Peruvian blueberry imports slowing with lower prices

As inflation continues to rise, consumers are making everyday decisions in the grocery store aisles between fresh fruits and vegetables to canned or substitute food items. Inflation has driven up prices through every sector of the economy, including produce and the food sector in general. Rising food prices is a factor in the decisions shoppers make when shopping for these items.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the food index increased by 11.4% for the month of September and over the last year, the largest 12-month increase since the period ending May 1979. Budget conscious shoppers are stretching grocery dollars by looking for dollar value and volume sale items to daily and weekly deals. Some shoppers are even considering substituting from buying popular name brands to store value brands.

Families are increasingly making decisions on what to buy, but they are also concerned with affordability. For most consumers, inflation and the economy go hand in hand and are hopeful about food prices stabilizing. The next inflation report is due in about a week or so. This will be a better indicator if inflation is increasing, decreasing or is just steady.

Peruvian imports of blueberries through Philadelphia and New York City area ports of entry are expected to decrease as few growers are finished for the season and the season is past its peak. Trading fairly slow with prices lower. Supplies heavy. Flats 12 1-pint cups with lids large 12.00-16.00, 6-ounce large mostly 10.00-12.00. Quality variable.