Florida grapefruit supply is still good and should stay that way into mid to late March. “That’s very similar to when we would usually end. We try to make it through March with our grapefruit each year,” says Steven Callaham of the Dundee Citrus Growers.
This comes even with a slightly earlier start to the season. “We had good maturity levels on grapefruit. Most crops were running about one to two weeks earlier this season,” he says.
It’s also quite a difference from last season when Hurricane Ian made its way through the state in September 2022, significantly impacting the citrus supply from Florida. This season however the crop has rebounded, albeit not to what growers feel a full crop would be.
Other growing regions
Along with Florida production, there is also supply coming from Texas and California, though the latter state, which has a longer market window, tends to increase in volume as Florida and Texas wind their seasons down. “We have seen an uptick of Mexican grapefruit into the U.S. this year compared to last season so we’ll have to see how that goes moving forward,” says Callaham.
As for demand, it’s been very strong. “It just goes to show the quality is very good this season,” says Callaham. “We’ve got a really good eating piece of fruit, we have good external appearance to the fruit and it is moving well and we’re getting a lot of steady consistent business.”
In turn, it’s made for a season of consistent pricing given the good balance between the supply and demand of grapefruit. “Looking ahead, I think things will remain consistent through February. As supply starts getting light towards the end of the season, oftentimes there will be a little increase in pricing as the volume gets down and demand exceeds supply,” says Callaham.
For more information:
Steven Callaham
Dundee Citrus Growers
Tel: +1 (863) 439-1574
info@dun-d.com
http://dun-d.com/