Freshly Picked, May 20, 2025

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Produce

Roma tomatoes surged 16.5% w/w to a seven-week high near $14/carton amid seasonal supply transitions. Hass avocado prices continued to ease, and iceberg lettuce remained stable at $10.50/carton.

Outlook: Produce prices are expected to stabilize in the near term as summer crops come online. Romas may soften after a couple more weeks of moderate gains.

Grains

Corn futures rebounded midweek after strong export reports showed CMY sales at 1.677 MMT and NMY at 509K MT. Early week pressure from rapid planting and acreage expectations moderated.

Outlook: While domestic planting could keep prices under pressure, global demand is propping up the market. Expect fluctuations leading into the June acreage report.

Dairy

Cheese prices continued climbing—blocks rose to $1.90/lb and barrels to $1.82/lb. Butter edged up to $2.33/lb. Retail demand is steady, and strong milk availability is supporting production.

Outlook: With inventories building and supply chain conditions stable, dairy pricing should hold steady with slight upward bias.

Beef

Live cattle futures softened, but boxed beef cutouts continued upward. Choice climbed to $349.90/cwt and select hit $339.20/cwt. Ground beef 81% rose 5% to $3.48/lb, and 50% trim surged 7% to $1.19/lb. Premium cuts like tenderloin and striploin posted gains, while shortloins and sirloins dipped.

Outlook: Tight harvest levels are creating margin pressure for packers, which will likely keep beef prices elevated heading into summer.

Pork

Pork pricing increased across key cuts. Butts and ribs surged over 10% w/w, while bellies saw modest gains. Boneless pork butts hit $1.59/lb, and spareribs climbed to $1.69/lb. Trim segments declined slightly.

Outlook: Strong export volume and seasonal demand are expected to maintain price pressure. Operators should evaluate cut utilization strategies to manage rising costs.

Poultry

Chicken markets showed mixed movement. Tenderloins rose $0.08 to $2.33/lb and boneless thighs climbed to $2.37/lb, while wing prices continued their downward trend, falling $0.07 to $1.17/lb. Whole bird pricing held flat at $1.35/lb. Turkey prices moved higher due to a 13% drop in harvest volume, while egg prices remained level.

Outlook: Steady demand for chicken white meat and ongoing supply constraints are likely to support current price levels. Wings remain a cost-saving opportunity for menus.

Seafood

 

Tilapia prices climbed nearly 8% m/m to around $2/lb, consistent with seasonal highs. The product has historically trended lower into summer, barring anomalies like in 2023.

Outlook: Tilapia is likely at or near its seasonal peak. Prices are expected to ease heading into Q3, providing potential value for operators using frozen fillets.

Need Help Managing Market Volatility?

Consolidated Concepts offers custom contract support, commodity tracking, and supply chain solutions to help operators thrive—no matter the market conditions. Reach out to see how we can help your business stay ahead of pricing swings and supply uncertainty.