Market Notes
Aug 14th, 2025
IT’S GETTING BUGGY OUT THERE
Many of the infestations that traditionally occur in the Salinas Valley and as far south as Santa Maria and affect commodities, hit the specialty fields as well. While iceberg and romaine are being hit with thrips and the diamondback moth, baby kale, beet and turnip tops, and some baby head lettuces will be affected as well. Three months away from transition, there is not a lot that growers can do in their third transition. Infestation jumps from field to field and can be hard to control. We could yadda, yadda, yadda on, but the point is if the anticipated Indian Summer warmth could create shortages, and we all know that means price increases. Hopefully it won’t happen, and if it does it should be brief.
MICRO MAGIC
Our micro-greens rower, who we feel is the best in the country, has done an exemplary job in meeting our customers’ needs around the country. Most of our customers use various mixes and edible flowers, but here are two simple infusions where a little can go a long way. First, the Cilantro Flower™️ features delicate white blossoms on slender green stems, delivering an aromatic cilantro flavor. These elegant flowers are the perfect garnish for Asian dishes, adding a vibrant finish to everything from pho and bun cha to rice paper rolls and noodle salads. And then there are Mint Spearmint Tops. They feature vibrant green, textured leaves with a bold spearmint flavor. An excellent addition to Asian cooking, these fragrant herb tops add brightness and visual appeal to dishes like spring rolls, grilled meats, and even chèstyle desserts. Please check with your Culinary Rep for a full catalog of amazing flavors in small boxes. This is an overnight delivery program. Samples available.
NEW PRODUCE QUIZ – WHO AM I ???
I hail from Europe and Asia, where wild brambles danced across ancient hillsides. Today, I’m grown in rows of sun-kissed canes that need pruning, sunshine, and lots of air to keep me sweet and healthy. Birds love to steal me before humans get a chance, but who can blame them? I’m tiny, juicy, and tempting! I’ve even been accused of making rude noises. Yep, that’s my name in action. I’m round but made up of tiny drupelets clinging to a hollow core, and I wear a bright red (sometimes golden or black!) coat that turns heads. My flavor? A tangy-sweet burst that wakes your taste buds up fast. You’ll find me starring in jams, jellies, muffins, salads, and even vinegars. I’ve been known to swirl into smoothies or sit royally atop cheesecakes. Some chefs drizzle me over duck, while others freeze me for sorbet. I’m delicate, so handle with care I squish easily! But inside, I’m a powerhouse packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C.
The answer to last week’s quiz is…BAMBOO SHOOTS… – Congrats to all winners
Visit us at www.culinaryproduce.com Phone 908-789-4700 – Fax 908-789-4702 – e-mail passings@culinaryproduce.com
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© Culinary Specialty Produce, Inc., 2025
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