Produce Supply Update August 21, 2026
Here’s what we’re seeing in produce this week—and where we think you can buy smart.
Apples – New-crop Gala and Honeycrisp are moving from Washington, with Granny Smith and Red Delicious next. Quality is very good. Stay flexible on variety and count while old-crop inventories finish.
Asparagus – Plan ahead. Some Peruvian fields are producing far below normal, while heat-related seeding, feathering and weakness shorten shelf life. High markets and possible prorates should continue through August.
Broccoli – Pressure is easing. Stocks are increasing as New York and Maine harvests build, and pricing is stabilizing. Quality is good, making crowns a more dependable buy than last week.
Citrus – Small Valencias are tightening as school demand builds; larger 56s and 88s are the value. Lemons remain high despite import support. Summertime means lemonade time and prices always go up during the hotter months.
Grapes – California red and green seedless supplies are abundant and markets are weak. Quality is good, but heat can age lots quickly. A strong feature for fruit cups, buffets and cheese boards.
Limes – Prices are climbing as volume falls and more fruit is graded out. Veracruz heat, humidity and rain increase oil spot and rind damage. Buy short, inspect closely and avoid extra inventory.
Peppers – Remain plentiful from several areas. Quality and pricing are great right now.
Potatoes – New-crop red and yellow supplies are increasing and prices are easing. Idaho Burbanks are the exception: 40- through 70-count markets should rise. New harvests should begin over the coming weeks and take the pressure off pricing.
Strawberries – This week’s biggest watch item. Supplies are drastically short with field heat making many berries unharvestable. Expect higher prices and very short shelf life. Work them closely to avoid losses.
Foodservice Trend or Best Practice – Protect usable yield—not just case price. On heat-sensitive strawberries, limes and lettuce, smaller deliveries and faster turns can cost less than a cheaper case that causes shrink.
Q: Where do evil rainbows go?
A: To prism. It’s a light sentence but they have time to reflect.
