Tomato Prices Surge Due to Weather and Supply Chain Issues

El Paso residents are facing a significant increase in tomato prices, attributed to severe weather conditions affecting key growing regions in Florida and Mexico. A deep freeze in Florida and excessive rain in Mexico have drastically reduced tomato supplies, with prices rising 15.3% in March alone and 22.6% compared to last year. Local produce buyer Mike Armata reports that costs for a 25-pound box of tomatoes have tripled, now reaching $80 to maintain a small profit margin. Consumers are now paying around $2.25 per pound, the highest in eight years. While some relief may come as new crops are planted, ongoing issues with diesel and fertilizer prices could keep costs elevated.

Key Details: • Tomato prices rose 15.3% in March and are up 22.6% year-over-year. • A 25-pound box of tomatoes now costs around $80 for retailers. • Consumers are paying approximately $2.25 per pound for tomatoes, the highest in eight years. • New tomato crops from Florida are expected to be ready for shipment in the next two weeks.