MANTECA, CA - Just before we hit the Fourth of July holiday, Manteca, California-based Van Groningen & Sons, Inc. is reporting that this season’s melons out of Bakersfield and Manteca are hitting their peak with high demand. Though volumes are currently tight, quality all around looks to be solid with excellent color and brix.
“Currently, the majority of California production is in Bakersfield, California. A few growers started in Mendota this past week,” said Ryan Van Groningen, Sales Manager for Van Groningen & Sons, Inc. “We’re seeing some smaller sizing this year, but when it comes to quality, brix is there and the internal color looks fantastic as well.”
Compared to the same time last year, the acreage isn’t that much different. The increased demand, however, coupled with the decreased yield, has now led to higher prices for this time of year.
According to the USDA, as of July 1, 24 inch bins of red flesh seeded watermelons were $0.14 - $0.16 for 35 count and 45 count. Red flesh seedless watermelons were $0.19 - $0.22 for 35 count, $0.22 - $0.24 for 45 count, and $0.22 - $0.24 for 60 count.
“We’re starting to see higher prices because of the increased demand from the Fourth of July holiday,” Van Groningen continued. “Less production and less volume in the marketplace have driven prices up a bit.”
The warm weather, on the other hand, has been ideal for the fruit and hasn’t affected quality. Movement continues to be steady as well.
Stay tuned to AndNowUKnow as we follow up with the tight watermelon market.
