Avocados in California's market in February 2008

California fruit growers continue to harvest only light volume due to the lack of size of the fruit. Harvest will steadily increase moving into March. The California fruit is low in oil content, which gives the fruit a grassy flavor, but it is improving weekly. Demand is good. Market is firm. Mexico has lightened its pick due to a lack of demand. Supplies in the Mexican States are good on 48s but dropping on 60s and 70s. This is a temporary lull, and pick should increase as supplies come back in line with demand. Mexico is at peak- season maturity and has excellent eating quality. Market is firming. The Chilean season is ending by the end of the month. Volume is steadily dropping, and most shippers will receive their last shipments this week. Sizing is heaver to 50s. Larger fruit is moving well. Quality remains very good. Demand is good for Chilean fruit, and the market has firmed.