ONTARIO LOCAL
** DONE ** CRATE BASIL: Season done. Cold nights have caused leaves to turn black.
** DONE ** PICKLING CUCUMBERS: Season done.
** DONE ** PICKLING (LONG) DILL: Season done.
BRUSSELS SPROUTS: Brussels sprouts continue with increasing supply. Pricing is higher this week due to supply issues with imported product. Quality is very good. Supplies will continue to be strong into next week.
PUMPKINS: It’s pumpkin season! We have pie pumpkins, large, medium and small jack-o-lantern pumpkins, munchkin/mini pumpkins and gourds. Due to the dry, hot summer extra-large and large pumpkin supplies will be limited.
FIELD RED SHEPHERD PEPPERS: This seasonal favorite continues. These elongated red peppers have good volume and should be available into October, pending mother nature. Quality is very good.
SQUASH: Pepper (Acorn), butternut, spaghetti, buttercup and delicata squash continue with building volume. Pricing will slowly continue to inch down through September.
SEEDLESS BLUE GRAPES: Seedless blue grapes continue, packed in 8x2l clamshells. Quality is very good, with steady pricing.
PEAK SEASON MELONS: As we approach the end of summer, the Ontario melon season continues to be in full swing. There are ample supplies of cantaloupe, yellow watermelons, seedless watermelons, seeded watermelons and sugar baby watermelons. Now is the time to feature Ontario melons!
PEELED BABY CARROTS: Peeled baby carrots continue with excellent quality. Pack size is 6x5lb cases. The season will continue until November.
PEAK POTATO: New crop white, red and yellow potato production continues. Chef Large #1, “A”, “B” and “C” (creamers) sizes are all available. Quality is outstanding; however, the hot dry summer did not allow the crop to size up. Large sizes (12oz and up) will be very limited. Large chef #1 are great for fries, with low sugars. Growers are expected to begin harvesting storage potatoes this week.
PEAK SEASON FIELD PEPPERS: Ontario green pepper production continues to be very strong. Pricing remains steady with added volume and light demand. Field red peppers are plentiful with lower pricing. The season will continue until Thanksgiving.
PEAK FIELD TOMATO: There is an excellent supply of 20lb round field tomato as well as 25lb roma tomato. Quality is excellent. Pricing is steady with light demand.
EGGPLANT: Growers continue to harvest good supplies with steady demand. Supplies have improved with the cooler weather. Quality is excellent.
PEAK PEARS: Ontario Bartlett pears continue, packed in 8x2L clamshells. Supplies are good, with excellent quality. Bosc are expected to start this week and run until December.
STONE FRUIT: Volume on peaches is starting to slow as the season nears the end. Peaches are packed (6x3L). This week will most likely be the last for peaches. There are still a few nectarines in the pipeline.
BUNCHED CARROTS & BEETS: Bunched carrot & beet harvest continues with very good supplies. Quality is very good.
BABY ZUCCHINI: Baby sunburst(yellow) and green patty pan squash, baby green zucchini continue to be available from Ontario. Pricing is lower than offshore imports and now is the perfect time to feature Ontario baby zucchini.
LEEKS: Supplies continue to increase. Quality is very good.
CORN: Ontario corn will be available until mid-October. Quality, sizing and flavor is outstanding. Pricing has eased with strong supplies and typical weak post Labor Day demand.
PEAK SEASON CAULIFLOWER: We continue to have Romanesco, Orange, Purple and Green cauliflower available at reasonable prices. As for regular cauliflower, growers continue harvesting; quality is very good with strong volume. Pricing is very reasonable. Now is the time to feature this category.
CELERY: Ontario celery continues from Chips Gardens in Bradford. Overall quality is very good, however, is priced much higher than US product.
HERBS: The full line is in harvest; Curly and plain parsley, dillweed, cilantro and methi. Quality and availability are very good.
BROCCOLI: Strong production continues with ample supplies of crowns and bunched. Fields continue to look excellent with no issues from the previous heat. Pricing is higher with strong demand due to the quality issues being seen with imports and their short supply. Production will continue until mid-November.
GREEN KOHLRABI: Green kohlrabi continues, packed in 12ct boxes. Quality is very good.
BEANS: Both green and yellow beans are in light supply due to recent rains and cool weather. Pricing has increased. Flat beans and Romano beans continue to be available in light supply. Quality is only fair.
GREEN ONIONS: Supplies are steady with ideal growing conditions. Pricing is inching up as demand is moderate. Quality is very good.
FIELD STRAWBERRIES: Growers are done with the June crop and are now picking the “everbearing” or “day neutral” varieties, which will continue until first frost. Quality is very good with light supplies.
GREEN ZUCCHINI: Ontario green and yellow zucchini continue to be in very light supply due to the cool nights. Warmer weather in the forecast should encourage growth. For what is available, quality is very good on both green and yellow.
CHINESE VEGETABLES: Baby Shanghai bok choy, regular bok choy and nappa continue with good supply. Quality is good with steady demand.
LEAF/ROMAINE– Ontario supplies continue with favorable growing conditions. This is a special-order item. Overall quality remains good.
GREENS– Ontario collards, dandelion, red kale, black kale, green and red swiss chard packed in 12ct cases are all available with strong supplies. Bunched spinach and green kale, packed in 24ct cases are also available in good supply with excellent quality.
BUNCH RADISH– Bunch radish supplies remain strong with exceptional quality and strong availability.
WAX TURNIP (RUTABAGA) – Ontario rutabaga continues with good supplies out of storage.
CARROT– Carrot harvest continues with better sizing as the weather cools. Quality is very good and prices are slowly inching down as supplies increase. Heirloom multi colored and red carrot harvest continues with good supplies.
MUSHROOMS– Recent production issues have caused some shortages, however with cooler more seasonable weather retuning, supplies are on track to improve.
CABBAGE– Ontario new crop green, red and savoy cabbage supplies continue to increase. Quality is very good. Pricing is inching down.
APPLES– Apple harvest continues to ramp up; Ginger Golds, MacIntosh and Royal Gala harvesting continues. We will see Honeycrisp, Empire, Spartan, Cortland and Red Delicious starting to be harvested late this week. Ambrosia harvest will start at the end of September while Fuji will be the end of October. Volumes will increase week over week.
HOTHOUSE LETTUCE– Supplies of Sensei Farms baby lettuce are very good with very good quality and exceptional shelf life. Hydroponic boston/butter supplies are good.
HOTHOUSE STRAWBERRIES– Very light supplies of Ontario hothouse strawberries continue, with most growers having to pull crops due to disease causing low yields. Quality is very good; however, berry size is on the smaller side. Supplies should be back on track in the new year.
ENGLISH CUCUMBERS– Supplies are improving with the return to more seasonable temperatures. Quality is slowly improving. Pricing is inching down. The sizing curve remains heavy to smalls with better supplies of large and extra-large.
