Alerts & What’s Trending
Produce
Roma tomatoes dropped another 15% w/w, falling to $9.48/cs—more than 33% over two weeks. Iceberg lettuce and avocados also held steady or declined, nearing seasonal lows. Crop transitions have been smooth with no major quality issues.
Outlook: Produce prices are leveling out near annual lows. Take advantage of this predictability to manage costs and promote produce-forward items.
Grain
Wheat markets remain the focus, with spring wheat leading due to weather concerns abroad. U.S. winter wheat ratings improved, applying downward pressure on prices despite global supply concerns.
Outlook: Grain pricing could soften slightly unless new weather disruptions arise. Monitor closely to optimize timing of forward buys.
Dairy
Butter climbed to $2.49/lb while cheese prices stayed flat, supported by stronger milk supply and active retail promotions. Nonfat dry milk also rose $0.06 to $1.29/lb as export demand remains strong.
Outlook: Watch for gradual increases in butter and milk prices. Stay alert to fluctuations and update pricing tools accordingly.
Beef
Beef prices showed strength despite a sharp drop in rib values. Striploins rose to $11.84/lb, closing in on record highs, while cattle futures jumped 3.5%. Ground beef and trim markets also gained momentum.
Outlook: Beef costs are likely to stay high with harvest constraints in play. Operators should plan accordingly and track market shifts closely to stay ahead.
Pork
The pork cutout increased 3% to $108.12/cwt with notable gains in bellies, ribs, and tenderloins. Retail and foodservice demand remain strong despite weaker export sales, and bellies rose sharply to $1.98/lb.
Outlook: Pork prices are expected to stay elevated into July. Secure pricing now on high-use cuts to protect your bottom line.
Poultry
Chicken prices edged higher with boneless breasts at $2.77/lb and tenderloins jumping $0.06 to $2.50/lb amid strong retail ad activity. Thigh meat continued its climb, up 34% y/y and now at $2.46/lb. Weekly harvests increased 2.5% and promotions for tenderloins surged.
Outlook: Expect pricing to remain firm as demand stays elevated and harvest growth remains modest. This is a great time to lean into poultry’s affordability and popularity on menus.
Seafood
Snow crab prices eased 2.9% m/m, with March import volumes finally trending above year-ago levels. After an undersupplied winter, supply is stabilizing heading into the traditional on-season.
Outlook: Snow crab pricing should remain favorable for the coming months. Great opportunity for operators to feature high-margin seafood options.
