Demand for smaller sizes of Valencia oranges from California has perked up, as the state's citrus growers transition from the Navel crop. Availability of Navels stretched longer into the summer than anticipated, delaying early sales of Valencias.“Packouts, in general, have been heavier to larger sized fruit than normal,” noted Pat Simas with The Chuck Olsen Company in Visalia, California. “I wouldn't say there's an increased demand or interest in smaller fruit than normal for this time of year, but smaller sized Valencias seem to be moving well as there aren't as many around.”
Movement has been fair thus far, making for a steady market. On July 26, prices for a carton of first grade Valencia 40s from California were between $14.05 and $16.05, and prices for a carton 113s were between $13.05 and $15.05.
The state's growers are reaching peak production on Valencias, this after the Navel season went long.
“Late Navels have provided other options longer than normal, and I think that held back the Valencia deal a little,” said Simas. “Rather than starting right away in late-May or early June, when it usually starts, the Valencia deal just dragged along.”
For more information:
Pat Simas
The Chuck Olsen Company
+1 559 651 5900