Unfavorable weather has caused quality issues with broccoli imported from Mexico. With plentiful supplies of broccoli out of California outstripping current demand, prices have been low.
“The broccoli market is difficult and complicated right now, and nobody knows where it's going to go,” said Juan Lozano of Honey Bee Produce in Texas. “There is so much product out there that prices are dropping.” On June 25, prices for a 20-pound carton of loose crown cut broccoli were between $7.50 and $9.25 at Mexico crossings through Texas. For a carton of loose crown, prices were between $6.35 and $10.55 out of Salinas and between $5.00 and $7.35 out of Santa Maria. For a carton of bunched 14s, prices were between $5.45 and $9.55 out of Salinas and between $5.50 and $8.95 out of Santa Maria.
Lozano said "he saw prices around the $14.50 range in previous weeks, but they've fallen as supplies have increased." Mexico is also sending steady supplies, but rains in Guanajuato and Puebla have caused problems with quality. But, as an importer, he believes he can get better prices once those quality issues clear up.
“We will receive broccoli from Mexico next week so we can go with good product to wholesalers and retailers,” said Lozano. “Prices are low and people don't want to move a lot of product because of the problems with it, but I think the situation could get better.”
For more information:
Juan Lozano
Honey Bee Produce
+1 956 630 0646