The Produce Report 

Lemons – Situation remains the same although higher prices has slowed movement somewhat. Size profile has shifted out of California, high counts are limited in volume and yields are extremely down due to the Freeze in February 2011. Market will continue to increase as growers assess their situation and relief may not arrive until late February early March.
Limes – Markets have increased three to four dollars during the past week a delayed reaction from the lemon market shortfall. Size profile continues to lean toward the larger fruit, quality is good and color seems to be best on larger fruit.
Broccoli & Cauliflower – Currently, broccoli and cauliflower items remain in VERY short supply due to the cold temperatures. These two plants will easily survive cold weather, however, their growth almost completely stops. Expect to continue to see prorates on broccoli and cauliflower florettes.Just like broccoli, broccolini supplies have been adversely affected. We have seen prorates begin last week, and will continue to see them for several weeks to come.
Leaf - All leaf items will exhibit epidermal peel and blister. Whether the product comes from Oxnard, Coachella or Yuma, it has all been affected by last week’s five nights of sub-freezing temperatures. Rain forecast for this week in the desert will only make this worse. Please keep your leaf inventory close. Only buy what you need as the shelf life will almost certainly be negatively impacted. Iceberg shippers are cleaning up the heads by removing the outer few leaves. Romaine is showing the most peel and blister, and will for several weeks. The damaged cells will begin to show up in processed romaine…romaine blends, chopped romaine.

Tags: Produce Reports