Sweet Corn

Save Mart and Fantozzi Farms Team to Tell Farm-to-Table Story

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 11:32:26 GMT

Each year more than 14,000 visitors come to the Fantozzi Farms Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch in Patterson, Calif. This year, the 10-acre maze not only offers fun for the whole family, it also tells a unique farm-to-table story starring The Save Mart Cos., the Central Valley grocer with deep roots in the Golden State.

“Our partnership with Save Mart this year has been such a positive experience,” says Denise Fantozzi, who co-owns Fantozzi Farms with her husband, Paul. “Save Mart has been a really important part of our community for years, and so everybody knows about Save Mart and partnering together — showing that pathway from the farm to the grocery store to the table — is something that we can all relate to.”

In the early 2000s, Fantozzi, a former schoolteacher, was looking to incorporate education into fun field trip experiences on the farm, and together with her farmer husband opened the first Fantozzi Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch in 2003.

While Fantozzi says they “started off small,” the agri-entertainment farm has added to the experience over the years with scarecrow contests, hayrides, corn hole tournaments, pumpkin painting and more. It also welcomes scores of school-age children through field trips that bring the farm-to-table message to life.

Fantozzi Farms welcomes scores of children on educational field trips.

(Photo courtesy of Fantozzi Farms)

“We started off just wanting people to come out and learn about farming and where their food comes from and have a fun time,” says Fantozzi. “And over the years we’ve added lots of attractions, and in the last few years, we’ve added events to involve the community more in what’s going on. And that is our goal, to provide the community with a safe, fun experience that they’re going to take a lot of memories away from.”

Fantozzi says the corn maze receives repeat visitors from near and far.

“I just love seeing families come back year after year,” she says. “Building that connection with the community, that’s the most rewarding part.”

Over the years, Fantozzi Farms has expanded the attractions in its agri-entertainment business.

(Photo courtesy of Fantozzi Farms)

In addition to corn and pumpkins, Fantozzi Farms grows watermelons, tomatoes for processing, apricots, almonds and alfalfa.

Over the years, Fantozzi says she’s become personal friends with many of the families who visit the farm, has watched their kids grow up and, in some cases, become employees at the corn maze in their teen years. And then there are those who visited as children who come back with kids of their own.

Fantozzi says the community created by the farm’s corn maze has fostered fun, friendships and even love.

“We’ve had two marriage proposals at the maze, and both of these couples, when they staged their proposals, told us it was because this is where they did a lot of their dating at our corn maze, and that’s where they made their special memories,” she says.

“This is ag storytelling at its finest, and it’s a connector,” says Save Mart’s Jenna Rose Lee.

(Photo courtesy of The Save Mart Cos.)

Building Memories on the Farm

An aerial view of the Fantozzi Farms and Save Mart corn maze reveals its breathtaking intricacies. How does a 10-acre corn maze spanning more than 5 miles of twisting paths and 12 hidden checkpoints come to be?

“We start off with our design. We think of what we want the design to be, and that’s really sketched out on paper or on the computer,” Fantozzi explains. “From the very beginning, we’ve had a company called Maze Play that comes out, and they have the equipment to cut the maze design, put in all the paths, and they use a small tractor with a rototiller behind it, and a GPS system. They cut those paths very exact, and the final maze looks just like the design we planned.”

This year’s corn maze, which features Save Mart branding integrated in the design, was the brainchild of The Save Mart Cos. Marketing and Social Media Manager Jenna Rose Lee.

“This is ag storytelling at its finest, and it’s a connector,” says Lee. “We wanted to showcase the relationship between the farmer and the retailer and the maze design does just that. It showcases the farm to the family table and the supply chain.

“In the design, you’ll see our logo, but then in addition to that, you see the tractor,” she continues. “There’s a big grocery cart in the middle, and then you also see a home. So, it’s really making that connection between how the food gets from the field to our shelves, to the grocery cart, and to your family’s dinner table.”

The corn maze also features one of Save Mart’s taglines: “Valley Proud.”

“What we wanted to showcase in this huge display, is that we are proud to be here. We’re not going anywhere. We’re ‘Valley Proud,’” says Lee. “We’re proud of our local farmers, and we love our community.

“We were founded in Modesto, Calif, and it’s part of who we are and where we are at the heart of the Central Valley, and it’s important for us to connect with our local farmers who stock our shelves,” she adds. “Partnering with Fantozzi was a true testament to being local and supporting our local farmers.”

Made for Social Media

Save Mart is also strengthening the connection between farm to table with a strategic social media campaign that shines a light on Fantozzi’s Farms’ fall bounty.

“Social media is truly how we’re connecting with our shoppers and how we’re learning more about our shoppers,” says Lee. “They love seeing where their food come from. That never gets old.”

Lee says just because you live in the Central Valley, doesn’t mean you’ve been to a farm or engaged with animals.

“I come from an ag background, but I am still learning about so many different crops,” she says. “I think it’s always going to be important to showcase local farmers and the crops that are grown here.”

Duda VP Talks About Benefits to New Fresh-Cut Corn Line

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 17:17:27 GMT

Last month, Duda Farm Fresh Foods , an Oviedo, Fla.-based grower and processor of fresh vegetables and citrus, added an on-site fresh cut corn processing facility in its Georgia sweet corn operation.

The company says this is a pivotal step in its commitment to deliver fresh, more sustainable produce. The company sat down with The Packer to talk about what this new processing capability means for the business.

This new line mirrors the process of Duda’s other existing processing locations in Florida, Michigan and Indiana, where it trims, shucks and packs each ear of corn into a variety of pack sizes.

Jeff Goodale, senior vice president of strategy and business development at Duda Farm Fresh Foods, says this new fresh-cut line reflects growing consumer demand for ready-to-use produce.

“By trimming, shucking and packaging corn on-site, Duda is responding to shoppers’ desire for time-saving meal prep solutions without compromising on freshness or quality,” he says. “This investment aligns with broader trends in value-added produce, where convenience and freshness are key drivers of purchase decisions.”

Duda also says packing the corn in the same area where it is grown helps improve its shelf life. This expansion also highlights Duda’s focus on regional sourcing and sustainability, Goodale adds.

“By processing corn at the source in Georgia from May to November, Duda reduces food miles and extends shelf life — key advantages for retailers looking to minimize shrink and maximize freshness,” Goodale says.

He says the new facility supports tray pack and bulk formats, which gives retailers flexibility in merchandising sweet corn.

Demand for sweet corn remains strong, Goodale says, especially during peak seasonal moments.

“Duda’s expansion in Georgia is a direct response to this sustained interest, allowing the company to better serve regional markets with fresher, locally grown corn,” he says. “The ability to meet Fourth of July demand with the new facility underscores both the popularity of sweet corn and the importance of regional supply chains in maintaining product quality and availability.”

Grower Highlights Autonomous Farming with New Sweet Corn Label

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 14:02:28 GMT

A new label has appeared on Sunrise Select sweet corn sold in select Whole Foods stores, showing a Greenfield Robotics’ machine at work in a cornfield. Fifth-generation grower Bill Kercher says adding the label to the produce his family grows on about 600 acres was a no-brainer and a great way to highlight his family’s regenerative farming.

“To promote No. 1 that we were using robots in the corn to weed, not using chemical applications to control the weeds, and No. 2 to help promote Greenfield and their mission,” says Kercher, vice president of business development for Sunrise Produce.

Kercher says this is the first produce commodity using Greenfield’s technology, so his farm was the first foray into a truly consumer-facing product using robotic weeding. He says the family worked with the Greenfield Robotics team to create the label, which reads “Robot-Weeded — Our farm uses autonomous robots from Greenfield Robotics to remove weeds for a cleaner, smarter way to farm.”

The label comes with a QR code leading consumers to a webpage that discusses the benefits of robotic weeding on the Kerchers’ sweet corn, squash and pumpkins — less chemicals, healthier soil and fewer weeds. And, consumers can submit comments, too, Kersher says.

“Probably the biggest thing we’ve heard, and I quote from quite a few consumers we’ve had many just reply with one word, or send one word, and they’ll say ‘awesome,’” he adds.

Kercher has had consumers who are investors in Greenfield Robotics reach out to say they were happy to see the company’s logo on the sweet corn tray pack.

“To connect with consumers on that basis of like they’ve invested in this company, and they’re seeing their investment come to fruition through the product that we’re putting on the shelf by using what they’ve invested in, is a pretty cool full circle for us and for Greenfield,” he says.

He says highlighting robotic weeding to reduce herbicide sprays is just part of a bigger focus on regenerative agriculture practices.

“We have a long-term vision for our farm, and how it affects not just our family who lives on the farm, who works on the farm, but the broader community in which we live,” he says. “And then those consumers that consume the produce we grow, and we want them to know that we’re doing everything we can to innovate with an eye toward regenerating the soil we farm for over 100 years, and this should be seen, really, as our family trying every day to grow the best food that we can for ourselves and for those consumers who put our produce on their table.”

A Robot on a Sweet Corn Label? How One Farm Showcases Agtech to Consumers

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 21:08:13 GMT

A new label appearing on Sunrise Select sweet corn in select Whole Foods stores shows a Greenfield Robotics’ machine at work in a cornfield. And that little detail carries a much broader message about the robotic weeding technology’s role in regenerative agriculture.

Fifth-generation grower Bill Kercher says adding the label to the produce his family grows on about 600 acres was a no-brainer. His family operates a U-pick farm and grows sweet corn, cabbage, summer squash, winter squash, apples, ornamental pumpkins, jack-o'-lantern pumpkins and painted pumpkins. His family also sells its produce through its Sunrise Produce brand.

Kercher says highlighting robotic weeding to reduce herbicide sprays is just part of a bigger focus on regenerative agriculture practices. He says he hopes using the robotic weeder will help increase his family farm’s soil microbiome with good microbes that will in turn feed the crops they grow.

“We’re doing everything we can to maximize the other kind of pillars of what regenerative ag is and to help improve our soil health on our farm,” he says.

Corn grown by the Kercher family and packaged under Sunrise Produce highlights how robotic weeding is used in farm’s production.

(Photo via Greenfield Robotics LinkedIn page)

Adding the label

Kercher says his family started kicking around the idea of adding a “Robot-Weeded” label to its sweet corn over the winter. He says this is the first produce commodity that has used Greenfield’s technology, so his farm was the first foray into a truly consumer-facing product.

He says the family worked with the Greenfield Robotics team to create the label, which reads “Robot-Weeded — Our farm uses autonomous robots from Greenfield Robotics to remove weeds for a cleaner, smarter way to farm.” The label comes with a QR code leading consumers to a webpage that discusses the benefits of robotic weeding on the Kerchers’ sweet corn, squash and pumpkins — less chemicals, healthier soil and fewer weeds.

Kercher says he notified certain retailers about the ability to add this label and promote the use of robotic weeders in the family’s sweet corn in lieu of herbicide applications, as well as to help promote Greenfield Robotics’ mission. He says he received many positive comments from retailers about the addition.

“They were ecstatic that we would be willing to do that,” he says. “We came up with a label, and the rest is history. We just decided to put it on the tray pack with that label, and it’s gotten a lot of very good reactions from both retailer partners and consumers.”

Kercher says the label’s QR code also allows consumers to submit questions and comments.

“Probably the biggest thing we’ve heard, and I quote from quite a few consumers — we’ve had many just reply with one word, and they’ll say ‘awesome,’” he says.

Kercher has also had consumers reach out who are investors in Greenfield Robotics and were happy to see the company’s logo on the sweet corn tray pack.

“To connect with consumers on the basis that they’ve invested in this company, and they’re seeing their investment come to fruition through the product that we’re putting on the shelf by using what they’ve invested in, is a pretty cool full circle for us and for Greenfield,” he says.

Bill Kercher says he’s seen yield increases and better quality sweet corn through the use of Greenfield Robotics’ robotic weeders.

(Photo courtesy of Bill Kercher)

Regenerative Focus

Kercher says regenerative agriculture started with his father, who wanted to reduce soil erosion and promote the overall health of the soil and the farm. His family plants cover crops on about 90% of its acreage, he adds, and that includes pollinator blends as well as ryegrass, tillage radishes and more.

“We’ve seen a lot of improvement in organic matter in our soils,” he says. “For anyone that’s planting cover crops, it’s a very long process, and it takes many years to improve the organic matter, but we are seeing a lot of improvements in the living soil characteristics.”

