After assessing impacts from low temperatures Feb. 4 in West Mexico, growers and distributors expect to have steady but reduced volumes throughout the growing season. Despite some media reports indicating widespread crop losses, early assessments do not represent the true impact to the vegetable deal.
“Contrary to some early prognostications, we expect to see steady supplies of key items like tomatoes, bell peppers and melons throughout the season,” said Lance Jungmeyer, President of the Nogales, Ariz.-based Fresh Produce Association of the Americas.
West Mexico has a variety of micro-climates, meaning that while some fields were damaged extensively, growers from other areas will still be able to offer marketable supplies of key items.
“Retail and foodservice buyers should continue to regard Nogales as their first choice for winter vegetables,” Jungmeyer said. “Volumes may be lower than normal, but buyers will find that the market remains well-supplied because of the increase in protected agriculture and the variety of microclimates in Mexico.” Meanwhile, growers continue to assess the extent of damages to plants, foliage, fruit and bloom.
Generally, items grown under protected agriculture (greenhouse, shadehouse, hothouse) are showing signs of emerging in better shape than open-field varieties. However, because of the microclimates, some open-field items will remain available. Buyers should coordinate with their individual suppliers.
Promotable volumes of table grapes from West Mexico can be expected given that most vines were in the early stages of their spring growth. It is too early to project harvest and start-dates on grapes, however there will be ample fruit available overall. In fact, the flavor of table grapes tends to benefit from cool nights.
Mango volumes will not be adversely affected by the cold weather. It will take up to several weeks before a reasonable harvest projection takes shape. Growers, with the assistance of CAADES, AALPUM and AMHPAC, continue to assess how much produce will be available. Crops most affected include squash, cucumbers and green beans.
“We live up to a quality standard as an industry, and it is a standard that retailers and food service companies have grown to rely on. Mexican Growers and their distributors are working with a commitment to those high standards. High-tech packing equipment and expert quality-control staff are two of the factors that contribute to this process” Jungmeyer added.
Product availability after this weather event is expected to continue at steady but lower levels than normal for the next 6 to 8 weeks.
Source: Fresh Produce Association of the Americas