Orange supplies limited between Valencia and Navel seasons

As the domestic orange market transitions from Valencia to Navel varieties, supplies are light, and prices are high.

California Navel season should begin in late October or early November.

Markon Cooperative BB #:123315 released an orange update to buyers this week, saying the Valencia season is winding down and showing some quality issues.

“Heat, dehydration, and gas times are taking a toll on the quality of late-season fruit,” the report said. “Quality concerns include re-greening and decay due to above-normal temperatures through the summer months.”

Markon said to expect higher prices until Navel season begins.

According to USDA, California Valencia prices are in the high teens per carton of first grade large and medium sizes and in the mid-$20s for 113s and 138s.

Navel imports from Chile and South Africa are in the low $20s per carton, while USDA doesn’t have enough volume to report prices for domestic Navels.