The Arizona/California desert growing region is forecast to receive light rainfall starting Sunday, January 21 that will increase to sporadic/heavy showers on Monday, January 22 with up to .75” possible. Markon worked with suppliers to pack orders ahead to minimize disruptions. Harvesting, production, and loading delays can be expected through the first part of the week.

Recent freezing temperatures had already begun to affect quality and shelf-life potential in many lettuce and tender leaf items. The upcoming rain threatens to exacerbate some of these issues and cause new challenges to develop. Below is a list of defects and issues that Markon inspectors are observing or watching out for.

• Bottom rot
• Decreased case weights for commodity lettuce items
• Discoloration and/or decay on epidermal blistering and peeling
• Dirt/mud on the product
• Increased mildew pressure
• Premature pinking in some value-added salads or Washed & Trimmed leaf lettuce packs
• Reduced shelf-life potential
• Yellowing leaves/discoloration

Harvesting and processing crews will work to keep boxes as clean and dry as possible and will take steps to remove defects where ever possible, but can’t avoid these issues completely. Ordering for quick turns is recommended and as always, maintaining the cold chain is critical for maximizing quality and shelf-life.

Please contact your Markon customer service representative for more information.

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