Anyone know what's up with a blueberry shortage?

Miscellaneous and Personal Stuff I Must Share
41

Ah. I missed that. Thanks.

42

Here’s the Google AI summary:

Yes, there is a blueberry shortage in the United States, particularly due to reduced volumes from Peru, the largest blueberry exporter. This shortage is impacting supply chains nationwide and has led to higher prices at retail. [1, 2, 3]

Here’s why: [2, 3]

  • Weather Impacts: Extreme heat and heavy rains in Peru, caused by the El Niño weather phenomenon, significantly reduced the blueberry harvest. [2, 3]
  • Reduced Peruvian Exports: Peru’s blueberry exports are down 37% compared to the previous season, leading to a shortage in the US market. [1, 2]
  • Rising Prices: The reduced supply has caused prices to increase dramatically, with retail prices reaching nearly $6 per pound in some areas. [2, 4]
  • Supply Chain Issues: European suppliers are struggling to fill the void, further exacerbating the shortage. [2]

Specific examples of the impact: [3, 4]

  • Supply Chain Issues: American supermarkets are grappling with the shortage due to the reduced supply from Peru.
  • Price Increases: The cost of blueberries has risen significantly, with prices soaring by 60% since September.
  • Reduced Sales: Sales have been impacted, with fewer containers of blueberries being sold compared to previous years. [3, 4]

Potential Future Outlook: [1]

  • Shortage Expected to Continue: The shortage is expected to continue through October. [1]
  • El Niño’s Impact: The impact of El Niño on future harvests remains uncertain, potentially leading to continued concerns about the blueberry supply. [4]

Generative AI is experimental.

[1] Blueberry Shortage Impacting Supply Chain | Seashore Fruit & Produce Co.

[2] Shortage of blueberries hits grocers and consumers — here's what you need to know

[3] https://nypost.com/2023/11/08/business/us-supermarkets-grapple-with-nationwide-blueberry-shortage/

[4] https://www.newsnationnow.com/entertainment-news/food/blueberry-shortage-whats-causing-it-and-how-its-impacting-prices/

43

All those links are more than a year old. It certainly sounds like there was a problem with the Peruvian crop in 2023/2024.

44

Well Og bless AI.

45

I think that even when there is a labor shortage, some stores will blame weather in an effort to avoid political implications that might annoy Trumper customers. And AI will just repeat what it finds elsewhere.

Locally, I hear that agriculture workers are frightened but still coming to work.

46

This front-line retail worker will certainly blame whatever unlikely-to-cause-upset reason available rather than get in an argument with a Trumper.

47

Good to know. I suppose front line retail workers get a lot of flack from customers angry at random stuff the worker has no control over.

48

Exactly.