Market Recap – Last 24 Hours

Wholesale vegetable prices remain elevated after a sharp spike in July, when costs surged nearly 38.9% year-over-year, the largest increase in over three years. Analysts attribute the rise to a combination of tariff-related costs, supply chain disruptions, and seasonal weather challenges. Leafy greens such as romaine and iceberg lettuce saw notable price increases, while onions and cucumbers also trended higher. Meanwhile, potatoes and mushrooms held steady, and celery prices eased slightly. Retailers and foodservice operators are monitoring whether these wholesale hikes will translate into higher consumer prices in the coming weeks.

7-Day Outlook

• Price Direction: Expect continued volatility, with elevated prices for lettuce, cucumbers, and squash due to tight regional supplies. Potatoes and mushrooms should remain steady.
• Weather Impact: Favorable conditions in California’s Salinas Valley support leafy greens, but intermittent heat in the Southwest could pressure pepper and onion markets.
• Key Watchpoints:
  • Tariff-related cost pass-through to retail and foodservice sectors.
  • Import volumes from Mexico and Canada to offset domestic shortfalls.
  • Labor and transportation costs influencing FOB pricing trends.

Bottom Line: While some stabilization is possible, wholesale vegetable prices are likely to stay above seasonal norms through next week, with leafy greens and peppers leading the gains.