Trendspotting: Berry category to flex its muscle for the holidays

As the calendar barrels toward the winter holidays, green bean prices are falling — as they are wont to do this time of year. Average prices are down 37 percent over the previous week with supply tight in the east and west according to ProduceIQ.

ProduceIQ also reports that mango markets are on their way back to Earth. “In case you missed the last episode of ‘Mangoes Gone Wild,’ here’s a recap: mango markets were skyrocketing due to a precariously anemic import supply from South American growers,” said Mark Campbell, founder and CEO of ProduceIQ. “Growers in Ecuador report that this year’s mango season may see 50-60 percent less volume than what is typically harvested due to intense El Niño weather conditions in the country.”

On the heels of the ongoing cantaloupe recall, autumn’s domestic cantaloupe season is nearly over. After weeks of sinking markets, prices are finally up 20 percent over the previous week, according to ProduceIQ. “It is still deficient compared to the historical average for week No. 47, but an improvement for price-weary suppliers,” said Campbell.

In the always-popular berry patch, blackberries, blueberries and strawberries are all down over the previous week. “Although the price changes aren’t exactly game changers, they may indicate shifting conditions in the mixed berry category,” said Campbell.

“Shippers in the west are reporting more strawberry, blueberry, blackberry and raspberry volume coming from central Mexico, with more on the way,” he continued. “But the mixed berries category tends to flex its autonomy throughout December. And if historical data can tell us anything, these high-value commodities will find a way to keep us on our toes throughout the holiday season.”