As the 4th of July holiday approaches, it's no surprise that the number of advertisements has increased this week compared to last week. Watermelons, blueberries, cherries, and grapes are not only delicious but also refreshing options to enjoy during the warm weather. In, addition to fruits, grilled vegetables can be a delightful addition to your holiday meals. Grilled corn, with its sweet and smoky flavor, pairs wonderfully with other summer vegetables like sweet onions, summer squash, and eggplant.
Don't forget the variety of peppers available, which can add a burst of color and flavor to your dishes. Moreover, this time of year presents a fantastic opportunity to support local growers in your community. By purchasing fresh produce from local farmers, you not only enjoy the best seasonal flavors but also contribute to the local economy and promote sustainable farming practices. So, as you prepare for your 4th of July celebrations, consider incorporating these healthy and delicious options into your menu and make the most of the summer bounty.
Total ad numbers this week were 344,480, an 16% increase from last week's total of 296,072. The total for the same week last year was 14% higher at 301,249. The total number of ads broken out by commodity groups: fruit 209,195 (61% of all ads), onions and potatoes 17,657 (5%), vegetables 115,257 (33%).
The following are the prices of major advertised items (3,000 plus ads) this week, compared to the same week last year. Significant increases in price for fruit this week were red flesh miniature watermelons at 36%. Significant increases for vegetables were only long seedless cucumbers at 29%. There were significant decreases for honey crisp apples at 46%, black berries at 32%, black seedless grapes at 15%, cantaloups and cherries at 14% and blueberries at 13%. There were also significant price decreases for vegetables and herbs. Cilantro decreased 26%, asparagus 18%, iceberg lettuce 17% and 10 oz grape tomatoes declined 10%. There were no significant changes in price for potatoes and onions this week.
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Source: mymarketnews.ams.usda.gov