ONTARIO LOCAL
** DONE ** HARD SQUASH– Ontario squash is essentially finished for the season. Any product still in the pipeline is of questionable quality.
** DONE ** LEEKS– Packing out of storage, supplies are finished.
POTATO– Growers continue packing product out of storage. Whites, reds and Yukon golds. Chef Large #1, “A”, “B” and “C” (creamers) sizes are all available.
WAX TURNIP (RUTABEGA)- Rutabaga continues to ship out of storage with good supplies. Prices remain steady.
CARROT– Carrot growers continue packing out of storage. Quality is very good and prices are steady. Heirloom multi colored and red carrot supplies are very good with good quality.
MUSHROOMS– Supplies are good with no disruptions in supply expected.
CABBAGE– Growers continue packing cabbage out of storage. Green, red and savoy cabbage supplies are very good. Pricing is steady with good demand.
APPLES– Apples continue to be shipped out of storage. Gold Delicious, MacIntosh, Royal Gala, Honeycrisp, Empire, Spartan, Cortland, Red Delicious, Ambrosia and Fuji ae all in very good supply. Quality is very good with all sizes available.
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 strong demand. Most supplies are going to retail programs. Quality is very good; however, berry size is on the smaller side.
ENGLISH CUCUMBERS– Production remains steady with good demand. Quality is very good. Pricing remains steady at higher levels. Sizing is more balanced with smalls and mediums being the predominant sizes with lighter supplies of large and extra-large.
Tariff Update
Announced, November 14th, 2025 tariffs for products imported into the USA were removed from over 200 grocery items. Tropical fruits such as avocados (except from Mexico where the USMCA agreement is already tariff free), pineapples and mangos, bananas, oranges and tomatoes from anywhere except Mexico, where the anti-dumping duty remains in place, had their tariffs retroactively removed effective November 13th. There are several items the tariffs were not removed, such as cantaloupe, honeydews, asparagus to name a few.
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, clementine’s, 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%. Citrus from South Africa is 30%. Mangoes from Brazil have a 50% tariff. Peru has been assessed a 10% tariff, while 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
Baby Arugula: The Arizona/California desert growing region continues to experience the impact of erratic weather in November and December. Light showers occurred again last week. Baby arugula is particularly sensitive to erratic weather conditions and we are starting to see mildew damage, yellowing / brown discolouration and early breakdown/shortened shelf-life.
California Navel Oranges: Weather continues to be the biggest challenge this Navel orange season, and the impact goes well beyond simple rain delays and muddy orchard conditions. Our expectation is that this citrus season will conclude earlier than normal; could wrap up as early as May 1, with some commodities finishing even sooner.
Asparagus: Mexican asparagus demand weakened as rising Mexican production and Peruvian imports oversupplied the market, keeping prices flat. Warm weather is boosting Mexican volumes and extending seasons, while Peru shipments remain steady but are beginning to taper. Overall demand is soft, with little improvement expected until late January or early February.
Banana: Banana supply will begin to tighten up over the coming weeks as demand globally increases, and production out of the tropics is steadily declining.
California Carrots: West Coast value-added carrot supplies will be limited for the next two weeks due to recent heavy rain events.
Broccolini / Baby Broccoli: Quality is good, and supplies are still limited with most growers; post holiday demand is low.
Gold Pineapples: The pineapple market has settled down some but remains tight. Pineapple supplies are expected to become extremely limited into January through June, 2026.
Celery: Celery supplies are limited following high winds and excessive rainfall in Oxnard, California. Crop damage and reduced harvests resulted last week following the severe weather. Many mature fields had stalks knocked over (celery lodging). Expect continued elevated markets in the coming weeks until Oxnard production recovers. All value-added celery items remain triggered.
Green Onions: Markets continue to be very high as availability remains tight due to previous rain in the Mexican growing region hampering supplies. Supplies are very inconsistent.
Limes: Prices remain elevated and are expected to continue climbing through January as quality challenges and reduced supplies persist.
Cantaloupe: The offshore melon market is experiencing tight supplies as weather-related challenges earlier in the growing cycle continue to impact production and some shippers transition between harvest in Guatemala and Honduras. Availability remains inconsistent; markets are expected to stay firm as the industry works through supply constraints.
Honeydew: There is very limited availability on imported honeydews with some shippers transitioning between Guatemala and Honduras. Honeydews are expected to be the primary challenge over the next several weeks as supplies transition from low to extremely limited. The completion of Northern Mexican production has increased reliance on offshore fruit.
Strawberry: Most California strawberry growers did not harvest last week due to rain damaged fruit. Industry supplies are limited. Mexico and Florida continue to fill the demand due to the lack of California supplies.
Stone Fruit: Chilean 5kg cherry arrivals continue in light supply as the cherry season ends. Chilean peaches, nectarines and apricots have started with steady arrivals. Expect supplies to increase weekly as arrivals become more frequent through January.