HOTHOUSE TOMATO– Quality is very weak on this whole category; beefsteak, vine, heirloom and snacking sizes. Short shelf life and early breakdown are the issues. Supplies are very limited and will continue to be so until October. This is due to lighter supplies grown in Ontario and the summers extreme heat.
HOTHOUSE PEPPER– Ontario greenhouse production is also struggling due to this summer’s extreme heat. Supplies will be very tight for the balance of the season which ends late October. Without cool nights to allow the days heat to vent, the heat just kept on building and building and the plants were slow producing fruit. Quality is just fair; internal issues are the main issue. Growers continue supplementing red, yellow and orange pepper supplies with imports from Holland.
Tariff Update
** NEW ** Effective September 1, 2025, the 25% Canadian retaliatory tariffs for items that fall under the CUSMA free trade agreement will end. The list of items includes all USA grown tomatoes, cherry & grape tomatoes, beans, oranges, mandarins, tangerines, satsumas, clementines, lemons, limes, pomelos, papaya, watermelons, peaches, nectarines, cherries and plums.
A new round of US tariffs took effect Friday August 7th that will affect imports from the USA for pineapples from Costa Rica; rate was 10% now 15%, bananas from Ecuador, rate was 10% now 15%. Guatemala remains at 10%. Again, this is only for products landing on US soil, sold to Canadian destinations. If these products can land in Canada, bypassing the US, there will be no tariffs. There are no additional tariffs on items that fall under the Canada, US, Mexico agreement. As Canada and the US did not reach an agreement by August 1st, items not covered by CUSMA are subject to a 35% tariff into the US. Canada has not announced any further retaliatory tariffs.
On Monday July 14th, as previously announced, the US U.S. Department of Commerce announced it is withdrawing from and terminating the 2019 Agreement Suspending the Antidumping Duty Investigation on Fresh Tomatoes from Mexico. In its place, a 17.9% anti-dumping duty on Mexican tomatoes destined for the USA replaced the agreement. Canada can still import Mexican tomatoes duty free under the USMCA agreement. Roma and round tomato market impacts are expected to be minimal until the main Mexican season begins in the Fall. Grape and cherry tomato supply is more reliant on Mexico and markets may react differently.
The April 2nd, tariff announcement, in Washington, confirmed Canadian and Mexican produce, destined for the USA that are compliant under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), are not subject to additional tariffs. That being said, many produce items from Central America and other countries imported into the USA and then sold to Canada are now subject to a blanket 10% tariff. This includes offshore avocados, bananas, French beans, pineapples, melons and some herbs among numerous other products. There is great concern about the broader application of tariffs on global trading partners and the potential disruptions to supply chains and market stability.
MARKETS TO WATCH: AT A GLANCE
Asparagus: Prices are decreasing as large and jumbo-sized supplies from Mexico and Peru increase.
Broccoli: Prices continue to be very high; strong demand and growth challenges in California are decreasing overall supplies.
Beans: Hot dry conditions have slowed supplies locally, while cool wet weather on the US East coast has impacted supplies and quality.
Canadian Potatoes: Canada’s 2025 table potato production will be down from 2024 levels. Most of the country’s table potatoes are grown in the four eastern provinces, PEI, New Brunswick, Quebec, and Ontario. Several growing regions in those provinces did not receive the rain needed during August and early September. As a result, yields and size profile are expected to be down over 2024 by 9%.
Blueberries: Prices are elevated. We are currently in a brief gap between the end of the Pacific Northwest season and the start of the Peruvian and Central Mexico programs. Pints are limited and we will return to 6oz packs as pints end.
Brussels Sprouts: Markets are climbing in the Salinas Valley amid higher temperatures and increased insect pressure.
Blood Oranges: There are no blood oranges until California starts in December. Cara Caras from South America available.
Hothouse Peppers: Ontario greenhouse production continues to struggle due to recent heat waves.
Zucchini: Weather continues to be the major headline across the board. Temperatures are screaming fall and this has had an impact on overall supply.
Hothouse Tomato: Red Tomato On-The-Vine & Beefsteak: Late summer production continues to struggle with quality and supply. Hothouse tomato growers continue pro-rating all orders by 75-80% leaving the market very short.
Mango: The Mexican mango season is coming to an end. Arrivals from Brazil have started. Ataulfo / Honey mango supplies are limited.
Strawberries: A clear two-tiered market is emerging between late-season product from Salinas and Watsonville and new crop fruit out of Santa Maria. Oxnard production will follow in late September. Strong demand is driving the market higher.
Gold Pineapples: Pineapple supplies remain very limited and may stay tight for the rest of the year. Availability of fruit in the market is very low with both 6s and 7s pulling much higher prices this week. Demand exceeds supply leading to near-record prices for any available fruit.
Lemons: Lemon prices will continue to rise for the next four weeks due to low volume and strong demand across all growing regions.
Pomegranate: The offshore pomegranate season from Israel and Egypt continues, but is winding down as California starts. California has started with mostly larger sizing (24ct/32ct); smaller sizes (50ct/60ct) will be another two weeks.
VEGETABLES
WEST COAST LETTUCES
Green leaf, iceberg, and romaine prices continue to trend lower following warmer weather and increased supplies in Salinas and Santa Maria, California. ICEBERG- Increased production from multiple shippers in the Salinas Valley has led to a surplus of product in the market. Overall quality is good. Fluctuating densities and varying degrees of insect pressure are being reported, but avoided or mitigated at harvest. While some light weights have been reported, average weights are holding steady between 37–42 pounds. Disease pressure is also an issue, though not enough to significantly impact industry supplies at this time. Salinas acreage is lower, by design, at this time of year due to multiple growing regions in play. Production is ongoing in Quebec, Michigan, and the US East Coast; quality and yields are typical for each growing region, distributing demand across multiple areas. Expect lower markets this week, but prices may firm next week as supplies normalize in Salinas and Santa Maria. All value-added lettuce items have returned to normal pricing, with no current escalations.
ROMAINE / LEAF– The market remains firm on romaine, as well as green and red leaf items. Romaine heart production is currently moderate to light, and this trend is expected to continue throughout the week across all leaf items. Some quality issues have been reported upon arrival, including tip and fringe burn. However, weights and sizing are ranging from average to above average. Overall, production should be sufficient to meet demand through the remainder of the week. Regional seasons in Colorado, Michigan, the East Coast, and Quebec are ongoing; quality and yields are typical for each growing region. Value-added romaine items continue to have triggers.
SPRING MIX/BABY SPINACH/BABY ARUGULA– All tender leaf items are showing good quality and steady supply. Supplies are expected to remain mostly steady into next week.
CANADIAN LETTUCES
Supplies of leaf lettuce, romaine and romaine hearts out of Quebec continue to be steady, with strong demand. As summer transitions to fall, temperatures will be more summer like this week, promoting growth. Supplies are expected to run through Thanksgiving, potentially longer pending mother nature.
