Tender Leaf, Iceberg, and Leaf

Tender Leaf , Iceberg, and Leaf

Mon, Jan 12th, 2026

Dear Ole Tyme Customers:

We want to make you aware of ongoing quality challenges impacting multiple lettuce and tender/baby leaf commodities due to increased mildew pressure in desert growing regions. Warmer-than-normal temperatures combined with intermittent moisture have created favorable conditions for mildew development, and these impacts are expected to persist through January.

The most affected items include all lettuce types and tender/baby leaf products. Current conditions include:

Arugula & Spinach: Weaker leaf structure and variable texture.
Spring Mix: Performing better overall than arugula, though isolated quality issues remain.
Romaine: Outer leaves are being trimmed to manage damage; internal hearts continue to show good color and eating quality.
Iceberg: Some lots exhibiting lighter color and inconsistent texture.
Green Leaf: Sporadic mildew presence affecting both bulk and value-added items.

Mildew typically impacts leaf tissue first, resulting in yellowing, spotting, and accelerated breakdown. While internal quality remains sound, some fields may require additional trimming, experience variable pack-outs, and see reduced shelf life.

Quality will remain field- and lot-specific through January. We recommend prompt rotation, proper cooling, and proactive communication with your teams to manage expectations. As always, please reach out with any questions.

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

Thanks,

Ole Tyme Produce