News and Stories

Commodity Iceberg and Leaf Varieties

• Recent weather has caused quality problems, including
  • Minor frost damage
  • Growth cracks
  • Internal burn
  • Sporadic mildew damage
  • Weak tips

Cucumbers

• Cool temperatures and inclement weather have slowed growth in Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico; large sizes are especially tight
• Warmer weather is forecast this week in Mexico which will help increase stocks over the coming weeks
• Expect better availability and lower prices by the first week of March

Potatoes

• Availability of 40- to 70-count cartons will decrease further as Burbanks become the primary variety packed in early March
• 80- through 100-count cartons are more readily available
• Washington’s Norkotah market continues to rise
• Expect both Idaho and Washington potato prices to climb through the rest of the season

Tender Leaf Varieties

• Inclement weather has caused quality issues in items such as arugula, spinach, and other spring mix varieties
• Expect varying amounts of mildew, discoloration, mechanical damage, and reduced shelf-life

Tomatoes

• Mexican yields are lower than normal due to cool weather and rain damage; shipments into Arizona and South Texas are well-below normal
• Florida supply is not meeting demand; domestic stocks are extremely limited
• Rain damage is present in most lots; quality is fair
• Round tomatoes (mature greens and vineripes) are being substituted for Romas to help fill orders

Value-Added Shreds, Salads, and Blends

• Premature pinking due to excess water retained after the rain
• Minor frost damage

Please contact your Markon customer service representative for more information.

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