Jumbo asparagus will be very limited with sizing smaller than normal. Large asparagus is also going to be a bit smaller than normal. Domestic asparagus is done and Peru is transitioning growing regions. Probably no consistent relief for another 3-4 weeks.
Domestic asparagus was winding down, but the heat wave that went through most of the country last week ended it abruptly.
Winter is starting in Peru and they just began their transition to their northern fields (closer to the equator). It will be another 3-4 weeks before they are up and running at 100%.
We will get some relief with some central Mexican product, but they have sizing issues too – as a tropical depression hurt their more mature crops about a month ago.
Every fall, the growing region in California transitions from Northern California to Southern California and Yuma, Arizona. Each year is a challenge, and this year has seen more than its share of challenges. The northern regions have seen 3 heat waves, days of smoke blocking the sun’s rays and unpredictable demand due to COVID. What does this mean?
Green Leaf Lettuce
Green leaf lettuce is in extreme tight supply. Overall quality is nice, but we are still seeing sun scald, dehydration, and wind/fringe burn.
Iceberg Lettuce
Iceberg lettuce is in an escalated market, meaning the markets are very active. Demand is up; supply is down.
Romaine Lettuce
Romaine and Romaine Hearts are in extreme tight supply. We are still seeing increased fringe/tip burn, sun scald, light weights, and occasional dehydration due to the heat and decreased fields.
Broccoli
Broccoli and Broccoli Florets are on a watchlist. We anticipate a moderate gap in supply over the next 1 to 2 weeks as the transition continues.
With all the above products, we have seen decreased shelf life. Product looks great upon hitting our docks but deteriorates much quicker. This is due to the extreme conditions the product was exposed to while growing.
Please be patient with our products as we continue to find the best product available. Sometimes the best product available isn’t perfect product. Once the transition has completed in a couple of weeks, we expect to see higher quality lettuces and broccoli.
Thank you so much for your understanding.
