This week's produce ads featured a festive array of summer fruits and vegetables, aligning with graduation celebrations. California peaches, nectarines, cherries, and apricots brought fresh energy to produce departments, while Florida tomatoes, corn, and potatoes joined zucchini, sweet onions, and portobello mushrooms, perfect for grilled meals. Additionally, celebratory floral arrangements, party trays, and themed bakery items rounded out graduation shopping baskets.
The total number of ads this week reached 250,411, representing a 3% decrease from last week's total of 257,548. Compared to the same week last year, which had 250,411 ads, the current total reflects a 12% decline. Ads were categorized by commodity groups, with fruit leading at 139,718 ads (56%), followed by vegetables with 87,508 ads (35%), onions and potatoes with 20,849 ads (8%), herbs with 776 ads, ornamentals with 454 ads, and hemp with 1,882 ads. Organic produce accounted for 31,087 ads, making up 12% of total ads.
Price trends for major advertised items with 3,000 or more ads this week revealed notable changes. Among fruits, significant price increases were observed for lemons, up 24% per unit, Pink Lady/Cripps Pink apples, up 18% per pound, and blueberries, up 12% per pint. Conversely, significant price decreases were recorded for avocados, down 32%, organic blueberries (6 oz.) down 16%, blackberries (5.6-6 oz.) down 11%, and yellow mangoes down 11%.
In the onions and potatoes category, Russet potatoes (5 lb. bag) experienced a 21% price increase, the only notable change in this group. For vegetables, green cabbage saw a 38% price increase, while grape tomatoes (1 pint) rose by 11%. No significant price decreases were reported in this category.
Overall, the festive ads and shifting prices highlight seasonal trends in produce, reflecting demand for fresh fruits and vegetables as consumers prepare for summer gatherings and celebrations.
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