sales grew from 17% in 2019 to 21% in 2022, which Laffite said means more households are buying bagged lemons.

“Specifically for crop year 2022-23, the lemon category in total is relatively flat, but sales of loose lemons are down about 4%, while bagged lemon sales are up 7%; Wonderful Seedless Lemons are contributing almost all of that growth,” he said.

Limes outlook

Wonderful Citrus runs a comprehensive lime program sourcing from multiple areas that include several thousand owned acres in Mexico, Laffite said.

Wonderful Citrus offers a forward distribution network in the U.S. that services lime customers nationally out of Texas, Florida and California and directly out of Mexico toward customers in the European Union, Asia and the Mexico domestic market, Laffite said.

“Our lime program offers a comprehensive portfolio including conventional Persian limes, organic Persian limes and conventional key limes packed in multiple carton and bag styles,” he said.

In the next few weeks, the supply outlook for limes continues to be relatively low, Laffite said.

“There is a new crop coming in April, but it is forecasted that sizing will be smaller than normal and volume of medium to large sizes will be limited,” he said. “Flexibility in sizing will be key to getting through the next few months.”

Boosting sales

Merchandising plays an essential role in consistently selling incremental lemons and limes, Laffite said.

“We’ve experienced double-digit growth when our Wonderful Seedless Lemons are merchandised in multiple locations throughout the store,” he said. “Point of sale material in locations such as the seafood, beverage and even baking aisles can help drive sales of lemons.”

He said it also makes sense to cross-merchandise limes with avocados and other complementary items during key consumption occasions, like Cinco de Mayo or Super Bowl.

Sustainability progress

Laffite said Wonderful Citrus directs significant resources to technology and environmental research.

“In terms of carbon emissions, we calculate our emissions footprint annually to guide our sustainability effort and to hold us accountable to hitting our goals,” he said. “By 2025, our U.S. operations will be powered by renewable energy, and we are targeting zero waste by developing new uses for byproducts of our operations.”

Laffite said Wonderful Citrus has all its owned acreage certified as fair trade and all packing operations following the same standards in California, including being Global Food Safety Initiative and Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit compliant.

Mexican new crop limes may loosen market

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 12:26:24 GMT

Selling Mexican limes year-round, Burlingame, Calif.-based International Citrus & Produce offers stability its customers, most of whom are in Northern California and the central valley.

Tony Campos, owner, said the company has operated for more than 50 years. Campos said this year the company has introduced a 2-pound bag for limes, available to all customers.

“Our bag program has been very successful,” he said.

Campos said lime prices ranged from the low $30 range from the beginning of 2023 to recently as high as the mid-$60 range. The spike in prices has been created by low supply caused by a lack of rain in Veracruz, he said.

Those firm lime market conditions may continue through Holy Week in Mexico and into mid-April.

Campos said a new crop of Mexican limes is expected in mid-April, mainly sizes 230s and 250s and trending smaller.

“This will hopefully give us some relief on price,” he said. “We haven’t seen prices under $20 since early December 2022. It could be another eight months before we see that again.”

However, he said market conditions are hard to forecast.

“We just take it week by week,” he said.

TIPA reacts to USDA changes in reporting lime prices

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 14:42:03 GMT

The USDA has changed the way it reports lime prices, drawing praise from members of the Texas International Produce Association .

On Sept. 1, USDA Market News began reporting limes in a manner that is more consistent with the many grade offerings of that commodity so as to better reflect the range of quality that exists in the marketplace by using “appearance,” according to a news release.

“Lime handlers have been telling us for the last year that the prices reported from Market News were not clear enough to understand the market,” TIPA President Dante Galeazzi said in the release.

Prices at times last year reflected a $40 difference between the lowest and highest price for the same size, he said.

“This difference was largely the result of the many grades present in the marketplace,” Galeazzi said. “We applaud USDA’s decision to make these changes, as we believe it will help eliminate confusion among all users of Market News with regards to limes. The market has changed considerably in the last 20 years, and efforts such as this will improve the industry’s dealings with this commodity.”

Related: Fresh Trends 2023 — Lime purchases on an upswing

Market News will now report lime prices similar to the manner in which apple, cucumber and bell pepper prices are reported, the release said. Since limes do not require that a grade be printed on the box, USDA must use specific terminology to correctly communicate the pricing within commodity standards, according to the release.

Market News will now use the Appearance column to reflect the quality associated with each price reported. The terms used in the Appearance column will be:

Fine Appearance — U.S. Grade No. 1 (best of the best).
Fair Appearance — U.S. Grade number combination.
Blank or no designation on appearance — less than fine but better than fair.