This includes a greater presence of earthworms, an increase in soil microbiome and more.

“Our soil is ultimately able to feed the plants better, and we can hopefully begin to reduce fertilizer applications as well,” he says.

Kercher says he’s seen a significant benefit from reducing his inputs this year through using the robotic weeders.

“It’s increased our yields,” he says. “It’s increased the quality of the sweet corn that we’ve gotten. We are learning every day about what we can do to reduce those chemicals, and it’s very encouraging to us that there’s a tool like Greenfield’s robots that will allow us to do that.”

He says adding the robotic weeding will play into his family’s plans to reduce tillage and increase the farm’s healthy soil.

Kercher says he sees a future where more consumers learn about and understand what regenerative ag means.

“When they see a farm engaging in regenerative practices, I think they’ll understand what that means for the soil on the farm,” he says. “They might understand what it means for the rivers, the reduced erosion of topsoil, the health of the surrounding ecological system, just due to the diversity of the plants that are growing in a regenerative system. And then, ultimately, they’ll begin to understand that it might mean more nutrient-dense food for them and their families.”

And he says that will encourage more growers to adopt regenerative practices.

“What we want retailers and consumers both to know is that we have a long-term vision for our farm and how it affects not just our family who lives on the farm, who works on the farm, but the broader community in which we live and those consumers who consume the produce we grow,” he says. “We want them to know that we’re doing everything we can to innovate with an eye toward regenerating the soil we’ve farmed for over 100 years, and this should be seen as our family trying every day to grow the best food that we can for ourselves and for those consumers who put our produce on their table.”

Next steps

Kercher says he plans to add some type of “Robotic Weeded” label to his family’s ornamental pumpkins this fall. While there’s not a lot of space on those labels, he says he’d like to drive consumers to learn more on the website.

His family will continue its partnership with Greenfield Robotics, he says, adding that he also plans to trial some of the company’s new technology next year.

“We are planning to work with Greenfield again, absolutely,” he says.

Georgia spring and summer crops yield good news

Thu, 22 May 2025 21:08:01 GMT

More than 30 kinds of fruits and vegetables are produced in Georgia each year, and growers are sharing positive reports on the latest harvests.

“We are expecting a very good crop across all of our spring and summer fruits and vegetables,” said Matthew Kulinski, director of marketing for the Georgia Department of Agriculture. “Blueberries and peaches all look good in early spring, and we’re hoping for a great season with watermelons and sweet corn as well.”

Corbett Brothers Farms

Lake Park, Ga.-based Corbett Brothers Farms LLC offered watermelon and sweet corn for the first time last year and will bring them back this summer, said Justin Corbett, a partner in the company with his brother, Jared. Both products performed well, he said, and will start up for summer on May 20. They’ll be available until July 4.

The company has already started harvesting squash, cucumbers, bell pepper and specialty peppers and will launch an eggplant program on May 20. The summer season will end around the Fourth of July, and the fall season will kick off in early September with the same commodities.

This growing season in Georgia has been unusually dry, Corbett said.

“We haven’t had much measurable rain for the last month or so,” he said. But with drip irrigation, the company is able to manage its water successfully.

Temperatures have been moderate for the area, too.

“It’s about 85 degrees — perfect growing conditions right now,” Corbett said May 7.

“I’m expecting exceptional quality on everything,” he said, adding that volume should be normal this season.

Troy Bland, CEO of Glennville, Ga.-based Bland Farms, checks out some the company’s Vidalia sweet onions. Although there were a few chilly days and even a light snowfall during the winter, the Vidalia sweet onion crop bounced back, and the company ended up with a great harvest, he says.

(Photo courtesy of Bland Farms)

Bland Farms

Glennville, Ga.-based Bland Farms finished its Vidalia onion harvest in early May and was planting Sand Candy sweetpotatoes in Georgia and North Carolina, said CEO Troy Bland.

“We are pleased to be able to offer sweetpotatoes year round, especially as there has been a shortage,” he said.

Although there were a few chilly days and even a light snowfall this winter, the Vidalia sweet onion crop bounced back, and the company ended up with a great harvest, he said. The firm had a bumper crop last year, but this season will be more typical.

When the Vidalia sweet onion season ends in August, Bland Farms will transition to its Peru premium sweet onion program, which will last through February. Then, the sweet onion deal will move to Mexico.

The company also sources sweet onions from Nevada and California.

“We continue to offer promotable volumes of sweet onions year round,” Bland said.

Bland Farms offers organic as well as conventionally grown sweet onions and added a laser weeder to its organic Vidalia sweet onion fields, he said.

“We are testing out two units that help eliminate weeds faster, cut down on labor and promote faster growth,” Bland said. “It’s just another way we’re investing in sustainability, which is a core value for the company.”

As part of its Vidalia promotion, Bland Farms launched its Savor Summer’s Sweetest Moments campaign to build brand awareness and celebrate the season.

The company gave away VIP tickets to see country music singer Clint Black at the Vidalia Onion Festival and has even more in mind, including fresh summer recipes, a curated sweet summer playlist and engaging social media content, he said.

And to support its retail partners and their marketing efforts, Bland Farms developed a retail toolkit, complete with images and ready-to-use social media content.

“We’re continuing to expand and enhance this resource so they can easily incorporate it into their advertising and social channels,” Bland said.

Workers put up Vidalia sweet onions for Shuman Farms, Reidsville, Ga. The company will ship Vidalia onions in its RealSweet and Mr. Buck’s Farm Fresh bags through Labor Day, says John Shuman, president and CEO.

(Photo courtesy of Shuman Farms)

Shuman Farms

Reidsville, Ga.-based Shuman Farms, will ship Vidalia onions in its RealSweet and Mr. Buck’s Farm Fresh bags through Labor Day, said John Shuman, president and CEO.

“Despite weather challenges during the growing period, our crop looks good with good quality and size profiles,” Shuman said. “We are encouraging our retailer partners to support the season both bag and bulk promotions.”

Shuman Farms plans to continue to build on the momentum the company has created over the past four years through its Shuman Farms University initiative, Shuman said.

“Educating our retailer partners’ produce teams about Vidalia onions has been a priority for us, and this year we’re refreshing our digital content and resources to take that to the next level,” he said.

Educational-focused initiatives have included its lunch-and-learns, Vidalia 101 content and an interactive Vidalia quiz. All are designed to enhance produce team knowledge of the sweet onion category and Vidalia onions, Shuman said.

“Our refreshed program for 2025 takes edutainment to the next level by making the content more accessible, engaging and fun,” he added.

Shuman Farms also works closely
with its retail partners to develop customized marketing programs, in-store promotions and digital content that are intended to help drive category sales, according to Shuman.

“We’re also looking forward to leveraging our expanded infrastructure following our Generation Farms acquisition (in 2023), which has given us the ability to increase our storage, packing capacity and overall efficiency,” he said.

Sunshine Sweet Corn Farmers of Florida showcases merchandising display winners

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 15:41:42 GMT

Sunshine Sweet Corn Farmers of Florida are “Comin’ in Hot” with the winners of its first merchandising display contest. The organization said the contest helped excite shoppers and highlight the vibrant flavor of Florida sweet corn.

This year’s theme was “Comin’ in Hot,” and retailers crafted displays showcasing the ways consumers can enjoy the sweet and spicy flavors of Florida sweet corn. The organization said this theme also taps into the 2024 food trend of spicy-sweet flavors to highlight the ways consumers can incorporate sweet corn into meals.

Sunshine Sweet Corn Farmers of Florida judged the displays on the effective us of provided display materials, salability and prominence of sweet corn, visual appeals and overall merchandising, according to a news release.

Sprouts Farmers Market in Cumming, Ga., took home the grand prize of $2,500 for a display that embodied the “Comin’ in Hot” theme.

Food City in Knoxville, Tenn., won gold and a $1,000 cash prize for its display. ShopRite in Eddystone, Pa., received a cash prize of $500 for the store’s display. Sunshine Sweet Corn Farmers of Florida also presented five bronze awards and $100 for each.

“We are incredibly proud of and thankful for the creativity and dedication shown by all participants in this year’s contest,” said Tori Rumenik, executive director of the Sunshine Sweet Corn Farmers of Florida, said in the release. “The impressive displays brought excitement and innovation to produce departments across the country.”

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

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 07:37:40 GMT

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

Artichokes

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

Asparagus

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

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

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

Broccoli

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

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

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

Carrots

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

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

Cauliflower

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

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

Celery

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

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

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

Corn, sweet

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

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

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

Cucumbers

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

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

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

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

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

Lettuce, iceberg

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

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

Lettuce, romaine

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

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

Onions, dry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Peppers, bell

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

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

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

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

Potatoes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Squash

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

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

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

Squash, spaghetti

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

Squash, yellow straightneck

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

Squash, zucchini

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

Tomatoes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tomatoes, cherry

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

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

Tomatoes, grape

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

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

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

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

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

Tomatoes, plum

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

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

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

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

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

California sweet corn harvest nears

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 06:30:17 GMT

California sweet corn harvest is right around the corner.

Van Groningen & Sons , Manteca, Calif., will again have plentiful supplies of white, bi-color and yellow varieties, according to a news release. Harvest in California’s Imperial Valley begins April 20 in the El Centro area for the grower.

Van Groningen & Son saleswoman Danielle Ratto said cooperative weather will bring excellent quality from the fields.

“With the number of people being forced to stay home and cook, we are anticipating sales to be fairly strong on the front end,” Ratto said in the release. “The warmer weather is getting people excited to fire up their grills and get out of the house.”

Cal-Organic’s new crop of onions shipping soon

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 06:33:16 GMT

Cal-Organic Farms , Bakersfield, Calif., is preparing to ship new crop yellow, red and white onions from the Coachella Valley in mid-May.

The Grimmway Farms division will ship the onions from its Lamont, Calif., facility. Harvest shifts to Kern County in late spring and then to Cuyama Valley in late summer, according to a news release. The three onion growing region allows it supply white onions through December, reds through February and yellow onions year-round.

“Growing conditions have been ideal this year and we’re expecting a good crop,” Bob Borda, vice president of organic sales at Grimmway Farms, said in the release. “While the desert experienced mild temperatures throughout the growing season, the overall condition and quality of our onion crop is excellent and we’re looking forward to a great season.”

Cal-Organic will have yellow onions in 2- and 3-pound retail packs, red onions in 3-pound retail packs, and all three varieties in 40-pound bulk cartons of medium, large, or jumbo onions, according to the release.

The company is shipping season sweet corn in bulk cartons through June.

Related stories:

Cal-Organic’s potato season starts soon

Huckaby urges USDA organic program to keep pace with market

Cal-Organic launches consumer brand campaign

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

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 20:34:20 GMT

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

Artichokes

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

Asparagus

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

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

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

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

Broccoli

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

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

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

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

Carrots

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

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

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

Cauliflower

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

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

Celery

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

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

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

Corn, sweet

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

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

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

Cucumbers

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

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

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

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

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

Lettuce, iceberg

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

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

Lettuce, romaine

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

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

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

Onions, dry

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Peppers, bell

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

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

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

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

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

Potatoes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Squash, yellow straightneck

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

Squash, zucchini

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

Sweet potatoes

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

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

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

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

Tomatoes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tomatoes, cherry

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

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

Tomatoes, grape

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

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

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

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

Tomatoes, plum

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

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

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

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

Sweet corn and cherry supplies will leave consumers wanting more

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 18:07:58 GMT

There can never be enough sweet corn or cherries for Fourth of July retail promotions, and that is especially true this year.

Both sweet corn and cherries are trading at elevated prices compared with a year ago, and volumes are lagging below year-ago levels.

Reports from Washington state indicate cherries harvested and packed in June will fall well short of earlier expectations. Georgia sweet corn shipments also are lagging compared with a year ago.

In general, it seems produce markets have seen rising shipping point markets in recent weeks. One would think at least part of that bump can be attributed to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Farmers to Families Food Box Program.

That program, according to the USDA, will purchase $461 million in fresh fruits and vegetables, $317 million in a variety of dairy products, $258 million in meat products and $175 million in a combination box of fresh produce, dairy or meat products.

Through June 25, the USDA reports 21.1 million food boxes delivered as of June 24.

