The California avocado season has now concluded with only trace amounts of fruit remaining in the market. Seasonal volume increased from the previous year despite some fruit loss during some of the more intense heat waves during the summer.
"We finished the California season several weeks ago and most of the big players have also shut down now," said Jose Rodriguez of Freska Produce. "We had 30 percent more volume than previous years although the industry saw some quality issues during the heat wave. As a result, some retailers eased out of the California deal before it had finished as quality declined towards the end of the season."
Mexico now the main supplier to US market
Towards the end of the California season, Peruvian avocados were also making their way into the US market. Additionally, Mexico was in production as well. Volume was becoming heavy and the market weakened. The situation has changed now and the market has somewhat rebounded, with Mexico the main supplier. Peruvian shipments to the United States are finishing up. For now, Mexican production is strengthening, although rain is a limiting factor.
"Currently, we are focused on the Mexican season," Rodriguez said. "Peru is sending its last shipments while Mexico is ramping up. The only hold on Mexico is rain. In Michoacán, heavy rain has been on and off, but is expected to ease soon as the rainy season draws to a close."
PMA opportunity to present new products
Freska Produce will be using next month's PMA Fresh Summit to showcase some of their products, including avocados from both Mexico and California.
"This year at PMA, we will have the chance to show visitors some of our interesting commodities," Rodriguez said. "These include Dehydrated mango as well as our fresh mango programs. Additionally, we will have avocados from Mexico & California."
Freska Produce will be at Booth #1681.
For more information:
Jose Rodriguez
Freska Produce
Tel: +1 (805) 650-1040
jose@freskaproduce.com
www.freskaproduce.com