Iceberg Lettuce & Romaine

Thurs, July 24th, 2025

Dear Ole Tyme Customers:

UPDATE: Iceberg & Romaine Lettuce Supplies Tightening in Salinas Valley

Iceberg and Romaine lettuce markets are tightening quickly, with several shippers reporting sell-outs heading into the weekend. Prices for Iceberg have increased, driven by increasing demand and reduced availability.

Key Factors:

INSV (Impatiens Necrotic Spot Virus) is heavily impacting yields. Some growers have been forced to disc entire fields due to symptoms like brown spotting, yellowing, stunted growth, and misshapen heads.
Reduced acreage from select growers is contributing to lower overall volume, while processors are actively seeking additional product to cover needs.

Quality Notes:

While general quality remains good, there are some concerns, including variable density, internal burn, insect pressure, and inconsistent sizing across certain lots.

Market Outlook:

Expect tight Iceberg supplies and elevated pricing to continue over the next 2–3 weeks.
Romaine pricing is beginning to increase as well, though Green Leaf markets remain stable for now.

If you have any questions, please reach out to your Sales Representative.

Thanks,

Ole Tyme Produce