Prices for Valencia oranges continue to be strong, as the season for those oranges in California hits its homestretch. Prolonged heat has made for what could be a Navel orange season with very good quality, though a lack of rain could mean less-than-anticipated production.“Valencia oranges are still available, probably for a couple more weeks,” said Al Imbimbo, vice president of sales for Suntreat. “Pricing for them is good, especially on smaller sizes.” While there's currently less demand for larger sizes, a carton of 13s is going for about $19 per carton, which Imbimbo estimated was about four dollars higher than normal.
“I think prices are due to a shortage of fruit,” said Imbimbo. “I think there is a bit of a shortage from the freeze during winter, and, traditionally, smaller sizes demand better prices than bigger ones.” The quality of Navel oranges, which are expected to be picked in large numbers starting the first week of October, is expected to be very good. With many days of hot weather this growing season, the extra heat units will make for fruit with high sugar content. This season's production, however, could be less than what initial estimates have predicted.
“I think the current Navel estimate is about right, though it could prove to be a little aggressive,” said Imbimbo. “It all depends on if we get rain. If we get rain, the production will be there, if not, it won't.” The latest estimate from the USDA for this year's Navel crop puts it at 81 million cartons.
For more information:
Al Imbimbo
Suntreat Packing & Shipping Company
+1 559 562 4988