AMS is expected to extend the period of performance of the contracts , via option periods, dependent upon program success and available remaining funds, up to $3 billion.

Check out some price and volume charts for produce markets in recent weeks...

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

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 20:34:20 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.

Artichokes

CENTRAL DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments (17-18-17) — Movement expected about the same. Trading fairly slow. Prices 30s lower, 24s slightly lower, others generally unchanged. Cartons Globe 12s 10.75-12.75, 18s 10.50-12.75, 24s mostly 9.55-10.65, 30s mostly 7.50-9.05, 36s mostly 8.75-10.65; ORGANIC 12s 18.55, 18-30s 24.55. Quality variable.

Asparagus

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH ARIZONA, CALIFORNIA AND TEXAS 2020 CROP — Crossings (29-40*-37) — Expected to remain about the same. Trading Slow. Prices Lower. 11 pound cartons/crates bunched green standard and large 21.75-24.75, standard 21.75-24.75. Extra services included. Many sales being booked at previously committed prices. (* revised)

PERU IMPORTS — PORTS OF ENTRY SOUTH FLORIDA — Imports (21-27*-27) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Slow. Prices Much Lower. From Peru. 11 pound cartons bunched jbo mostly 23.75-25.75, exlge mostly 24.75-26.75, lge mostly 24.75-25.75, std mostly 23.75-25.75, sml 18.00-19.00. Few new sales. Quality generally good. (* revised)

Broccoli

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (83-97-96) — Movement expected about the same. Trading fairly slow. Prices much lower. Cartons bunched 14s mostly 13.45-15.35, 18s mostly 13.95-15.85; 20 pound cartons loose Crown Cut mostly 15.65-16.85, Short Trim mostly 16.35-18.65. ORGANIC cartons bunched 14s 24.50-28.55; 20 pound cartons loose Crown Cut mostly 28.50-30.55. Quality variable.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (104-110*-95) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early moderate, late fairly slow. Prices much lower. 20 pound cartons loose Crown Cut Short Trim mostly 12.00-13.00. Quality variable. (* revised)

SANTA MARIA CALIFORNIA — Shipments (19-24-20) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early moderate, late fairly slow. Prices much lower. Cartons bunched 14s 10.00-13.85, 18s 13.50-14.35; 20 pound cartons loose Crown Cut mostly 13.00-15.35, Short Trim mostly 14.00-17.85. Quality generally good.

Carrots

KERN DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments (216-221-173) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early active, late moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. 48 1-lb film bags medium-large mostly 15.40-15.85; 50 lb sacks loose jumbo mostly 15.00-18.40; 25 lb sacks loose jumbo mostly 7.50-9.20; cartons 30 -lb film bags Baby Peeled 18.20-18.85. ORGANIC 48 1-lb film bags and 24 2-lb film bags medium-large mostly 20.00-26.35, 10 5-lb film bags medium-large mostly 20.00-26.35. Cartons 24 1-lb film bags Baby Peeled 20.00-22.50, cartons 12 2-lb film bags Baby Peeled 20.00-22.50, cartons 4 5-lb film bags Baby Peeled 20.00-22.50. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (53-49*-48) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Fairly Active. Prices Generally Unchanged. 50 pound sacks loose jumbo mostly 11.00-12.00. Quality variable. (* revised)

Cauliflower

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (85-86-89) — Movement expected about the same. Trading 12s moderate, others fairly slow. Prices much lower. Cartons film wrapped White 12s mostly 8.45-10.65, 9s mostly 8.45-9.65, 16s mostly 7.50-9.45; ORGANIC 9-16s 19.50-24.55. Quality variable.

SANTA MARIA CALIFORNIA — Shipments (33-35-43) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early fairly slow, late slow. Prices much lower. Cartons film wrapped White 12s mostly 7.00-8.00. Quality generally good.

Celery

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (204-233-211) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early active, late fairly active. Prices 2-2 1/2 dozen higher, others slightly higher. Cartons 2-2 1/2 dozen mostly 18.35-19.65, 3 dozen mostly 18.35-19.55; Hearts film bags 18s mostly 20.45-21.65. ORGANIC cartons 2 dozen mostly 18.00-18.56, 2 1/2 dozen mostly 16.50-18.56; Hearts film bags 18s mostly 16.50-20.56. Quality generally good.

SANTA MARIA CALIFORNIA — Shipments (60-53-69) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early active, late moderate. Prices 2 dozen much lower, 2 1/2 dozen lower, 3 dozen slightly lower. Cartons 2 dozen mostly 12.00-14.85, 2 1/2 dozen mostly 14.00-16.65, 3 dozen mostly 14.00-16.50. Quality generally good.

MICHIGAN — Shipments (0-0-#) — Movement expected to increase. Initial light harvest of hearts underway. Season delayed by hot weather and early May freezes. FIRST REPORT. (# less than 50,000 lbs)

Corn, sweet

SOUTH GEORGIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (73-163-224) — Movement expected to decrease as most shippers are finished for the season. Trading Moderate. Prices Lower. Wirebound crates 4-dozen Yellow, White and Bi-Color 22.95-24.95. Quality generally good.

SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA — Shipments (89-182-163) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early very active, late slow. Prices much lower. Cartons/crates 4 dozen minimum White mostly 18.95-20.95, Bi-Color 24.95-26.95. Quality generally good.

IMPERIAL VALLEY CALIFORNIA — Shipments (20-10-2) — Movement expected to decrease sharply as most shippers are finished for the season. Trading Very Slow. Cartons/crates supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. Quality generally good. Lighter Shipments expected to continue through July 11. LAST REPORT.

EASTERN VIRGINIA — Harvesting is expected to begin on approximately July 10.

Cucumbers

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (68-81*-94) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. 1 1/9 bushel cartons medium mostly 12.95-14.95, fair quality 9.95-10.95; large mostly 10.95-11.95. Quality variable. Most present — Shipments from prior bookings and/or previous commitments. (* revised)

MICHIGAN — Shipments (0-5-29) — Movement expected to increase. Trading Moderate. Prices Slightly Lower. 1 1/9 bushel cartons medium mostly 14.85-16.85, fr qual 6.00-8.85, cartons 24s 6.00-7.00. Quality good. Supplies light.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH OTAY MESA — Crossings (55*-52*-23) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Available supplies light. Trading large and 36s active, others active at slightly lower prices. Prices large and 36s generally unchanged, others slightly lower. GREENHOUSE 1 1/9 bushel cartons medium 18.95-20.95, fair quality mostly 16.95, ordinary quality mostly 8.95-9.95, large mostly 16.95. Cartons 24s mostly 6.95-8.95, 36s mostly 10.95; ORGANIC GREENHOUSE cartons 36s 10.95-12.95. Quality generally good. (* revised)

SOUTH GEORGIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (53-84-23) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Lower. Waxed 1 1/9 bushel cartons/crates medium mostly 12.35-12.85 fair quality 6.35-7.85, cartons 24s 3.35-5.85. Quality generally good.

EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA — Shipments (28-27-5) — Movement expected to continue decreasing as most shippers are finished for the season. Currently, no F.O.B. is being issued. LAST REPORT.

WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA — Shipments (0-0-1) — Movement expected to increase as more producers begin to harvest. Currently, no F.O.B. is being issued.

Lettuce, iceberg

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (451-427-398) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early fairly active, late moderate. Prices 24s slightly higher, 30s lower. Cartons 24s film lined mostly 16.65-18.45, filmwrapped mostly 17.65-19.45; 30s filmwrapped mostly 13.00-14.75; ORGANIC 24s filmwrapped mostly 16.00-16.50, 12s filmwrapped mostly 8.55-10.50. Quality variable.

SANTA MARIA CALIFORNIA — Shipments (74-53-71) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early fairly active, late fairly slow. Prices lower. Cartons 24s film lined mostly 12.85-14.00, filmwrapped mostly 13.85-15.00. Quality variable.

Lettuce, romaine

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (370-324-301) — Movement expected about the same. Supply of Hearts fairly light. Trading 24s fairly slow, Hearts moderate. Prices 24s much lower, Hearts slightly lower. Cartons 24s mostly 16.50-19.65; Hearts cartons 12 3-count packages mostly 26.45-28.65, Hearts film lined 48s mostly 27.45-29.45. ORGANIC cartons 24s mostly 20.50-24.55; Hearts cartons 12 3-count packages mostly 24.50-28.55. Quality variable.

SANTA MARIA CALIFORNIA — Shipments (56-53-49) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early fairly active, late moderate. Prices lower. Cartons 24s mostly 18.85-20.50; Hearts cartons 12 3-count packages supplies in too few hands to establish a market. Quality variable.

Onions, dry

U.S. — Shipments (946-924*-895) — The top shipping areas for the week, in order, were New Mexico, California, Mexico, Georgia and Columbia Basin Washington. (* revised)

SOUTHERN NEW MEXICO 2020 CROP — Shipments (368-452-415) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Active. Prices Yellow colossal, jumbo, White medium and Reds higher, others generally unchanged. Yellow Grano 50-pound sacks super colossal mostly 14.00, colossal 13.00-14.00, jumbo 12.00-14.00, medium mostly 13.00-14.00; White 50-pound sacks jumbo 12.00-14.00, medium mostly 12.00; Red Globe Type 25-pound sacks jumbo mostly 10.00-11.00, medium mostly 10.00-11.00.

SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (150-174-220) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Active. Prices Unchanged. Yellow Hybrid - 50 pound sacks Super Colossal 10.00-12.00, Colossal mostly 11.00-12.00, Jumbo 10.00-12.00, Medium mostly 12.00-13.00; White - 50 pound sacks Jumbo mostly 13.00, Medium 10.00-12.00; Red Globe Type 25 - pound sacks Jumbo 9.00-10.00, Medium 9.00-10.00.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH SOUTH TEXAS 2020 CROP — Crossings (152-153*-109) — Movement is expected to be about the same. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market. (* revised)

VIDALIA DISTRICT GEORGIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (102-88-88) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading Active. Prices Generally Unchanged. Yellow Granex - Marked Sweet 40-pound cartons jumbo mostly 24.00-26.00; Organic 40-pound cartons jumbo 30.00-31.00.

COLUMBIA BASIN WASHINGTON AND UMATILLA BASIN OREGON 2020 CROP — Shipments (0-0-22) — Movement expected to remain about the same while over wintered onions are being harvested. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market. Currently in over wintered onions, transplant onions are expected to start in a couple of weeks. FIRST REPORT.

WALLA WALLA DISTRICT WASHINGTON 2020 CROP — Shipments (0-15-17, Includes exports 0-2-3) — Movement expected to increase as shippers receive onions. Trading Fairly Active. Prices Generally Unchanged. Walla Walla sweet 40-pound cartons jumbo 22.00, medium 20.00.

COLUMBIA BASIN WASHINGTON AND UMATILLA BASIN OREGON — Shipments (45-23-11, Includes exports 7-2-0) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Remaining supplies in too few hands to establish a market. LAST REPORT.

SAN ANTONIO-WINTER GARDEN-LAREDO DISTRICT TEXAS — Shipments (15-11-6) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Remaining supplies in too few hands to establish a market. LAST REPORT.

Peppers, bell

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (80-74*-87) — Movement expected to decrease slightly. Trading Active. Prices Generally Unchanged. GREENHOUSE 11 pound cartons Red jumbo and extra large 18.00-20.00, large 16.95-17.95; Yellow jumbo and extra large 19.95-20.95, large 18.95-19.95; Orange jumbo and extra large mostly 20.95-21.95, large 19.95-20.95. Red 1 1/9 bushel carton irregular size fair quality 22.95-25.95. Quality generally good. (* revised)

SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY CALIFORNIA — Shipments (56-87-87) — Movement expected to increase. Trading Very Active. Prices Generally Unchanged. 1 1/9 bushel cartons Green extra large mostly 26.95-28.95, large mostly 24.95-26.95, irregular size fair quality mostly 18.95, Place Pack extra large-large 26.95-30.95; ORGANIC extra large and large mostly 45.00-50.00, irregular size fair quality mostly 35.00-40.00. Quality generally good. Harvest of Red expected to begin the week of July 5.

EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA — Shipments (0-1-20) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Trading Fairly Active. Prices 1 1/9 bushel cartons Green jumbo 30.00; extra large 30.00-32.00, fair quality 24.00-28.00.

SOUTH GEORGIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (53-36-11) — Movement expected to decrease as most shippers are finished for the season. Trading Moderate. Prices Unchanged. 1 1/9 bushel cartons Green jumbo and extra large mostly 26.35-26.85 fair quality 20.35-22.85 large 24.35-24.85 and Turning Red extra large-large mostly 20.35-24.85. Quality generally good. LAST REPORT.

COACHELLA VALLEY CALIFORNIA — Shipments (27-15-6) — Movement expected to decrease sharply as mostly shippers are finished for the season. Trading Very Active. 1/2 bushel cartons Red supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. Quality generally good. Lighter Shipments expected to continue through July 18. LAST REPORT

WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA — Shipments (0-0-1) — Movement expected to increase as more producers begin to harvest. Currently, no F.O.B. is being issued. FIRST REPORT.

Potatoes

U.S. — Shipments (1,678*-1,677*-1,477) — The top shipping states, in order, were Idaho, San Luis Valley Colorado, Columbia Basin Washington, California and Wisconsin. (* revised)

UPPER VALLEY, TWIN FALLS-BURLEY DISTRICT IDAHO 2019 CROP — Shipments (735-717-575, Includes exports 15-17-12) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Active. Prices Higher. Russet Burbanks U.S. One baled 5-pound film bags non size A 7.50-8.50; 50-pound sacks 40-70s mostly 14.00-15.00, 80s mostly 11.00-12.00, 90s mostly 9.00-10.00, 100s mostly 9.00; U.S. Two 6 ounce minimum mostly 5.00, 10 ounce minimum mostly 9.00.

SAN LUIS VALLEY COLORADO 2019 CROP — Shipments (238-197-212, Includes exports 22-26-18) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading Moderate. Prices Unchanged. U.S. One baled 5 10-lb film bags sz A 9.00-9.50, baled 10 5-lb film bags sz A 10.00-10.50; 50 lb cartons 40-70s 15.00-16.00, 80s 14.00-15.00, 90-100s 13.00-14.00.

COLUMBIA BASIN WASHINGTON AND UMATILLA BASIN OREGON 2019 CROP — Shipments (159-167-141, Includes exports 35-35-29) —Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading Active. Prices Higher. Russet Norkotah U.S. One baled 10 pound film bags size A 7.00-9.00, baled 5 pound film bags size A mostly 8.00-10.00; 50 pound cartons 40s mostly 13.00-14.00, 50s mostly 17.00-18.00, 60-70s 17.00-18.00, 80s mostly 12.00-14.00, 90s mostly 11.00-13.00. 100s 10.00-12.00, U.S Two 50 pound sacks 10 ounce minimum 7.00-9.00.

KERN DISTRICT CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (168-156*-136) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Active. Prices Generally Unchanged. Round Red U.S. One 50-pound cartons size A 20.00, Size B 22.00; Yellow 50-pound cartons size A mostly 22.00, size B 16.00-18.00 (* revised)

CENTRAL WISCONSIN 2019 CROP — Shipments (83-75-81) — Movement expected to seasonally decrease. Trading Moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. Russet Norkotah U.S. One baled 5 10-pound film bags size A mostly 10.00-11.00, baled 10 5-pound film bags size A mostly 11.00-12.00; 50 pound cartons 40s-70s mostly 18.00-19.00, 80s mostly 17.00-18.00, 90s mostly 14.00-15.00, 100s 13.00-14.00.

HEREFORD-HIGH PLAINS TEXAS 2020 CROP — Shipments (0-23-67) — Movement expected to increase as more shippers start to harvest new potatoes. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market. FIRST REPORT.

HEREFORD-HIGH PLAINS TEXAS — Shipments (57-66-60) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

ELIZABETH CITY DISTRICT NORTH CAROLINA — Shipments (21-60-46) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Round Red and Yellow Type slightly lower, Round White generally unchanged. Round Red U.S. One 50 pound sacks size A 20.75-22.75, size B 20.00-24.75, tote bags approximately 2000 pounds per hundredweight size A 40.00-44.50, size B 48.50; Round White U.S. One 50 pound sacks size A 14.75, size B 14.75-16.75, tote bag approximately 2000 pounds per hundredweight size A 28.50; Yellow Type U.S. One 50 pound sacks size A 26.75, size B 14.00-16.75, tote bags approximately 2000 pounds per hundredweight size A 52.00-52.50.

NEBRASKA 2019 CROP — Shipments (33-38-44) — Movement expected to be about the same. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

EASTERN SHORE VIRGINIA — Shipments (0-22-42) — Movement expected to increase. Trading Moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. 50 lb sacks Round White US One size A 14.75, chef 17.75-18.75; 50 lb sacks Round Red US One size A 20.75-21.75, size B 24.75; 50 lb sacks Yellow Type US One Size A 26.75.

ARIZONA DISTRICT 2020 CROP — Shipments (23-24-20) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

MISSOURI 2020 CROP — Shipments (36-32-17) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

MINNESOTA-NORTH DAKOTA (RED RIVER VALLEY) 2019 CROP — Shipments (13-12-12) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Remaining supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

KLAMATH BASIN OREGON AND NORTHERN CALIFORNIA DISTRICT — Shipments (11-7-9) — Movement expected to remain about the same. supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

Squash

MICHIGAN — Shipments (0-10-21) — Movement expected to increase. Trading Zucchini medium slow, others moderate. Prices Lower. One-half bushel cartons Zucchini small 8.00-8.85, medium 5.00-6.85, Yellow Straightneck small 12.00-12.85, medium 10.00-10.85. Supply of Yellow light. Quality good.

SOUTH GEORGIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (18-10-8) — Movement expected to decrease as most shippers are finished for the season. Trading Moderate. Prices Lower. 1/2 and 5/9 bushel cartons Zucchini small mostly 8.35-8.85 medium mostly 6.35-6.85, Yellow Straightneck small 12.35-12.85 medium 10.35-10.85; 3/4 bushel cartons Yellow Crookneck small 20.35-20.85 medium 18.35-18.85. Quality generally good.

WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA — Shipments (0-1-2) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Trading Moderate. Prices Lower. 1/2 and 5/9 bushel cartons Zucchini small 7.00-10.00, medium 5.00-8.00; Yellow Straightneck small 10.00-12.35, medium 8.00-10.35.

EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA — Shipments (1-1-1) — Movement expected to decrease as most shippers are finished for the season. Currently, no F.O.B. is being issued. LAST REPORT.

VIRGINIA — Shipments light. Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading early moderate, late fairly slow. Prices Lower. ½ bushel cartons Zucchini small mostly 6.00-8.00, medium mostly 4.00-6.00; Yellow Straightneck small mostly 12.00, medium mostly 10.00.

Squash, yellow crookneck

LEXINGTON SOUTH CAROLINA DISTRICT 2020 CROP — Shipments (1-1-1) — Movement expected to increase Trading Active. Prices Lower. SUPPLY VERY LIGHT. DEMAND VERY GOOD. 3/4 bushel cartons Yellow Crookneck sml 19.00-25.00 mostly 19.00, med 17.00-20.00 mostly 17.00.

Squash, zucchini

LEXINGTON SOUTH CAROLINA DISTRICT 2020 CROP — Shipments (1-2-1) — Movement expected to increase. Trading Active. Prices Lower. SUPPLY VERY LIGHT. DEMAND VERY GOOD. 1/2 bushel cartons Zucchini sml 9.00 few much higher, med 7.00 few much higher.

Sweet potatoes

EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA — Shipments (86-89*-71) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. 40 pound cartons Orange Types U.S. No. 1 15.50-17.00, U.S. No. 1 Petite 12.00-13.00, U.S. No. 2 8.00-10.00, No Grade Marks jumbo 10.00-12.00. (* revised)

MISSISSIPPI 2019 CROP — Shipments (23-23-22) — Movement expected to decrease slightly. Trading Moderate. Prices Unchanged. 40 pound cartons Orange Types U.S. Number One mostly 21.00-22.00 U.S. Number Two 12.00-14.00 No Grade Marks jumbo 12.00-14.00. Quality generally good.

ATWATER LIVINGSTON CALIFORNIA 2019 CROP — Shipments (10-9-8) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Supplies are getting very light. Trading Moderate. Prices Unchanged. 40 pound cartons Orange Type U.S. Number One 32.00-36.00 No Grade Marks medium mostly 18.00-20.00 jumbo 20.00-24.00; White Types U.S. Number One 35.00-36.00 No Grade Marks medium 20.00-22.00 jumbo 20.00-
22.00; Japanese Types U.S. Number One 34.00-38.00 No Grade Marks medium 30.00-34.00. Quality generally good.

LOUISIANA 2019 CROP — Shipments (5-6-7) — Movement expected to decrease. Some shippers are finished for the season. Trading Moderate. Prices Unchanged. 40 pound cartons U.S. Number One 22.00-25.00 U.S. Number Two 14.00-16.00 No Grade Marks jumbo 14.00-16.00. Quality generally good.

Tomatoes

CENTRAL DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments (47*-147-150) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Trading active at slightly lower prices. Prices Slightly Lower. 25 pound cartons loose Mature Greens extra large 7.95-9.95, large and medium mostly 9.95. Quality generally good. (* revised)

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (147-145*-127) — Movement expected to decrease slightly. Trading Moderate. Prices 4x4-4x5s slightly lower, others generally unchanged. Vine Ripes cartons 2 layer 4x4-4x5s mostly 12.95-13.95, 5x5s mostly 10.95-11.95; 25 pound cartons loose 4x5-5x5 size mostly 10.95-12.95, 5x6 size mostly 9.95-11.95. Quality generally good. Most present — Shipments from prior booking and/or previous commitments. (* revised)

FLORIDA WEST DISTRICT AND SOUTH CAROLINA DISTRICT — Shipments (122-82-63) — Movement expected to remain about the same as some growers finish for the season. Trading Active. Prices Higher. Extra service included. Mature Greens. 85% U.S. One or Better. 25 pound carton loose. 5x6 size 15.95,, 6x6 size 15.95, 6x7 size mostly 15.95. Quality generally good.

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

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH OTAY MESA Crossings — (25-31*-7) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Trading early active, late moderate. Prices Lower. Vine Ripes cartons 2 layers 4x4-4x5s mostly 12.95, 5x5-5x6s mostly 10.95. Quality generally good. (* revised)

EASTERN SHORE VIRGINIA — Shipments (0-0-0) — Movement expected to increase. Current supplies insufficient to establish market.

ALABAMA — Shipments — Light harvest expected to start within 10 days. Expect significant number of growers for first F.O.B. within 14 days.

EASTERN TENNESSEE VIRGINIA EASTERN SHORE — Shipments — Light harvest expected to start within 7 days. Expect significant number of growers for first F.O.B. within 10 days.

WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA — Light movement expected to begin over the next 7-10 days. Currently, no F.O.B.s being issued. FIRST REPORT.

Tomatoes, cherry

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH OTAY MESA — Crossings (5-9*-1) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Trading active at slightly lower prices. Prices Slightly Lower. GREENHOUSE flats 12 1-pint baskets medium-large 10.95-12.95. Quality generally good. (* revised)

EASTERN SHORE VIRGINIA — Shipments (0-0-0) — Movement expected to increase. Current supplies insufficient to establish market.

Tomatoes, grape

FLORIDA WEST AND SOUTH CAROLINA DISTRICT — Shipments (30-24-11) — Movement expected to remain about the same as many growers finish for the season. Trading Active. Prices Higher. Including palletizing and cooling. Flats 12 1- pint containers with lids 15.95-17.95; 20 pound cartons loose mostly 32.95-33.95. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (13-15*-11) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early fairly active, late moderate. Prices Slightly Lower. Flats 12 1-pint containers with lids medium-large mostly 9.95-11.95. 20 pound carton loose mediumlarge mostly 15.95-16.95. Quality generally good. (* revised)

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH OTAY MESA — Crossings (4-7*-5) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Trading Moderate. Prices Slightly Lower. Flats 12 1-pint containers with lids medium-large mostly 10.95. 20 pound cartons loose medium-large mostly 20.95-22.95; ORGANIC GREENHOUSE flats 12 1-pint containers with lids medium-large 12.95-14.00, 20 pound cartons loose medium-large 28.95-
30.00. Quality generally good. (* revised)

EASTERN SHORE VIRGINIA — Shipments (0-0-0) — Movement expected to increase. Trading fairly active for light supplies. Prices from industry sources flats 12 1-pint containers with lids 15.95-17.95; 20 lb cartons loose 33.95. Supplies in very few hands.

WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA — Light movement expect to begin over the next 7-10 days. Currently, no F.O.B. is being reported. FIRST REPORT.

Tomatoes, plum

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (157-167*-168) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early moderate, late fairly slow. Prices Lower. Roma 25 pound cartons loose extra large mostly 9.95-10.95, large 8.95-9.95, medium 8.30-9.95. Quality generally good. (* revised)

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH OTAY MESA — Crossings (71-69*-29) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Trading early active, late fairly slow. Prices medium lower, others slightly lower. 25 pound cartons loose Roma extra large 12.95-14.95, large mostly 10.95-12.95, medium 8.95-10.95. Quality generally good. (* revised)

CENTRAL DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments (8-20-25) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Trading Active. Prices Slightly Higher. 25 pounds cartons loose Roma extra large 11.95-12.95, large 10.95-11.95, medium 9.95-10.95. Quality generally good.

FLORIDA WEST DISTRICT AND SOUTH CAROLINA DISTRICT — Shipments (6-9-2) — Movement expected to decrease as growers finish for the season. Supply insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. LAST REPORT.

EASTERN TENNESSEE VIRGINIA EASTERN SHORE — Shipments — Light harvest expected to start within 7 days. Expect significant number of growers for first F.O.B. within 10 days.

WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA — Light movement expect to begin over the next 7-10 days. Currently, no F.O.B. is being reported. FIRST REPORT.

Arkansas sweet potato season shaping up well

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 18:41:55 GMT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Big footprint

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

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

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

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

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

Sweet potatoes represent the biggest part of Arkansas vegetable acreage.

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

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

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

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

2017 Arkansas vegetable and melon statistics:

Fresh market vegetables: 9,500 acres;

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

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

COVID-19 roundup: Silver linings and sweet corn

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 18:08:43 GMT

Despite the pandemic, ports on both coasts have optimistic fresh produce outlooks, and the Alliance for Food and Farming is looking at small, but positive changes during the pandemic.

Here’s a recent roundup of news items from the fresh produce industry during the COVID-19 crisis.

Alliance for Food and Farming

The Alliance for Food and Farming, on its safefruitsandveggies.com consumer website is asking people to think of “small positive changes” they’ve noticed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Through a blog post titled “Small Areas of Optimism,” the alliance is asking readers to suggest something positive that’s come about, giving them a list to choose from:

Learning to prep foods and cook;
Greater appreciation for farmers, farm workers and food workers;
Knowing how to wash produce; and
Consumers and media turning to more informed sources.

The alliance will enter those casting votes on Facebook into a drawing for a $250 gift card.

“While these are some small silver linings from our world and perspective, they may become small positive changes as we move forward,” according to the blog post. “While the pandemic has disrupted our lives, impacted our livelihoods and separated or taken us from our loved ones and friends, it has conversely brought all of us together in ways never experienced before through this shared experience. Maybe another and much bigger reason for future optimism?

Fresno State

When Fresno State’s sweet corn went on sale on Memorial Day at its farm market, shoppers found new measures to encourage safety.

The Rue and Gwen Gibson Farm Market sold the corn inside and outside the business to allow for safe distancing. The outside pay station was for customers wanting to purchase only the university’s popular crop, at $7 for 10 packaged ears of corn, according to a news release.

Other measures in place at the market include:

Face masks mandatory indoors and outdoors;
Restricted number of customers allowed inside;
Students are sanitizing the store every two hours; and
Organized waiting lines to enter the store will facilitate social distancing.

Corn is picked and delivered every morning from the 70 acres of sweet corn at the University Agricultural Laboratory, according to the news release. Yellow corn became available May 25 and white corn will be harvested starting in early June.

Cherries , grapefruit , peaches , squash and strawberries are available from the market. Stone fruit, peppers and tomatoes will be available in early June and grapes will follow in July.

Georgia Ports Authority

Import numbers for refrigerated products from Central and South America through Georgia ports continue to remain steady during the pandemic.

From the start of the fiscal year through the first week of May, 26,230 containers of refrigerated product were imported through the port, a 10.5% increase, according to a news release from Savannah-based Georgia Ports Authority.

“The Port of Savannah has been very agile and willing to meet the challenging needs of the produce industry,” Evan Moss, senior director of perishables for the J&K Fresh East division of 721 Logistics. “Refrigerated cargo imports are extremely time-sensitive with market prices constantly changing based on the conditions of supply and demand that exist throughout the country.”

The port is near Atlanta and Memphis, giving it a faster route to reach those markets for perishables such as citrus , grapes , avocados and tropical fruit, according to the release.

The Georgia Ports Authority has 119 refrigerated container racks, for a total of 2,856 container slots.

Last year, the Georgia Ports Authority completed the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Southeast In-Transit Cold Treatment Pilot Program, allowing South American citrus, grapes, blueberries and other produce to enter the port.

Matson Fruit

Officials at Matson Fruit Co. , Selah, Wash., met with members of a group of employees who are involved with a protest at the company.

During the May 21 meeting, employees conveyed written demands to improve working conditions, worker protections and pay raises, according to a Matson Fruit news release.

“Today, Matson Fruit Company committed to immediately spend an additional $75,000 on accommodations for dealing with this pandemic,” according to an e-mail from Jordan Matson, co-owner and general manager. “Additionally, I personally am signing an agreement to continue good-faith discussions with the team member representative group.”

Nature Fresh Farms

Nature Fresh Farms , Leamington, Ontario, has installed a BMO Bank ATM to help employees limit their trips during the pandemic.

“Throughout this pandemic we have been looking for ways to make things more convenient for our workers – to give them the option to avoid travel to town for necessities,” John Ketler, vice president, said in a news release. “This has included bringing vendors on-site, some of whom, due to the rapid onset of restrictions, are not set up for debit transactions. We are providing a means for our employees to support these vendors.”

The ATM is one of many measures Nature Fresh has taken to make services more accessible to employees, from bringing vendors on-site to make groceries and prepared meals available, and inviting representatives from financial institutions to help workers complete money transfers home.

“Agriculture is a vital part of the Canadian economy, and part of our purpose as an organization is to drive positive change,” Roy Dias, head of specialized industries for BMO Bank of Montreal, said in the release. “We saw an opportunity to help Nature Fresh Farms bring everyday banking services to their team members – helping both their employees and the community. We will always look for ways to help, as we navigate this environment together.”

Foodservice company requests

More than a dozen foodservice companies are requesting legislators to make changes to the Paycheck Protection Program for restaurants.

With the foodservice sector hit hard by social distancing mandates that closed restaurants’ dine-in businesses, more than eight million restaurant employees have been laid off or furloughed, according to a May 21 letter from the foodservice businesses to members of the U.S. House and Senate.

A recovery timeline for restaurants is unclear, according to the letter, signed by distributors that include Performance Food Group , Ben E. Keith Co. , US Foods and Gordon Food Service . Even as stay-at-home orders are being loosened, regulations mandate distancing measures that cut capacity at some locations to 24-50%.

“Restaurant operators need access to capital to help them retain their employees, pay fixed costs like rent and utilities, and buy food supplies, which they need to operate,” according to the letter.

According to the foodservice companies, Congress should:

Amend the PPP to allow forgiveness of expenses for food and associated supplies;
Remove requirements that limit spending and forgiveness of non-payroll expenses to 25%; and
Extend the forgiveness period for PPP loans from eight to 24 weeks.

Port of Oakland

Danny Wan, Port of Oakland (Calif.) executive director, believes the port will lead the area’s post-pandemic economic rebound.

The port authority, which also oversees Oakland International Airport, is “poised on the forefront of recovery,” Wan told East Bay Economic Development Alliance members on May 22.

“Millions fly through our airport, billions of dollars of goods move through our seaport and 84,000 jobs in Northern California depend on all of that activity,” Wan told an online audience of 300 corporate and government officials, according to a news release. “Through cross-promotion and business partnerships, we can lead the way back for Oakland and the East Bay.”

The airport saw a 96% drop in passenger traffic in April, and the port saw a 6.5% drop compared to year-ago levels, according the release.

When restrictions are lifted, the airport (which is Southwest Airlines’ largest California base) and port facilities (which serve exporting produce companies), will see major benefits, Wan said.

He addressed the alliance to request them to support the port and airport with “fly Oakland” policies and designating the port for exports and imports, according to the release.

For more information on how the pandemic is affecting the produce industry, see The Packer’s COVID-19 webpage .

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Florida survey shows pandemic effects depends on commodity

House ag members question USDA on food box contracts

A positive COVID-19 test, successful box programs and Hero Pins

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

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 07:37:00 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.

Artichokes

Asparagus

Broccoli

Carrots

Cauliflower

Celery

Corn, sweet

Cucumbers

Lettuce, iceberg

Lettuce, romaine

Onions, dry

Peppers, bell

Potatoes

Squash

Squash, yellow crookneck

Squash, zucchini

Sweet potatoes

Tomatoes

Tomatoes, cherry

Tomatoes, grape

Tomatoes, plum

EFI certifies Rouge River Farms’ U.S. operations

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 21:28:42 GMT

Rouge River Farms, a sweet corn grower in Florida, Georgia, Virginia and Ontario, has all of its U.S. operations certified by the Equitable Food Initiative.

EFI works with growers and retailers to create a more transparent food chain, safer food and healthier places to work.

“EFI is so much more than an audit. It is a holistic approach that transforms the way workers interact,” Margaret Stuart, Rouge River senior compliance manager, said in a news release. “After the EFI Leadership Team training, I saw an increase in productivity among the workers in our facility. I saw their behaviors and expectations of one another change and saw that they were taking more pride in their work.”

Rouge River’s corn is at select Costco Wholesale locations east of the Mississippi River. Farmworkers receive a bonus from each purchase.

In its first four years of operation, EFI has worked with 21 grower-shippers on 64 farm locations, covering 38 produce commodities and affecting more than 33,000 farmworkers, according to the release.

Related news:

Syngenta acquires vegetable seed company

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 06:12:05 GMT

Syngenta has acquired vegetable seed breeder, producer and marketer Feasterville, Pa.-based Abbott & Cobb, known for its sweet corn .

Abbott & Cobb since 1917 has provided seeds geared to the needs of the fresh produce industry in the U.S. and worldwide, according to a news release.

Syngenta’s acquisition of Abbott & Cobb’s expertise, portfolio and pipelines will strengthen its vegetable seeds business in sweet corn, already one of Syngenta’s core crops globally, according to the release.

“Abbott & Cobb is a strategic acquisition for Syngenta Vegetable Seeds and it will give us access to high eating quality germplasm, and early maturity varieties to complement the Syngenta portfolio,” said Javier Martinez-Cabrera, Syngenta’s head of Vegetables Seeds North America, in the release. “We welcome the Abbott & Cobb team into the business and look forward to achieving great things as one team.”

Hugh H. Branch, founder of Florida sweet corn company, dies

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 06:24:38 GMT

Hugh Hinton Branch, who co-founded Hugh H. Branch Inc. with his brother in 1957, has died.

Branch died Jan. 23 in Belle Glade, Fla. He was 95, according to an obituary in the Palm Beach Post.

Although Hugh H. Branch Inc. grew and sold other vegetables, it became known for sweet corn. Branch retired in 2007, and sold the company to his son, Hugh “Chip” Branch Jr. and salesmen Brett Bergmann and Dan Shiver.

In 2015, the company changed its name to Branch: A Family of Farms , to recognize the farmers who supply the company, some who had been growing produce for more than 50 years.

Survivors include Barbara, his wife of more than 70 years, daughters Tammy and Kimberly Branch, and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son, Hugh H. “Chip” Branch Jr.

Hugh H. Branch, after returning from World War II, founded Hugh H. Branch Inc. with his brother Julian, according to the obituary

In the early 2000s, Branch became a Pahokee City (Fla.) city commissioner and was on the board of a local bank, according to his obituary.
A funeral is scheduled for 10 a.m. Jan. 28 at the Methodist Church, Pahokee, Fla.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the First United Methodist Church of Pahokee, 491 E. Main St., Pahokee, FL, 33476.