Brussels Sprouts: Prices are expected to ease over the next several weeks as demand falls and the Mexican brussels sprout season ramps up. Value-added products have five triggers.
Grapes: Expect prices to remain steady for the next two weeks, then slowly start to decline when arrivals of Chilean grape shipments will increase. Offshore green and red seedless grapes continue to arrive at ports on the east coast and now the west coast from Peru and Chile.
Watermelon: Watermelon supplies are limited from offshore and Southern Mexico. Demand is also very light with the cooler weather in most of the selling areas.
Field Red Peppers: Red pepper supplies are starting to improve as Mexican production starts; prices will slowly ease as supplies improve.
VEGETABLES
ICEBERG– West Coast: Lettuce production is experiencing disruption due to recent cold and rainy weather. Harvest crews out west are working diligently to pack solid quality in each carton. As growers move into new production blocks, overall quality of the crop is improving each day. Overall quality is good, with weights ranging 39–44 pounds and minimal seeder or misshapen heads reported. Supplies are expected to remain steady for at least the next few weeks, however, growers are concerned about supply in early February due to rains during the panting cycle.
Growers are monitoring for soilborne diseases, particularly in crops planted during heavy rains. East Coast: Southeast lettuce supplies out of Florida continue to be strong, with cooler weather slowing production. This season is expected to run through late March to early April, weather permitting. Quality is very good.
ROMAINE / LEAF– West Coast: Romaine, green leaf, and red leaf production is strong this week. Romaine hearts are expected to remain steady. There have been some reports of bruising, mechanical damage, light weights and mildew on the outer leaves; quality is being reported above average. Growers are monitoring for soilborne diseases, particularly in crops planted during heavy rains. Weather is favorable through this week with highs in the mid-70’s to mid-80s and lows in the 50’s. East Coast: Southeast romaine and leaf supply out of Florida continue. This season is expected to run through late March to early April, weather permitting. Quality is average; recent low temperatures across Central and South Florida has contributed to slower growth.
SPRING MIX/BABY SPINACH/BABY ARUGULA/BABY KALE– The Arizona/California desert growing region continues to experience the impact of erratic weather in November and December, including several rain events and unseasonably warm temperatures. Light showers occurred last week. Baby arugula is particularly sensitive to erratic weather conditions and we are starting to see mildew damage, yellowing / brown discolouration and early breakdown/shortened shelf-life. Due to current challenges, please order for immediate use. Maintaining the cold chain is essential to maximize the already compromised shelf life.
CALIFORNIA CARROTS– West Coast carrot supplies will continue to be limited for the next couple of weeks due to recent heavy rain events. The San Joaquin Valley season will experience lower-than-normal yields. Harvesting delays and harvesting cancelations due to poor field conditions have been common events. Both commodity and processed packs are impacted. Supplies are expected to be back to normal once field conditions and weather improves over the next couple of weeks, as long as there is no more rain.
BABY BROCCOLI / BROCCOLINI– Quality is good, and supplies are still limited with most growers; lower post holiday demand should help overall supplies. The weather continues to effect harvesting schedules and quality. We should start to see some pricing relief into January.
BEANS– Supply was lighter last week out of Florida due to the cooler weather that hit the region. Supplies should improve over the next two weeks as warmer temperatures are in the forecast. Mexican supply continues to improve. The long-term forecast, barring any issues in Florida, remains steady throughout January. Overall quality is good. Snipped: Snipped green bean supply and quality has improved. We expect to see stable markets with lower demand.
MUSHROOMS– Quality and supplies are very good with lighter, post holiday demand. At this time, we do not see any supply issues.
BROCCOLI– Broccoli supplies are improving across all regions, and the market is expected to gradually ease lower heading into next week. Broccoli is available from Mexico into Texas and Yuma, Arizona. Production in Florida also continues with minimal defects being reported. Overall, quality is excellent.
ASPARAGUS– Mexican asparagus demand weakened as rising Mexican production and Peruvian imports oversupplied the market, keeping prices flat. Warm weather is boosting Mexican volumes and extending seasons, while Peru shipments remain steady but are beginning to taper. Overall demand is soft, with little improvement expected until late January or early February. Mexico: Crossings from Mexico are expected to be light and are projected to stay at this pace through the rest of January, with Caborca ramping up in February. Peru: Supply remains steady, led by strong volume from the north region, with some additional product still flowing from the south. We expect this to continue consistently through January, as we begin preparing for the transition to the Mexican season out of Caborca.
