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.
Rising crude oil prices continue to increase costs for transportation and packing materials across the food service industry. Although not a major factor in this week’s jump in fuel prices, the oil spill off the coast of Huntington Beach, California, has been highlighted in the news media this week as a reminder of how fragile the refinery and distribution networks are. Diesel fuel and gasoline are currently at their highest levels since 2014, further complicating the transportation woes already in play from lack of available trucks and qualified drivers. Increased demand, due to both online orders for delivery and personal travel to visit family and friends leading into the holiday season, is likely to see these trends continue.
Mexican avocado crossings through Texas movement expected to increase seasonally. Trading moderate with a wide range in prices but generally trending lower as heavy volumes continue. Shippers are trying to move fruit from the previous week rather than hold out for higher prices or risk waste. Avocado movement from the South District of California is mostly finished for the season and the last reports have been issued.
Peruvian imports of blueberries arriving through the Philadelphia and New York City areas movement via boat is expected to remain about the same. Trading was active with prices slightly higher. Mexican blueberries crossing through Arizona, California, and Texas movement is expected to increase. Trading was fairly slow at slightly lower prices with heavier crossing volumes expected to continue to bring prices lower. Peruvian imports arriving through Southern California movement via boat is expected to remain about the same. Vessels have been adaptive in finding ways around and through port blockages including by rerouting to smaller entry points such as Port Hueneme.
Delays in unloading and waits for inspection are still causing fruit to show condition issues by the time it arrives at markets. Trading was active with prices generally unchanged. The final reports have been issued for blueberries from Oregon and Washington and shipments are largely finished for the season.