Strawberry growers will strip fields and assess damage from recent storms during the first part of this week. Production is scheduled to begin later in the week; expect extremely low yields due to recurring rain.
Santa Maria/Oxnard
- During this period, packer label will be substituted as needed
- Strawberries shipping out of California will be brought from Mexico to fill orders; Mexican 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, as well as light color
- 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 (into 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 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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