“We are transitioning out of the sunburst tangerines and moving into the honey tangerines,” says Jack Cain with Westlake Produce. The sunburst season was characterized by short supply and small size fruit. “It wasn’t a great season,” Cain added. For the premium size fruit, demand exceeded supply. “Consumers tend to like the bigger pieces, but we were able to use the smaller fruit in 3 lb. bags.”Late start for honeys
“The honey tangerine season isn’t looking favorable either,” admitted Cain. Warmer weather in November and December caused a delay in the development of the fruit, so harvest starts about 2 to 3 weeks later than normal. “I expect we will start in another week.” It’s a small volume crop and sizing is small as well with mostly 180 and 150 count and some 120 count. Honey tangerines will be available into mid-April.
Consumption down
Small supplies are caused by the weather as well as citrus greening. “This disease is causing havoc in the groves,” said Cain. If that wasn’t enough, the Florida tangerine industry is experiencing heavy competition from California and Spain. “Those clementines are devastating to our industry,” shared Cain. “They are easy to peel and seedless and are an important factor in the decline of honey tangerine consumption.”
For more information:
Jack Cain
Westlake Produce Company
Tel: (+1) 863-412-8806