Good Morning!
Here’s what we’re seeing in produce this week—and where we think you can buy smart.
Asparagus – All sizes remain extremely limited, though we’ve had plenty to supply our customers. Pricing is high onthe limited supplies.
Cabbage – Heat, rain and insect pressure are limiting pack-outs up north, but there still seems to be plenty to go around. Our farmers in the mountains are harvesting good volumes and keeping everyone stocked up.
Cantaloupe – Strong holiday and school demand plus cool weather are pushing markets higher after the glut prices this summer. Quality remains excellent on cantaloupes and honeydews.
Celery – California supply is abundant with excellent quality and consistent sizing. Michigan and Canadian growers are harvesting now also. A dependable value for mirepoix, wings, salads and snacks.
Cucumbers – They seem to be harvesting cucumbers everywhere right now. Heavy supply means very favorable prices.
Lemons – Summertime means lemonade and iced tea, and that means lots of lemons getting used. Typical tight supplies for this time of year and strong demand are keeping prices elevated.
Potatoes – Idaho is right in the middle of their harvest but finding that yields are much lower than usual and sizing is down. We’re going to see a tighter potato market this year, especially on larger sizes.
Strawberries – Summer output is near its seasonal low and California’s hot weather has reduced quality. Cooler weather on the way this Fall will help a lot as they move to new fields. Work them closely since shelf life is shorter than normal.
Watermelon – Summer growing areas are are winding down, and heavy rains up north have ended their seasons prematurely. Expect tighter supplies through September.
Foodservice Trend or Best Practice – Use flexible menu descriptions such as “seasonal vegetables” or “market fruit.” This lets the kitchen substitute the best available product without reprinting menus or disappointing guests.
I had a date last night and it was perfect. Tomorrow I’ll have a banana.
