The Trade Buzz

CROP UPDATES

STRAWBERRIES

strawberry

Santa Maria

Quality: Overall strawberry quality is great. 

Volume: Despite some light rain on Thursday, there was no effect in the field aside from a few muddy furrows. There are no more rain showers in the ten-day forecast, therefore production is anticipated to remain strong.

Pack Counts: Conventional: 20-26.

 

Mexico

Quality: Overall strawberry quality is strong, with good color, size, and shape.

Volume: Production is steady.

Pack Counts: Conventional: 22-24.

 

Florida

Quality: Quality has been good. Minimal bruising and a few white shoulders.

Volume: All varieties continue steady production across all stages—green fruit, bloom, and mature fruit—providing consistent supply.

Pack Counts: 20-24.

BLUEBERRIES

blueberry

Peru/Chile

Peru Region Update: The Peruvian organic program is nearing completion, with the last containers are expected to arrive within the next couple of weeks. After these shipments, the Peruvian organic season will conclude until the fall.

Chile Region Update: Chile’s initial arrivals are expected to feature larger fruit sizes, averaging 17–18 mm, which is typical for early-season picks. As the season progresses into second and third picks, sizing will trend toward 14–16 mm, particularly on northern highbush varieties. There were no arrivals from Chile this week. However, several containers are scheduled to arrive next week, with expected mid week landings. The upcoming Chilean fruit will help support pint and 18 ounce demand during a period of tightening supply from Peru.

Oxnard

Region Update: Oxnard organic production is increasing, with an expected output of 0.25-0.5 loads this week, continuing with six-ounce field packs delivered directly to CGC. Quality has been strong, with good bloom and firm berries, though occasional stems and soft berries have been noted.

Mexico

Region Update: The estimate for Mexico this week is penciling out at about 20% less than expected. However, despite a few days of rain earlier in the week, conditions have since improved. Weather in the growing regions is currently favorable, with production running smoothly as planned. Pack plans and pack percentages remain consistent with prior weeks, with a continued focus on maximizing jumbo packs over the next four weeks.

RASPBERRIES

raspberry

Mexico

Quality: Quality is good overall.

Volume: Conventional raspberry production is steady.

BLACKBERRIES

blackberry

Mexico

Region Update: Blackberry quality is fair. The most common defect is leakage, typically limited to one or two drupelets per berry. Some soft fruit and very minimal regression have been noted, but these issues are not widespread.

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SEPC Southern Exposure

Feb. 26 – Mar. 1
Orlando, Florida
Booth #728

CPMA

April 28-30
Toronto, Canada

Organic Produce Summit

July 14-16
Monterey, CA

IFPA Foodservice Conference

July 23-24
Monterey, CA
Booth #102

SEPC Southern Innovations

September 9-12
Nashville, TN

IFPA Global Produce & Floral Show

October 14-16
Orlando, FL

New York Produce Show

December 1-3
New York City, NY

A berry nice note from a California Giant Berry Farms shopper:

“I just wanted to take a moment to say how much I appreciate the care and quality that goes into every berry you grow. Whether it’s strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries, your fruit is always vibrant, flavorful, and fresh—something that really stands out in today’s market. As someone who values clean, wholesome food, your berries have become a regular staple in my kitchen. It’s also inspiring to see your commitment to sustainability and community. From field to table, it’s clear that you prioritize doing things the right way, and it makes a difference. I love supporting companies that care not just about great products, but about the people and planet too.”

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