News and Stories

Bell Peppers

• Green bell prices are lower; demand is weak
  • Northern California production is finishing up and growers are transitioning to the Imperial Valley
  • East Coast harvesting is moving from Georgia to Florida
  • Mexican supplies (crossing through Nogales, Arizona) will enter the market in two weeks
  • Adequate volume is forecast through November, barring poor weather
• Red bell prices are relatively low; markets are poised to rise as California suppliers approach a seasonal transition to new growing areas
  • Northern California production will move south to the Imperial Valley during Thanksgiving week
  • Red bell pepper volume is low out of Florida and Georgia
  • Mexican stocks (crossing through Nogales, Arizona) will hit the market in three to four weeks
  • Overall volume is expected to tighten before the Mexican season ramps up in mid-December

Potatoes

• Growers are now shipping potatoes exclusively out of storage
• Markon First Crop (MFC) Norkotah Potatoes are the primary variety being shipped
• Limited quantities of MFC Burbank Potatoes are available
• White Russet stocks are also on the market
• Strong Thanksgiving demand has begun
  • More foodservice cartons will be available as suppliers run orders for retail bags
  • Foodservice cartons are a by-product of retail stocks
• Freezing weather is forecast for Idaho next week, which could limit production

Strawberries

• MFC Strawberries are available in both plastic and recyclable cardboard clamshells
• Current quality challenges include softness, decay, and sunburn as a result of high temperatures over the past two months
• Rain-related quality issues to look out for include bleeding, bruising, and water damage
• Cold-chain management remains a vital component in maximizing shelf-life

Please contact your Markon customer service representative for more information.
                                                                      
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