Broccoli Markets Shift Across California and Texas as Supply Conditions Vary

UNITED STATES & MEXICO - Broccoli pricing showed mixed movement across major growing regions according to the USDA's May 11th, 2026 National FOB Review, as very light supplies in Salinas-Watsonville continued supporting elevated markets while Santa Maria pricing moved lower under lighter demand conditions. Meanwhile, crossings through Texas reported slightly lower markets as quality variability and moderate demand shaped trading activity.

Industry sources noted that despite lighter supplies currently, softer carton demand is creating additional availability in the market and contributing to easing pricing trends. Expectations are for the market to continue correcting lower over the next several weeks as supplies increase across both individual operations and the broader industry.

In Salinas-Watsonville, California, broccoli supplies remained very light, with most shipments tied to prior bookings and existing commitments. Demand was reported as moderate, though markets eased slightly from prior levels. Wide ranges in quality and condition continued to affect pricing.

Bunched 14s cartons in Salinas-Watsonville were reported at $48.45–$57.75, mostly $49.45–$52.75, with occasional higher prices noted. Bunched 18s ranged from $48.95–$58.25, mostly $49.95–$53.25. Crown cut 20-pound cartons loose were reported at $48.45–$60.45, mostly $51.45–$54.75, while crown cut short trim cartons ranged from $50.45–$61.45, mostly $52.45–$55.75.

In Santa Maria, California, demand was lighter, and markets moved lower, though quality was generally reported as good. Bunched 14s cartons ranged from $22.95–$24.95. Crown cut 20-pound loose cartons were reported at $20.45–$26.95, mostly $20.45–$22.95, while crown cut short trim cartons ranged from $23.95–$27.95.

At Mexico crossings through Texas, broccoli markets also moved slightly lower amid moderate demand and wide ranges in quality and condition. Crown cut short trim 20-pound cartons loose were reported at $26.00–$30.00, mostly $26.00–$28.00, with occasional higher prices noted.

Check ANUK for continued updates on broccoli pricing and movement across key growing regions.