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. European cucumbers, though, are in short supplies due to a gap in planting schedules. Prices doubled last week on the few available.
Lettuce – High field temperatures and soil borne diseases have caused extreme supply shortages in California’s lettuce fields. Quality on things like mesculen and other baby lettuces has definitely been negatively effected. Please be patient until they can get some better growing conditions.
Peppers – Supplies on green peppers are very good and harvesting is ongoing in many growing areas. Colored bell peppers though, are going through a gap in supplies, causing shortages and higher pricing on what’s available.
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.
Strawberries – Hot days in California’s berry fields have strawberry growers warning everyone of less than desired quality. With the berries starting out in a weakened state due the high temps when picking, they are showing a lot of bruising caused by shipping.
Tomatoes – Still plenty of tomatoes locally from many sources. Quality is very good and pricing is staying very favorable. Keep promoting your local tomato growers!
Q: What is blue and not very heavy?
A: Light Blue
