The supply of Brussels sprouts from Mexico is steady. "Now that it has warmed up in Mexico, about 95 percent of what we're seeing is from there and the supply and quality are good," says Sara Thompson, vice president of Grown Up Fresh Produce Company (formerly known as Pacific Coast Trading Company), adding that there is a bit of purpling on the product.
The overall supply of Brussels sprouts is better this year. "More people planted because we are getting more year-round demand. It used to be that January and February would crash on demand. March will still soften up but there's more in the ground," says Thompson.
Demand for Brussels at retail and foodservice
As for demand, Thompson says it's more year-round than it's ever been and the vegetable is moving away from its status as a more holiday-oriented item. "This time of year demand isn't as strong as it is in November-December. However it is on so many more menus as the "it" winter veg and it is a reasonably priced product, so home consumers are using it more too," she says.
Meanwhile, pricing on Brussels sprouts is consistent and also similar to this time last year. There are also promotions underway to help move the vegetable.
Looking ahead, supply will start to lighten following peak supply in November-December. "Supply then was 30-40 percent higher than they are right now," says Thompson. "So between now and July when U.S. product comes in, I see stable supply unless there's a major crop failure, which we're not seeing."
For more information:
Sara Thompson
Grown Up Fresh Produce Company
Tel: +1 (877) 319-7788
[email protected]
https://www.grownupfresh.com/