Market Notes
February 26, 2026
CARROT CONCERNS CONTINUE
It might be the Year Of The Horse, but they are not going to be well fed because carrots are nowhere to be found. Growers continue to insist that the storms in November of 2025 corrupted planting schedules, and with the unusually moderate weather in the desert, there was no opportunity to catch up. While this seems to be happening to all California carrot growers, who originally thought we would be in better shape on the 15th of this month and then changed that to the beginning of March, is now telling us that we should be back to normal by the 1st…of APRIL! Ouch!! One would think that if they need more time to grow, supply would steadily increase but supply remains diminished. Yuma weather has been traditionally perfect in the past few weeks so maybe they will come on sooner and we won’t be April fooled again.
A GREENER VIEW
One of the reasons we know the weather in Yuma and surrounding growing areas has improved, is because we see it in our greens program. It’s taken about ten weeks, but the season has finally kicked into gear. As there is always one culprit, and that culprit is often organic baby arugula, and that is no exception here. While it has been very short up until this week, next week we expect to fill every order as the crop is now at peak of perfection. All our greens are doing great including the baby lettuce, frisee, arugula, baby and teen spinach. Available conventionally, organically and in retail packs. Twenty-two days away from Spring, green is good.
NEW PRODUCE QUIZ – WHO AM I ???
I sprouted long ago in the tropical Americas, where ancient peoples cherished me and carried my seeds far and wide, and today I grow on small, sturdy trees that love sunshine, warmth, and careful pruning from patient farmers. I’ve traveled the world so much that I’ve picked up legends and street-corner fame, including funny tales of vendors fiercely guarding secret recipes. Some say my aroma is so bold it can perfume an entire kitchen, which makes noses either swoon or giggle in surprise. I’m round to oval in shape, sometimes bumpy and always confident, never pretending to be perfectly smooth. My skin may appear green, yellow, or lightly blushed, hiding my colorful personality inside. When you slice me open, you’ll find flesh that ranges from pale white to deep pink or coral red. My flavor is sweet and tangy at once, like a tropical breeze with a playful kick. Tiny edible seeds add a gentle crunch, reminding you I enjoy texture as much as taste. I shine in juices and smoothies that burst with fragrance and color. I’m cooked down into jams, jellies, and pastes that spread happiness on toast. Bakers tuck me into pastries, while cooks simmer me into sauces and glazes. In many cultures I’m eaten fresh, sprinkled with chili, salt, or sugar for fun. I’ve even inspired jokes about being small but mighty in smell. Behind my bold personality, I quietly do serious work for your body. I’m packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants that support digestion and immunity.
The answer to the last weeks was …. ADUKI BEAN…. Congrats to all winners
Call 908-789-4700 — Fax 908-789-4702 Visit us at www.culinaryproduce.com
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© Culinary Specialty Produce, Inc., 2026