The U.S. fresh produce market is showing sharp divergence this week. Peruvian blueberry imports through Miami, Philadelphia, and New York are increasing seasonally, with prices moving higher — large berries are trading at $42–$44 per 12-pint flat and organic at $60–$62. Domestic blueberry movement from Michigan, Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia is declining as those seasons wind down.
Strawberries are telling the opposite story. California's Salinas-Watsonville and Santa Maria regions are seeing prices fall sharply, with conventional flats at $12–$14. Cucumber markets are also under pressure, with medium sizes declining significantly in Texas while Otay Mesa prices are higher. Avocado markets are mostly steady and asparagus remains actively traded with prices holding firm.
For buyers managing multiple categories, this week's data underscores how differently individual commodities are behaving even within the same market environment. The blueberry price uptick is worth tracking closely given the broader El Niño-driven questions around Peru's season volume.