Supply of small Persian limes – 200, 230, ad 250 ct. – out of Veracruz in Mexico has been scarce recently. "Due to its extremely limited availability, small limes command higher prices," says Mario Cisneros with Perlag Imports. The lack of small fruit is caused by the crop cycle the product is currently in. In addition, new crop volume is lower as a result of hurricane activity this past fall.
The availability of large-sized fruit on the other hand has been ample, which is reflected in the pricing. Larger fruit, ranging from 110 ct. to 175 ct. runs between $12.50 and $15.50/box. Small fruit, however, is more valuable. Size 200 ct. and 230 ct. are sold for $17.50/box while the price of size 250 is $17/box. Cisneros is hopeful demand for large size fruit will pick up soon and show improvement leading up to the holidays.
Cold weather
While Perlag Imports sources limes from three different growing regions in Mexico, this time of year the fruit comes from Veracruz. "This state offers the best quality year-round and is known for being the capital of Persian limes," commented Cisneros. However, growing conditions have been a bit rough recently. Mexico witnessed a period of drought in May and June, followed by hurricanes and rainfall in the fall. "More recently, it has been cold as well as rainy, which doesn't help with harvest. It reduces picking hours, resulting in fewer shipments crossing into Texas." In addition, these weather conditions can cause stains on the skin of the fruit.
The company brings in many different produce items from Mexico, but it has recently increased its focus on Persian limes. "We've increased our volume from bringing in one load per day to three loads per day," shared Cisneros. Their limes are being sold to retailers, wholesalers, and brokers across the U.S.
For more information:
Mario Cisneros
Perlag Imports
Tel: (+1) 956-627-3313
[email protected]
www.perlagimportsllc.com