GARLIC- Whole cloves and peeled garlic prices should inch down as demand slows after the holidays. Supplies from China, Mexico and California continue. Quality remains very good. China: Peeled garlic is in a supply exceed demand situation as importers adjust to post holiday demand. Pricing should stabilize as supplies adjust to demand. Quality is variable, depending on age. North American: California garlic is progressing with good quality, complemented by ongoing Mexican supplies. U.S. tariffs on Chinese garlic have shifted demand to Mexico and California.
CABBAGE– Ontario: Green, red and savoy cabbage supplies are good with very good quality being shipped out of storage. Prices are stable as demand from US buyers stabilizes.
US CARTON BAKING POTATOES– There are excellent supplies of high-quality potatoes coming out of storage from Idaho, Washington, Oregon plus multiple other regions. This is true for reds, yellows, and russets. Demand typically drops off as we get into the new year, as many consumers are looking for low-carb options. The low demand and large volumes make for an excellent buying opportunity and promotional period. The long-term outlook mirrors last season, when the market remained relatively soft until late spring, at which point tighter supply led to higher pricing.
ASSORTED CHILI PEPPERS– Supplies are good out of Sinaloa and Snora currently. However, markets will remain higher for Habanero, Poblano and Red Fresno. We hope to see improvement next week on these tight items.
FIELD PEPPERS– Weather permitting; we expect volumes to remain steady. Both growing regions are maintaining strong production as long as conditions stay favorable. In Mexico, labor has fully returned following the extended holiday break, supporting consistent output. Red Pepper: There continues to be more volume crossing from Mexico through Nogales, Arizona on open field as well as hothouse red peppers. The California desert is finished until spring. With the transition complete and volume increasing, we expect markets to continue easing over the next week to ten days. Quality is good across all colors. Green Pepper: Green pepper supplies have tightened this week as availability decreases in the growing regions.
HOTHOUSE PEPPERS– Supplies continue from both Mexico and Spain. Red, yellow and orange peppers are all available; product from Spain is priced at a premium. Quality is good with product from Mexico and very good from Spain. Ontario production will resume in March.
CELERY– West Coast: Elevated prices will persist for all carton celery as well as fresh-cut value-added celery through mid- February due to extreme weather that has reduced California celery yields. California celery fields experienced significant storm events in November and again during Christmas week, including up to six inches of rain over a four-day period, accompanied by sustained winds nearing 60 mph. As much as 55% of processor-variety celery was lost, greatly impacting value-added availability. All value-added celery items have triggers. Quality has been impacted; wind-related twisting and damage are being reported. Our grower-partners thankfully have diversified celery programs utilizing several different varieties across multiple states, allowing them to shift orders and meet demand, ensuring supply. Another storm is forecast for the Oxnard, California region over the next nine days; we will update any changes as they occur. East Coast: Florida production out of Belle Glade, started mid-December and supplies will continues to increase.
CAULIFLOWER– Cauliflower supplies continue to be strong across all sizes and regions with strong demand. Quality is good. The market is expected to remain steady into next week.
EGGPLANT– East Coast supplies are tight with cooler South Florida weather. Mexican volumes are gradually increasing, though sizing is mixed during the transition. Overall quality is good, with smaller fruit more common than 24-count cartons.
CORN– Sweet corn in Florida is very limited and pricing remains high. As we move into more wintery weather, pricing will likely remain high, and volumes will be limited.
CANADIAN POTATO– According to Stat Canada, the Canadian potato crop for 2025 is 0.9% smaller than the 2024 crop. Canada’s 2025 potato crop is the third largest on record, behind 2023 and 2024. Most of the difference came in Manitoba, Alberta, and Quebec. Stats Canada made significant adjustments to its July planted area estimates for each of those provinces. Production in the Maritime Provinces was 11.4%, below the 2024 crop. Combined production in those provinces also fell 11.2% short of the three-year average. Quebec produced its third largest potato crop on record, behind the 2021 and 2022 crops. Production in Ontario fell 1.3% below the year-earlier crop. The Prairie Provinces produced more this year verses the 2024 crop. Growers in Alberta planted 5,260 more acres of potatoes, while Manitoba growers reduced their planted area by 6,500 acres. Overall, yields in the Prairie Provinces exceeded the three-year average. Total production in the Prairie Provinces exceeded the three-year average by 6.5%. Growers in British Columbia produced their largest potato crop since 2016. Ontario: Growers planted 40,215 acres of potatoes in 2025. They harvested 1,255 acres more than they did a year ago. Ontario’s 2025 potato crop fell 1.3%, short of year-earlier production. P.E.I.: Growers planted 87,300 acres of potatoes in 2025. That is 2,000 acres more than they planted in 2024. Abandonment was limited to 300 acres this year. The late-summer drought took a toll on yields. The provincial average yield dropped verses the 2024 crop. Island growers produced 15.9% fewer potatoes than the 2024 crop. It is the Island’s second smallest potato crop since 2001, behind 2020. New Brunswick: Growers planted 52,300 acres of potatoes in 2025. That is 700 acres less than they planted in 2024. Growers were able to harvest all but 200 acres from the 2025 crop. The provincial average yield was below last year’s yield. That dropped production by 4.7%, from the 2024 crop. Quebec: The provincial average yield fell short of 2024. Growers planted 47,617 acres of potatoes in 2025. That is 4,268 acres less than Stats Canada’s July planted area estimate. However, it is 3,398 acres more than the 2024 planted area. Growers left 254 acres of potatoes in the ground this year. Quebec’s 2025 potato crop exceeded revised 2024 production by 0.1%. Saskatchewan: Growers planted 7,300 acres of potatoes in 2025. That is 200 acres less than they planted a year earlier. Growers harvested all but 100 acres this year. The provincial average yield increased this year versus the 2024 crop. Production is up 8.6%, from the previous year. Alberta: Stats Canada reports that Alberta growers produced a record crop this season; a 13.1% increase. At 81,760 acres, growers planted 5,260 acres more than they did in 2024. Growers left 1,370 acres of potatoes in the ground this year. The provincial average yield broke the record yield set last year.
