News and Stories

The rain that is forecast for the Santa Maria, California growing region this week may further heighten quality problems and reduce yields. Expect higher prices and overall fewer supplies in the coming weeks. October through December is typically the most challenging time of year for California strawberries.

• Markon First Crop Strawberries are not available; Markon Best Available and packer label are being substituted
• Weather reports are calling for up to 0.75” of rain in Santa Maria on Wednesday and/or Thursday
• Growers are packing ahead of the storms in anticipation of possible rain-related issues that may develop such as
• Bleeding/bruising
• Decay
• Shortened shelf-life
• Soft texture
• Water damage
• 8/1-pound clamshells and packer label strawberries may be substituted
• Demand is strong for high quality fruit; prices remain elevated
• Overall volume will remain low until the Mexican season gets underway in mid-November
• The Salinas/Watsonville growing region is forecast to receive trace amounts of rain; overall supplies are on the decline because the season is winding down

Markon recommends ordering for quick turns to maximize shelf-life.

Please contact your Markon customer service representative for more information.

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