California Heat Waves and Mexican Crop Transitions Drive Market Changes

Tomato prices are seeing an unusual increase this summer due to extreme weather conditions and a reduction in the overall acreage planted. This development is putting pressure on both supply and quality across various regions.

In California, elevated temperatures in early July have significantly impacted yields and led to quality issues such as sunscald and softening in round and Roma tomatoes. Another heat wave anticipated next week is expected to further exacerbate these challenges, which will likely lead to higher prices in August.

Meanwhile, Mexican growers are in the process of transitioning their tomato crops from Southern Baja to Northern Baja, a shift expected to occur over the next two weeks. This transition is reducing the overall volume available, although the quality of Roma and round tomatoes remains high, with smaller sizes being more prevalent.

However, grape and cherry tomato supplies are limited, and the majority of stocks are currently being shipped from the Baja Peninsula. Demand remains strong, and prices are high, primarily due to poor weather conditions affecting yields in Central Mexico.

On the Eastern Coast, supplies are adequate to meet demand. Virginia is reporting very good quality in grape and round tomatoes, with large-size rounds (5×6) dominating the crops.

The North Carolina and Tennessee mountain region has commenced harvesting round and Roma tomatoes this week.

According to a press release, prices are expected to rise slightly over the next two weeks, with markets remaining active into late August as California continues to face long-term challenges from heat and bloom drop issues.

The International Fresh Produce Association has noted that Markon First Crop (MFC) Tomatoes are currently available, despite these widespread challenges in the tomato markets.