Produce Supply Update October 23, 2026 Good Morning! Here’s what we’re seeing this week. Apples – Washington’s harvest continues and more varieties are available every week. They have announced that this year’s harvest will be about 10% smaller than last year’s, so we may be in for higher pricing later in the year. Asparagus – Peru’s reduced acreage and limited Mexican volume are keeping supplies tight. Prices have eased slightly, but larger sizes remain scarce and pricey. Broccoli – This is a better buy this week as California volume improves and prices fall. North Carolina harvests should begin soon. We will still watch crown size and field condition closely. Citrus – California has begun their navel season. Sweet, juicy and seedless fruit and beautiful skins. We’re excited about the new crop beginning. Corn – Georgia and Florida are both beginning their Fall crop and harvesting some really nice sweet corn at great pricing. Cucumbers – East Coast prices remain elevated after cold weather reduced Georgia volume. Florida is starting and Mexico is building. Keep orders close to need while the transition fills in. Lettuce – Iceberg, romaine, and green leaf remain expensive and inconsistent. Disease, insects, rain, and the Salinas transition are lowering yields and weights. Expect shortages to last until November. Potatoes – Last year was a banner year for potatoes, but not this year. Quality of the harvest is very good, but the sizing tended towards smaller potatoes. So we’re expecting tighter supplies of all larger sizes throughout the rest of the year. Strawberries – California rain has caused harvest delays, bruising, and shorter shelf life. Mexican supplies are improving, but markets are climbing with the short supplies. Tomatoes – Supplies are very light across all sizes and varieties, including rounds, Romas, grape, and cherry types. Florida and Georgia are starting slowly, so high prices may continue for several weeks. Foodservice Trend or Best Practice – Track shrink by cause for one week: spoilage, over-ordering, prep trim, or plate waste. Fix the largest category first to lower food cost without cutting portions or quality. Q: Why did the cucumber call the produce manager? A: It was in a real pickle!