Please click here to view a Markon Live from the Fields video regarding current weather and quality challenges in the Arizona/California desert growing region.

• Some Markon First Crop (MFC) Iceberg and Leaf Lettuce items are not available; Markon Best Available or packer brand are being substituted as needed
• The desert region received ¾” – 1+” of rain between Sunday, January 21 and Monday, January 22
• Many growers were forced to cancel harvesting operations due to extremely muddy field conditions
• Over the past three weeks, the region has experienced freezing morning temperatures followed by above-normal humidity, and now significant rainfall
• The erratic weather has caused many quality and shelf-life concerns to develop which will last for two to three weeks at minimum
• Markon inspectors are working with suppliers to minimize some of the following issues in lettuce and tender leaf items, but many cannot be avoided completely:
  • Bottom rot
  • Decreased case weights for commodity lettuce items
  • Discoloration and/or decay on epidermal blistering and peeling
  • Dirt/mud on the product
  • Increased mildew pressure
  • Premature pinking in some commodity and/or value-added salads or Washed & Trimmed leaf lettuce packs
  • Reduced shelf-life potential
  • Yellowing leaves/discoloration
• Ordering for quick turns is highly recommended

Please contact your Markon customer service representative for further information.

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