Rain is forecast for the Santa Maria and Oxnard, California regions from Friday, January 2 through Tuesday, January 6.
Santa Maria/Oxnard
- Markon First Crop (MFC) Strawberries will not be available through early next week
- These regions are expected to receive over 2.5 inches of rain; most growers will cancel harvests scheduled for today through Tuesday, and potentially through the entire week of January 5
- Mexican fruit will be brought to California to fill orders; these consolidated berries will have 48 to 72 hours of reduced shelf-life due to transfer times from Mexico to California
- California-grown strawberries will include decay, pin rot, and water damage
- Maintaining the cold chain will be vital for shelf-life; Markon recommends ordering for quick turns
- Markon DCs are advised to load out of South Texas or Florida, if possible
- Expect strong demand and elevated markets through the next two weeks
Mexico/South Texas
- Volume will increase through mid-January
- Size is small-medium (19 to 25 berries per 1-pound clamshell)
- Quality continues to improve weekly as we peak season nears
- Expect elevated pricing and tight stocks as Mexico helps fill orders from California
Florida
- MFC Strawberries are available
- Volume is rising
- Quality is improving; concerns include white shoulders and green tips
- Size is small-medium (17 to 25 berries per 1-pound clamshell)
- Expect pricing to inch up as Florida supplements California shortages
Please contact your Markon Account Manager for more information.
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