Related articles:

Hugh H. Branch changes name to Branch: A Family of Farms

UPDATED: Hugh H. Branch co-owner dies

Hugh Branch sells namesake corn-shipping firm

Guess what vegetable is tops in Green Giant poll

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 06:05:24 GMT

Forget red and blue states. This polling map of the U.S. shows a green wave — and it’s not the Green Party you’re thinking of.

In Green Giant’s annual poll of Americans’ favorite vegetable, broccoli has won for the second year in a row, with even greater results than in 2018.

More than 5,000 consumers, from age 13 to 73, took the frozen/canned vegetables company’s survey, and broccoli placed first in 39 states. The results were released in connection with National Eat Your Vegetables Day, June 17, according to a news release.

Some interesting findings from the survey, which was open-ended, letting consumers choose any vegetable:

What’s up, Idaho?: Potatoes ranked first only in Arkansas, a loss of four states from last year;
Et Tu, Iowa?: Of the 7 states choosing corn, Iowa wasn’t included. (Yes, sweet corn and field corn are vastly different, but still …);
No juicers? Despite the juicing craze that’s boosted celery prices to new heights, the fad didn’t elevate the stalk to the top in any state;
No CUKES!: Cucumbers did not carry a single state, unlike in 2018, when New Mexico and Louisiana residents chose them above other vegetables; and
The “orange” candidate: Nevada and North Dakota opted for carrots ;
Welcome to the club: Asparagus led Alaska polling and cauliflower was the favorite in Montana, the first times for both vegetables.

The survey, conducted through Suzy, a company that offers an online consumer insights platform, took place April 26-May 10, according to the release.

Wild Violet, a purple and white sweet corn, available this spring

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 07:39:21 GMT

Crookham Co., Caldwell, Idaho, is introducing a purple and white sweet corn variety, Wild Violet, this spring.

The bi-color corn, bred with traditional non-GMO practices, has an average of 60% purple kernels per cob, according to a news release. The company has worked over 10 years on the variety.

Primary suppliers of the Wild Violet variety are Branch: A Family of Farms, Five Crowns Marketing, and Charlie’s Produce.

“Wild Violet has a wonderful eating quality with higher antioxidants when compared to other sweet corn varieties,” George Crookham, CEO, said in the release. “We are confident that Wild Violet will bring innovation to the sweet corn category for retailers.”

The variety retains its vibrant pigments even after cooking, and longer cooking times deepen the purple to violet and indigo, according to the release.

The variety will be available in the spring.

Related stories:

“Colonel of Corn” finishes second Amaize corn tour

Amaize sweet corn now available for summer

Amaize sweet corn returns

IPR Fresh adds two new items

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 18:48:59 GMT

IPR Fresh , Rio Rico, Ariz., has sweet corn and chili peppers for the first time this season, said president Jose Luis Obregon.

The company started importing good-quality sweet corn in early December and will continue through March.

Obregon said the company will have sweet corn next season as well.

IPR Fresh started its chili pepper program in November and will continue through the first week of May.

The company also has bell peppers, squash, cucumbers and European cucumbers.

California growers expecting good, typical season

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 18:42:13 GMT

Good weather this winter should result in plentiful supplies of top-notch spring produce from California’s grower-shippers.

Boskovich Fresh Food Group grows a wide range of products year-round in Oxnard, Calif., including cabbages, Chinese mix and bunched items like parsley, cilantro and spinach, said sales manager Russ Widerburg.

The company grows celery in Oxnard from November through June, when the deal transitions to Santa Maria.

Boskovich now is growing head and leaf lettuce in Yuma, Ariz., and will move to Santa Maria by early April.

And some items like radishes and beets will switch from Mexico to Oxnard in mid-April.

The first part of the winter has been marked by an oversupply and relatively cheap markets, Widerburg said.

“Until the Yuma program is finished, there’s really no sign of any lack of supply of anything,” he said. “There hasn’t been any weather to affect anything.”

Markets were in single digits, he said in late February.

Planting has been on schedule with no rain delays.

“It’s been pretty dry the last month or month-and-a-half,” he said.

There was some early rain and some light cold spells, Widerburg said, “but nothing to really harm any of the crops in the long term.”

Quality also was good.

“Quality is not a concern because there hasn’t been any weather,” he said.

Widerburg expects good demand across the board for Easter, April 12, but he said the celery market has been depressed since Thanksgiving.

Last year, celery was in the media spotlight thanks largely to the juicing craze, and supplies were somewhat tight.

Supplies are plentiful this year, and markets have plummeted.

Cartons of two dozen stalks from Oxnard had an f.o.b. price of mostly $40.95-42.55 on Feb. 28, 2019. This year they were mostly $7.06-8.05, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Brawley, Calif.-based Five Crowns Marketing is California’s largest grower of sweet corn, said Daren Van Dyke, director of marketing. And this year’s crop could come on about a week earlier than last year’s, which was knocked back by a post-Valentine’s Day freeze.

Growing weather has been ideal this year, he said.

“I would say this crop looks exceptional,” he said.

In fact, Van Dyke said this year’s crop is one of the best he’s ever seen.

“It looks very uniform, very even.”

Sometimes parts of a field are more mature than others, or there are pollination problems, he said. But not this year.

“We are super encouraged by how the crop looks right now.”

Five Crowns has sweet corn year-round, starting in Brawley in April, then moving to Coachella in May, followed by Mendota, Tracy, Arizona, and Washington.

The company now is sourcing from Sinaloa, Mexico.

Five Crowns also is one of the owners of the proprietary seed for Origami vine-ripe, extended-shelf-life melons, which Van Dyke calls “the most unbelievable cantaloupe on the market.”

It’s scheduled to start May 1, followed by variety melons and honeydews by May 10-15.

The company will offer seedless watermelons from Arizona starting in early June.

“We’ll have a huge July Fourth program,” he said.

That deal then will move to Mendota and Tracy before transitioning to Mexico for the winter.

Sunnyside Packing Co.’s spring offerings are “the counter-seasonal equivalent to Nogales (Ariz.),” said Todd Hirasuna, general manager at the Selma, Calif.-based company.

Sunnyside will have eggplant, bell peppers, soft squash, hard squash and a few green beans and a small onion program.

Hirasuna said California appeared to be slipping into a dry spell after record rainfall last year.

“It’s definitely a drought year,” he said.

The season started off promising, Hirasuna said. Then the rain stopped.

“It’s been pretty dry and pretty warm.”

Ideally, rain would fall from November to February, he said.

He was not wishing for rain during the spring planting season, when precipitation “becomes more of a nuisance than anything.”

“When trying to protect and nurture a little seedling, rain is not your friend at this point,” he said in late February.

Related content:
California Spring Vegetables business updates
California vegetables see increasing competition from Mexico
California growers add more organics

Duda Farm Fresh Foods expects a good year

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 06:28:28 GMT

Duda Farm Fresh Foods Inc. should have a wealth of good-quality vegetables available this spring, said Nichole Towell, senior director of marketing.

On the bulk side, the Oviedo, Fla.-based company will offer whole stalk celery, celery hearts, iceberg lettuce, green leaf lettuce, red leaf lettuce, radishes, romaine and romaine hearts.

On the value-added side, there will be tray-pack corn, Ready Radishes, Radish Ministicks and Radish Coins.

“Duda continues to see growth in the value-added, tray-pack corn, especially around Memorial Day,” Towell said.

“With the holiday marking the beginning of summer, shoppers are looking for convenient and easy options to have on hand for their outdoor grilling parties.”

Duda’s tray-pack corn comes pre-shucked and cut to reduce prep time for consumers, she said, and offers “eco-conscious packaging made from fiber board trays that’s 100% recyclable.”

At retail, corn is a great item to build primary and secondary displays to drive trial and sales in the category, Towell said.

Duda also offers organic whole-stalk celery and celery hearts.

Demand for organics is “definitely on the rise,” Towell said, especially the demand for organic celery.

“Not only is organic on-trend right now, but celery consumption as a whole has increased across the board, partially due to the juicing fad last year.”

Despite some weather challenges, such as unseasonably warm conditions through winter with short spells of large amounts of rain as opposed to the normal pattern of rain coming in smaller amounts over a longer period, Towell said the overall quality of the Florida crop is good, and volume estimates are consistent with the past two years.

In mid-February, Duda was about one-third of the way through its Florida corn and celery seasons and about halfway through its leaf and lettuce program.

The Florida growing area offers fresher product to those east of the Mississippi, Towell said, and all of Duda’s items packed in Florida have the “Fresh from Florida” logo on them, which allows consumers to know the state of origin for their produce.

Related content:
Florida produce attracts shoppers
Florida growers see strong fruit markets ahead
Florida weather cooperates for timely spring deal

U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement stops tariffs on some produce

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 06:14:50 GMT

Japan has agreed to eliminate tariffs on a number of U.S. exports, including almonds, blueberries and sweet corn.

Through the first stage of an initial tariff agreement, the U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement will eliminate or reduce tariffs on an additional $7.2 billion of U.S. food and agricultural products, according to a Sept. 25 news release from the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative.

More than 90% of the food and agricultural products sent to Japan will be duty free or receive preferential tariff access when the agreement is implemented, according to the release.

Tariffs on these products will be eliminated:

Almonds
Blueberries
Cranberries
Walnuts
Sweet corn
Broccoli
Prunes

Tariffs on sweet cherries and oranges will be lowered in phases.

The U.S. has agreed to eliminate or reduce 42 tariff lines for products coming from Japan, including persimmons and cut flowers, according to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative.

Marketscope — Vegetable f.o.b.s as of May 11

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 20:34:20 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. = April 25; 2nd no. = May 2; 3rd no. = May 9. Expected movement is for May 10-23. F.o.b. prices are as of May 11.

Artichokes

CENTRAL DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments (21-20-20) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early fairly active, late moderate. Prices slightly lower. Cartons Globe 12s mostly 13.75-15.65, 18s 16.55-18.65, 24s mostly 16.55-18.65, 30-36s mostly 14.65-15.65; ORGANIC 12-30s 26.55. Quality variable. *REVISED DISTRICT

Asparagus

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH ARIZONA, CALIFORNIA AND TEXAS 2020 CROP — Crossings (2-30-20) — Expected to remain the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Lower. 11 pound cartons/crates bunched green standard and large mostly 30.75-34.75. Extra services included.

WALLA WALLA DISTRICT AND LOWER YAKIMA VALLEY WASHINGTON — Shipments (15-25-20) — Movement expected about the same. Available supplies light. Trading Very Active. Prices 28 pounds pyramid cartons/crates slightly higher, 11 pound cartons/crates generally unchanged. Washington Extra Fancy 28 pounds pyramid cartons/crates bunched large and standard mostly 64.75-66.75; 11 pound cartons/crates bunched large and standard mostly 30.75-32.75. Most present Shipments from previous commitments and/or prior bookings.

MICHIGAN — Shipments (0-0-1) — Expected about the same current week, increase following week. Initial light harvest in Southwestern region early in the period; however, freezing temperatures early hours of May 9 froze emerging spears. Warmer temperatures expected by mid-week. Too few supplies to establish a market.

CENTRAL DISTRICT CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Crossings (U-U-U) — Movement expected to remain the same. Trading Active. Prices Higher. 11 pound cartons/crates bunched green ORGANIC standard and large mostly 36.75 Extra services included. (U = unavailable)

PERU IMPORTS — PORTS OF ENTRY SOUTH FLORIDA Imports (U-U-U) — Movement expected to increase slightly. Trading Large and Standard Moderate, others Fairly Slow. Prices Lge and Std Lower, Jbo and Xlge Slightly Lower. From Peru. 11 pound cartons bunched jbo mostly 28.75-30.75, xlge mostly 28.75-32.75, lge and std mostly 32.75-34.75. Movement expected to improve due to increased containers by boat and slightly more air freight availability. Supply fairly light. (U = unavailable)

Broccoli

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (115-126-124) — Movement expected about the same. Supply fairly heavy. Trading moderate. Prices bunched slightly lower, Crown Cut lower. Cartons bunched 14s mostly 7.15-8.05, 18s mostly 7.65-8.55; 20 pound cartons loose Crown Cut mostly 7.15-8.65, Short Trim mostly 8.15-9.65. ORGANIC cartons bunched 14s mostly 8.55-10.50; 20 pound cartons loose Crown Cut mostly 10.55-13.50. Quality variable.

