News and Stories

UPDATE: Tomatoes

January 04, 2016

 

Tight supplies are keeping prices high. Production is limited in Florida and Mexico; weather is erratic in both regions. The market will remain elevated through January.

 

Florida

  • Winter harvesting started late due to abnormally wet conditions
  • Higher-than-normal temperatures and wet/humid weather have forced growers to cull damaged fruit, further reducing yields; problems include blemishes, cracking, decay at blossom end, and uneven color
  • Small-size fruit dominates both crops
  • Normal winter-like conditions are forecast for the next 10 days
  • Expect tight supplies over the next two to three weeks; production will increase in late January

Mexico

  • Early season mature green stocks are limited
  • Recent rain and cold temperatures curtailed harvests
  • Quality is good, but fruit color is light, requiring more time in gas rooms
  • Expect limited production over the next few weeks, barring any unforeseen weather changes

Roma and Vine-Ripe Tomatoes

  • The main winter production region is Culiacan, Mexico (into Nogales, Arizona and South Texas)
  • Cherry, grape, and Roma supplies are increasing
  • Vine-ripe varieties have started arriving into Nogales and South Texas, but volume is not high enough to cover strong East Coast demand; production should increase by late January

Please contact your Markon customer service representative for more information.

 

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