The Arizona/California desert growing region will continue to endure freezing temperatures through this week. Although the severity of lettuce ice has diminished, production and loading challenges persist.

Beginning this week, members and end-users will see an overall decline in quality and case weights due to three consecutive weeks of freezing temperatures and strong winds.

Quality challenges expected over the next four weeks include but are not limited to:

• Dehydration/wilting
• Decreased case weights
• Elevated dirt in some lettuce items
• Wind damage
• Epidermal blister & peeling
• Shortened shelf-life potential
• Stalled plant growth
• Yellowing leaves

Markon inspectors continue to monitor desert row crops closely and are working with growers to secure the best product for Markon orders.

Please contact your Markon Account Manager for more information.

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