FRENCH GREEN BEAN / BABY SQUASH– Guatemala continues to show good production, and quality is steadily improving week over week. Demand will return to normal post-holidays. Supplies of French beans, baby squash, baby peeled carrots and colored baby peeled carrots have returned to normal. Mexico is providing a fair supply of French beans, keeping overall availability in a stable position.
BRUSSELS SPROUTS– Prices are expected to ease over the next several weeks as demand falls and the Mexican brussels sprout season ramps up. Value-added products still have triggers. The Salinas season has ended; production out of Mexico will increase over the next several weeks. Imported Guatemalan sprouts remain available at South Texas and Florida shipping points; Mexican imports will steadily increase throughout this month. Overall supplies are expected to increase by mid-late January with lighter demand. The quality of remaining product harvested in California is fair at best; discoloration, puffiness, and seeder remain in current market supplies. Quality of Mexican product is great. Expect gradual price relief and better availability over the next several weeks with load volume out of Mexico by late January.
SNO PEAS / SUGAR SNAP PEAS– Supply of Guatemalan snow peas and sugar snaps continues to build steadily; snap peas more so than sno peas. Mexican snow pea availability remains limited due to ongoing field transitions, while Mexican sugar snap supplies are plentiful.
GREEN ONIONS– Markets continue to be very high as availability remains tight due to previous rain in the Mexican growing region hampering supplies. The weather has affected harvesting and quality, causing additional supply issues industry wide. Some growers report being completely out of supply. Growers are holding to very strict averages, when possible, but prorates should be expected for at least the next two weeks. Plantings for the next 3–4 weeks were affected by prior rains, and yields are likely to remain an issue until the end of January. Yields are expected to remain challenging though January.
ENGLISH CUCUMBERS– Supplies are starting to get somewhat tight and pricing has increased. Quality remains very good. The sizing profile is balanced, with all sizes available. Mini Cucumbers: Production remains good, with steady supplies and slightly higher pricing. Quality remains very good.
ONIONS– Demand has increased for yellow spanish onions following reduced production during the holidays; prices are higher. White onions remain limited; markets are rising. Red onion supplies are adequate; expect steady prices. Washington, Idaho, Oregon, Utah, and Colorado: Storage red and yellow spanish supplies are adequate; white onion volume is low. Quality ranges from good to fair; translucent layers, soft texture, bruising, and decay are occasional issues. Expect slightly higher yellow onion pricing over the next 7-10 days; markets will then begin to decrease as production catches up with demand. White onion pricing is expected to increase over the next one to two weeks. Ontario / Quebec: Ontario continues shipping good supplies of new crop cooking onions and red onions; prices remain steady as demand is fairly light. Quality is very good.
COLLARDS/CHARD/KALE– Supplies from Mexico or Texas continue to increase, with excellent quality. Green, red and black kale as well as green, red and rainbow swiss chard are in good supply. This market is expected to remain steady.
ZUCCHINI– Typically, Florida is not a major supplier of zucchini during January and February. Florida supplies are moderate, with new fields helping offset the winter slowdown. Southern Mexico is enjoying favorable weather. Green zucchini supplies have tightened as older Sinaloa fields wind down, while yellow remains steady with good quality.
FRUIT
PEARS– Oregon and Washington State continue shipping Anjous, Bartletts, Boscs, and Reds, arriving on schedule and in solid supply. Production is strong, foodservice sizes are plentiful, and pears are currently offering better promotional value than large apples. We anticipate that Bartlett pears will be available to ship this year until around the end of January. Bosc pears and Anjou are projected to be year-round this year and will be promotable through May 2026.
