Larger size avocados are short at the moment from all supplying regions. Volumes from Peru are declining as the latter part of the avocado season approaches. “It was a condensed season and Peru is wrapping up much earlier than initially anticipated,” says David Fausset with Westfalia Fruit USA. What’s different this year from previous seasons is the size curve, as well as the crop advancing due to higher-than-normal temperatures. The crop is yielding more medium-sized fruit instead of the large fruit that Peru has become accustomed to over the years. The size curve across Mexico and California crops has also been on the smaller side compared to previous years, creating a greater demand for larger fruit in the US.
Since the fruit didn't gain as much size as expected prior to the start of the season, the industry is anticipating an overall flat production. In addition, the fruit came on a bit later in terms of dry matter, which resulted in a later start. "While the avocado harvest in Peru is coming to a close, we are excited about the Chilean season ahead, with larger fruit on the way," added Fausset.
Normally, Peru ships until mid-to-late September with product arriving in the US well into October. However, this season, arrivals are expected to be finalized around mid-to-late September. Peru is one of five major growing regions for Westfalia. “From Peru, we ship to all our locations across the globe. Fortunately, as the largest global avocado company, Westfalia responds swiftly to industry-wide market shifts," added Fausset. The transition from Peru to Chile is off to an earlier start and will be in season through February.
Mexico struggles with size curve
Not only is Peru dealing with smaller size fruit this season, so is Mexico. The lack of rain in Mexico set up the season due to dry conditions. “We are seeing the scarcity of larger fruit out of Mexico at the moment,” said Fausset.
To prevent an overabundance of smaller-size avocados to the US market, Mexico is focused on a demand-based harvest. The shortage of large-size fruit is creating higher than normal prices on 48’s and larger. “The overall premium on larger fruit opens up fresh opportunities for smaller fruit, from bag programs to other small fruit promotions," shared Fausset. While the overall crop size is projected to be similar to last year, the crop hasn’t sized up as of yet. However, Fausset recently shared the fruit is just beginning to gain size and will continue into the fall.
With both the California and Peruvian seasons winding down, Fausset expects shipments from Mexico to increase this month and into September. “Mexico is now in its Flor Loca crop, which traditionally is the smallest of their crops.” The country’s new crop (aventajada) will begin in September.
For more information:
David Fausset
Westfalia Fruit
[email protected]
www.westfaliafruit.com