After a brief heat wave throughout California’s Salinas Valley growing region, some fields and varieties are developing heat-related challenges, primarily on lettuce and tender leaf items. Markon inspectors are observing quality challenges such as:

• Dehydration/wilting
• Growth cracks
• Increased insect pressure
• Internal burn/tip burn
• Discoloration/yellowing leaves
• Shortened shelf-life

Markon inspectors will continue to work closely with suppliers, evaluating commodity and value-added items while working to minimize heat-related challenges.

As always, cold chain management throughout the supply chain is critical for maximizing the quality and shelf-life of perishable produce items.

Please contact your Markon Account Manager for more information.

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