SANTA MARIA CALIFORNIA — Shipments (61-56-69) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Crown Cut fairly active, bunched moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. Cartons bunched 14s 6.85-7.50, 18s 7.35-8.00; 20 pound cartons loose Crown Cut mostly 7.00- 8.00. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (71-79-61) — Movement expected to increase slightly. Trading early fairly active, late moderate. Prices Higher. 20 pound cartons loose Crown Cut Short Trim 10.00-11.00. Quality variable.
SOUTH GEORGIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (3-1-12) — Volume expected to remain about the same. No F.O.B. issued. Insufficient number of shippers to establish market.

Carrots

KERN DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments (180-179-161) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. 48 1-lb film bags medium-large 14.30-15.40; 50 lb sacks loose jumbo 12.30-16.85; 25 lb sacks loose jumbo 6.15-8.85; cartons 30 1-lb film bags Baby Peeled 18.20-18.85. ORGANIC 48 1-lb film bags and 24 2-lb film bags medium-large mostly 20.00-26.35, 10 5-lb film bags medium-large mostly 20.00-20.70. Cartons 24 1-lb film bags Baby Peeled 20.00-22.20, cartons 12 2-lb film bags Baby Peeled 20.00-22.20, cartons 4 5-lb film bags Baby Peeled 20.00-22.50. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (53-57-46) — Movement expected to increase slightly. Trading Fairly Active. Prices much higher. 50 pound sacks loose jumbo 10.50-11.50. Quality variable.

SOUTH GEORGIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (27-23-19) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Jumbo higher, others steady. Sacks 48-1 lb film bags, 24-2 lb film bags, and 10 5-lb film bags medium-large $15.00-16.00; 50 pound sacks loose jumbo $14.00-15.00. Extra services not included. Quality generally good.

Cauliflower

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (91-102-105) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early fairly slow, late fairly active. Prices generally unchanged. Cartons film wrapped White 12s mostly 8.05-9.45, 9s and 16s mostly 7.15-8.65; ORGANIC 12s mostly 14.50-20.55, 9s and 16s mostly 14.50-18.55. Quality generally good.

SANTA MARIA CALIFORNIA — Shipments (44-54-50) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Slightly Higher. Cartons film wrapped White 12s mostly 8.85-10.00. Quality generally good.

Celery

OXNARD DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments (238-270-254) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early active, late moderate. Prices slightly lower. Cartons 2-3 dozen mostly 11.65-12.95; Hearts film bags 18s mostly 15.45-16.65. ORGANIC cartons 2-2 1/2 dozen mostly 16.85-22.56; Hearts film bags 18s mostly 18.85-22.56. Quality variable.

SANTA MARIA CALIFORNIA — Shipments (44-45-63) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early active, late moderate. Prices Lower. Cartons 2 dozen mostly 10.00-10.85, 2 1/2-3 dozen mostly 10.50-10.85. Quality generally good.
SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Harvest expected to begin the week of May 31. Quality expected to be generally good. FIRST REPORT.

Corn, sweet

CENTRAL AND SOUTH FLORIDA — Shipments (282-336-396) — Movement expected to increase. Trading Active. Prices Higher. Includes palletizing and cooling. Wire bound crates Yellow 4-4 1/2 dozen 12.95, White 12.95, Bi-Color 12.95 Quality generally good.

IMPERIAL AND COACHELLA VALLEYS CALIFORNIA — Shipments (86-88-148) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Bi-Color moderate, others active. Prices Bi-Color slightly lower, others slightly higher. Cartons/crates White and Yellow 4 dozen minimum mostly 15.95, Bi-Color 13.95-14.95. Quality generally good.

SOUTH GEORGIA 2020 CROP — Very light shipments reported. Most shippers are expected to harvest the week of May 10-16. No F.O.B. issued until more shippers begin. No F.O.B. issued until shippers start to harvest and volume increases.

Lettuce, iceberg

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (396-451-433) — Movement expected about the same. Trading 24s fairly active at slightly lower prices, 30s slow. Prices slightly lower. Cartons 24s film lined mostly 8.00-9.45, filmwrapped mostly 9.00-10.45; 30s filmwrapped mostly 6.45-7.65; ORGANICS 24s filmwrapped 16.00-16.50, 12s filmwrapped mostly 8.00-10.55. Quality variable.

SANTA MARIA CALIFORNIA — Shipments (71-73-78) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Slightly Lower. Cartons 24s film lined mostly 7.50-8.85, filmwrapped mostly 8.50-9.85. Quality generally good.

Lettuce, romaine

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE CALIFORNIA — Shipments (387-370-365) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early fairly slow, late moderate. Prices 24s slightly lower, Hearts generally unchanged. Cartons 24s mostly 6.65-8.05; Hearts cartons 12 3-count packages mostly 10.05-11.45, Hearts film lined 48s mostly 11.50-12.45. ORGANIC cartons 24s mostly 18.00-20.55; Hearts cartons 12 3-count packages 14.50-16.75. Quality variable.

SANTA MARIA CALIFORNIA — Shipments (42-44-63) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Slightly Lower. Cartons 24s 8.50-9.50; Hearts cartons 12 3-count packages mostly 9.50-10.50. Quality generally good.

OXNARD DISTRICT CALIFORNIA — Shipments (6-7-5) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early fairly slow, late moderate. Prices Generally Unchanged. Cartons 24s 7.95. Quality generally good.

Onions, dry

COLUMBIA BASIN WASHINGTON AND UMATILLA BASIN OREGON — Shipments (278-260-2,004, Includes exports 32-25-29)— Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Trading Moderate. Remaining supplies in too few hands to establish a market.
U.S. — Shipments (1,002-1,120*-1,147) — The top shipping areas for the week, in order, were Texas, California, Columbia Basin Washington, Georgia, and Idaho and Malheur County Oregon. (* revised)

LOWER RIO GRANDE VALLEY, TEXAS 2020 CROP — Shipments (286-280*-267) — Movement is expected to be about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Yellow colossal sacks higher, others generally unchanged. Yellow Grano-Type Marked Sweet 40-pound cartons jumbo 16.00-18.00, Yellow Grano - Type 50-pound sacks colossal 10.00, jumbo 8.00-10.00, medium 10.00-12.00, White 50-pound sacks jumbo 15.00-16.00, medium 15.00-16.00, Red 25-pound sacks jumbo mostly 7.00-9.00, medium mostly 7.00-9.00. (*revised)

IMPERIAL VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (0-149-260) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Moderate. Prices Red and Yellow jumbo higher, Yellow super colossal, colossal and Red medium lower, others generally unchanged. Yellow Grano Type 50-pound sacks super colossal 9.00-10.00, colossal 8.00, jumbo 7.00-8.00, medium mostly 9.00; White 50-pound sacks jumbo mostly 12.00 medium 10.00-11.00; Red Globe Type 25-pound sacks jumbo 6.00-7.00, medium mostly 6.00.

VIDALIA DISTRICT GEORGIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (155-171-159) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Active. Prices Generally Unchanged. Yellow Granex - Marked Sweet 40-pound cartons jumbo mostly 19.00-20.00; Organic 40-pound cartons jumbo 26.00-29.00.

IDAHO AND MALHEUR COUNTY OREGON — Shipments (125-133-86, Includes exports 7-5-4)— Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Remaining supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH SOUTH TEXAS 2020 CROP — Crossings (125-95-84) — Movement is expected to be about the same. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market.
SAN ANTONIO-WINTER GARDEN-LAREDO DISTRICT TEXAS — Shipments (0-3-31) — Movement expected to increase as more shippers receive onions. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market. FIRST REPORT.

ARIZONA DISTRICT — Shipments (0-0-29) — Movement expected to increase as more shippers get started shipping onions current week. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market. FIRST REPORT.

CENTRAL COAST CALIFORNIA 2019 CROP — Shipments (7-12-8) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market. FINAL REPORT.

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

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA DISTRICT — Shipments (6-3-6) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market. Last report.

Peppers, bell

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (130-125*-111, Field Grown 107-102-95, Greenhouse 23--23*-16) — Movement of Red and Yellow expected to decrease slightly; Green expected to decrease sharply as most shippers are finished for the season. Trading Green active at slightly lower prices, others active. Prices Green slightly lower, 11 pound cartons slightly higher, others higher. 1 1/9 bushel cartons Green (supplies very light) irregular size mostly 12.95-14.95; Red mostly 18.95. Red 15 pound extra large mostly 18.95, large 16.95-18.95. GREENHOUSE 11 pound cartons Red and Yellow extra large 16.95-18.95, large mostly 16.95. Quality generally good. (* revised)

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (106-105*-81) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Active. Prices slightly higher. GREENHOUSE 11 pound cartons Red and Yellow jumbo and extra large 15.95-17.95, large 13.95-15.95; Orange jumbo and extra large 17.95-19.95, large 14.95-16.95. Red 1 1/9 bushel carton irregular size fair quality 17.95-20.95. Quality variable. (* revised)

COACHELLA VALLEY CALIFORNIA — Shipments (49-59-80) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Trading Very Active. Prices Green extra large and large slightly higher, others generally unchanged. 1 1/9 bushel cartons Green jumbo mostly 24.95-26.95, extra large 26.95, large 24.95, medium mostly 18.95, irregular size fair quality Green mostly 16.95-18.95, Red mostly 24.95. 1/2 bushel cartons Red extra large and large mostly 20.95. Quality generally good.

CENTRAL AND SOUTH FLORIDA — Shipments (78-63-68) — Movement expected to decrease. Trading Fair Quality Very Active, others Very Active at Slightly Lower prices. Prices Fair Quality Generally Unchanged, others Slightly Lower. Includes palletizing and precooling. 1 1/9 bushel cartons jumbo and extra large mostly 26.35, large mostly 24.35, irregular sized fair quality mostly 20.35. Quality generally good.

Potatoes

U.S. — Shipments (1,494-1,552*-1,575) — The top shipping states, in order, were Idaho, San Luis Valley Colorado, Florida, Columbia Basin Washington, and Wisconsin. (* revised)

UPPER VALLEY, TWIN FALLS-BURLEY DISTRICT IDAHO 2019 CROP — Shipments (567-606-717, Includes exports 3-3-7) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Carton 40-70s active, others moderate. Prices carton 40-70s higher, bales and Norkotah carton 80- 100s lower, others generally unchanged. Russet Burbanks U.S. One baled 5-pound film bags non size A mostly 6.00-7.00; 50-pound sacks 40-70s mostly 12.00, 80s mostly 10.00, 90s mostly 9.00, 100s mostly 8.00-9.00; U.S. Two 6 ounce minimum 4.00-5.00, 10 ounce minimum mostly 7.00-8.00; Russet Norkotah U.S. One baled 5-pound film bags non size A mostly 5.50-6.50; 50--pound cartons 40-70s 12.00, 80s 9.00-10.00, 90s 8.00-9.00, 100s mostly 7.00-7.50; U.S. Two 6 ounce minimum 4.00-5.00, 10 ounce minimum 7.00-8.00.

SAN LUIS VALLEY COLORADO 2019 CROP — Shipments (221-208*-188, Includes exports 19-10*-10) — Movement expected to be about the same. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Cartons 40-70s higher, 80s lower, others generally unchanged. U.S. One baled 5 10-lb film bags sz A mostly 10.00, baled 10 5-lb film bags sz A mostly 11.00; 50 lb cartons 40-70s 15.00-16.00, 80s 14.00-15.00, 90-100s 12.00-14.00. (* revised)

FLORIDA 2020 CROP — Shipments (163-197-168) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Fairly Active. Prices Generally Unchanged. Round Red U.S. One 50 pound cartons size A mostly 19.00-22.50, size B mostly 26.00-26.50, Creamers 3/4-1 5/8 inches mostly 30.50-35.75; 50 pound sacks size A mostly 17.50-20.75, size B mostly 24.50-24.75, U.S. Two 50 pound sacks size A mostly 14.75- 16.50, size B mostly 16.75-18.75. Round White U.S. One 50 pound cartons size A 27.50-32.50, size B mostly 18.50-20.00, Creamers 3/4- 1 5/8 inches mostly 35.75-40.75; 50 pound sacks size A mostly 25.75-30.75, size B mostly 16.75-18.50. Yellow Type U.S. One 50 pound cartons size A mostly 32.50, size B mostly 18.50, Creamers 3/4-1 5/8 inches mostly 40.75-45.75; 50 pound sacks size A mostly 30.75, size B mostly 16.75.