Limes have established themselves as a grocery store staple and demand has skyrocketed, the release said. A University of Florida report cited the volume of Persian limes increasing over 200% since 2002, and the average consumption rising more than 70% since 2010 to nearly 4.27 pounds of limes per American consumer.

This growth in the lime market has not been without challenges, the release said.

Alongside efforts such as improvements in price reporting by USDA Market News and TIPA’s Lime Education & Training Day held in August, TIPA says it is confident the fresh produce community will come to accept the opportunities to improve their knowledge of limes.

Learn: More about limes from PMG

Fruit World ushers in California citrus season — and a sustainability milestone

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 12:59:43 GMT

As it welcomes the California winter citrus season, Fruit World is also touting a recent Equitable Food Initiative certification for its facility in Reedley, Calif.

The sustainability -focused fresh produce company called the certification a “testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved,” according to a news release.

“This certification marks a monumental accomplishment. We take our mission of creating an equitable and sustainable food system to heart, and this achievement demonstrates that our actions match our words,” Fruit World founder and CEO Bianca Kaprielian said in the release.

The California citrus season starts two to three weeks later than usual, the release said. While citrus volume is down across the board this year, Fruit World says it is working harder than ever to make every piece count. The company says the increased organic citrus acreage coming into play this season further emphasizes its “commitment to the long haul,” according to the release.

“We can’t help but get excited when the California winter citrus season rolls around. We love so much about it — the beautiful pops of orange color, the sweet juiciness, and the real range in varieties and flavor,” Kaprielian said.

Related: Corrugated cardboard packaging industry makes sustainability strides, says report

The season commences with the organic lemon program, a year-round favorite featuring fresh fruit from the desert region, according to the release. That’s being accompanied by sweet limes, with grapefruit to follow by month’s end.

November will mark the arrival of navels and mandarins, with minneolas, cara cara, and blood oranges all shipping in December, the release said.

Given the expected shorter season, Kaprielian encourages customers to plan ahead for their winter and early spring promotions, as the citrus program is likely to wrap up by the beginning of April, according to the release. To place an order or to learn more about Fruit World’s winter citrus program, visit fruitworld.com or contact sales@fruitworld.com.

CEO to speak at Organic Grower Summit

During the Organic Grower Summit in November, Kaprielian will join a panel of industry experts to discuss the USDA’s upcoming Strengthening Organic Enforcement final rule and how the grower community can prepare for its changes, according to the release.

“The updates to the USDA National Organic Program regulations are significant. The intent to minimize organic fraud is appreciated; at the same time, we see the challenges it will present to growers, buyers, and sellers of organic produce,” Kaprielian said. “We are working to make sure we are well positioned to be in compliance once the new regulations go into effect in March, which is the tail end of our winter citrus season. Our hope is that we can help other farmers navigate these changes, too.”

Harold Weisfeld, founder of California distributor, remembered

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 20:51:06 GMT

Harold Weisfeld, founder of Fruit Distributing Corp. of California, Commerce, has died.

Weisfeld died June 2. He was 90.

Weisfeld grew up in the Rio Grande Valley in South Texas, where his father had a citrus packing shed. He worked at the family business in his youth in the 1930s and 1940s, and after serving in the U.S. Army in the early 1950s, he returned to Texas to work in the citrus groves, according to a statement from his son, Jeff Weisfeld.

A short time later, Harold Weisfeld moved to California and worked for Mendelson-Zeller Co., a distributor on the Los Angeles wholesale market. He struck out on his own in 1958, brokering Texas citrus.

Over the years, Fruit Distributing Corp. of California added tomatoes, potatoes, onions, tree fruit, limes and other items, according to the statement.

Harold sold the business to his son Jeff in the early 2000s, but he still dropped by the office regularly to visit.

Survivors include sons Jeff and Stuart Weisfeld, and daughter Lynde Weisfeld-Kaufman. Stuart is a principal at Worldwide Produce, a Los Angeles foodservice distributor, and Weisfeld Kaufman works in sales at Worldwide Produce, according to the statement.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, services have been postponed until Sept. 11. Details will be available in the coming months, according to the statement.

Robinson Fresh distributes Apeel limes to Wakefern stores

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 07:37:05 GMT

Apeel Sciences , Santa Barbara, Calif., is expanding distribution of limes treated to extend shelf life through Robinson Fresh.

