Report forecasts 12% drop in California processing tomato production

A new USDA report forecasts contracted production of processing tomatoes in California to fall 12% in 2024. A predicted output of 11.3 million tons this year is down from 12.8 million in 2023.

The report, funded by the California League of Food Producers, highlights industry challenges, including the threat of curly top virus in the San Joaquin Valley, though no significant damage has been reported.

Average yields

Average yields are projected at 50.0 tons per acre across 226,000 acres, an 11% decline in acreage compared to last year. The report (.pdf) attributes the decrease to extreme summer heat despite favorable spring planting conditions.

Harvest

Harvest began in early July in the Central Valley and will conclude in October, earlier than 2023. Early crops showed good quality, but the impact of heat on later plantings remains uncertain.

Shipments

Tomato shipments through Aug. 24 were up 29% increase from last year, though that can partially be attributed to delays in 2023. Current shipments are down 12% compared to the halfway point of last year.