The supply of blueberries in North America is looking good with product coming right now from both Peru and Argentina. In addition to those countries, Chile is also getting started with its blueberry supply.
“There is about 30 percent less volume from Peru this year vs last year,” says Katiana Valdes, marketing director for Crystal Valley Foods based in Miami, Florida. “Argentina is about the same or slightly increased volume compared to last season. With Chile, we are expecting about 10-15 percent less volume vs last season.”
El Nino and the blueberry growing season
While Peru’s blueberry season started on time this year, the country did have some supply disruptions due to El Nino which has created warmer-than-normal growing conditions. At the same time, Argentina also had some weather issues--notably, heavier rains at the beginning of the season.
“Chile just started last week,” says Valdes. “We are expecting steady volume of blueberries from this region. However, there will be less overall compared to last season. Argentina has about three to four more weeks until the end of its season.”
Meanwhile demand for blueberries is somewhat slow right now, albeit steady.
For more information:
Katiana Valdes
Crystal Valley Foods
Tel: +1 (786) 565-4575
[email protected]
www.crystalvalleyfoods.com