Supplies of Brussels sprouts are tightening as production shifts from Mexico to the Pacific Northwest.
"For the next six to eight weeks, production will move from Mexico into the Pacific Northwest. However, the recent heat in Mexico has not done us any favors. It has probably tightened a little faster than in years past," says Chris Elmer of Alpine Fresh, Inc., based in Miami, FL. "Our Mexican Brussels sprout program starts at the beginning of the year and generally wraps up mid to late August. But the weather has made for a quicker transition and tighter market than what we typically see this time of year."
Alpine Fresh will pick up production with new fields in Washington and Canada and anticipate promotional volumes that will continue to help grow the category and level out pricing.
The demand for Brussels sprouts has remained consistent and has become a popular item amongst consumers in recent years. "The pandemic forced most of us into our own kitchens and shoppers have been more apt than ever to try new items. Brussels sprouts have benefitted. With foodservice coming back, we anticipate another increase in consumption," says Elmer. "We are also excited to have added a microwavable bag to our product line, making it easier to add Brussels to your plate"
While Elmer says the popularity of Brussels sprouts continues to grow, the demand for organic Brussels sprouts is particularly rising. "This is an item consumers prefer to eat organic and we continue to grow our programs to meet this demand,” he says. Alpine Fresh is currently an eight-month supplier of organic Brussels sprouts. However, the company expects to have a year-round supplies by 2022.
For more information:
Ashley Yager
Alpine Fresh
Tel: +1 (305) 594.9117
ayager@alpinefresh.com
https://www.alpinefresh.com/