Industry-wide, supplies are extremely limited and quality is fair. The California growing regions (Salinas, Santa Maria, and Oxnard) have experienced some substantial rain over the last week. Mexico also saw some rain slowing down their production. Shortages began last week. Market prices are climbing and grower-shippers will be prorating orders.

 

In regard to quality, it is important to be very clear on expectations. This fruit has been rained on for several days and will continue to be rained on this week. The berries will be fair quality at best. Although shippers are working through the fields and doing their best to pack only the best quality, they must manually handle each individual berry prior to it being placed in the clamshell. As a result of being rained on and water soaked, the berries are very sensitive to the slightest touch. In most cases, the bruising occurs post harvest and is not visible at the time of harvest. Expect bruising, discoloration, soft berries, and early decay. Maintaining the cold-chain is imperative. Avoid use. If you have to, order your strawberries conservatively as the shelf-life is what you expect.