STRAWBERRIES– Most California strawberry growers did not harvest last week due to rain damaged fruit. Industry supplies are limited. Mexico and Florida continue to fill the demand due to the lack of California supplies. Santa Maria/Oxnard: Growers did not harvest last week for shipments out of California. Strawberries shipping out of California are being sourced 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. Maintaining the cold chain will be vital for shelf-life; ordering for quick turns is recommended. Expect strong demand and elevated markets for 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 peak season nears. Expect elevated pricing and tight stocks as Mexico helps fill orders from California. Florida: Volume is rising as is demand. 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. Ontario Hothouse: Hothouse production continues to be very light with most production being allocated to retail programs. Quality is good and sizing is on the smaller side. Supplies should improve in the new year with new crops, grown using new techniques.
RASPBERRIES / BLACKBERRIES– Blackberries: Volume out of Central Mexico remains strong with higher yields supported by favorable weather conditions. Overall quality is good, though some leaky and green berries are present. Fields continue to clean up as the season progresses. Raspberries: Mexico: Good volumes out of Central Mexico to start the year, accounting for approximately 90% of total production. Quality remains strong. Many suppliers are transitioning into California. Baja – Good supplies available for loading out of California. Quality ranges from fair to good.
BLUEBERRIES– We are experiencing a brief supply gap as Chilean offshore fruit awaits release at the ports, while Central Mexican production remains limited due to weather conditions. Mexico: Production continues in Central Mexico, though supplies are tightening as crops move past seasonal peak volumes. Mexican quality and sizing have remained very strong. Central Mexico blueberry quality is being reported as significantly higher than offshore blueberry offerings currently in the market. Peru: Arrivals remain inconsistent with the season ending. Overall quality is fair, with reports of soft fruit. Chile: Production is slowly ramping up. With Chilean fruit expected to enter the marketplace by the end of the month.
MANGO– Ecuador has finished packing for the season and production is increasing in Peru. Peru harvests had been slow to start the season due to cooler temperatures and delayed maturity in the field, resulting in lighter-than-expected arrivals and elevated pricing. Following the holidays, harvests are increasing, and the industry anticipates market conditions to improve in the coming weeks. Volume is expected to keep increasing into early February as growers start harvesting out of new regions Motupe and Olmos. Demand remains steady and is expected to increase with promotional activity planned for late January and early February. Pricing in the field is still an issue, and costs seem to keep increasing each week. Many expect prices to start dropping as more volume becomes available in the next week or two. The size curve is favoring larger fruit, peaking on 8-counts, while smaller fruit is expected to become more limited as the season progresses. Approximately 2.2 million boxes arrived to North America last week from Ecuador and Peru. The main varieties available are Tommy Atkins and Kent, with limited volumes of Ataulfo (Honey) and Keitt.
GRAPEFRUIT– Florida: Florida grapefruit is exhibiting excellent quality with strong internal characteristics. Supplies are strong, with sizing peaking on 40/48/36 count. Texas: Texas grapefruit crop is producing good supplies. Available sizing varies by grower, but overall supply is meeting demand across all sizes. California: Ruby Reds and Star Rubies are currently being harvested. No quality concerns are being reported currently. Imports: Offshore grapefruit is finished until Israel starts with the first arrivals expected in late January, early February.
BANANAS– Banana supply will begin to tighten up over the coming weeks as global demand increases, and production out of the tropics is steadily declining. A combination of virus pressure low yields, increasing cost of production have put incredible strain on this staple fruit. Overall, the banana quality was very good and supplied. The key to navigating this coming year will be consistency in supply, consistency in ordering patterns and staying far ahead of any issues.
LEMONS– California: Harvest is active across Districts 1, 2, and 3. The lack of sustained cold weather has delayed natural color development, though improvement is ongoing. Recent rains have impacted quality, resulting in increased choice-grade fruit. Sizing is peaking on 140/115/165 counts, with rainfall contributing to improved availability of larger sizes such as 95/75 counts. Harvest in District 3 will conclude at the end of January, aligning well with peak harvest in District 1, where heavy fancy-grade fruit is running primarily 115s, 140s, and 95s, followed by 165s. Heavy December rains are expected to support additional growth in Districts 1 and 2 further south, and a premium on smaller 165s and 200s lemons is anticipated this spring. Harvesting and packing Meyer lemons continues with good supplies. Pack size is 12x1lb. Mexico: The Mexican lemon season is winding down. Fruit continues to skew toward choice grade with lighter availability of fancy-grade product.
POMEGRANATE– The California season is done. There is only offshore fruit available from Egypt and Turkey. Ordering will need to be adjusted as imported case sizing is 8lbs (8-12ct) while California ships 22lb cases (40-44ct).
GRAPES– Expect prices to remain steady for the next two weeks, then slowly start to decline when arrivals of Chilean grape shipments will increase. Offshore green and red seedless grapes continue to arrive at ports on the east coast and now the west coast from Peru and Chile. Quality is good; some soft/damaged fruit is being reported. Expect elevated pricing through January, then lower markets in February.
