Strawberry market sees strong supplies, price drop ahead

Consumer demand for strawberries shows no let up after the Mother’s Day holiday push, and California growers are ready for it.

Markon Cooperative BB #:123315 reported in a crop update this week, that strawberry supplies are increasing to meet strong demand, and markets should remain steady next week and then likely dropping ahead of Memorial Day.

In Salinas/Watsonville, CA, “Volume will increase next week as favorable growing conditions are forecast. Fruit size is large (14-18 per 1-pound clamshell). Quality is great: firm fruit with 90-95% color,” Markon said.

In Santa Maria, CA, “Warm weather will increase stocks next week. Fruit size is medium (18-20 per 1-pound clamshell). Quality is good: some green shoulders have been reported.”

In Oxnard, CA, “Supplies are extremely limited; most growers have ended the season. Quality is fair: bruising is being reported. Most growers have transitioned to the Santa Maria and Watsonville/Salinas growing regions.”