Open-market strawberry prices have declined due to weak demand, creating a softer market with plentiful availability.

Santa Maria, California 

• Markon First Crop (MFC) Strawberries are available
• Berry size is medium, averaging 22-26 berries per 8/1-pound clamshell
• Quality ranges from fair to good, with reports of sun scalding, soft skin, and overripe fruit
• Volume continues to increase as fall production ramps up
• Maintaining the cold chain is critical to maximize shelf life; quick inventory turns are recommended
• The market is expected to remain steady until demand strengthens and absorbs the increasing supply

Watsonville/Salinas

• MFC Strawberries are available
• Berry size is medium, with counts ranging from 24 to 28 berries per 8/1-pound clamshell
• Quality is currently fair, with occasional reports of misshapen fruit, bruising, and soft skin
• Maintaining the cold chain is critical to maximizing shelf life; quick inventory turns are recommended
• The season is expected to end in late September
• Expect steady prices until demand rises

Oxnard, California

• Limited production has begun
• Markon’s first loading day is September 28

Please contact your Markon Account Manager for more information.

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