COLUMBIA BASIN WASHINGTON AND UMATILLA BASIN OREGON 2019 CROP — Shipments (131*-141-141, Includes exports 29-32-34) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading carton 40-70s active, others moderate. Prices carton 50-70s higher, others generally unchanged. Russet Norkotah U.S. One baled 10 pound film bags size A mostly 8.00, baled 5 pound film bags size A mostly 9.00; 50-pound cartons 40s mostly 10.00, 50-70s mostly 12.00-13.00, 80s mostly 10.00-12.00, 90s mostly 9.00-10.00, 100s mostly 9.00; U.S. Two 50 pound sacks 10 ounce minimum mostly 7.00. (* revised)

CENTRAL WISCONSIN 2019 CROP — Shipments (101-96-93) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Generally Unchanged. Russet Norkotah U.S. One baled 5 10-pound film bags size A mostly 10.00-11.00, baled 10 5-pound film bags size A mostly 11.00-12.00; 50 pound cartons 40s-70s mostly 18.00-19.00, 80s mostly 17.00-18.00, 90s mostly 14.00-15.00, 100s 13.00-14.00.

HEREFORD-HIGH PLAINS TEXAS — Shipments (65-53-54) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

IMPERIAL VALLEY CALIFORNIA 2020 CROP — Shipments (66-73-53) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Supplies in too few hands to establish a market. LAST REPORT.

MICHIGAN — Shipments (56-49-39) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Slow. Prices Unchanged. U.S. 1 size A baled 5 10-pound bags Russet Norkotah 11.50-12.50, baled 10 5-pound bags mostly 12.50-13.50. Supplies in few hands.

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

MINNESOTA-NORTH DAKOTA (RED RIVER VALLEY) 2019 CROP — Shipments (43-35-19) — Movement expected to decrease seasonally. Remaining supplies in too few hands to establish a market.

KLAMATH BASIN OREGON AND NORTHERN CALIFORNIA DISTRICT — Shipments (25*-22-18) — Movement expected to remain about the same. supplies in too few hands to establish a market. (*revised)

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

Tomatoes

CENTRAL AND SOUTH FLORIDA — Shipments (174-219-196) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading Active. Prices Higher. Extra services included. Prices for Friday, May 8th. Mature Greens 85% U.S.One or better 5x6 size 27.95, 6x6 size 27.95, 6x7 size 23.95. Prices to be established based on Tuesday’s market. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (168-169-155) — Movement expected to decrease slightly. Trading early active, late moderate. Prices Lower. Vine Ripes cartons 2 layer 4x4-4x5s mostly 14.95-15.95, 5x5s 14.95-15.95; 25 pound cartons loose 4x5 size and 5x5 size 15.95-16.95. Quality generally good. Most present — Shipments from prior booking and/or previous commitments.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (82-73*-120) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early very active, late fairly slow. Prices Lower. Vine Ripes cartons 2 layers 4x4-4x5s mostly 22.95, 5x5s mostly 20.95, 5x6s mostly 18.95-20.95. Quality generally good. (* revised)

U.S. SHIPPING POINTS — Shipments (27*-20*-17) — Greenhouse. No prices reported. (* revised)

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH OTAY MESA — Crossings (0-3-2) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. Quality generally good. The first F.O.B. report is expected to be issue the week of May 24.

FLORIDA WEST DISTRICT AND SOUTH CAROLINA DISTRICT — Light harvest expected to start within 25 days. Expect sufficient number of shippers for first F.O.B. within 30 days. FIRST REPORT.

Tomatoes, cherry

CENTRAL AND SOUTH FLORIDA — Shipments (4-3-3) — Movement expected to decrease. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Lower. Extra services included. Flats 12 1-pint basket with lids 6.95-7.95. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH OTAY MESA — Crossings (0-2-3) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. Quality generally good. The first F.O.B report is expected to be issue the week of May 24.

Tomatoes, grape

CENTRAL AND SOUTH FLORIDA — Shipments (21-23-26) — Movement expected to decrease. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Lower. including palletizing and cooling. Flats 12 1-pint containers with lids 5.95-7.95. 20 pound cartons loose 10.95-13.95. Organic flats 12 1-pint containers with lids 16.95. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (23-25-20) — Movement expected about the same. Trading Fairly Slow. Prices Pints generally unchanged, cartons slightly lower. Flats 12-1 pint containers with lids medium-large mostly 5.95. 20 pound cartons loose medium-large mostly 10.95-12.95. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (7-8-5) — Movement expected to increase slightly. Trading early fairly active, late fairly slow. Prices Lower. Flats 12 1-pint containers with lids medium-large 5.95-6.95. 20 lb carton loose medium-large 10.20-10.95. Quality generally good.

Tomatoes, plum

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH NOGALES ARIZONA — Crossings (242-258*-317) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early moderate, late slow. Prices much lower. 25 pound cartons loose Roma (supplies heavy) extra large mostly 8.30-8.95, large 8.30-8.95, medium mostly 8.30. Quality generally good. (*revised)

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH TEXAS — Crossings (53-92-91) — Movement expected about the same. Trading early moderate, late fairly slow. Prices much lower. Roma 25 pound cartons loose extra large mostly 8.95-9.95, large mostly 8.30-8.95, medium 8.30-8.95. Quality generally good.

CENTRAL AND SOUTH FLORIDA — Shipments (57-63-67) — Movement expected to decrease. Trading Moderate. Prices Lower. Extra services included. Prices for Friday, May 8th. 25 pound cartons loose extra large 17.95, large 15.95-17.95, medium 13.95-15.95. Quality generally good.

MEXICO CROSSINGS THROUGH OTAY MESA — Crossings (10-20*-21) — Movement expected to increase seasonally. Supplies insufficient and in too few hands to establish a market. Quality generally good. The first F.O.B report is expected to be issue the week of May 17. (* revised)

New York State crops off to promising, steady start

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 18:54:55 GMT

NEW YORK STATE — On a recent warm summer morning, Jason Turek drove his pickup around the fields to see if the early July rains invited more weeds or pests on his sweet corn, cabbage and summer squash in the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York. Later that day, the partner at Turek Farms , King Ferry, marked spots to place extra beehives for pollinating the pumpkins and hard squash. Meanwhile, staff paved some areas in the packing plant and installed a cooling system.

Even though 2020 was a great year for selling crops to retailers, many of New York’s growers are playing it safe by not planting too much more for the 2021 season.

Turek said they planted less than normal in spring 2020 as the COVID-19 pandemic hit the Northeast, plus they had a dry season, so volume was down about 20%, when demand was unexpectedly high. This year, the plan is to plant for old-normal volumes. “Our planting is almost identical to five years ago. We grow what we can sell. It’s so expensive to put in a crop in right now, you can’t risk being wrong on the marketing end,” Turek said. Turek also grows broccoli, Brussels sprouts and a few other items. By mid-July they’ll harvest cabbage and summer squash, and sweet corn will probably be a week after that.

In western New York, Torrey Farms, Elba , is also holding steady with acreage. “We did not increase acreage on anything,” said Shannon Kyle, who handles sales and marketing and is part of the 12th generation working at the family-run company. “We were conservative, if anything, because of what’s going on with packaging and transportation and labor.”

Family-run Reeves Farms , Baldwinsville, increased vegetable acres by about 5%, slowly as the market demands, said Brian Reeves, partner. “I don’t know anyone planning big expansions,” said Reeves, also president of the New York State Vegetable Growers Association.

Weather

While the northern part of the state —populated by mostly dairy farms — has been very dry for spring, eastern New York has been a little wetter while the central and western parts of the state have been a tad dry with slightly above-average heat, Reeves said. “We were having a warmer-than-average March while New Jersey was having a little cooler March, and sometimes timing like that can affect markets and cause friction. Sometimes those markets can be a bloodbath. But prices are average so far,” Reeves said.

June was hot and wet in the central region. Western and central New York crops are a couple of days ahead compared to 2020, with sweet corn picking to start about July 10. Summer squash started June 16 in Central New York, and many years, it’s June 20, Reeves said. Cucumber harvest often starts June 30 or July 1, and this year it was June 27. “So, just a couple days earlier in general because of the heat,” he said.

The recent occasional rains of late June and early July allowed a day or two each week for planting, and with increasing temperatures since mid-May, it’s balanced out the later plantings in spring in the Finger Lakes region.

“We kinda had a slow start for spring,” Turek said. “Early April was warm and dry, and then it turned cold and wet really until about the 13th of May, so anything we planted end of April was not the best looking, but everything after that May 13 period looked pretty nice.”

Now, the region around Turek Farms is getting timely rains and heat. The 2020 spring season weather caused late plantings in the Finger Lakes region, but this year, the rains don’t seem to be gentle.

“We get an inch in 30 minutes, and then the sun is back out again. We’d prefer it to be gentle, so there’s no erosion,” Turek said.

June was the second warmest in history and the 10th wettest, for Turek’s area of upstate New York.

In western New York, March was warm and May was cool, which means harvest start times pretty much all averaged out, said Kyle of Torrey Farms. Overall, spring was dry in Torrey Farms’ five-county growing region, but early July has brought some welcome rain.

By the week of July 12, Torrey Farms will ship its first green beans, zucchini and yellow squash, and by July 16-17, there will be some cucumbers and cabbage, she said. Harvesting cabbage continues into November, and some of it will go into storage, possibly into December. “We can ship that through May, but last year it was until February because of the market,” Kyle said. Besides the storage crop, the new crop of onions planted in April should be available starting the last week of July or first week of August and continue into October. Of course, these shipping dates all depend on the weather for the rest of July.

Way out east on the North Fork of Long Island, Satur Farms has enjoyed great weather in Cutchogue. Cold storage and shipping facilities are nearby in Calverton. “Yields have been where we like to see them,” said Paulette Satur, founder and CEO. “This will change as the summer heat builds but then should reverse to another upward trajectory once the humidity clears heading into fall…. Being surrounded by the sea, we’re fortunate to have such an extended growing season on the North Fork.”

Satur Farms is planting the same mix and varieties of leafy greens as usual, and the volume, size and quality is on par with past seasons, she said. “But, given the lack of and high cost of labor for hand work, [we planted] less of the specialty veg crops that need bunching,” Satur said.

Read related New York Produce news

Satur Farms started harvesting earlier this year compared to 2020, bringing in overwintered arugula on April 14, while the newly seeded baby leaf crops began in earnest April 28.

It’s pretty early for onions in the lower Hudson Valley region, but everything is looking good so far, said Dylan Dembeck, director of operations at Minkus Family Farms , New Hampton. “We are on track for a typical crop, but that can change as we get into these summer months, but everything looks pretty good,” Dembeck said. Early onion transplants will be available for shipping at the start of August, and then the direct-seed onions will be ready later in the year.

Most is staying the same, but Minkus Family Farms is trialing a new seed variety, Rosa Bella, the brand name of Bejo Seeds’ blush-pink onion with a mild taste.

Other farms in the state are conducting their usual seed trials as well, always on the hunt for a better-tasting, hardier, longer-lasting crop.

Florida scientists discover more about sweet corn

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 14:55:06 GMT

For the first time, Marcio Resende, a University of Florida Institute for Food and Agriculture Sciences sweet corn breeder, led a team of researchers to sequence the genome of a type of supersweet corn.

Scientists can use this information to make new breeding methods, as well as to learn more about the biology and history of sweet corn, according to a news release.

“This is expected to translate into better varieties for farmers and consumers,” Resende, also an assistant professor of horticultural sciences, said in the release.

Florida farmers grow more than 37,000 acres of sweet corn annually — mostly in southwest and southeast Florida, according to the Florida Farm Bureau.

The crop is in season from October to June.

Florida also ranks No. 2 nationally in the production and value of fresh market sweet corn, typically accounting for about 20% of national sweet corn production.