The supply of organic vegetables is steady right now. "We anticipate good supplies and conditions this Spring season, similar to last year," says Kevin Crossgrove, organic sales manager for The Nunes Company, Inc., home of the Foxy Organic brand.
Currently for Nunes, organic vegetable supply, including leafy greens, celery, cauliflower, herbs, and more, is coming from the Salinas Valley where growing conditions have been good. "As far as seasonal timing goes, the start to Salinas is on time to slightly early," says Crossgrove, adding that some production is also still happening in Mexico. Foxy Organic brand vegetables are available year-round with growing regions in Arizona, Nevada, and Mexico in addition to California.
He notes that late next month, Foxy Organic will begin its production in Yerington, Nevada, and seasonal organic spinach will also be available. The move to Yerington helps battle one of the biggest challenges in organic production: insect pressure, particularly in the warmer months along the California coastal growing regions.
Nevada production
From late May to the middle of October, some Foxy Organic produce is shipped out of The Walker River Cooler in Yerington, Nevada. "The quality of product is not only superior to what is in the marketplace but the location in Nevada brings the product closer to our customers, easily saving a day and a half in transportation time with carriers not having to come in and out of California–saving 600 miles. This gives our customers fresher product with less shrink," adds Crossgrove.
Meanwhile, demand is moderate right now. "We foresee the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables improving. The consumption is in relation to the warmer temperatures and seasonal recipes that incorporate vegetables for dishes, such as salads," says Crossgrove.
As for pricing, organic prices are higher compared to conventional prices. Less supply is also driving the organic markets and those markets should remain moderate to good. "The expectations for the next few weeks are that markets will continue to be good," says Crossgrove, adding that rising costs on conventional and organic production also continue to be challenging.
For more information:
Stephanie Cantero
The Nunes Company, Inc.
Tel.: +1 (831) 751-7510
[email protected]
www.foxy.com