Robinson Fresh , Eden Prairie, Minn., will be distributing the limes to Wakefern Food Corp. retail banners ShopRite, The Fresh Grocer, Price Rite Marketplace, Dearborn Market, Gourmet Garage and Fairway Market stores.

The collaboration helps the companies’ missions of reducing food waste and addressing climate change.

“Not only does this give consumers access to sustainable produce, but by introducing more time across the supply chain, Apeel’s technology increases our operational flexibility to get the produce to retailers while furthering our commitment to innovation and forward-thinking technologies that benefit our customers,” Michael Castagnetto, president of Robinson Fresh, said in the release.

“We are excited to be partnered with such innovative and sustainability-minded produce distributors and retailers to accelerate the commercial availability of Apeel’s longer-lasting produce,” Michael Schaeman, vice president of sales at Apeel. “Robinson Fresh shares Apeel’s vision for more efficient supply chains so that we can move food through the system without seeing the insurmountable level of waste that has become ever more pressing to address.”

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Apeel poised for growth

Apeel Sciences secures $250 million in financing

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La Dona Fruit starts exporting limes, avocados to the U.S.

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 07:36:06 GMT

La Dona Fruit, a Colombian grower and exporter, has launched a colorful band and packaging for avocados and limes for the U.S. and Europe.

True Origins by La Dona features multi-colored pre-Colombian symbols that reflect the color, light and music of the indigenous Andes culture, according to a news release. The company will be shipping the fruit in 40-pound cartons with the new designs to the U.S. in September. European customers will receive fruit in 4.5-kilogram boxes.

“The world needs a little more color right now, and we want customers interacting with our brand to see something on the brighter side,” Oscar Baracaldo, La Dona Fruit’s head of customer experience, said in the release. “True Origins by La Dona is a more dynamic design that epitomizes the color and light of the Andean culture, particularly the power of the sun from the pre-Columbian era.”

The new design is a contrast to the previous black opaque design for the company’s Colombian and Peruvian avocados and Tahiti limes from Colombia, according to the release. The new design might be extended to other fruit from the company.

“We continue to develop our farms and grower relationships to deliver the best that the Andes region has to offer,” Baracaldo said in the release. “By marrying ancient, local techniques together with up-to-date crop management practices, we can produce the rich and complex flavors that are found in La Dona’s fruit grown at different altitudes across the Andes.”

This will be the company’s first season of exports to the U.S. The company established a sales desk in Birmingham, Ala.. in 2019.

Related story:

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District 3 citrus season begins for Veg-Fresh Farms

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 07:35:30 GMT

Veg-Fresh Farms, Corona, Calif., is starting its winter citrus season.

The District 3 (D3) region — Riverside and the Coachella and Imperial valleys — starts this month, with fruit shipping into early spring.

Veg-Fresh Farms is in its sixth season packing under the Good Life Organic label, with lemons, grapefruit , minneolas and sweet limes from District 3, according to a news release.

Organic lemons are shipping from the district now through February, peaking in November/December with size 140/115 count, with limits on larger sizes, according to the release. D3 lemon harvest production is down 25%-35% from last season.

Organic grapefruit from D3 begin in mid-October and go through March, with peaks in November-January. Veg-Fresh expects sizes to peak on 48/40/56 counts, ideal for bags, according to the release.

Organic minneolas start in mid-December go through February, peaking in January. Peak sizes are expected in the 100/80/64 counts and will be available in bulk and bags.

Sweet limes from D3 will be available in mid-October through February.

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Doc’s Organics to supply Veg-Fresh Farms with citrus

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DiSilva Fruit, Morning Kiss Organic offer California citrus

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 07:35:09 GMT

DiSilva Fruit and Morning Kiss Organic are ready to deliver delicious, vitamin-packed organic and conventional citrus for the coming citrus season.

DiSilva Fruit and Morning Kiss Organic have seen tremendous growth in specialty and organic citrus over the last 5 years. Citrus is one of the leading categories of all organic purchases, and with additional demand noted as consumers aim to buy healthy foods during the current health crisis Morning Kiss Organic anticipates another strong season.

“Our organic citrus program gives consumers what they want – healthy, delicious fruit full of vitamin C and packaged to ensure it is being minimally handled,” says Nelly Czajkowski, Sales Manager at Morning Kiss Organic. “We’re looking forward to another successful California season.”

DiSilva Fruit will again offer packaged citrus in a range of customizable sizes and formats. Offerings will include California Navels , Cara-Cara Navels, Mandarins , lemons , Limes , and Heirloom Navels.