GOLD PINEAPPLES– Costa Rica / Honduras: The pineapple market is stable, for now. Supply is good and growers are adjusting volume more toward the US, assisted by the removal of tariffs. Overall, supply is good with lighter demand. There is good availability of both 6s and 7s selling at similar prices week over week. Overall, the quality and taste are good. Pineapple supplies are expected to become extremely tight January through June, 2026. Keeping in mind that it takes about 24 months from planting to harvesting, there was continuous rainfall in Costa Rica in October, 2024 thru March 2025 when growers were needing to plant. The entire industry had a planting gap of 2 months. Costa Rica supplies 90% of North American pineapple demand. This is what’s creating the expected industry supply shortage for the first half of 2026.
Currently, the market is flat with good availability overall. 2025 ended with a 25% increase in rainfall compared to the average of the past six years. This excess precipitation directly impacts pineapple production due to challenges in land preparation and planting, an effect that will be most evident during the first four months of 2026. To mitigate these conditions, farms have implemented measures such as adopting the ‘minimum tillage’ method, which allows for faster land preparation and planting. However, this practice may lead to a reduction in the sizing yield of the fruit in 2027. Mexico: Little volume crossed out of Mexico over the holidays. Mexican internal markets continue to offer a better outlet for their fruit than exports. Yields are relatively stable with more large fruit and less small available overall. Transportation out of Mexico is stable with no issues reported
WATERMELON– Watermelon supplies are steady from Southern Mexico. Quality has been good for this time of year. Fruit is shipping out of Edinburg, Texas, and Nogales, Arizona. There are also limited supplies of offshore melons. Seedless watermelons from Florida will be back in production early April. Markets are escalated and expected to remain so through January.
STONE FRUIT– Chilean 5kg cherry arrivals continue in light supply as the cherry season ends. Chilean peaches, nectarines and apricots have started with steady arrivals. Expect supplies to increase weekly as arrivals become more frequent through January.
AVOCADO– Industry-wide availability is limited this week following two consecutive weeks of lighter harvests in Mexico over the holiday period. Heavy demand combined with reduced availability at the border is contributing to higher market pricing across all sizes in the short-term. Demand is anticipated to remain strong throughout the month, and harvests are expected to ramp up in the coming weeks to meet industry volume needs. The current size profile continues to favor medium and large fruit, while small sizes are becoming more limited as the season progresses. Despite pricing trending higher this week, promotional opportunities at competitive levels are expected to remain available across all sizes. Mexico: A 53.7-million-pound harvest was reported last week. The Main Crop presents 30% dry matter, and sizing continues to peak on 48s and 60s. Following two consecutive holiday weeks, harvest operations in Mexico have returned to normal, with strong harvest activity expected to resume this week. Due to the rainfall during this time of season, Lenticel presence remains elevated. Colombia– The Principal Crop is at full speed, with all volume being directed to the European market. Sizing is concentrated on medium sizes. Volume is expected to last through February or March.
CANTALOUPE– The offshore melon market is experiencing tight supplies as weather-related challenges earlier in the growing cycle continue to impact production and some shippers transition between harvest in Guatemala and Honduras. Availability remains inconsistent; markets are expected to stay firm as the industry works through supply constraints. Current sizing is leaning toward 9ct and 12ct, with limited jumbo fruit available. Recent arrivals are showing good internal quality, with fruit mostly firm to hard. Brix levels are generally ranging from 12–14%. Markets are expected to remain firm due to lighter production and limited larger fruit
HONEYDEW– There is very limited availability on imported honeydews with some shippers transitioning between Guatemala and Honduras.
Honeydews are expected to be the primary challenge over the next several weeks as supplies transition from low to extremely limited. The completion of Northern Mexican production has increased reliance on offshore fruit. Flexibility in sizing will be necessary to navigate supply constraints. Current sizing is primarily 6ct and 8ct, with very limited availability of 5ct and larger fruit. Weaker fields and lower yields are expected to keep this sizing trend in place. Northern Mexico is expected to come back online mid-late January, which should help relieve some pressure.
