Supplies of watermelon right now are light which is normal for this time of year. “This is from both offshore and out of Nogales, Mexico,” says Dennis Peterson of Riverbend Fresh LLC, noting the offshore product is from Guatemala.
That said, the supply is greater right now than last year at this time. “Part of the problem we had in this window last year was that we had some storms in Mexico which knocked the crop back. They planted the same this year or even a bit more and we’re having good supply,” says Peterson.
As for demand, it’s normal for winter on melons--the fruit is notably one in which demand picks up once temperatures start going up. “Those that want it and need it right now, such as salad bars or for menus, they have them but people will generally eat more when it’s sunny,” says Peterson.
Stronger pricing
On pricing, Peterson says watermelons are “pricey but available” which is normal for this time of year. It should stay that way until more supply comes on in April.
Meanwhile, spring planting is underway in Nogales for the early to mid-April harvest. “Time will tell here in the next month or so what the growing conditions will be like as far as colder temperatures. It’s colder which is not unusual for winter but maybe we’re past that,” he says.
For more information:
Dennis Peterson
Riverbend Fresh LLC.
Tel: +1 (559) 846-3320
dennis@riverbendfresh.com
http://riverbendfresh.com