NEWS FROM THE FARM

We know you're concerned about food costs and availability with the tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico. We are evaluating alternative production regions and reviewing our pricing structures to minimize disruptions, but we do expect to see price impacts on some items that are not available from US producers right now owing to the season or those that are typically imported (think: avocados). Unfortunately, this situation will also put price pressure on domestic growers owing to increased demand. That said, we do not anticipate inventory issues.

With ongoing fluctuations in the commodity egg market, we understand you may be concerned about pricing and availability. Despite market uncertainty, we are absorbing the impact of rising commodity egg costs to keep pricing stable for our customers.

While specialty eggs remain stable in price, they are increasingly difficult to source, which makes commodity eggs the more reliable option at this time.

Although the Urner Barry Egg Index reflects significant volatility, our buyers have worked diligently to ensure we have commodity egg inventory in stock and are continuing to maintain fair, steady pricing.

Read more on the egg market here: Egg Shortage | Baldor Specialty Foods

The industry is shifting from Chilean to Mexican fruit, driving prices up as demand outpaces supply. Growers are prioritizing smaller 6oz packs. Florida’s season is delayed until late March/early April. Organic production in Mexico is slowing.  Since U.S. organic blues are fresher, prices remain higher than Mexico by $2-$3.50/lb.

Size availability has improved, but sugar levels (Brix) are unstable, prompting growers to extend ripening. The market remains tight and is expected to stay elevated through June.

Warm temperatures in Yuma have caused staggered plantings to mature simultaneously, leading to an oversupply. With February’s cold snap slowing demand, some growers are plowing fields instead of harvesting due to unsustainably low prices. Our merchants are working closely with growers to manage margins and navigate supply chain strategies.

Just in time for our menu planning, we’ve put together a Specialty Produce Planning Guide! Based on arrival dates from previous years and ETA’s from our farm partners, these are our best predictions for our arrivals.