There is plenty of artichoke supply on jumbo sizing right now–however, supply is more limited on the medium and small size artichokes. "Compared to this time last year, the supply overall is a bit heavier right now," says Bob Polovneff of Ippolito International.
The growing conditions this year had the plants slow to produce. Now they are starting to produce which is why production is heavier now compared to what it was last year at this time. The season also started a little slower this year. "Because we have had a lot of both hot and cold weather, the weather this year has been more of a challenge," says Polovneff. "Also frost can be a challenge. It doesn't hurt the product but it can affect the appearance of the artichoke, even though the edibility is the same."
"Compared to this time last year, the supply overall is a bit heavier right now," says Bob Polovneff of Ippolito International.
Winter growing regions
Artichoke supply is coming from Oxnard, California, the Coachella Valley, and Mexico. Production will stay in these regions until the middle to the end of March.
As for demand, it's very strong–partly because of the lack of supply for three or four months now. "With our strong supply, I see demand, especially ahead of the holidays in the next three to four weeks, increasing," says Polovneff.
This is leaving pricing high at the moment, though by the end of next week, it will become more competitive. "Just in the past week, we've been able to fulfill the demand. We have also had a bit more product available to sell with decent pricing so the demand can increase," says Polovneff.
For more information:
Lara Grossman
Ippolito International
Tel: +1 (831)789-8761
[email protected]
www.qvproduce.com