A cold snap during the second half of December in California's broccoli-growing regions has made for a gap in supplies. A dip in production led to climbing prices, and growers believe low inventories could last through the rest of the California broccoli deal.“The broccoli market is red-hot,” noted Jason Lathos, commodity manager for Church Brothers Produce. “Out of the five major commodities, this is, by far, the tightest item.” On January 15, prices for a carton of bunched 14s out of the Imperial Valley were between $18.45 and $24.55, and prices for a 20-pound carton of loose crown cut broccoli were between $24.00 and $27.50. Those prices, as high as they are, have come down from highs earlier this month nearing $30.00 per carton.
The high prices are a result of sluggish supplies. Up until the cold snap in December, warm weather spurred on big production, and growers were several weeks ahead of schedule. But the cold put a pause on a fast production pace. Storms also brought problems with quality, further cutting into supplies. The remainder of the season will likely involve a short market, as growers look to supply their customers with broccoli which may not be available.
“This market will be active through the balance of the winter season,” noted Lathos. “There are about 13 weeks left in the season, and we have about 10 weeks of product to cover that period of time.”
For more information:
Jason Lathos
Church Brothers Produce
+1 800 799 9475