QUEBEC ICEBERG– Supplies have improved with cooler nights. Pricing has eased. Iceberg quality is good. Case weights are ranging from 3638lb on 24ct wrapped.
ROMAINE / LEAF– Quebec: Romaine quality is good with weights in the 38-40lb range on 24ct packs. Romaine heart quality is also very good with good cupping. Pricing is steady as west coast pricing rises. Growers are aggressively trimming any heat related defects in the field. Ontario: Ontario romaine and green leaf production continues with very light supply. Quality on both is good with some heads showing light tip burn and long core / seeder. MUSHROOMS- Mushroom supply has been limited over the last three weeks, but was still meeting demand. With strong demand, growers are still pro-rating orders but not as much as previous weeks. Supplies will continue to improve over the next 7-10 days. Substitutions may be necessary. Ontario mushroom growers have been battling supply for the last month due to less than average compost causing lower yields. The heat and humidity in July and August have had a detrimental effect on the overall production on both first and second picks. With cooler weather, recently filled rooms are performing closer to expected yields and we should see a return to normal production over the next 7-10 days. Some items such as stuffing mushrooms and buttons may not be available and substitutions may be necessary into next week.
BROCCOLI– Prices continue to be very high; strong demand and growth challenges in California are decreasing overall supplies. Ontario / Quebec: Both crowns and bunch broccoli continue to be available in good supply; very good quality continues with few defects being reported. Demand has strengthened somewhat, still matching supplies. Cooler weather has promoted growth; rain is still needed. Expect high pricing until imported supplies improve. Ontario will have ample supplies until early-mid November. East Coast / Midwest: Hot, arid weather has stunted growth and affected yields in multiple growing regions. Overall supplies are limited; Maine, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York are all experiencing lighter harvests. Maine will reach peak production in September, then wind down through late October. Growers in Georgia and Florida will begin harvesting in the late fall to offset Maine’s production ending. Pricing will remain elevated heading into next week. California: Supplies are limited in Monterey County (Salinas Valley) and Santa Barbara County (Santa Maria Valley and Lompoc Valley). A recent heat wave forced growers to harvest premature fields last week, causing supply gaps this week. Quality ranges from fair to good; heat-related issues such as hollow core, yellow/brown bead, and branchy structure are being reported. Insect pressure, from Diamondback moth pupa/larvae and aphids, remains a significant challenge and is expected to persist through the fall. Regional harvests are winding down, pushing demand to the West Coast and further limiting supplies. Expect markets to remain elevated for the next one to two weeks as supplies increase. Mexico: Pricing is high amid moderate demand and limited supplies. High temperatures and tropical storms continue to affect quality; these weather conditions will persist in this region through the late fall. Quality is fair; defects such as cat eye, hollow core, browning, and insect activity are being noted Expect relief in November as improved weather conditions will lead to stronger quality.
GARLIC– Whole cloves and peeled garlic prices are steady as new crop supplies from China, Mexico and California continue. China: Supplies continue to increase as new crop harvest continues. Pricing remains stable. New crop quality remains excellent. North American: Supplies from California continue alongside product from Mexico. Quality is very good. U.S. tariffs on Chinese garlic have shifted demand to Mexico and California, which have growers trying to push prices higher. CABBAGE- Ontario: New crop green, red and savoy cabbage harvesting continues with very good quality with strong supplies. Prices are inching down as supplies increase. Imports: Cabbage supply is stable out of the Midwest. Quality is good on both green and red. Michigan, Wisconsin, and Ohio have good sizing on mediums, while larges are somewhat snug. Expect to see supplies continue this track through September.
PEAK CAULIFLOWER– Local pricing remains steady with exceptional quality. California markets are steady with multiple growing regions in play, which will keep prices at moderate levels. Ontario/Quebec: Supplies continue to be very good; the season will run until early November pending weather conditions. The return to a more typical late summer weather pattern has improved overall quality. Product is packed in 12ct trays with outer leaves trimmed and 12ct cases with wrapper leaves. Supplies are expected to continue to be very strong with supplies meeting demand and steady pricing. Salinas, California: Supplies are adequate with steady pricing. 12-count heads are readily available; 9-count supplies are tight. Quality, texture, and color are strong; Diamondback moth presence is an issue in some lots. Expect prices remain steady heading into next week as warmer weather promotes growth. Santa Maria, California: Production is steady; supplies are ample. Quality is good; minimal defects are present. Only occasional insect pressure is being reported. Recent weather has been ideal for growth. Prices are lower compared to the Salinas Valley, which is common. East Coast/Midwest: The Maine season will run through October. Quality is very good and supplies are ample. Growers in North Carolina will ship supplies through September, weather permitting.
ASPARAGUS– Prices are decreasing across multiple regions; large- and jumbo-sized supplies are increasing. Mexico: Baja will be the primary growing region through early October; expect high quality with minimal defects. Harvesting will begin in Sonora in late September. Expect prices to inch down as yields increase in new growing regions. Peru: East Coast availability has improved. Imported supplies are being shipped to ports in Miami. The crop is skewed towards small sizes, but the availability of large sizes will expand as new fields mature. Quality is very good; spears have firm tips and minimal spreading/seeding.
BEANS– Ontario / Quebec: Ontario and Quebec volume and quality has taken a hit as cooler conditions have caused quality issues and limiting harvest; pricing has risen. Limited supplies of flat beans, romano and both green and yellow are available at much higher pricing. US Imports: East Coast volume is also battling cooler wet conditions in Virginia and New York. Pricing is higher. The Midwest regions of Tennessee and Michigan are expecting better yields this week as drier conditions return. Steady supplies and average quality are being reported out of Mexico’s Guanajuato, Puebla, and Baja growing regions; quality is best in Baja. California has modest supply in the Central Valley and Santa Maria regions. Expect higher markets over the next week. Snipped: Snipped green bean supplies have tightened. We are also seeing quality issues and shorter shelf life. We expect this to continue into next week.
BRUSSELS SPROUTS– Markets are climbing in the Salinas Valley amid higher temperatures and increased insect pressure. Ontario: Growers are just starting to harvest and pack brussels sprouts. Supplies are light as the season just begins. Supplies will increase into next week. Quality is very good, compared to California however, pricing is rising as imported supplies tighten. Imports: Diamondback moth pupae/larvae presence is increasing in fields throughout the Santa Maria Valley, shifting demand to the Salinas region. Some Salinas Valley suppliers are underplanted at this point in the season, causing a demand-exceeds-supply situation. Warm weather through the fall is expected to worsen pest presence, further limiting supplies. East coast production in Ontario, Quebec and New Jersey continues to ramp up with increased demand and higher pricing. Production in the Salinas Valley, Castroville, Santa Maria, and Oxnard will run into early winter, before growers move to Mexico. Expect higher prices over the next 10-14 days and low volume through mid-September.
