The California growing region experienced light showers and winds late Friday evening, September 29 through Sunday morning, October 1; recorded rainfall totals under .25”. The forecast is calling for warmer weather starting Tuesday, October 3, with coastal temperatures reaching the mid-70⁰s to mid-80⁰s and inland temperatures reaching into the high 90⁰s.

Markon inspectors will be monitoring field conditions in the coming days and will continue to update as needed on any rain and heat related quality or shelf-life challenges such as:

Iceberg, Leaf, and Tender Leaf

• Bottom rot
• Decay
• Dehydration
• Fog burn in romaine
• Increased dirt and mud in product
• Increased soil disease and plant virus pressure
• Internal burn
• Mildew pressure
• Premature pinking

Broccoli and Cauliflower

• Pin rot and yellow/brown bead in broccoli
• Hollow core
• Discoloration in cauliflower

Value-added Shred, Salads, and Blends

• Premature pinking
• Shred, salad, and blends not achieving stated shelf-life

Strawberries

• Soft texture and increased bruising

Maintaining the cold chain throughout distribution is critical for maximizing the quality and shelf-life of perishable produce items.

Please contact your Markon customer service representative for more information.

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