In an effort to provide accurate information on the impact of last night’s low temperatures in Mexico’s growing regions, we want to share with you the
following facts we know as of now:
• Last night, Sinaloa and Sonora experienced low temperatures for a period of 1 to 3 hours. Temperatures for the next five days are expected to be out of
the danger zone.
• Fortunately, Northwest Mexico has not experienced a weather event like this in more than 55 years.
• Those low temperatures caused some damage to plants, foliage, fruit and bloom and it will take days before the extent of the damage can be measurable and reasonably evaluated. Normally, early assessments do not represent the true impact to the crop.
• Growers, with the assistance of CAADES, AALPUM and AMHPAC, are currently assessing the extent of the damage.
• We understand customers are anxious to know the extent of the damage and how this may impact them. It is still too soon to determine with certainty the
extent of damages.
• Significant portions of the winter crops from Sinaloa and Sonora are grown under protected agriculture methods and are much less susceptible to low
temperatures.
• The effects of the low temperatures will manifest differently than winter weather events the industry has experienced in the recent past from Eastern
growing regions; mostly because Mexico varieties of winter crops are significantly different. Most varieties grown in Mexico are bred to produce
more uniform and smaller amounts of fruit every week for a period of 4 to 6 months rather than larger and concentrated sets of fruit.
• In Mexico the fruit is harvested at a higher level of ripeness, is immediately packed and ready for retail and foodservice distribution.
• There were no heavy harvests for storage made ahead of the low temperatures.
• Growers suspended harvesting today to allow the damaged fruit to manifest its defects so it can be eliminated at the packing houses. This selection
process will ensure continued high levels of quality from Mexico, which will impact the yields and available volumes in the upcoming weeks.
• Product availability after this weather event is expected to continue at steady but lower levels than normal for the next 6 to 8 weeks.
We will continue providing specific information as it becomes available.
Source: Fresh Produce Association of the Americas