CELERY– Celery markets continue to be stable again this week with solid availability from multiple growing regions. California: Cauliflower supplies remain strong this week. This market remains steady, with all sizes available both north and south. Demand is moderate at best. While there are some reports of insect pressure that could impact yields and potentially push the market up, conditions for now remain mostly steady. September is a great month to promote. Canadian: Quebec celery production continues with both 30ct and 24ct. Supplies are good with competitive pricing. One Ontario grower, Chips Gardens continues steady production. Quality is very good, priced higher than both Quebec and California celery. This market will remain steady.
CANADIAN POTATO: Canada’s 2025 table potato production will be down from 2024 levels. Most of the country’s table potatoes are grown in the four eastern provinces, PEI, New Brunswick, Quebec, and Ontario. Several growing regions in those provinces did not receive the rain needed during August and early September. As a result, yields and size profile are expected to be down over 2024 by 9%. The split between table potatoes, frozen processing, and chip potatoes is uncertain, but a substantial portion of those potatoes will be shipped through fresh market channels. Growers in the western provinces are pleased with the yield, size, and quality of this year’s table potato crop. Though table potato production will be down in Canada, total production in North America is expected to increase, relative to last year. Canadian table potato export volumes to the US will likely be down from last year. US demand for Canadian table potatoes could decrease, due to the large US potato crop and extremely low open-market prices. Ontario: Ontario received some spotty rainfall in August. However, it was too late to provide crops with the moisture needed to finish bulking. As a result, yields are expected to fall below average. Growers are also expecting a smaller size profile, though the quality should be good. We expect this year’s provincial average yield to be down from last year’s yield. We expect growers to harvest 39,800 acres of potatoes in 2025, 1,040 acres more than they harvested from the 2024 crop. Ontario’s 2025 potato crop is expected to be below 2024 production. Growers are expected to begin harvesting storage potatoes by the end of the week. P.E.I.: The Island has received very little rain since mid-July. Daytime temperatures have cooled down somewhat, though nighttime temperatures remain above 10° C. The dry, hot, and windy conditions have taken a toll on this year’s potato crop. Some growers are comparing the current situation with 2001, when the Island’s average yield was very low. However, test dig results are currently above that level. Just over 10% of PEI’s potato crop is irrigated. Reports indicate that those potatoes are in above-average condition, but non-irrigated fields are in rough shape. Yields for early table potato varieties have been extremely disappointing. Russet varieties such as Mountain Gem and Caribou have stayed green longer than other varieties, but they have reached the end of the line. Even if the Island received moisture this week, it would most likely be too little, too late. There is no rain in the forecast for nearly two weeks. Yields are expected to be down significantly from the 2024 crop. The per acre average yield for the Island is expected to be below the five-year average. Actual yields could be lower, if current conditions persist. The Island’s harvested area is currently expected to total 86,800 acres, 1,700 acres more than last year. Growers plan to begin digging storage potatoes during the week of September 29, though they are indicating they may wait for rain before they begin harvesting. Otherwise, the dry conditions could lead to tuber damage and storage problems. Processors are trying to stretch out the 2024 crop as long as they can. They also are picking up any contract overages and uncontracted potatoes that are available. New Brunswick: Growing conditions across the province have been mixed. The northern part of the province has received adequate precipitation, while the southern growing areas have been extremely dry. Yields are expected to be close to average in some areas, but they could be down 15%-20% in other areas. Parts of the province received rain last weekend. That could help potatoes that are still green bulk up a little. However, most fields that are usually green this time of year have already gone down. We expect New Brunswick growers to harvest 51,600 acres of potatoes this year. That is 1,250 acres less than they harvested in 2024. We expect the province to produce fewer potatoes than the 2024 crop. Growers have started digging early potatoes for frozen processing. Processors and growers are pleased with the quality, though yields are down somewhat. Despite lower yields, most growers should be able to fill contracts because they did not significantly reduce their planted area. Growers plan to start digging storage potatoes by the end of next week. Quebec: The hot, dry conditions also affected Quebec’s 2025 potato crop. Most growing areas received close to 1.5 inches of rain a week ago. Though it is too late to boost yields for many fields, the moisture has greatly improved early harvest conditions. Yields on irrigated ground are expected to be average at best. Stats Canada reports that growers planted 51,885 acres of potatoes in 2025. That is 4,656 acres more than the 2024 planted area, and it would be the largest planted area on record. However, we believe that Stats Canada’s planted area is overestimated. We estimate that Quebec’s actual planted area is closer to 48,000 acres. We expect growers to harvest 47,500 acres of potatoes in 2025. That is 1,067 acres more than they harvested from the 2024 crop. Some growers started harvesting storage potatoes this week, while others will begin next week. Growers are expecting good quality going into storage.
FRENCH GREEN BEAN / BABY SQUASH– Ontario: The mini green zucchini, yellow(sunburst) and green patty pan season is in the late stages, with supplies slowing as cooler nights indicate the transition to fall. Pricing is half that of imported product and quality is excellent. Now is the time to take advantage of this season. Imports: Production remains steady out of Guatemala, though minor quality concerns may arise due to recent heat and shipping delays. Supply of French beans out of Mexico is fair, with some variability expected depending on regional conditions and logistics.
US CARTON BAKING POTATOES– Norkotah potatoes continue to be available in Idaho and Washington; new crop Burbank potatoes are shipping from Idaho in limited quantities. There is still a long way to go with the harvest, but so far, we are seeing good yields and good quality. Fresh-run quality is excellent; occasional skinning and excess moisture may be observed in fresh-run potatoes. Potatoes release moisture as they cool, which gives the potato a wet look, and can cause a light, white surface residue to develop that is easily brushed off. The white residue will dissipate as potatoes dry and does not pose any quality or food safety concerns. New crop potatoes have not gone through the ‘sweat’ process yet; the ‘sweat’ process allows field heat to leave the potatoes (which causes the release of moisture), putting them in dormancy, which prevents sprouting from occurring during the early months of storage. If the weather continues to stay favorable over the next 8-10 weeks, we will have a large crop once again. That said, things can change drastically over the course of harvest. Idaho sets the market and the other regions follow. Overall, markets are declining due to increasing new crop supplies. Expect falling prices as the season moves into September. As the industry transitions from storage to new crop potatoes, advanced orders and maintaining tight inventories are highly recommended. Idaho: The storage Burbank potato season is done; new crop Norkotah potatoes are being shipped. Any Burbank storage supplies are extremely limited; small sizes (6oz and smaller) dominate availability. New crop Norkotah stocks are shipping sizes dominated by small potatoes. Overall markets are inching down as new crop harvests continue and supplies increase. Washington: New crop Norkotah potatoes are now available. Expect a good mixture of all sizes and grades. Prices are slowly declining. Colorado: Storage crop Norkotahs remain limited. Expect low volume and sporadic availability through August, especially for large, 40- to 70-count supplies. Pricing is holding steady as demand shifts to new crop stocks in other regions. New crop supplies will enter the market in early September. Wisconsin: New crop stocks are expected to begin shipping this week. Size will be dominated by 90-count and smaller potatoes; larger sizes will not become plentiful until late September/early October. Prices remain elevated.
