Summer 2021: Challenges for Cantaloupe Lovers and Farmers Alike
California farmers are picking the first of this season’s cantaloupes this month. For those who don’t know, the California cantaloupe season begins each year in May with harvest in the southern desert areas of California. Later, in early to mid-July, harvest will move to the central Valley growing areas of the state with the season lasting into October.
California is by far the leading producer of cantaloupe in the U.S. growing about 75 percent of what Americans consume each summer. This year, California farmers expect the volume of fruit to be down from “normal” production years. Last year’s crop was also down from normal – but then, what was normal last year?!
We’re all so thankful that things this summer are looking considerably better in so many ways. It’s hard to complain, but the growers of California cantaloupe think it’s only fair to warn lovers of this fabulous summer fruit of a sad fact. Prices of cantaloupe – and many other foods – are likely to be higher this year.
The reasons for price increases are many – but when it comes to cantaloupe, specifically, two things are playing a large role. Water and Transportation.
As many people know, California is in the midst of a record-breaking drought. Competition for water is fierce among the needs of the state’s population, environmental concerns and those who grow food for people around the world. Given this, it’s not too surprising that cantaloupe plantings are down a bit.
Let’s be clear. We’re not expecting a shortage of cantaloupe. Expect to see plenty in your stores for the next several months. But supplies will be tighter and that, in and of itself, will drive prices up. But the biggest factor in anticipated price hikes for food is shipping costs. By all reports, the cost of securing a truck for shipping produce from California to just about anywhere in the U.S. is at an astronomical high and shortages of available trucks are rampant. And just as you are experiencing high gas prices – so are trucking companies.
As they always do, California cantaloupe producers will do their absolute best to get cantaloupe to your stores. They must – their own livelihoods and those of their families depend on it. On the bright side, growing conditions for cantaloupe have been excellent and the industry continues to make strides in producing new, more flavorful varieties for you to enjoy.
Despite the challenges, California cantaloupe farmers continue to be committed to growing the best tasting, healthiest and safest fruit. You can learn more about their commitment to food safety here. And let’s not forget to thank the essential workers who help bring cantaloupe to us all.
Just as we learned throughout last year’s pandemic, we’re all in this together. Our job is continuing supplying your favorite summer fruit. Your job is to keep buying and enjoying it.
As part of this summer’s promotional efforts, California cantaloupe growers plan to share with our cantaloupe fans several fun new recipes with a focus on healthy eating. We’ll also be continuing with our fabulous consumer contests and giveaways. So, look for those soon on social media and through or newsletters. If you don’t already get our newsletter, please make sure to sign up here and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
There’s a lot to look forward to. Happy Summer!