“Since the start of the pandemic we have seen an overwhelming demand for packaged citrus. Consumers are seeking vitamin C with value and convenience,” says Alden Guptill, Sales Manager at DiSilva Fruit. “And packaged citrus is a perfect complement for the rapidly expanding home delivery and curbside offerings that retailers have greatly expanded in the last few months.”

Employing just-in-time inventory management, citrus is freshly packed to order, in customizable packaging reducing loss to spoilage at retail, and therefore protecting the retailer’s bottom line. Produce is delivered daily to ensure the highest quality, and best tasting selection available.

To discuss how DiSilva Fruit and Morning Kiss Organic can help grow your citrus category and meet increased consumer demand for citrus, reach out to Alden Guptill or Nelly Czajkowski at plant@disilvafruit.com or 617-884-9033.

Cocaine found in lime shipment at Texas port of entry

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 02:13:59 GMT

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers in Pharr, Texas, recently stopped a load of limes containing $1.86 million in cocaine.

The agency inspected a commercial shipment of fresh limes Aug. 17 at the Pharr International Bridge cargo facility and found 80 packages of cocaine weighing 202 pounds, according to a news release. A canine team trained to detect drugs helped the officer detect the packages hidden in the trailer.

The truck was seized and Homeland Security Investigations is handling the investigation, according to the release.

The seizure came the day after Customs and Border Protection officers at the same facility found 430 packages of marijuana weighing 1,079 pounds in a truck shipment of tile.

“These were two outstanding interceptions of narcotics in the cargo environment that were accomplished due to great teamwork and perseverance,” Port Director Sylvia Briones, Port of Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas, said in the release.

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Officials find $18.5 million in drugs in carrot shipment in Texas

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Apeel Sciences reveals supplier network

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 06:10:05 GMT

Santa Barbara, Calif.-based Apeel Sciences has announced supplier partnerships that company leaders say will enable a year-round supply of Apeel avocados , limes , asparagus , and apples for U.S. retailers and consumers.

“Apeel’s supplier network allows us to connect with retailers and other companies who look to technology for solutions that deliver superior products, increase profits and reduce our environmental footprint,” Gordon Robertson, chief revenue officer at Apeel Sciences, said in a news release. “We’re proud and honored to stand with this incredible network of industry leaders who are shaping the future of food.”

Apeel’s supplier network partners are:

Avocados:
Del Monte
Eco Farms
Del Rey Avocado Co.
Horton Fruit Co.
RV Aguacates (Mexico)

Asparagus:

Alpine Fresh
Beta (Peru)
Farm Direct Supply
Agricola La Venta (Peru)

Limes:

SiCar Farms

Organic Apples:

Olympic/Sage Fruit Co.

The company, founded in 2012 by CEO James Rogers, said its expansion into asparagus, limes and apples builds on the company’s success with avocados at retailers including Kroger and Harp.

Apeel’s technology can cut food waste in half at the retail level, according to the release. In shipping trials from Peru to the U.S. and Europe, Apeel Asparagus dropped water loss in half in refrigerated and ambient temperatures, adding enough shelf life to make possible slower and cheaper transportation modes, according to the release.

“The ability to extend shelf life with Apeel is an incredible value-add that we see,” Walter Yager, CEO of Alpine Fresh, said in the release. “In addition to bringing dollars and value per box for us and our retail customers, Apeel will allow us to provide a better product for our consumers.”

Chuck Sinks, president of sales and marketing at Sage Fruit Co., said the plant-based coating delivers.

“This amazing product has the potential to extend the shelf life of produce, ultimately benefiting the consumer, retailer and the grower,” he said in the release.

Related stories:

David Nelley joins Apeel Sciences as VP of domestic buyer relations

Produce execs look to future in United Fresh outlook panel

Packer 25 — James Rogers

Kroger expands Apeel avocado program, adds limes, asparagus

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 07:40:58 GMT

Kroger is rolling out avocados with Apeel Sciences’ shelf-life extender in 1,100 stores, and plans to stock Apeel limes and asparagus in Cincinnati stores this fall.

With Kroger’s Zero Hunger|Zero Waste campaign, the new items expand a pilot of Apeel avocados in 109 Midwestern Kroger stores that began a year ago.

“Kroger is excited to offer more customers Apeel avocados and introduce longer-lasting limes and asparagus, marking another milestone on our journey to achieving our Zero Hunger | Zero Waste vision,” Frank Romero, Kroger’s vice president of produce said in the release. “Apeel’s innovative food-based solution has proven to extend the life of perishable produce, reducing food waste in transport, in our retail stores and in our customers’ homes.”

