Though volumes of imported papayas continue to steadily increase as the year progresses, the market for the fruit has been strong. While there's a steady supply stream, high-quality fruit is commanding good prices.
“There's no shortage of papayas, but demand for good quality is up,” said Lorenz Hartmann de Barros of HLB Specialties. “You have a lot of people with fruit, but you might see a lot of poor quality around, especially when the rainy season in Mexico starts.” Hartmann explained that good prices lured many growers into planting papayas, which mature relatively quickly after planting. The influx of fruit has kept volumes up, but prices haven't necessarily followed supply trends.
On May 6, prices for a carton of Maradol papayas were between $20.00 and $22.00 at Mexico crossings through Texas. At South Florida ports of entry, prices for a 3.5-kilogram container of Golden 7s from Brazil were between $10.00 and $12.00, and prices for a carton of Tainung 8s from Guatemala were between $18.00 and $20.00.
Changing Tastes
Though the Maradol papaya is the most common variety that comes from Mexico, other varieties are gaining popularity. The golden variety is sweeter, but it is also smaller. The Formosa, which is a Tainung variety, matches the Maradol on size but is sweeter than the Maradol.
“More retailers are switching to the Formosa because of the longer shelf life and the flavor,” said Hartmann. “We did a taste test in Mexico, and people preferred the taste of the Formosa. It's just a work in progress, getting people to try the newer variety and getting them used to it.”
For more information:
Lorenz Hartmann de Barros
HLB Specialties
+1 954 475 8808