ORANGES– Weather continues to be the biggest challenge this Navel orange season, and the impact goes well beyond simple rain delays and muddy orchard conditions. Last month, growers experienced a prolonged growth pause after nearly 20 consecutive days without sunlight, combined with misty mornings and daytime temperatures in the 45–50° range. This caused significant stress to the citrus trees, effectively sending them into shock. As a result, we are seeing widespread fruit drop across multiple citrus varieties (in some cases, losses of up to 30–40%). Compounding the situation, recent record rainfall, followed by a sudden shift to direct sunlight and daytime temperatures exceeding 60°. These rapid environmental changes are now creating serious quality risks that are difficult to detect at both harvest and packing stages, including clear rot, puff, and crease. Mandarins have been impacted the most, with significant fruit loss. In some cases, growers are abandoning harvests altogether and filing insurance claims. Based on these conditions, our expectation is that this citrus season will conclude earlier than normal. California citrus, overall, could wrap up as early as May 1, with some commodities finishing even sooner. The California Navel crop is dominated by large sizes; small fruit (88ct, 113ct, and 138ct oranges are becoming extremely limited. Size and grade substitutions from growers will soon be requested to fill orders. Imports from Spain as well as Cara Cara and Mandarin varieties are options. California: Overall supplies of 88ct, 113ct, and 138ct oranges will be extremely limited through the balance of the Navel season and into the Valencia season that starts in May. The rain has subsided and California is getting some sunshine. This may wreak havoc on the citrus industry when it comes to quality; puff, crease, and clear rot may start to be seen. Navel quality is very good; sugar levels range from 12-13 Brix. Expect elevated markets for choice and fancy grade fruit as well as small fruit (88ct, 113ct, and 138ct supplies). Florida Juice Oranges: The new crop Valencia season will begin in late January. Supplies will be dominated by 138ct and smaller sizes. Fair quality is predicted; the majority of fruit will be choice and standard grades. Prices will be comparable to those in Mexico and Texas. Texas: Valencia oranges will ship through April. Quality is good; sugar levels range from 11-12 Brix. Expect steady markets and tight supplies. Mexico: Early sweet oranges are available in Nogales, Arizona. Great quality is forecast; sugar levels will range from 12-13 Brix. Prices will be comparable to those in Florida and Texas. Imports: Import navels from Spain will continue to ramp up through January. Peak sizing is large 36-70ct sizes; small sizes are very limited. Overall quality is very good with strong Brix. Expect smaller sizes to be very limited into February.
BLOOD ORANGE– California blood orange supplies continue to improve with better availability on all sizes. The blood orange season runs from mid-late December to June. Please be aware that the typical “blush” exterior may not be present, though internally you will find full deep red color. By mid-January, we will begin to see more of the typical exterior “blush” color on the skin. Supplies are dominated by small sizes (113- through 138-count fruit). Quality is excellent; current sugar levels range from 12-13 Brix.
CARA CARA– California Cara Caras harvest continues. Supplies continue to increase with better availability of all sizes. Supplies will ship through late April. The Cara Cara variety is a cousin to the Moro, a.k.a. blood orange, and was created by cross-pollinating Washington Navels and Brazilian Bahia Navels. External colour is comparable to that of Navel oranges, in fact it’s nearly impossible to tell the difference until they are cut open. Their pink flesh is juicy and looks similar to a grapefruit, without the bitter flavour. Cara Caras have a high sugar content, low acid, and sweet, berry-like notes. Pricing is a bit higher than the Navel market due to their premium taste and sweetness. Supplies are dominated by small sizes; 88ct through 113ct fruit. Quality is excellent; current sugar levels range from 12-13 Brix.
MANDARIN / CLEMENTINE- Imports: Early-season Moroccan clementines are available in limited quantities. Clementine quality is reported as fair. Availability should improve with the Nadorcott varietal arrivals expected at the end of the month. California Mandarins: Recent rains have impacted quality, particularly on Clementines, with increased reports of softness, clear rot, and puffiness. Mandarins have been impacted the most, with significant fruit loss. In some cases, growers are abandoning harvests altogether and filing insurance claims. Clementines are expected to phase out over the coming weeks as harvest transitions to Pages and Tangos, which are reporting stronger quality. Slightly larger sizing is anticipated, with peaks trending toward 18/21counts. Mid- to late-season varieties, including Tangos and Murcotts, are projected to see reduced overall volume.
LIMES– Prices remain elevated and are expected to continue climbing through January as quality challenges and reduced supplies persist. Mexico: Pricing remains on an upward trajectory as quality challenges continue to limit overall availability. Large sizes (110- through 175-count fruit) remain more prevalent, while small sizes (230- and 250-count limes) are increasingly limited week to week. Size distribution: 110-8%, 150-23%, 175-25%, 200-23%, 230-13%, and 250-8%. Older-crop fruit is struggling with skin breakdown, oil spotting, and occasional stylar-end issues following rain events, resulting in reduced shelf-life and limiting pack-outs. New-crop supplies are tighter than anticipated due to a smaller bloom drop, reducing yields and limiting availability. Crews are conducting additional grading to maintain quality standards, increasing costs across all sizes amid lower yields and elevated labour expenses. Looking ahead, a slight decrease in volume is expected each week in February, but we anticipate a steady and reliable supply throughout the month. The new harvest will continue to deliver fruit in small and medium sizes. Columbia: Columbian limes are available for loading out of Florida. Rainfall continues with no major supply disruptions reported. Sizing is well-balanced. Export volume to increase amid stronger international pricing and lower yields from other origins. Hawaii: A large grower is developing a dedicated Hawaiian lime program, supported by a focused and expanding acreage footprint, for shipping to US mainland, Canada and other countries. The program is not yet cleared to ship into the U.S. mainland; product is currently approved for shipment into Canada. Product is expected to be approved for shipping to the US mainland by July 2026. The crop is 100% irrigated, driving excellent internal quality and strong juice content. Internal colour is notably darker green than typical Mexican limes, translating to rich juice quality. Being considered as a “premium” pack and additional freight costs, early pricing is expected to be higher than Mexican fruit.
