Why are California Cantaloupe Growers So Happy?
California cantaloupe farmers are overjoyed with the amount of rainfall their fields received this winter and for the welcome relief to severe drought conditions that have impacted the state for the past several years.
If you love cantaloupe as much as we do, you’ll be happy to hear the news that, although rainfall was heavy throughout the winter, cantaloupe growing areas did not experience flooding that has impacted some crops in other parts of the state.
California cantaloupe growers are reporting that wet fields and rainy weather definitely delayed planting, particularly in the southern-most growing areas where harvest usually begins in early May. The crop will be a bit later this year. But the good news is this – you can expect to see fresh California cantaloupe hit your stores just in time for Memorial Day weekend. Peak volume will continue throughout the months of June, July and August with supplies available into October.
Importantly, we want to remind everyone the California Cantaloupe Advisory Board operates a robust, mandatory food safety program that involves government audits of all cantaloupe farmers, packing facilities and cold storage operations.
Like all produce, it’s important that only safe water is used to grow cantaloupes. We want to ensure our customers that flooded fields have not been an issue for us this year even with the heavy rains. To make sure that water used to grow California cantaloupe is safe, our program includes mandatory water testing throughout the growing season. Further, California cantaloupe growers have invested heavily in food safety research for over 20 years and the industry has adopted growing systems that keep irrigation water from coming into contact with cantaloupes in the field.
More information about the CCAB’s mandatory food safety program can be found here.
Yes, California cantaloupe season is almost here! We can’t wait to share with you a whole host of delicious new summer-themed recipes. In the meantime, take a look at some of the recipes we’ve shared in the past by visiting our website or Pinterest page.
And don’t forget to check your email or visit our social media channels for exciting contests and giveaways that are coming your way very soon.
