OXNARD, CA - Lemonade stands are a summertime staple, but will there be product to match the consumer demand that seems to inevitably follow the warming temperatures?

The Source stated lemon markets remain on the stronger side, with 165 count and smaller sizes continuing to be somewhat tight. California’s San Joaquin Valley is nearing the end of its season, while the state’s Ventura County/Oxnard area is emerging as the primary growing region.

Quality is looking good for all current crops, with Yuma still maintaining steady volumes and pricing. As Ventura begins ramp up, pricing in the region is still on the higher side and looks to remain so in the coming days.

Out of the L.A. Terminal Market, the USDA reports California South and Central shippers at the following sizes and prices:

• 75s: 30.00-33.00; mostly 31.00-32.00 with occasional higher/lower
• 95s: 32.00-34.00; mostly 33.00-34.00 with occasional higher/lower
• 115s: 35.00-38.00; mostly 36.00-37.00 with occasional higher/lower
• 140s: 37.00-40.00; mostly 38.00-39.00 with occasional higher/lower
• 165s: 39.00-42.00; mostly 40.00-41.00 with occasional higher/lower
• 200s: 39.00-42.00; mostly 40.00-41.00 with occasional higher/lower
• 235s: 39.00-42.00; mostly 40.00-41.00 with occasional higher/lower

The USDA clarified prices quoted cover sales by primary receivers of overall supplies on wholesale lots; additional industry sources note numbers are lower on current FOB prices.

Ventura/Oxnard forecasts show a steady rise in temperatures, with a slow scale upward from lows in the med-high 50s and highs in the med-high 60s toward 63 degrees low and 75 high by the middle of the month.

As we continue to monitor all key categories influencing the produce aisle, keep an eye on AndNowUKnow for all the latest.