News and Stories

Extreme heat and humid temperatures from Tropical Storm Dolores persist in many of California’s lettuce, leafy green, and strawberry growing regions. Temperatures are expected to peak in the mid- to high 80s today, but then cool to the low to mid-70s starting tomorrow. Quality issues may persist for several weeks, resulting in lower overall industry stocks. Strawberries are especially sensitive to the current conditions.

Potential quality issues from the long days with high heat/humidity and insufficient drop in overnight lows are as follows:

Green Leaf, Iceberg, and Romaine

• Elevated insect pressure (aphids and leaf miner)
• Fringe burn
• Internal burn
• Large size (iceberg lettuce)
• Long core/seeder
• Mildew pressure
• Shortened shelf-life

Strawberries

• Bleeding/bruising
• Decreased size
• Over-ripe fruit
• Significantly reduced shelf-life
• Soft texture

Value-Added Salads and Tender Leaf Items (Cilantro, Spinach, and Spring Mix)

• Brittle texture (tender leaf)
• Dehydration
• Elevated mechanical damage
• Higher respiration rates
• Internal burn
• Paler-than-normal color due to extra trimming (iceberg-based salads)
• Premature yellowing, small leaves (cilantro)
• Shortened shelf-life

Markon inspectors are monitoring quality very closely and will report any changes. Maintaining the cold chain is critical; ordering for quick turns is recommended.

Please contact your Markon customer service representative for more information.

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