ASSORTED CHILI PEPPERS– Ontario: Jalapeno peppers, yellow hots and shisito peppers are in good supply. Quality is very good. Imports: Supplies are tighter this week out of Mexico generally good across all categories due to a mix of heat and rain over the past several days. Red Fresno is once again, the tightest this week. California’s quality is also compromised a bit by heat related pressure out of the central valley.
PEAK FIELD PEPPERS– Green pepper supplies are abundant; markets have eased. Red bell pepper prices are lower as California and regional yields increase; demand remains strong. Green Pepper: California’s coastal supply remains abundant; quality is very good. Ontario and Quebec both continue strong harvests. Pricing remains low and steady with very good quality. The Ontario season will continue until mid-October. Harvesting is steady in the Midwest regions of Michigan and Ohio and northeastern production is consistent; all sizes are available. North Carolina will start harvesting in a couple of weeks. Georgia is planning to start harvesting around the middle of October. Central Mexico volume is more consistent. Expect continued low prices over the next two weeks. Red Pepper: California’s volume is increasing as coastal harvests are well established and hot weather has increased overall yields. All sizes are available with very good quality. Central Mexico (crossing into South Texas) is shipping more consistent volume from new fields. Ontario supplies continue to increase. Red shepherd pepper supplies are increasing with prices inching down. Red bell peppers supply and quality are good with lower pricing. Growers on the East Coast of the US don’t produce a significant amount of colored peppers. Eastern demand continues for California field grown peppers. Expect lower prices next week
HOTHOUSE PEPPERS– Ontario greenhouse production continues to struggle due to recent heat waves. Cooler nights have allowed the heat to vent, however, the damage to the plants has been done. We may not see a return to normal growth before the end of the season in November. Supplies will be very light. Growers continue supplementing red, yellow and orange pepper supplies with imports from Holland. Prices are much higher. Local quality is just fair; internal issues are the main issue. Import quality is excellent.
GREEN ONIONS– Imports: The green onion market has begun to rise due to recent rain and isolated thunderstorms in Mexico. Expect prices to increase slightly heading into next week. Quebec: Supplies are very good with moderate demand. Supplies should continue to be very strong into next week. Pricing is slowly inching up.
ZUCCHINI– Weather continues to be the major headline across the board. Temperatures are screaming fall and this has had an impact on overall supply. Volume is down and markets are reacting as a result. Conditions will only get worse, until we see new regions come into volume. Ontario: Green and yellow zucchini supplies have slowed due to cooler nights. Overall volume is down. Quality remains very strong. Quebec also continues production but are also experiencing lower yields due to cooler weather. Warmer weather this week, should help supplies rebound. Imports: Supplies remain consistent across both Eastern and Western regions. New Jersey crops are wrapping up, while Georgia’s season has begun. Baja and Santa Maria supplies are also available, with overall good quality.
EGGPLANT– Ontario: Field grown eggplant supplies are very good keeping prices steady. Quality is consistently good. Imports: Supplies from Michigan, New Jersey, and New York remain steady with good quality. The North Carolina harvest season is approaching and will begin soon. California production is moderate, providing enough overall supply to meet demand.
ONIONS– Fresh-run onion supplies are plentiful with the Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Utah, and Colorado seasons all in full swing. Markets are steady at lower levels. Washington: Fresh-run onions will continue shipping through early October before transitioning to storage crop supplies. Stocks are plentiful due to ideal growing conditions over the summer months. Quality ranges from good to excellent; fresh-run onions have a higher moisture content, reducing shelf life and making them more susceptible to mechanical damage. All sizes and colors are available; super colossal supplies are somewhat limited. Expect steady prices over the next 7-10 days. Idaho/Oregon: Fresh-run onions will continue shipping through mid- to late October before transitioning to storage crop supplies. Stocks are plentiful due to ideal growing conditions over the summer months. Quality ranges from good to excellent; fresh-run onions have a higher. Moisture content, reducing shelf life and making them more susceptible to mechanical damage. All sizes and colors are available. Markets are poised to firm slightly this week as rain is expected to disrupt harvests. Utah/Colorado: Fresh-run onions will continue to ship for two weeks before transitioning to storage supplies. Stocks are plentiful due to ideal growing conditions over the summer months. Quality ranges from good to excellent; fresh-run onions have a higher moisture content, reducing shelf life and making them more susceptible to mechanical damage. All sizes are available; current lots are dominated by medium and jumbo onions. Expect steady pricing over the next 7-10 days. California: Northern California’s fresh-run onion season is coming to an end; most are set to finish in the next two weeks. Quality is fair to poor; heat related issues such as sun scald are common for end of season supplies. Prices are low as growers flood the market to compete with better quality Northwest fresh run onions. New Mexico: New Mexico’s fresh-run onion season is coming to an end, with most finishing this week. Quality is fair; heat and high humidity have potential to negatively impact quality and shelf life of remaining supplies. Prices are lower this week as growers attempt to offload current inventories with demand shifting to the Northwest. Ontario / Quebec: Ontario continues shipping good supplies of new crop cooking onions and red onions; prices have eased as supplies increase. Quality is very good; fresh run onions will have a thin skin and are more prone to mechanical damage; skins will thicken as the onions have time to cure.
CORN– Ontario: Supplies continue to be very good, with lighter demand as the summer winds down and schools start. As a result, pricing is down. Ontario corn will be available until mid-October. Quality, sizing and flavor is outstanding. Imports: Many of the local northern deals will start to finish up as we move through September. Many deals will go until their first freeze of the season. Georgia will get started again in early October so watch for pricing to fluctuate around transition time. Quality is good from all locations.
ENGLISH CUCUMBERS– Recent cooler nights have improved yields and quality. Pricing has eased and the sizing profile is more balanced, with all sizes available. Mini Cucumbers: Production has improved with better supplies and lower pricing. Quality remains very good.
COLLARDS/CHARD/KALE– Supplies are very good from Ontario. Green, red and black kale as well as green. red and rainbow swiss chard are in excellent supply, packed in 12ct cases. Quality is very good.
FRUIT
PEAK WATERMELON– Watermelon volume has started to firm up as local deals wind down for the season. Quality is excellent with very sharp pricing as demand is down with recent cooler weather and students returning to class. Ontario: We continue to have a full line-up of Ontario watermelons all in good supply. Availability continues on yellow flesh, seedless, seeded and sugar baby. Quality is very good with outstanding flavor. Sugar baby and seeded are by special order only. Now is the time to use yellow flesh watermelons as supplies are currently ample and hard to get and expansive outside the Ontario season. The season will run into October. Imports: Supplies and demand are winding down. Still seeing fruit available in several regions but that will gradually decline as the weather cools and fall approaches. Mexican melons will start in October. Quality remains strong.
