News and Stories

Expect steady to slightly higher prices for lettuce and tender leaf commodity items next week. Tender leaf supplies are sufficient, but high temperatures are resulting in inconsistent quality and lower yields.

Iceberg

• Cool weather in early July followed by recent elevated temperatures are causing erratic supplies
• West Coast temperatures are forecast to remain above average through July and into August
• Inconsistent size, shape, and texture are causing yields to vary from field to field
• Mechanical damage is occurring because of large size and puffy texture
• Crews are trimming outer leaves to remove occasional wind and insect damage
• Average demand is holding prices steady, but the market is expected to jump in early August when regional supplies decrease and schools go into session
• Markon First Crop (MFC) Premium Iceberg Lettuce is sporadic due to low carton weights; Markon Best Available (MBA) is being substituted as needed

Green Leaf/Romaine  

• Prices and supplies will remain steady for several weeks
• Quality is very good with only occasional insect pressure, light mildew, and wind damage
• Expect heat-related issues in the coming weeks, including dehydration and fringe burn; Markon inspectors will continue to monitor quality
• MFC Premium Green Leaf and Romaine are available; MBA may be substituted as necessary due to heat-related issues

Tender Leaf Items

• Supplies of arugula, kale blends, specialty lettuce varieties, spinach, and spring mix have decreased due to recent heat
• Overall quality is good, but issues include mildew, wind damage, and yellowing
• Increased seeders (rapid core growth caused by wide temperature fluctuations) are lowering yields
• Supplies will remain tight for several weeks
• Markon recommends ordering for quick turns 

Please contact your Markon customer service representative for more information.

©2016 Markon Cooperative, Inc. All rights reserved.