UNITED STATES - As blueberries transition further north, supplies are trending a little light while prices remain steady to meet demand. As Independence Day quickly approaches, what is on the horizon for the berry of deepest blue?

According to the most recent report from California Giant Berry Farms’ Buzz Crop Update, California’s blueberry season is quickly coming to a close in the Central Valley, while the Pacific Northwest is ramping up quickly due to a recent warming trend. Oregon began harvest last week and is now in full swing, while Washington is just starting to scratch, picking up the week of July 7. British Columbia is two weeks ahead of the region’s typical schedule—one of its earliest on record.

Additional market insights from The USDA’s latest FOB review look at blueberries from South and Central California, South New Jersey, as well as Mexico crossings through California, Arizona, and Texas.

South and Central California supply is tight, with moderate demand keeping slightly ahead, with the market about steady overall. Wide range in prices reported across sizes:

• Flats, 12 6 oz cups with lids: 12.00-16.00, occasional higher and lower
• Flats, 12 1 pint cups with lids: 20.00-24.00, occasional lower
• Cartons, 8 18 oz containers with lids: 20.00-24.00; few 26.00-28.00, occasional lower.
• Organic flats, 12 6 oz cups with lids: 22.00-24.00, occasional lower
• Organic flats, 12 1 pint cups with lids: 24.00-26.00, occasional higher and lower

South New Jersey blueberries are seeing good demand and a seedy market, while Mexico reports crossing through Arizona, California, and Texas see light supply with moderate demand, market about steady.

Prices represent open (spot) market sales by first handlers on product, according to the USDA, and may include promotional allowances or other incentives. No consideration is given to after-sale adjustments unless otherwise stated.

As summer holidays heat up, AndNowUKnow will report the latest on all the key fresh categories.