PEARS– Plan for Bartlett pears to be in good supply and very promotable for the next several months. Ontario: The Ontario bartlett season continues with good supply and very good quality. Supplies will continue to increase through the month. Pack size is 8x2L clamshells. Bosc will start sometime this week and will run through December. Washington: New crop Washington Bartlett pears are now in season, with volumes set to rise through September. The crop looks to be a very big crop after historically low yields in 2024. Early projections suggest a 25% increase in overall volume, with Bartlett, Anjou, and Bosc varieties showing particular promise. While future weather conditions could still impact the final outcome; the industry is entering the season with confidence and momentum. New crop Washington Bosc and Anjou are projected to start harvesting sometime late September. California: California Bartletts remain aggressively priced and will continue to impact the market for the coming weeks. The crop has a good mix of all sizes but appears to be peaking at 100-count size fruit. California Bosc and Red pears are also available with bosc being in heavy supply.
MANGO– Mexico: The Mexican mango season has mostly wrapped up, with only slim volumes expected over the next two weeks. Availability remains limited across all sizes as the season concludes, and prices continue to climb. Imports: The US is currently imposing a 50% baseline tariff on all imports from Brazil. The transition to the Brazil season has started, with all arrivals coming into ports on the East Coast to support demand. Quality is excellent on the first Brazilian arrivals. The industry is seeing mostly Tommy Atkins, Kent, Keitt, and Palmer varieties and virtually no Ataulfo / Honey mangoes being available. Brazilian producers remain cautious about the international outlook, particularly in the United States, where higher tariffs of 50% continue to weigh on trade dynamics. Mangoes shipped directly to Canada have no duty. Prices are anticipated to remain high during the Brazil season due to limited volumes and higher import costs(duty), with steady demand across all sizes.
POMEGRANATE: The offshore pomegranate season from Israel and Egypt continues, but is winding down as California ramps up. California fair is starting with mostly larger sizing (24ct/32ct); supplies of smaller sizes (50ct/60ct) will continue to increase week over week. The California harvest season runs from early September through November while supplies will be available into February with later supplies being shipped out of storage. Ordering will need to be adjusted as imported case sizing is 8lbs (8-12ct) while California ships 22lb cases (40-44ct).
RASPBERRIES / BLACKBERRIES–Raspberries: Raspberry production remains strong, while demand is moderate at best. Supply is coming from Baja, Central Mexico, and California. With ample availability and softer demand, volume deals are currently being offered to encourage movement. Despite seeing rain in various growing regions, we are seeing good quality, firm berries, and good color. Steady volumes from Baja and Central Mexico are expected to continue throughout September. Blackberries: Blackberries will remain readily available through September. Market demand is currently soft, and some volume-based pricing is being offered to help stimulate movement. Despite rain in various growing regions, we are seeing good quality.
BLUEBERRIES– Prices are elevated. We are currently in a brief gap between the end of the Pacific Northwest season and the start of the Peruvian and Central Mexico programs. Peruvian shipments are beginning to arrive. Mexico’s season has been delayed due to rain and cool weather. Product availability is limited during this transition period. Most current offerings are offshore fruit from Peru, while Mexico is expected to gradually ramp up crossings as we move into early October. Pacific Northwest & British Columbia: Expect markets to continue rising with very light volume. The season will limp along until early October; quality is good. A strong freezer market is also causing this price spike. Mexico: Cool, wet weather has delayed the season by three to four weeks. Peru: The weather has been favourable in this growing region. Shipments are arriving on time. Fruit quality is excellent; 30-35% of the crop is jumbo size. Peruvian blueberries will dominate the market by September 22. Prices will inch up.
GRAPEFRUIT– Canadian retaliatory tariffs on citrus from the United States were removed September 1st. California: Growers have fully transitioned into pink grapefruit; the Marsh Ruby variety. Sizes are peaking on 48ct, and shipping out of Riverside and the San Joaquin Valley. Choice grapefruit is readily available, but most growers are requiring ample lead time for fancy grade. Markets are expected to remain snug. Imports: Grapefruit from South Africa and Peru are arriving in moderate volume. Larger sizes (32–40 count) are more prevalent, with limited availability on smaller fruit (45–55 count). Fruit is reported to have solid internal quality. Steady imports are expected through early October.
STRAWBERRIES– A clear two-tiered market is emerging between late-season product from Salinas and Watsonville and new crop fruit out of Santa Maria. Santa Maria: Supplies continue to increase; sufficient volume is expected in the next 10-14 days. Santa Maria fruit is commanding a premium, driven by stronger quality out of that region. Fruit size is large, with counts in the mid- to upper teens per one-pound clamshell. Overall quality is good; berries are sweet with deep color and very few white shoulders. Expect higher pricing for new crop berries. Salinas / Watsonville: Stocks continue to diminish as the season is past its peak and production continues to wind down. Size currently ranges from small to medium (20- to 24-count per one-pound clamshell). Quality is fair; some softness and early decay have been reported. Oxnard: Oxnard production is set to begin next week for some shippers, with others expected to follow in the next two weeks. Mexico / Florida: Looking ahead, both the Mexico and Florida seasons are scheduled to begin in mid-November. Ontario Hothouse: Hothouse production continues to be very light. Disease has caused the industry to pause and consider better growing options to avoid future disease. Retail is taking most of the production. Quality is good and sizing is on the smaller side. Expect to see stocks tighten and markets increase. Supplies will improve in the new year with new crops, grown using new techniques. Ontario Field: We continue to be in the “everbearing / day-neutral” crop. Supplies are light and will remain steady. We will have field strawberries until first frost, typically mid-October.
PEAK GRAPES– Ontario: Seedless blue grapes continue. Supplies are very good, with good color and brix. They are packed 8x2L clamshells. California: Supply continues to outpace demand, as lingering inventories of earlier varieties weigh on the market. While the larger, higherquality late summer varieties may warrant a stronger market price, any upward movement is unlikely without a meaningful increase in demand to help clear current volumes. The California grape crop is of excellent quality, and growing conditions have been ideal, leading to a harvest that’s about three weeks ahead of schedule, which could result in an earlier-than-usual end to the season. Expect sufficient availability and ample supplies to continue.
GOLD PINEAPPLES– Costa Rica / Honduras: US tariffs are now in place for pineapples from Costa Rica (10%) and Honduras (15%) that transit through the USA. Pineapple supplies remain very limited and may stay tight for the rest of the year. Demand exceeds supply leading to near-record prices for any available fruit. Availability of fruit in the market is very low with smaller sizes 6s, 7s and 8s remaining priced very high again this week. Large sizes, 4ct and 5ct supplier are better, but still tight. Crownless pineapples remain in high demand, so substitutions are likely. Thunderstorms continue to impact growing regions in Costa Rica and are expected to persist through the end of September 2025. Brix levels have shown significant improvement, raising the average to 14.9 and reducing the percentage of samples below 13. However, it is still possible to find some Brix samples below 13. The internal color is limited (pale fruit), which is impacting primarily crownless fruit. Despite these challenges, good quality fruit is being exported to both North America and Europe. Mexico- There’s little to no volume out of Mexico. Mexican growers are still taking advantage of the high internal markets and will only ship some surplus as long as prices are attractive. Production is low and the sizing curve remains heavy on small counts. Mexico volume typically remains low during the summer months with expected improvement coming mid-September. Transportation out of Mexico is stable with good availability of trucks to service pineapple; no delays happened last week.
