California Iceberg Prices Remain High as Leaf Lettuce Supplies Stabilize
Contrary to other reports, leafy lettuce prices are stabilizing.
Recent unfavorable East Coast weather conditions - heat in the Ohio Valley, New Jersey, and the southeast and rains in Eastern Canada -have taken a toll on the leaf lettuce crop, causing higher demand for the category and California iceberg as a substitute. However, leaf lettuce varieties have been trending towards lower pricing over the past several weeks.
Though demand is still high for red leaf, green leaf and romaine lettuce, prices are starting to stabilize and have been on the decline while iceberg pricing is still seeing highs.
As of Friday, August 2, iceberg prices averaged $22.24 for 24 liners and $23.24 for 24 ct wraps, meaning prices are currently about double what they typically run during the summer.
Growers note that projections are difficult, but should the market continue in its current direction, leaf lettuce prices will continue to fall.
West coast Broccoli and Cauliflower are also at above normal FOB’s for summer due to tight supplies.
Stay tuned for AndNowUKnow for updates on the situation.
