The transition to offshore production has begun on the East Coast. Packer label cantaloupes are now arriving in Southern Florida, while honeydew arrivals will begin later this month. Rain in the Arizona-California desert growing region is ending many seasons early, further tightening supplies.

Cantaloupe

Central America

• The first offshore shipments landed in Southern Florida the week of November 17
• Early quality is strong with 9- and jumbo 9-count sizes most plentiful; a small percentage of 12-counts are also available
• Brix levels range from 11-14%; very good internal quality is being reported
• Supplies remain very limited but are expected to stabilize by next week as arrival schedules normalize
• Open-market opportunities will be minimal until offshore volume increases

Arizona-California Desert Region

• Seasonal harvests have wrapped up ahead of schedule due to recent rainfall
• Yuma received over 0.5” of rain this week
• Quality was generally good, although late-season lots exhibited increased rind dirt and occasional external scarring

Sonora, Mexico

• Supplies are now available
• Due to previous food safety concerns in this growing region, Markon does not source Mexican cantaloupes

Honeydew

Arizona-California Desert Region

• Domestic honeydew harvests will end later this week due to recent rainfall
• Desert acreage was already lower than average; this week’s rain in Yuma (0.5”-0.75”) is accelerating the wrap-up
• Five- and jumbo five-count fruit is most abundant
• Quality is mostly good, but supplies are extremely limited heading into the offshore gap

Sonora, Mexico

• Mexican honeydews are being used to supplement the supply until offshore volume increases
• Fruit is crossing through Nogales, Arizona; prices remain slightly lower than domestic
• Rain is expected to further limit available yields in the Sonora region this week; approximately 1.25” is forecast
• Packer label Mexican honeydews will continue to fill orders until offshore production ramps up

Central America

• The first shipments of offshore honeydews will arrive in Southern Florida the week of November 24
• Offshore shipments into Northeastern and West Coast ports will begin arriving the week of December 1
• Prices are expected to remain elevated over the next two to three weeks during the transition period

Please contact your Markon Account Manager for more information.

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