Round Tomatoes – Florida’s volume continues to improve; weather permitting, production will slowly be making its way back to normal numbers by March end. Quality is very nice. Mexico’s volume is good and quality is very nice. Reminder…DO NOT store tomatoes in the refrigerator, doing so causes a loss of flavor and creates a mealy texture.
Strawberries – Rain in all growing areas of California are causing shortages and increasing prices; anticipating lighter-than-normal supply through the month of March.
English Cucumbers – Good volume and good quality.
Asparagus – Mexico has very good quality and ample supply.
Cauliflower – Supply is plentiful and quality is good.
Strawberries – Volume continues to be hit and miss due to ongoing issues that stem from the extreme heat earlier in the season. Strawberry volume is not expected to increase until sometime after Labor Day.
Romaine – Demand continues to strengthen. Quality is fair to good.
Zucchini – Prices are down, supply continues to improve week after week. Quality is good.
Celery – Plenty of supply is available. Quality is excellent.
Avocados – ESCALATED – Overall decline in supply anticipated moving forward. Looks like a dramatic decrease in supply from California and Peruvian sources, creating further strengthening of field pricing for Mexican fruit that will become the dominant origin for the back half of the summer.
Strawberries – Volumes and quality are improving.
Broccoli/Broccoli Florets – Supply will be good the next two weeks. Quality is good.
Peaches – Domestic peaches are available out of South Carolina and Central Georgia…this week’s good buy.
Avocados – EXTREME – Record high field prices in Mexico, California is in their seasonal decline. Flexibility on sizing as well as origins is requested from suppliers.
Strawberries – Experiencing severe shortages and higher prices due to the past rain, followed by extreme heat in the berry growing region. Check local farmers for supply and quality products.
Lettuce (all varieties) from West Coast Suppliers – ESCALATED – Short supply due to weather issues and the quality has been affected by the heat.
Corn – Good supply available on yellow, white and bi-color out of Florida and the desert.
Cauliflower – Supply is expected to be very good this week.
