Duda Farm Fresh Foods' Martin Jefferson Talks Lettuce Quality and Volume
SALINAS, CA - Whether it’s tossed into a refreshing summer salad, or topping off a sandwich/burger, lettuce is the unsung hero of the produce world.
I chatted with Martin Jefferson, Production Manager with Duda Farm Fresh Foods, about the particulars of the company's steady west coast lettuce season.
“We’re about two-thirds of the way through our season,” he shared with me. “And quality is great. Our volumes are similar to last year at this time, though there’s some pressure when the regional players are able to get to the market as well.”
Given that we’re in the prime time of the summer, Martin explains to me that short term, local producers in other regions impact the market this time of year by adding available product. This often reduces Duda's access to the regional areas they supply during these summer periods, but because the company has been able to withstand record-high temperatures while still providing excellent quality, Martin is unworried.
“The heat wave is somewhat of a challenge, although it’s not causing any major issues,” he tells me. He then laughs, telling me that he doesn’t have much to share because, outside of wishing for better prices, the season’s going well and as planned, but I think that’s something worth sharing!
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