Organic Market Update #257

Week 8, 2022

Mango Season Kicks Off

The 2022 new crop Mexican Organic Mango season has started in the southern regions of Chiapas and Oaxaca. There was no drought present this winter, so the fruit is expected to be big, sweet, and juicy. Growers are seeing faster ripening times than the last two seasons, as previous droughts kept the fruit a bit greener. Most sizes are readily available and both Organic Ataulfo Honey and Tommy Atkins Round Mangos are promotable heading into March. Prices are slightly higher this season as inflation has taken a toll on the entire supply chain.

Berries

Organic Strawberry prices are showing signs of easing down in late February on supplies from Mexico. This trend should continue into March as more production ramps up in Mexico and Florida. Organic Blueberry prices from Chile remain promotable. Quality has been less consistent on mid-February arrivals as supplies have been on the water and in the ports longer due to delays. Quality on Supplies from Mexico has been outstanding. Organic Blackberries from Mexico will be promotable, on excellent supplies. Organic Raspberry prices will remain high as harvests out of Mexico are light as production is on the decline.

Avocados

Dominating much of the produce industry news last week was that Organic Hass Avocado supplies from Mexico came to a screeching halt at the US borders on Super Bowl Sunday. At the end of last week, the USDA announced that its avocado inspection program in Michoacan, Mexico was restarted and avocado exports to the US have resumed. There may be gaps in supply until product begins crossing the border again.

Onions

US storage supplies of Organic Onions are starting to wind down, with new crop Mexican Organic Onions starting. This will last through March and April. Desert grown El Centro, California Organic Onions are slated to start in early May.

Peppers

Organic Green Bell Peppers from Florida continue with strong supplies and quality, with promotional opportunities expected heading into March. Organic Mini Sweet Peppers remain in steady supply during February from Mexico with promotional pricing available. Organic Mini Peppers
from Florida are making a recovery from cold weather in early February, with increased supplies and excellent quality. Organic Color Bell Peppers continue to have lighter supplies from Mexico driving price increases. Production from Israel remains steady, with pricing at elevated levels compared to Mexican production. Quality has been outstanding from Israel and is a great option as Mexican Peppers quality has been sub-par on tight supplies.

Zucchini and Squash

Organic Zucchini and Yellow Squash remain steady, with product expected to tighten as March approaches. Organic Zucchini quality continues to be strong, while Organic Yellow Squash quality has been up and down through February.

Beans and Brussels

Organic Green Beans and Brussels Sprouts continue in strong production from Mexico, with promotional opportunities available for the rest of February. Organic Mesh Brussels Sprouts are back in season, and an excellent grab and go option for shoppers.

Cauliflower

Organic Cauliflower from the desert growing region continues to experience steady availability and quality. Some price and availability volatility are expected heading into March when growers end their season in this region and transition back to Central California.