Value-added tender leaf items from Salinas, Santa Maria, and Oxnard, California are exhibiting varying levels of stress from recent heat, high humidity, and longer daylight hours. These challenges include, but are not limited to:

• Bolting/seeder and thick stems in arugula and some cilantro supplies
• Brittle texture in spinach due to accelerated growth, which weakens the cell structure and makes leaves more susceptible to mechanical damage
• Insect pressure remains elevated during the summer months, adding stress to crops and increasing quality variability
• Wilting, early breakdown, and overall decreased shelf life potential
• Yellowing and/or mildew damage in arugula and other spring mix varieties

Markon suppliers are allocating their best raw product stocks for Markon orders and Markon inspectors continue to monitor finished product quality regularly. Ordering for quick turns is recommended and as always, strict cold chain management is critical for maximizing quality and shelf life, especially throughout the warmer summer months.

Please contact your Markon Account Manager for more information.

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