The first container of W. Murcotts left Peru at the end of June and entered the port of Long Beach, California in the second week of July. It is a short season as the last container is expected to get to The Golden State mid-September. “We are noticing increased demand this year,” says Jim Cutsinger with International Citrus & Produce. “Consumers have become more knowledgeable about this citrus variety and are more interested in consumer citrus products during the summer months. We are also pushing this item stronger,” Cutsinger added. The Peruvian growing season was a little better than last year, with El Niño having a positive impact. “Increased rainfall resulted in larger sizing and better quality,” mentioned Cutsinger. “I am not aware of any negative effects of El Nino.”
Transition from W. Murcotts into Honey Murcotts
The first Honey Murcotts are in transition at the moment. They were shipped August 17 and should enter California around September 10. “We should receive the very first container with Honey Murcotts of the season,” shared Cutsinger. It’s a short season as well as Honey Murcotts are only available until the end of October.
Honey Murcotts are sweeter and contain a high juice level. W. Murcotts on the other hand contain less seeds. All citrus entering the US from Peru has to undergo a cold treatment and the high brix level definitely helps out in view of the cold treatment. “For phytosanitary reasons, the product is kept at 33⁰F for 15 days, which has quite an effect on the fruit. It affects the skin and reduces shelf-life.”
For more information:
Jim Cutsinger
International Citrus & Produce
Tel: (+1) 650-342-4525