Produce News - February 8, 2012

For the first time in recent memory, we will have affordable California strawberries and stem-berries for Valentine's Day. Strawberries will most likely be in the high teens to low twenties while stem-berries should be in the mid to high twenties on 48ct. cases. Sweet, fragrant and with vivid color.

Asparagus - The early Mexican fields are very strong. The price of 11 lb. cases are down dramatically into the low teens. California asparagus will start in a couple of weeks and we will switch to 28 lb. cases

Avocados - New crop California fruit is available. We will continue to use Mexican fruit for another 1-2 weeks. California fruit does not have enough oil content, which results in less flavor and uneven ripening. We do not want to switch and cause problems for Valentine's week.

Rhubarb - Hot House grown rhubarb has started just in time for Valentine's Day. 15 lb. cases are very expensive, currently in the low 50's; also available by the pound.

Fava Greens - Beautiful dark Fava greens are now available from Del Rio. Think of fava greens as fava-flavored spinach, with thicker leaves and a mildly sweet flavor and buttery texture. The leaves are more tender early in the season and can be eaten raw. Later in the season when the leaves are a bit heartier, sautéing or wilting may be the best way to use them.

Fava Beans and English Peas

Fava Beans and English Peas from Mexico have begun to arrive. The favas are young and tender; the peas are plump and sweet. Local crops begin in a couple of weeks.

Click here to download and print this market outlook.

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