Brussels sprouts are in slimmer supply out of California. "There are low yields and quality issues due to recent weather events which have led to below budgeted supply," says Ron Mondo of Ippolito International. "The supply is much lower than last year."
Right now, the sprouts are coming from the Salinas Valley where the weather, which includes both high heat and rain, has heavily impacted growing conditions overall. The season also started slightly earlier than last year by about seven days. The season from this region will end in February.
© Ippolito InternationalMondo says the supply of Brussels sprouts is much lower than last year.
Holidays expected to boost demand
Meanwhile, demand for Brussels sprouts is moderate. "As we prepare for the holidays we will see more demand as consumers add Brussels sprouts to their menus," says Mondo. "One of the biggest challenges is making sure we keep our current supplies under control so we don't have a shortage in November."
All of this is leaving pricing higher than Mondo has seen in his time in the business. "We are at $60 from the USDA. It continues to climb daily. Last year we were at $25 with good supplies," he says, adding that looking ahead, Brussels sprouts will continue to be in light supplies and see high pricing.
Brussels sprouts are just one of the items that the company will be discussing at the upcoming Global Produce & Floral show this month in Anaheim, CA. The company will also be sampling the Queen Victoria Brussels Bites® product line at the show. The retail Brussels Bites® Kits are pre-washed, bite-sized Brussels sprouts in a 14 oz retail kit which includes seasonings and toppings. Currently, four flavors are available: Barbecue Cheddar, Garlic Bacon, Ginger & Sweet Chili, and Feta & Sun Dried Tomato. A foodservice pack is also available.
All of these latest fresh produce innovations will be featured at the show and the company is exhibiting in booth #1071.
For more information:
Lara Grossman
Ippolito International
Tel: +1 (831)789-8761
[email protected]
www.qvproduce.com