ORANGES– California Oranges: Canadian retaliatory tariffs on citrus from the United States were removed September 1st. California’s available Valencia orange supplies are diminishing. Large sizes (56- to 88-count) are most plentiful; smaller sizes (113ct to 138ct) are extremely limited. Expect limited supplies for the next six weeks; size and grade substitutions may be needed to fill orders. Quality is good; early decay, soft fruit, and skin breakdown have been reported. Prices will remain elevated for the rest of the Valencia season. New crop California Navel oranges are expected to start shipping in late October. Mexico: The season will begin in early November. Early orange seedless variety will be available in both McAllen, Texas and Nogales, Arizona. Texas: Oranges will begin shipping in early November. Navels will be the predominant variety, but Early oranges will also be on the market. Florida: New crop Valencia juice oranges will start shipping in late October and run through June 2026. Supplies will be dominated by 100- to 125-count and larger packs. The majority of fruit will be choice and standard grades. Import Navels: Oranges from Chile, unloaded in the US have a US 10% tariff, while South African fruit has a 30% tariff. Imports to Canada are tariff free as they arrive into ports in Montreal. Supplies from Chile and South Africa continue to be available, with more large fruit (40/48/56 counts) in the market. Small fruit (105/113/138 counts) remain extremely limited due to increasing market demand. Sugar content remains consistent at 11–13 brix. The recent US tariff increases on South African fruit are starting to impact pricing and import pace to the US. Expect supplies to tighten as grower / shippers divert fruit from North America to Europe and other countries due to economic uncertainty. Expect rising markets as supplies tighten. Import Cara Caras: Volume remains available from Chile and South Africa, with Chilean fruit favoring larger sizing and strong internal quality. As with navels, South African Caras are smaller and could be impacted by shifting global demand due to market conditions and logistics. Chilean supplies are expected to remain steady through September.
MANDARIN / CLEMENTINE: Strong import volume continues from Peru, Chile, South Africa, and Uruguay, with good availability across multiple varieties focused on Tangos, and Murcotts. Quality is excellent, with good sugar and vibrant appearance. Expect continued strong supply into October, though some slight tapering may occur as Peru winds down.
STONE FRUIT– Ontario/Canadian: There is still some light supplies of Nectarines in the supply pipeline, but harvest has finished for the season. Peaches (6x3L) and blue plums (10x2L) continue, however, peaches will finish this week. Imports: The California stone fruit season is past its peak. Peaches from Georgia and South Carolina are finished for the season. Nectarines: California supplies are tight; coverage is on a day-by-day basis. The season will wrap up this week with supplies in the pipeline expected to last about a week. Quality is good; sugar levels range from 12 to 14 Brix. The Chilean nectarine season begins in mid-January. Peaches: Supplies are ample; the season is expected to run until mid-October. Quality is good; sugar levels range from 12 to 14 Brix. The Chilean peach season begins in mid-January. Plums: Plums are expected to remain available the longest, with supplies likely lasting through at least mid-November. Quality is good; sugar levels range from 11 to 14 Brix. The Chilean plum season begins in mid-January.
PEAK CANTALOUPE– Ontario: Growers continue harvesting and packing high quality cantaloupes. Ontario grows the “Athena” varietal; brix is 14-18 with bright orange interior. Pricing remains steady with moderate demand. The season will continue into October. Imports: Cantaloupe production is winding down in California’s San Joaquin Valley, as suppliers transition past peak harvest volume and have begun to wind down. Size is currently skewed toward 9ct and jumbo 9ct; 12ct and 15ct supplies are limited. Fruit is exhibiting slightly more green coloration as fewer daylight hours are preventing the development of full, straw-colored rinds. Pricing has risen modestly but is expected to remain at moderate levels as overall demand remains weak. Quality is excellent; sugar levels range between 14–16% Brix, indicating good internal color and a strong flavor profile. California’s San Joaquin Valley cantaloupe production will run through mid-October; harvesting will then shift back to the Arizona-California desert region
HONEYDEW– Honeydew production is winding down in California’s San Joaquin Valley, as suppliers transition past peak harvest volume; supplies are on the decline. Size is trending toward 5ct and jumbo 5ct melons; 6ct or 8ct supplies are limited. Fruit has a slightly greener appearance as limited daylight is delaying the development of full cream-colored rinds. Pricing has increased slightly, though it is projected to level off and remain fairly steady. Quality is excellent; sugar levels range between 14–16% Brix, indicating good internal color and a strong flavor profile. California’s San Joaquin Valley honeydew production will run through mid-October; harvesting will then shift back to the ArizonaCalifornia desert region
LEMONS– Markets are strong, with limited small sizes. Imports from offshore and Mexico are starting in light volume, keeping markets elevated. Lemon prices will continue to rise for the next four weeks due to low volume and strong demand across all growing regions. California: Canadian retaliatory tariffs on citrus from the United States were removed September 1st. District 2 is the only active region, producing mostly choice grade due to coastal conditions; supplies remain tight overall. Small sizes (165- through 235-count) remain very limited. Quality is average; brown spotting, early decay, and scarring are being reported. Quality will improve when growers start harvesting new crop fruit in three weeks. Elevated pricing is forecast for the next four weeks. Offshore: Lemons from Chile, unloaded in the US have a US 10% tariff, while South African fruit has a 30% tariff. Argentina has finished their last shipment of fruit, and the season is likely to conclude earlier than normal (early September). Quality remains good with larger sizing (95/115 counts). Offshore fruit from Chile and South Africa will be shipped into North America through early December. Many Chilean growers continue diverting fruit to other global markets offering higher returns. Shipments are down as much as 50% this year compared to last due to fears of low pricing and the impact of tariffs. Size will be dominated by large lemons (95- to 140-count stocks); smaller sizes will be available as well. Expect higher pricing (compared to California and Mexican fruit) due to strong quality. Mexican: Mexican shipments have started and will run through late November. These supplies will help fill the demand not met by California lemons. The crop is producing primarily choice-grade fruit, with fancy-grade volume very light. Sizing will be dominated by 165- to 235-count fruit; larger sizes will also be available. Quality is good; scarring is being reported. Expect pricing to be comparable to California fruit.
