Mexico's pineapples compete well with Costa Rica

With production on Costa Rica’s pineapples dipping, demand for Mexico’s fruit is in high demand. “Right now we have volume at both our Texas and California distribution centers. From what I understand production in Costa Rica came off a little bit so that helps the Mexican pineapple,” said Darwin Dodd of Chula Brand. “We’re getting really nice quality pineapple; very nice color and very high in Brix.” Growers in the Veracruz region are benefitting from low supply elsewhere and it’s getting to the end user three to five days after harvest. “It’s nice and fresh,” he said. 

Darwin says it’s a fantastic pineapple – sweet and has low acidity. “Even though Costa Rican pines are famous for being the best, I think ours are competing very well. When Costa Rican pineapple is doing well, Chula Brand stays out of Costa Rica's markets, but at other times when it’s lower the company steps in and supplies fruit. “Fortunately we have a good market in the West Coast, Texas and outside the State here in the south.” Demand has risen for Mexico’s pineapples recently. “Right now we’re doing very well. All of our (newer) customers that have taken product for last month and a half all keep coming back for more.” Darwin says his prices stand at $11 on 5, 6 and 7 counts; $10 on 8s,and $9 on 4s. 

Chula Brand has also been supplying limes – a newer program for the company, which Dodd says they’ll be putting even more focus on in the foreseeable future. Limes are also grown in Veracruz as well as Tabasco. “There are lower volumes, markets are a little weird right now. The price in Mexico seems to have exceeded the price over here.” Dodd said the price should come down this week or next with the recent warmer weather and rainfall. Price has been driven up from the demand from Mexico’s own customers combined with farmer-driven costs. “They want to benefit and not have to lose all the time. It’s a funny market sometimes,” he said. “I’ve been watching the lime market for the last couple years and you really never can be sure of what’s going on. A lot of people anticipate and we talk to other people in the US but then the next day things can change.” 

For more information: 

Darwin Dodd 

Tel: 956-843-1110