As the year ends, the supply of papayas is very low. Brentt Skinner, president and founder of WYCO Produce says it's due to a number of reasons including extremely hot and dry periods in both Guatemala and Mexico, along with labor availability and reduced plantings.
At the same time, demand has been high. "More consumers are enjoying papaya and demand it because they are more aware of the health and flavor benefits," says Skinner. This includes a growing category of non-traditional papaya consumers which is helping add to the overall growth in consumption of the fruit.
Varietal development
Also seeing a growth in demand are new varieties that are not the conventional Maradol variety including the new premium Dulzita variety that WYCO Produce has added to its lineup this year via its grower FCP based in Guatemala. The variety is being welcomed by consumers thanks to its high Brix, bright outside color, and uniform sizing at 3-3.5 lbs. per fruit.
Looking ahead to 2025 in papayas, Skinner says that many crops were affected in October by the storms that hit the Mexican growing areas and this will impact supply in the first quarter of 2025. Add to this the fact that Guatemala planted less and in more strategic areas.
There are also developments in demand for papaya next year. "The demand for papaya in local markets in Mexico and Guatemala is extremely high and growers are tempted to sell at the farm gate instead of shipping the fruit abroad," says Skinner, adding that retailers are securing supply with an increase in purchase prices.
For more information:
Brentt Skinner
WYCO Produce Inc
Tel: +1 (813) 751-3480
[email protected]
www.wycoproduce.com