This report provides trend analysis of the volume and prices of Seasonal Perishable commodities. Volume represents current week and prices represent open (spot) market sales by first handlers on product of generally good quality and condition unless otherwise stated and may include promotional allowances or other incentives. The charts provide graphic representation of the volume and prices of the major commodities this week based on seasonal volume.
Transportation and weather issues continue to affect availability of produce commodities nationwide, while a cautious approach to restaurant and foodservice reopening in some areas is delaying the hoped-for increase in demand on those items. Many independently owned restaurants have gone out of business for good, while other foodservice businesses have had to restructure their operating plans and offerings to stay open. Truck rates remain high as diesel prices continue to increase.
Movement of Mexican asparagus is expected to decrease as the season winds down. Trading was fairly slow at higher prices on conventional product, while organic trading was moderate with prices generally unchanged. Some hail damage has been reported in the Caborca growing region which may limit supplies. Blueberries from Mexico crossing through Arizona, California and Texas movement is expected to increase although trading remains very slow and prices are generally unchanged. Quality remains variable. Reporting of blueberries out of Central and North Florida has begun and movement is expected to increase as harvest increases. Trading is very active, and quality is very good. Supplies of good condition Chilean blueberries through both east and west coast ports are insufficient to quote and reporting has ended for the season.
Movement of bell peppers from Mexico crossing through Nogales, Arizona movement is expected about the same with moderate trading and slightly lower prices. Mexico crossings through Texas supplies continue to be in too few hands to establish a market, although supplies seem to be increasing slightly. Demand continues to increase with unofficial prices reported slightly higher in response. Quality is variable for all Mexican bell peppers. Movement of bell peppers from central and south Florida is expected to slightly increase. Trading was fairly active with fairly good demand and slightly higher prices early in the week before becoming steady. Quality out of Florida is generally good.