RonnDa J. Peters – Strategic Dining Services

This Week’s Highlights – April 26, 2021

Rhubarb – New crop rhubarb now available out of the Pacific Northwest.
Blueberries – Florida blueberries are expected to see good volume and quality in late April.
Limes – Availability continues to struggle as we approach May. Consider shifting to the 200-230ct during this shortage and scaling back portions and garnishments. Substitute lemon when possible.
French Beans – Good volume and light demand has increased downward pressure on pricing…quality is excellent.
Artichokes – Quality is excellent. Expect good volume to continue on large sizes through the end of April.

Red and Yellow Bell Peppers – Good volume; Quality is outstanding.
French Green Beans – Good volume and light demand. Quality is excellent.
Fennel – Good supply will continue for the next couple weeks. Quality and sizing are nice.
Kale (Green) – Bunched kale supply is expected to be plentiful for the next few weeks.
Tomatoes (Rounds & Romas) – Supply is steady. Quality is outstanding. REMINDER: Do not refrigerate tomatoes. Refrigeration causes tomatoes to become mealy and loose flavor.

Yellow Squash – Good volume available.
Zucchini – Outstanding quality.
Honeydew – Sizing is peaking on larger melons; brix levels are in the 12-14% range.
Navel Oranges – Quality is great. Peaking on 72/88.
French Beans – Good volume and light demand has increased downward pressure on pricing this week. Quality is excellent.
Cauliflower – Better supply is expected next week as we head into transition. Quality is good and the market is slightly lower.

Red Bell Pepper – Good volume. Quality is outstanding.
Jicama – Good supply and pricing.
Cherry & Grape Tomatoes – Florida supply is tight this week and will remain tight over the next several weeks.
Red Leaf Lettuce – Good volume and excellent quality.
Artichokes – Expect fair volume to continue through March. Prices are steady. Quality is excellent.

Bananas – Force Majeure…Hurricanes in South America have impacted both crops and infrastructure. Anticipate a tight supply and escalated pricing through Q1-2021.
Mini Sweet Pepper – Excellent supply and quality.
French Beans – Good volume, pricing is down. Quality is excellent.
Garlic – The domestic market remains high. Good quality.
Spinach – Supply and quality are good