Cold weather in the Mexican growing regions has affected production of yellow squash. Supplies have been light and there have also been some quality issues present. Producers have noted that this cold weather is unseasonable and is normally not seen at the end of February.
"Yellow squash is currently being grown in Sonora as well as Sinaloa, Mexico," said Sergio Huerta of VP Fresh Produce. "These areas, especially around Hermosillo, have been impacted by cold weather recently. Supplies are now lighter and we have also seen some quality issues related to the cold weather."
"Typically, these kind of conditions can occur at the end of December or early January," Huerta noted. "It's very rare for them to affect the region at the end of February. This region will be the primary source of yellow squash for at least another month, when supplies begin to reduce in April."
Market strengthening
Demand for yellow squash is good, and with the tightening of supply, the market has risen. Prices are almost double of what they are normally, and even second grade produce is attracting a high price.
"It's a very good market at the moment," Huerta said. "We are seeing a good level of demand combined with reduced volume currently and this has driven the price much higher than we typically see it. Right now, yellow squash prices are between $18.00 - $24.00/$26.00. Generally, a decent market is normally around $12.00 for this time of year. With the amount of grade 2 produce around, producers are selling them for a good price as well - around $14.00, and they have no problems with moving them at that price."
"The zucchini squash market is also very high right now," he continued. "There is very little zucchini around as well, and therefore the zucchini and yellow squash markets are head to head, both seeing very high prices for this time of year."
For more information:
Sergio Huerta
VP Fresh Produce
Tel: +1 (520) 281-4000