Grower vegetable receipts in 1996 averaged 10 percent below a year earlier due to strong domestic production and high import levels. Lower expected plantings in 1997 will help to strengthen prices and push grower gross returns higher. The U.S. now imports about 11 percent of total fresh vegetable supplies. Mexico is the major foreign supplier. During 1990-1994, imports accounted for 8 percent of fresh vegetable supply.
Tomato production is under going a major change.
The playing field for most winter vegetables is under siege and it is not likely that a solution will be readily forthcoming. But, despite this battle between Florida and Mexican growers and the freeze this year in Florida, tomato prices are expected to average only modest gains across the marketing channel. The demand is there in 1997, weather likely will determine what price producers receive and customers pay for their tomatoes this year. Leaf and romaine lettuce crops now makes up about 25 percent of the total lettuce market. This change in market shares, away from iceberg lettuce reflects consumer interest in trying new foods.