ONTARIO HOTHOUSE TOMATO– Red Tomato On-The-Vine & Beefsteak: Late summer production continues to struggle with quality and supply. Hothouse tomato growers continue pro-rating all orders by 75-80% leaving the market very short. Production continues to be light due to the recent heat in the greenhouses negatively impacting the quality of the remaining crop and increasing prices. With retaliatory tariffs being removed September 1st, growers now are able to utilize volume from US satellite greenhouses, to help with supply. Growers in Mexico that would normally be used to fill the gap have pivoted to cucumbers, and peppers to avoid the uncertainty of tariffs and duties. Recent cooler nights will help, but we will not see improved supplies until October. Bite Size (Cherry, Grape, Cocktail, Medley): Similar to round tomatoes, hothouse bite size production and quality also is also struggling. Pricing is much higher than seasonal normal.
LIMES– The lime market is beginning to stabilize as seasonal demand slows and the current production cycle transitions. The new production cycle is bringing smaller fruit with improved color and slightly longer shelf life. Supplies are adequate, though quality and sizing are shifting as the crop progresses. Mexico: The old crop is winding down; remaining fruit is trending larger in size (110ct to 150ct) with reduced shelf life. Quality concerns are increasing, particularly stylar-end rot, which may not manifest until after shipping. Early harvests of the next crop have begun; limes are peaking on 175ct, 200ct, and 230ct, with improved color and shelf life. Ongoing quality issues persist, including oil spotting and skin breakdown due to immature fruit. Markets remain relatively soft as demand slows and the transition to new crop continues. With the onset of hurricane season, increased rainfall is expected in key growing regions, which may result in harvest delays and operational disruptions. The market is expected to remain active through September. Colombia: Limes are available for loading out of Florida; supplies are steady. Size is well-balanced; quality remains strong with minimal scarring or blanching. Ongoing hurricane season activity may lead to increased precipitation and potential challenges affecting harvest and logistics.
BANANAS– 15% US tariffs are now in place for all Bananas from Central America that transit through the USA. Banana supply remains stable despite strong demand for school business. Overall, banana quality has been very good. Any bananas transiting through the USA will see an additional 5%, on top of the 10%, American tariff applied.
AVOCADO– Avocado supply remains stable, with good availability across medium, large and jumbo sizes. Pricing continues to be favorable for promotions, reflecting strong supply out of Mexico. California’s production continues to taper off as the season winds down, with harvests expected through October. Meanwhile, Peru is beginning to wind down with the last arrivals of the season scheduled in the next 3-4 weeks. The industry anticipates large and jumbo fruit from Peru to remain available at promotable prices over the next month. With robust supply expected to continue for several weeks, now is an ideal time to promote. Mexico– A 49.5-million-pound harvest was reported last week. The Off-Bloom (Loca/Mendez) crop is averaging 26.3% dry matter, with sizing peaking on 48s and 60s. Mexico is essentially finished transitioning crops, with over 99% of harvest activity from Off-Bloom fruit. Peru– The 2025 Peruvian avocado campaign is approximately 95% complete. Arrivals are expected to finish in the next couple of weeks, with programs focused on larger sizes. California– Approximately 4.9 million pounds were harvested last week. Dry matter is averaging 31%. Sizing continues to peak on 48s and 60s. Harvest volume has flattened out, though fruit quality remains excellent. Based on current harvest rates, California fruit is expected to remain available through October.
APPLES– Ontario: Ontario growers are in full swing harvesting Ginger Golds., MacIntosh and Royal Gala. This week, they will add Honeycrisp, Empire, Spartan, Cortland and Red Delicious to the list. Quality is very good. Despite being on the very dry side through the summer, earlier and timely rains in May and June helped ensure robust fruit development. The cooler spring weather delayed the season’s start by two weeks compared to last year. Apple sizing remains pretty average, though some varieties naturally vary, with smaller types like Paula Red holding true to form and larger ones like Honeycrisp showing good size. Prices will continue to east into October as supplies increase. Ambrosia harvest will start at the end of September while Fuji will be the end of October. Washington: Washington growers are in full swing harvesting Royal Gala and Honeycrisp. Both of these new crops are projected to be larger than last year and both are currently promotable. Overall, the new crop is projected to a very large crop, and we are projecting to have excellent supplies of most varieties for the upcoming season. However, some varieties remain limited for the next couple of weeks as we wait for this new crop to start harvesting. The tighter varieties include Cosmic Crisp, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Envy, and Fuji. Michigan / New York: Both Michigan and New York will continue to pick some early varieties this week along with Royal Galas starting in a light way this week. Both Michigan and New York are forecasting good crops again this year.
MATURE GREEN FIELD TOMATOES– Canadian retaliatory tariffs on tomatoes from the United States were removed September 1st. The tomato market this week is split: roma supply out of Mexico is very short with high demand while the rest of the category remains flat. A combination of weather, transition starting and US government updates for importing procedures from Mexico are the main culprits behind this uptick. East Coast: Tennessee and Virginia crops show good quality and volume. Production remains stable, and quality is fair out of Tennessee, Alabama and Virgina. Current quality will be mixed; several days of heat, rain and high humidity are causing several post-harvest issues days after the fruit is packed. Roma volume is gradually increasing and pricing was mixed this week based on location. Quality is fair and slowly improving. Grape Tomato supply is good out of all regions as are other varieties in the snacking category. Mexico: The Tomato Suspension Agreement between Mexico and the US ended on July 14, removing the established floor price and replacing it with a 17.9% antidumping duty. Baja and Central Mexico supplies are lighter due to rain and export permits. Tomato crossings paused early last week and are expected to resume soon. We are watching a tropical wave could make landfall in Baja this week and could impact the later part of the Baja growing cycle. It’s too soon to assess or assume anything but we are keeping a close eye on its development and movement. Round tomato volume is crossing through McAllen and Otay. Quality is excellent. We are seeing significantly higher roma markets this week as production is off significantly. A combination of weather, transitions starting and government updates for importing procedures are the main culprits behind this uptick. Good supply and weak demand have put downward pressure on grape tomato pricing. Quality is good. Most of the cherry tomato volume seems to be crossing from the Baja; quality is very good. Demand is flat. Good supplies of gourmet medley tomatoes are crossing through McAllen and Otay. Quality is mostly good. California: California production is mixed, and quality is good with fair demand.
WILD FORAGED PRODUCTS:
Wild Mushrooms
Bluefoot Mushroom: From France. Light supplies. 5lb basket Call for availability and pricing.
Pine (Matsutake) Mushroom: Very strong supplies. Grade A, B and Baby A grades. Big drop in prices. Call for pricing.
Lobster Mushroom: From British Columbia. Pricing higher. Lighter volume. 6lb baskets. Call for pricing.
Yellow Chanterelle: From Europe. Top quality. Medium size readily available while buttons are short. 2.2lb or 6lb basket. Call for pricing.
Truffles
Winter Truffles: Season is done.
Burgundy Truffles (tuber Uncinatum): From Italy.. Good quality. Higher prices. Call for pricing.
Vegetables
Sea Asparagus / Samphire: From British Columbia. Good supplies. 5lb bags. Call for details.
