STRAWBERRIES
Santa Maria
Quality: Quality remains strong. Minor shape issues persist, attributed to windy conditions from previous weeks and plant genetics, but overall fruit quality is good.
Volume: This week’s production is currently at a 2x-4x jump in production numbers compared to last week, driven by strong green fruit, heavy flower sets, clean‑up progress, and warm, dry conditions.
Pack Counts: Conventional: 14-16; Organic spring crop: 18-20.
Florida
Quality: Quality is good with the primary quality concern is fruit bruising, exacerbated by temperatures that are 10 degrees above normal for this time of year. Growers are actively managing this issue and maintaining good pack quality. Fields with thrip problems are being selectively harvested to minimize impact.
Volume: This week’s forecast has been increased by another 10%-15%, with the upcoming week likely to be the peak of the season.
Pack Counts: Conventional: 16-20.
BLUEBERRIES
Peru/Chile
Peru Region Update: Two containers, one pint and two 6oz, are being shipped from Peru. The first container arrived Monday, while the rest are expected by Friday. All remaining Peruvian volume is currently on the water, marking the final shipments from South America for the season. Peru is also at the end of its season. Availability limited.
Chile Region Update: Chile’s conventional supply continues to decline as the season winds down.
Oxnard
Region Update: Oxnard continues to be a key organic supply point during the South American transition. This area is packing limited amounts of pints and 18oz to committed customers day to day.
Mexico
Region Update: Mexico’s volumes are expected to run lighter in Weeks 8 through 10, followed by a more robust and extended peak in Weeks 12 through 17. Early projections suggest weekly production during the peak may reach approximately 20 loads a week, though field teams are still refining these estimates.
RASPBERRIES
Mexico
Quality: Raspberry quality in Mexico remains strong overall. Fruit across the region is showing consistent color, good size, and excellent flavor, with most lots trending slightly riper but still maintaining desirable firmness. This additional ripeness has enhanced flavor intensity without compromising fruit integrity.
Volume: Conventional raspberry production is steady.
BLACKBERRIES
Mexico
Region Update: Blackberry quality continues to hold steady despite ongoing heat in several growing regions. Fruit displays an even, glossy black color throughout the pack, and overall appearance remains attractive. Some soft fruit and light regression are being observed, but these issues are currently limited and not widespread.
Volume: Conventional blackberry production is steady.
Meet Us On The Road
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
Shopper Praise
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.”
