California rain to cause vegetable price hike in Chicago
As a result, Chicago-area shoppers could see price hikes in March and April on items including lettuces, greens, broccoli, cauliflower, celery and strawberries.
"The whole Salinas Valley is playing catch-up," Antle said. By summer, supply likely will catch up with demand and prices will return to normal, he said.
Steve Jarzombek, vice president of produce for Roundy's stores, which include Mariano's, said the rains have delayed the harvest of citrus in California, but the greater concern will be the supply gap in leafy greens and vegetables approaching Easter.
"Consumers might start seeing price increases over the next few weeks," Jarzombek said.
source: chicagotribune.com
