US Melon news 14 JAN 2009

You melon-news seekers are really spoiled!

Cantaloupes: Extremely light supplies of
Cantaloupes in all ports of entry have put them,
along with the Honeydews, in a demand
exceeds supply situation. Honduras
cantaloupes are behind due to rain delayed
planting gaps, and as the newest area
importing fruit, this will put stress on the already
light supplies of available fruit. Costa Rica, also
a large growing area for some of the main
importers, is still about 2+ weeks away from
fruit arrival. These factors, coupled with the
very strong demand look to keep Cantaloupes
tight for the next 2-3 weeks and markets will be
very strong. MARKET HIGHER

Honeydews: Honeydews remain in a demand
exceeds supply situation and it looks as though
it will continue into and through next week.
Similar to Cantaloupes, Guatemala is finished
their pick on the first cycle of fruit, ONLY limited
sizes are available from Honduras, and the fruit
is in very few hands. Most of the Honduras fruit
is not quite ready due to the aforementioned
rain delayed planting gaps, and Costa Rica is
still a ways away. All sizes are short and it
looks to remain that way until Honduras fruit
starts to arrive and provide some relief.
MARKET HIGHER