Organic Market Update #230

Week 32, 2021

Berries

Organic Blackberry supplies out of California are beginning to improve in time for some exciting spot buy opportunities this week, and steadier production projected for the rest of the month. Organic Blueberry supplies out of the Pacific Northwest continue to be abundant and promotable, with prices expected to go back up as volumes dwindle throughout August. Organic Raspberry supplies remain firm and steady. Organic Strawberry growers are indicating that volumes will be lighter each week as we progress towards September, with prices expected to go higher.

Melons

Organic Cantaloupes are in peak season from California, with exceptional quality.  Organic Honeydew are also in peak season from California, with 6ct the primary size profile for mid-August. Expect some occasional webbing on the Honeydew, but this is a sign of high sugar levels. Organic Mini Seedless Watermelons continue to be available from CA. Supplies have tightened as growers transition into new fields. Quality has been excellent. Organic Seedless Watermelons from CA are available in cartons, with exceptional quality.  Organic Orange and Seeded Watermelon varieties grown in PA are also starting production with very limited amounts available.

Lettuce

Organic Romaine Hearts and Organic Iceberg Lettuce continue to see strong supplies from both California and Quebec. Promotable pricing, strong supplies, and superb quality make for the perfect time to promote Organic Lettuce. Organic Romaine and Leaf Lettuce continue production from Quebec. Supplies and quality have been strong and should remain consistent through mid-August. Look for steady supplies from New York and California as well.

Tomatoes

Organic Cluster Tomatoes will be promotable in August as growers experience a flush from hothouses, and easing demand. Quality has been excellent. Organic Beefsteak Tomatoes continue to be very tight from hothouse growers. Sizing has been on the smaller side as crops are in a transition period. Quality has been solid. 

Broccoli

Organic Broccoli supplies from California have improved in early August. Although improved supplies are available, pricing has remained elevated. As August continues, expect supplies to tighten and pricing to continue to rise. Organic Broccoli Rabe production will remain steady in availability and Organic Sweet Baby Broccoli supplies will stay limited with elevated pricing.

Grapes

Organic Red and Green Grapes from California are in peak season, with August and September the best time of the year to promote. On the specialty side, Organic Champagne Grapes and Thomcord Grapes are now in season and ready to promote throughout August.

Celery

Organic Celery from California has show excellent quality and plentiful supplies in early August.

Pears

New crop California Organic Bartlett Pears are now in season, and Organic Bosc Pears have also started. California volumes will improve and will be quickly followed by Washington growers getting started later in August. More varieties will be available, including Organic Starkrimson Red Pears.