CAPISTRANO BEACH, CA - The time of nostalgia and comfort is settling in around us. Even in the heart of Southern California, we’ve seen the temperatures lower, as does the consumer desire to be out and about. As home kitchen season gets underway, LIV Organic™ Produce’s Anthony Innocenti tells me so is demand for potatoes and onions.
“Potatoes are selling really strong. I think, heading into the end of the year and into next, we can expect to see organic potatoes in shorter supply as an industry, but LIV is maintaining steady volume to meet orders,” the Managing Partner shares, adding the supplier is seeing really good quality on both organic and conventional Russets, especially. “We are anticipating tighter markets for yellows and russets in general for U.S. markets between holidays, and are preparing to fill any potential gaps.”
This is due in large part, Anthony says, to climbing demand from consumers, which is already topping last year’s numbers.
“Potatoes are without a doubt one of the largest driving forces in the produce department at this time of year, and it’s amazing to see how this year, especially the weather, has impacted demand—as soon as the temperatures went down, we saw that uptick in sales,” he points out.
Demand is also exceeding expectations set by last year’s performance for onions, which we all know is a necessity on the Thanksgiving table.
“Onion demand is shaping up well this year, delivering a steady climb. Pricing is staying at levels attractive enough to draw in sales as well as promotions,” Anthony explains, adding that 2021 saw a much slower supply. “Last year’s was a tighter market that we are seeing open up more this year, enabling us as an industry to better meet retail needs—which is great as every holiday dish utilizes onions.”
Not only is volume delivering on onion demand, but so is quality, which Anthony says has been outstanding on red, yellow, and sweet onions. A great verdict for the industry vet’s own favorite dish for the holiday menu, of which these root veg flavors complement deliciously.
“A good turkey brine is the best!” he laughs. “I like turkey once a year, really, and when this time comes around the bird is my absolute favorite.”
May we all enjoy a healthy and hardy food coma as we take a beat between major eating holidays! As our industry transitions from Thanksgiving tidings to season’s greetings, AndNowUKnow will report the latest in market news.
