Broccoli market heating up

After weeks of low prices, broccoli demand is growing as the crop transitions, causing prices to rise.

Just this week, prices started inching up, but they should continue to increase through mid-April, according to an update this week from Markon Cooperative BB #:123315.

“Markets have been weak for the past several weeks, but are positioned to rise next week,” the alert said. “Mexican-grown supplies are winding down sooner than expected, putting increased pressure on domestic growers.”

Demand for domestic broccoli is increasing, Markon said, as Salinas Valley, CA, new crop stocks ramp up quickly with warm weather. However, “rain is forecast for early next week, raising concerns for quality issues such as pin rot.”

Markon is telling buyers to expect tighter supplies and higher prices through the end of the seasonal transition in about mid-April.