Supplies of imported asparagus are lower currently. “We are about 15 to 20 percent below last year’s volumes. Some weeks show an even greater disparity,” says Carlos Solf, director of procurement for Southern Specialties.
While production of asparagus is timely coming out of Peru, it is lower than last year at this time and the exportable percentage is lower as well due to the effects of El Nino. “Supply is from Ica and some northern areas. Ica is less affected in than the north but it’s still experiencing lower production than past years,” says Solf.
Outside of Peru, production is also starting in Baja and Hermosillo, Mexico. “Diminished supplies and high relative growing and production costs are challenging,” Solf says, adding that Southern Specialties has partnerships through which it’s working to deliver the value and information customers rely on it for.
Growth in the asparagus category
As for demand, it’s good and not surprisingly, exceeds supply. Demand is expected to stay good even as supplies increase. “Asparagus has become a regular menu item for foodservice establishments and households. As long as the industry can maintain approachable price points, we expect to see growth within the category,” says Solf. Currently, spot prices are higher than last year due to the lack of supply.
Looking ahead, in a normal year, October and November would yield peak production for Peru. “Even though we will have seasonally lower yields, we expect more volume in the coming weeks,” says Solf.
For more information:
Charlie Eagle
Southern Specialties
Tel: +1 (404) 949-0944
ceagle@southspec.com
www.southernspecialties.com