Reports saying lettuce prices might rise in the next weeks
SALINAS, Calif. (KION-TV) -- A recent report is looking at a potential upcoming price hike in iceberg lettuce. Some local produce stores are already feeling the effects.
The price increase of iceberg lettuce is slowly being reflected in the wallets of local consumers.
"These prices are affecting us a lot, especially lettuce, which is very healthy, and it’s really expensive." Rosalba Barajas says she and her husband consume lots of salad, and she has noticed a difference in prices.
"You know how when gas prices go up, everything else goes up too. And with what’s going on, gas prices are going to rise again soon." Christobal Ayala says gas prices are a major factor. A recent report confirms that. Iceberg lettuce is anticipated to increase in the next weeks.
The weekly report by ProAct says changes in climate, as well as price changes in gasoline, are often reflected in product costs. And local produce stores are beginning to see it.
"Yesterday I tried to buy, but since I didn’t have many options, I wanted to wait until today to look for more—more options to buy and avoid raising the price for the customer. But unfortunately, I couldn’t. Everyone is selling at the same price now."
Victor Lopez from El Rey Fresh Produce says he had to stock up at the elevated price due to increased demand from his customers. He says he has seen an increase of 12 dollars per box in the last few days.
The report from ProAct says that lower production numbers anticipated from Mexico would result in a higher demand for the supply of lettuce from the state of California. A recent report shows why it's so expensive to grow this produce.
Norm Groot says lettuce is a produce with fluctuating prices. He adds that factors such as temperature change, lack of personnel—among other changes—can affect the overall quality and supply.
In a statement, he adds: "Lettuce, like other crops in the Salinas Valley, is subject to extensive regulatory compliance costs, up to $1600 per acre and about 12% of the production costs. Market pricing fluctuates due to supplies and other variables."
Businesses are saying there is no other option, yet Victor acknowledges that it directly impacts the consumer. "We have to raise our prices to cover store and employee costs,” he adds.
Next Tuesday, the Monterey County Ag Commissioner will be giving his report on the 2024 harvest season, as well as a look ahead at the role AI will be playing in future years.