Apeel Sciences CEO James Rogers said Kroger is tackling food waste issues in the supply chain through Apeel.

“We’re excited to expand our partnership with Kroger to further prevent food waste while simultaneously giving families more access and time to enjoy healthy fresh produce,” James Rogers, CEO of Apeel Sciences, Santa Barbara, Calif., said in a news release.

Asparagus is the first vegetable from Apeel, according to the release.

Apeel Sciences is building its base of produce suppliers in the U.S., Mexico and Chile as it expands into new commodities and retail partners.

Apeel Sciences uses a plant-derived treatment to slow water loss and oxidation.

Related stories:

David Nelley joins Apeel Sciences as VP of domestic buyer relations

Produce execs look to future in United Fresh outlook panel

Apeel avocados rolled out at Costco, Harps Food Stores

Sweet potato, lime companies among PACA violators

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 06:23:40 GMT

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has imposed sanctions on four companies for Perishable Agricultural Commodity Act violations.

The companies, according to a news release, are:

Wayne Bailey Produce Co. LLC , Chadbourn, N.C., for not paying $56,400 to a North Carolina seller. Alice Wooten was listed as a member or manager of the business, but she is challenging her status as “responsibly connected.”
Star Gold Produce Corp., Los Angeles, for not paying $201,035 to an Arizona seller. Alicia Palacios was listed as the officer, director and/or major stockholder of the business.
Champions Produce LLC , Spring, Texas, for failing to pay $192,274 to a Florida seller. Christopher Petro and Michael Petro were listed as members or managers of the business.
RR & Tequila Limes LLC , McAllen, Texas, for failing to pay $11,600 to a Texas seller. Victor Rivera was listed a member or manager of the business.

The sanctions include suspending the PACA licenses of the companies, and barring the principal officers from “engaging in PACA-licenses business or other activities without approval from the USDA,” according to the release.

Related stories:

Wayne Bailey Produce named in $8.1 million PACA complaint

PACA: Southern Produce Distributors owes $3.49 million

A&A Organic shipping full line of spring vegetables

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 06:33:24 GMT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related stories:

A&A Organic Farms ships organic lemons

A&A Organic noted for recyclable packaging

Domestic citrus kicks off summer on high note

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 18:48:50 GMT

Good news has been a rarity since the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic broke out early this year. But there appears to be a bright spot when it comes to U.S. citrus sales.

Suppliers say citrus movement has been strong throughout the coronavirus crisis, with all categories continuing to show strong weekly increases over the same week last year.

According to data from Chicago-based market research firm IRI for the week ending May 3, sales of oranges were up 68%, lemon sales grew by 42.4% and tangerine movement increased 7.7%.

Suppliers and nutritionists say at least part of the sales surge likely was due to the positive reputation vitamin C has earned when it comes to building a strong immune system.

As summer approaches, major citrus suppliers have made big plans for their summer programs.

Valencia, Calif.-based Sunkist Growers Inc . has California-grown citrus available year-round, said Christina Ward, director of global brand marketing.

“Our summertime favorites include lemons, grapefruit, valencia oranges and limes,” she said.

California- and Arizona-grown cara cara oranges were available through May, and navels should be on supermarket shelves through June.

“Our summer varieties will take over the scene around June, as we wind down on some of the other varieties,” Ward said.

Valencia oranges are the only U.S.-grown oranges available in the summer, and Sunkist is going into the season ready to keep the citrus category and U.S.-grown promotions going strong, she said.

“The fruit tastes excellent,” she said. “We see a good range of sizes for our summer citrus.”

Volume on lemons, grapefruit and valencias should be up this summer compared to last year, she added.

Fowler, Calif.-based Bee Sweet Citrus Inc . plans to offer navel oranges, valencia oranges, cara cara navels, mandarins, lemons and grapefruit this summer, said salesman Jason Sadoian.

Blood oranges also will be available through the end of July.

Bee Sweet’s grapefruit, valencia oranges and blood oranges are grown in California, he said.

The company’s mandarins, navel oranges and cara cara navels are part of its offshore program with Chile.

Lemons are grown domestically and imported.

“Our team anticipates that the quality of our summer citrus line will be excellent,” Sadoian said.

“Every box of fruit that ships out of our facility gets re-packed or re-styled for optimal quality control.”

Volume on all items should be similar to last year.

