Leafy Greens
Leafy Greens
Thurs, Jan. 30th, 2025
Dear Ole Tyme Customers:
Cold Temperatures Impacting Growth & Supply
- Cold weather in the Southwestern desert regions is expected to continue through the week, with a warming trend beginning next week.
- Very low temperatures are slowing plant growth, potentially leading to future supply shortages.
Leafy Greens Quality Concerns
- Leafy greens will show defects like wind and fringe burn, feathering, epidermal peeling, blistering, and discoloration.
- Lighter color, smaller head sizes, and lower carton weights are expected as growers trim damaged outer leaves.
Processing Challenges
- Extreme cold weakens plant texture, leading to higher mechanical damage and bruising during harvesting and processing.
- Processed leafy greens, especially spinach, tender leaf, and spring mix, will have increased discoloration, breakdown, and reduced shelf life.
Iceberg Lettuce Issues
- Iceberg lettuce is showing significant frost damage, with fringe burn and peeling on outer leaves.
- Crews are leaving extra protective leaves on liner lettuce, which may discolor during transit but can be trimmed off to reveal quality heads underneath.
- Customers should be informed to prevent unnecessary complaints.
Shelf Life & Inventory Management
- Rotating stock is crucial as many crops, especially processed items, will have shorter shelf lives and quality challenges in the near term.
If you have any questions, please reach out to your Sales Representative.
Thanks,
Ole Tyme Produce
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