Ontario organic carrots are seeing a change in demand following last month's recall of organic baby and full-size carrots out of the U.S. "It seems like some buyers are looking to diversify their supply," says Markus Pfenning of Pfenning's Organic Vegetables Inc.
This is on top of the already steady demand for organic carrots, a staple produce item. "I'm optimistic that this sort of recall won't impact overall carrot consumption too much," says Pfenning, who adds that consumer response to its recent social media post about the recall illustrates the importance of local food options and local food security. "However, it has ruffled some feathers."
As for the supply of organic carrots from Ontario, the province experienced a good growing season this year followed by a mild fall. Harvest just finished last week. "We have our storage full of carrots and they look beautiful. The weather has been ideal, and we've also changed some of our processes. This has given us straighter, nicer-looking carrots this year," says Pfenning.
Could demand pressure continue?
Yields were good on carrots, and it's expected that there will continue to be steady demand for them until the storage season finishes for Pfenning's Organic, which will be near the end of January into February. However, if concerns over the recall continue, that could mean extra demand pressure.
Meanwhile, pricing on organic carrots from Ontario is similar to what it was at this time last year. "Generally if there's anything that impacts production in one area, demand will increase - but we still have to be competitive on pricing," says Pfenning.
For more information:
Markus Pfenning
Pfennings Organic Vegetables Inc.
Tel: +1 (519) 662-3468
[email protected]
https://pfenningsfarms.ca/