Steady is how things currently look overall in the parsley business.
“The supplies of parsley seem to be normal right now,” says Camilo Penalosa of Miami-based Infinite Herbs. “It’s coming from California and Mexico and there’s some from Florida.”
At the same time, demand for parsley from both retailers and foodservice clients seems to be equally even.
“Demand for parsley is year-round,” says Penalosa. “But in the summer, in places where they sell more fish—such as parts of New England—there’s more demand then, particularly in foodservice.”
Pricing even too
At the same time, prices for parsley have also been stable and similar to last year’s pricing.
Looking ahead, Penalosa notes that right now, parsley growing is relatively smooth. “However in about a month or so, you will see some prices go up because it’s the change from the southern growing regions to the north,” he says.
That change in growing parsley brings on a challenge that growers face annually: longer daylight hours which trigger a ‘bolting’ reaction in the parsley, or a flowering which can last as long as three weeks. Once a plant bolts, you either have to cut and let it grow back or eliminate the crop and replant, notes Penalosa.
For more information:
Camilo Penalosa
Infinite Herbs
Tel: +1 (617) 319-9253
cpenalosa@infiniteherbs.com
www.infiniteherbs.com