“Our domestic pear supply is dwindling,” explained Addie Pobst of Viva Tierra Organic. The Washington state company is dealing with sparse inventory as the supply of organic pears harvested in 2015 is running low and the wait for imports is beginning.
“Very soon we will be into imports from Argentina,” said Pobst.
Pobst anticipates high demand for new crop organic pears by the end of the month, after this limbo period, with high prices reflecting those conditions. But, she noted, prices usually stabilize once the supply steadies.
Speaking of demand, pears have gained popularity due to increased use of the fruit by restaurants and within the foodie culture, and according to Pobst, even grocery stores are taking notice.
“Markets may stock two or three mainstay varieties and then also throw in some more exciting or specialty varieties, to peak interest.”
That results in Alexander Lucas and Abate Fetel pear varieties sharing space with traditional Bartlett, D’Anjou and Bosc pears, widening pear exposure for the average consumer.
As for conventionally grown pears, there’s an ample supply coming out of Washington State. The U.S. is the third largest pear producer in the world, with Pacific Northwest pear growers producing 80% of the nation’s pear supply. Nearly a dozen varieties are grown in this region, from the well-known Bartlett to the lesser-known Forelle. Many pear varieties have a wide range of seasonality, making the fruit available nearly year round.
As with the organic sector, conventional pear supplies from Chile and Argentina will also become available soon, resulting in a constant pear inventory.
For more information:
Addie Pobst
Viva Terra Organic
+1 360 855-0566