Wintery weather persisted in much of the US this week, but grocery stores gave shoppers a glimpse of spring around the corner. Seasonal favorites like cabbage, asparagus, strawberries, and mushrooms were well-advertised. Imported peaches, nectarines, cantaloupes, and watermelons reminded customers of warmer days to come. Lemons and limes were advertised along with chayote, poblano peppers, and cactus pads for meatless meals during Lent. Easter favorites like hot cross buns, candy, décor, daffodils, and tulips brightened up store aisles with spring-like colors.
Total ad numbers this week were 302,977, a 6% increase from last week's total of 286,261. The total for the same week last year was 7% lower than for this year. The total number of ads broken out by commodity groups: fruit 160,306 (53% of all ads), onions and potatoes 22,465 (7%), vegetables 115,797 (38%), herbs 1,130, ornamentals 1,340, and hemp 1,939. The number of ads for organic produce was 43,471, 14% of total ads.
The following are the prices of major advertised items (3,000 plus ads) this week, compared to the same week last year. Significant increases in price for fruit this week included only strawberries at 13%. Significant decreases included Navel oranges (ea.) at 23%, black seedless grapes at 14%, and avocados at 10%. There were no significant changes in price this week for potatoes and onions.
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Source: mymarketnews.ams.usda.gov