“Michigan is expecting a normal-sized apple crop this year which is less than the unusually large crop last year. The apple quality looks to be very good,” says Ken Korson, Apple Category Manager for North Bay Produce, Inc.
Ken Korson says the new apple crop appears exceptionally clean.
Apple sizing in the state also looks to be more typical this season--and lower than last year’s larger-than-normal apple sizes. “The dry spring caused the sizing to fall behind last year, but recent rainfall over the past month has helped to catch up and reach normal sizing for Michigan,” says Korson. “I am also thrilled to share that the new crop appears exceptionally clean, which sets us up for a successful selling season.”
At this point, the season will likely start one week earlier this year. Harvesting will begin with some of the new apple varieties, including Paula Reds, Ginger Golds, Wild Fire Galas and Premier Honeys, in the last two weeks of August. “We are optimistic that we will receive sufficient rainfall and avoid any adverse weather conditions,” says Korson, adding that packing is anticipated to continue into the 2024 summer months again.
Apple consumption growing
As for demand, it looks promising right now and that’s largely because most of last year’s apples are expected to be cleared up before the new crop arrives, a positive sign for the upcoming season says Korson. “I have noticed that apple consumption is increasing for a couple of reasons. First, the affordability of apples is becoming more appealing as prices for other products continue to rise. Second, export markets are opening up, which should help increase global consumption,” he says.
Korson says the Michigan apple season will likely start one week earlier this year.
Korson also adds that due to the high quality of its Michigan apples, North Bay Produce continually finds opportunities in new markets for its fruit.
As for pricing, at this time it’s likely pricing will remain unchanged from last year to keep movement steady, particularly given the ongoing inflation of other commodities.
For more information:
Sharon Robb
North Bay Produce, Inc.
Tel: +1 (231) 946-1941
[email protected]
www.northbayproduce.com