Asparagus – Market has stabilized somewhat with supply meeting most of the demand. We’re currently seeing a little better flow of volume coming from Peru, but Mexico is still low in volume. Prices are still high due to the coming Labor Day holiday which is increasing the demand. Quality continues to be good.
Celery – Michigan continues their celery season, and prices are way down on this kitchen staple. With celery being a heavy product, freight rates from Michigan are a big savings.
Corn – Strong harvests in Michigan, NJ and NY farms are creating lower pricing on some really gorgeous corn. Feature sweet corn on your menus while the price is so favorable.
Cucumbers – We’re getting some beautiful cucumbers out of the western part of our state right now, and cooler more northern states are in peak production for the season, keeping markets lower. We expect to see increases toward the end of the month as heat becomes a factor for them.
Lettuce – High field temperatures and soil borne diseases have caused extreme supply shortages in California’s lettuce fields. Prices are soaring on the short supplies both for all lettuces and other vegetables are expected to rise for the same reasons.
Peppers – Supplies on green and colored bell peppers continue to be strong with many growing areas harvesting currently.
Potatoes – A few Idaho potato shippers are back harvesting again, but due to empty barns and packing houses, prices are way up starting the season. It will take a while for the market to drop because of the high demand for the limited potatoes. It might be a wise choice to push other starches on your menus for the short term. Supplies on other potatoes remain limited with many switching to round potatoes to save money.
Squash – Our local farmers are beginning their fall crop, and other states are starting up again also. Supplies are increasing rapidly and prices should ease downward as they do. Local butternut is available too as we go into fall.
Tomatoes – Rain in North Carolina fields has caused a lot of damage locally, but will improve as the fields have dried out and the plants have reset their fruit. Production should improve, hopefully next week.
I was told as a child to never steal kitchen utensils. But it’s a whisk I’m willing to take.