APPLES– Ontario: Ontario growers continue packing and shipping out of storage. Golden Delicious, MacIntosh, Royal Gala, Honeycrisp, Empire, Spartan, Cortland, Red Delicious, Fuji and Ambrosia are all available. Quality is excellent, with good color, excellent crunch and high brix. Prices have stabilized and should hold steady well into the spring. Washington: As we start off the new year, there are less apples in storage than expected a couple of months ago. The latest storage report is showing that inventories are lower on many varieties for this time of year than the same time last year. As a result, we are seeing a rising market on many varieties, sizes, and packs, and this trend is expected to continue for at least the next couple of months. The most significant item that is down this year is Royal Gala’s. The latest report shows the crop is down over 20% from last year. There are still plenty of Royal Gala to get through until offshore imports start but expect pricing to rise as we progress through the season. The other top variety that is short this season is the ever-popular Honeycrisp variety. The Honeycrisp crop was down over last year and has become ever tighter over the last month because of strong sales as well as low pack-outs. Overall, growers are left with a smaller crop than expected and rising prices.
HOTHOUSE TOMATO– Red Tomato On-The-Vine & Beefsteak: The Ontario hothouse tomato season is finished. Ontario production will resume late March, 2026. Growers have started utilizing Mexican operations for supplies. Demand remains steady with supplies easily meeting demand. Pricing is stable with light demand. Bite Size (Cherry, Grape, Cocktail, Medley): Hothouse production of all bite sized tomato has transitioned to Mexico. Quality is good, with supplies meeting lackluster demand.
MATURE GREEN FIELD TOMATOES– Florida roma supplies are limited due to weather, but sizing and volume are expected to improve from Florida and Mexico over the next 7-10 days. Round supplies remain light due to slow maturity, though warmer weather should boost harvests and availability within 7–10 days. Florida grape volume is winding down, while Mexico continues to provide steady supplies with good overall quality. Prices are steady as demand is weak. East Coast: Round tomato supply is lighter this week due to the cold front that went through the state last week. Quality remains good and we should see improvement on supply over the next two weeks. Roma tomato supply will be lighter this week and struggling on color with some volatility this week. Overall quality is good out of Florida. Gourmet medley tomato supply was lighter last week and pricing is higher. Quality remains very nice. Grape and cherry supplies are steady and quality is good. Mexico: Mexican tomatoes crossing into the USA have a 17.9% duty. Mexican tomatoes placed in bond, destined to Canada are duty free. Round tomato volume is steady crossing through McAllen and Otay. Quality is good. There is an excellent supply of roma tomatoes as growers break into new fields, however, still expect some volatility this week should the National Market improve. Overall quality is good. Grape and cherry snacking tomatoes have excellent supply and great quality available while gourmet medley tomato supply is tight this week, and pricing was much higher. Quality is good.
WILD FORAGED PRODUCTS:
Wild Mushrooms
** DONE ** Pine (Matsutake) Mushroom: Season is done. Cultivated Morels: From Asia (Near Tibet). Regular and steady supplies. Pricing lower. 5lb baskets. Call for pricing.
Yellowfoot: From British Columbia. Perfect quality. Prices steady. 6lb baskets.
Black Trumpet Mushroom: From Oregon or California. New crop. Pricing lower. 5lb basket. Call for pricing.
Hedgehog Mushroom: From Oregon. Harvest is moving quickly. Mediums and a few buttons. “True” Pied du Mouton. Call for pricing.
Bluefoot Mushroom: Gapping in supply this week.
Yellow Chanterelle: From Oregon. Supplies are very tight. Pricing is up. Only medium size readily available. Buttons are done. 2.2lb or 6lb basket. Call for pricing.
Truffles
Himalayan Black Truffles (Tuber indicum): Black and fully ripe. Small round and very reasonably priced. Call for details.
Winter Truffles (tuber Melanosporum): Quality improving. Season is in full swing. Pricing is lower. Whole (25g-250g per piece), cuts and smalls(10g-15g per piece) available. Call for pricing.
White Truffles (tuber Magnatum): Season continues. Prices lower. Call for details.