Visalia, Calif.-based Seven Seas , a division of Tom Lange Co. Inc., Springfield, Ill., will offer a one-source solution for California-grown valencia oranges, grapefruit and lemons this summer, said Brent Young, manager of sales.

“We expect quality to be very good on all items throughout the summer months with size curves ideal for both retail and foodservice markets,” he said.

Volume of valencia oranges likely will be light, and markets should be strong, he said, while lemons look to be near normal volumes with sizes peaking on 140s.

“Grapefruit quality looks great overall with very clean fruit and lots of juice (and) flavor,” Young said.

Seven Seas expects the supply chain to gain stability in retail movement, he said, and is “hopeful that foodservice recovery will come soon.”

“We anticipate strong sales in both export and domestic markets throughout the summer as sales recover from the COVID-19 interruptions,” Young said.

On the lemon scene, Santa Paula, Calif.-based Limoneira Co. currently is sourcing from its California coastal growing area, said Alex Teague, chief operating officer.

If needed, fruit will be brought to the U.S. from ranches in Chile and Argentina.

The company ships lemons year-round.

“For the current coastal crop, growing conditions have been almost ideal,” Teague said.

“We have had average to above-average rain and no frost, so the crop looks very good.”

Volume is the same as last year, he said, with more medium- to large-size fruit because of late-season rains and more fruit available for fresh market than last year.

Related content:
Summer citrus news updates
Marketers to offer array of citrus promotions at retail, foodservice
Citrus plentiful for summer season, marketers say

Citrus suppliers expect extensive import deals

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 07:37:42 GMT

Senior director Chris Cockle said Dinuba, Calif.-based Wonderful Citrus will have an extensive offshore citrus deal this summer that will include mandarins, navel oranges and lemons.

Mandarins from Uruguay will have “perfect sizing” with 24s, 28s and “modest amounts” of larger and very small fruit, Cockle said.

Meanwhile, volume of Peruvian mandarins was expected to be up 10% to 15% over last season, with a larger size structure featuring 18s, 20s and 24s.

The company’s first Chilean easy peelers should arrive in mid-June.

“We are anticipating marginal growth with the crop this season with a smaller size structure — 28s, 32s and 36s,” he said.

Wonderful Citrus anticipates a good season for South African mandarins starting by early June, with volumes projected to increase.

Sizing on South African mandarins will be good — mostly 24s and 28s, Cockle said.

Volume of Australian mandarins is expected to be down 10%-15% from last season with sizes peaking at 28s.

Packing and shipping were expected to begin by the end of June with arrivals in the U.S. the first week of August with w. murcotts.

The company expected its first Argentinian lemons to arrive in the U.S. by early June.

“Exporters are ensuring the color is perfect for the U.S. market,” Cockle said.

“The competition for volume from Europe could influence the volumes heading our way.”

Fruit is expected to be large, peaking on 95s and 115s.

Navel oranges are expected to arrive from Chile by late June with volume down 10% compared to last year, he said.

South African navels also should be in the U.S. by the end of June.

“There will be a good balance of small and large fruit this season,” he said.

But he added that a big pull for volumes to Europe could affect what is exported to the U.S.

Limes are good-selling citrus year-round, but sales tend to spike in summer when consumers light up their barbecues or head to the park for picnics, where they use citrus for grilling or as a condiment with fish or chicken, said Eddie Caram, general manager at New Limeco LLC , Princeton, Fla.

New Limeco sources from Mexico and Honduras.

“There’s always an increase in sales and an increase in production in summer because Mexico is in their heaviest production,” Caram said.

Visalia, Calif.-based Seven Seas , a division of Tom Lange Co. Inc., Springfield, Ill., will offer navel oranges, midknight oranges, mandarins, lemons and star ruby grapefruit this summer, said Miles Fraser-Jones, director of global business development.

The company will source from South Africa, Chile and Peru.

South Africa should have a normal crop, with increases over 2019, he said.

Certain areas of Chile were affected by severe drought conditions, and Fraser-Jones expected similar quantity to last year with smaller sizing.

Peru should have a normal crop with an increase in supply because of growth in the industry, he said.

Santa Paula, Calif.-based Limoneira Co., which provides lemons year-round, currently is sourcing from its California coastal growing area, said Alex Teague, chief operating officer.

The company will import product from ranches in Chile and Argentina if necessary to meet customer demand, he said.

Realted content:
Domestic citrus kicks off summer on high note
Summer Citrus Business Updates
Marketers to offer array of citrus promotions at retail, foodservice

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