Week 9, 2024

Asparagus and Brussels

Organic Asparagus is readily available and very promotable heading into Easter. Quality has been great out of Mexico. Organic Brussels Sprouts from Mexico are at their peak and Volumes should continue to be robust for March, with many opportunities for promotions. One-pound microwaveable Organic Brussels Sprouts are now in season and available to promote.

Citrus

Organic Minneola Tangelos are showing top-notch quality, and very promotable through the first week of March. Organic Navel Orange prices continue to ease with quality getting stronger. Organic Mandarins are of great quality, with “Tango” and “Murcott” varieties available. Organic Gold Nugget Mandarins are in season, both bagged and bulk. This variety has rough, pebbly skin, but sweet and juicy gold flesh. Organic Lemons are peaking on large fruit with prices at promotable levels.

Greens and Lettuces

The volume of Organic Greens from Florida is becoming better, and heading into March, supplies will be steady. California production will continue to be a cost- effective alternative. Organic Leaf and Romaine Lettuce from Florida are in steady production, and the quality is excellent. Reasonably priced California Organic Iceberg Lettuce is accessible, and Organic Romaine Hearts show reasonable prices and high quality.

Green Beans

Supplies of Organic Green Beans from Florida are fair, while Mexico has been struggling due to rain. Pricing has been holding on the higher end with Florida supplying most of the demand.

Celery

The low quality of Organic Celery continues to be a challenge due to blight and insect pressure. High prices and mediocre quality will continue through March as suppliers continue to pass by products that are not fit for retail or are not able to harvest.

Broccoli

Yuma, AZ and El Centro, California growing regions continue to produce exceptional Organic Broccoli. Superior quality and affordability create promotional opportunities. Conditions are expected to continue as March approaches, but as temperatures climb in the desert, a number of problems may surface quickly.

Squash

Organic Zucchini and Yellow Squash will be extremely tight heading into March. This is due to winds in Mexico causing bloom drop and too much rain in Florida. Expect a possible gap in volume in early March.

Berries

Organic Blueberries remain promotable out of Chile, as supplies and quality have been excellent. Early March pricing will increase as supply decreases out of Mexico. Organic Strawberry production out of Baja, Mexico is starting up and volume is coming on very quickly. Quality is expected to be excellent. Organic Blackberry prices are rising some as harvests slow down out of Mexico. Availability will become much tighter due to growing cycles, temps, and weather. Organic Raspberries continue to be extremely tight out of Mexico. The weather has been relentless on crops, and harvests continue to be extremely light. Demand exceeds supply and will continue into March.