Lettuce

Tuesday, November 10th, 2026

Dear Ole Tyme Customers:

Produce distributors are currently experiencing pervasive supply issues with several varieties of lettuce. Due to these factors, product substitutions and partially filled orders may be necessary at times as we are being pro-rated by the growers. This will occur until the market stabilizes.

Iceberg: EXTREME Lettuce quality is fair and supplies are extremely limited. Prorates should be expected. There has been an increase of disease and insect pressure. We have seen some reports of internal burn, wind burn, and soil-related defects. We are also seeing smaller heads and light weights. The market continues to rise quickly. The rest of the Salinas season will be challenging for Lettuce. Lettuce remains at the extreme trigger but the market is trending down.
Iceberg VA: EXTREME Quality is fair and supplies are extremely limited. Prorates should be expected.
Romaine & Romaine Hearts: EXTREME Supplies and quality are fair. There have been reports of light weights, tip and fringe burn. We are seeing high core, soil concerns, and insect pressure. Yields are being affected. Baby Romaine disease pressure has also increased, and supplies will be light. All Romaine items are now at the extreme level. Growers are holding to strict averages when they can but prorates should be expected.
Romaine VA: ESCALATED Quality and supplies are fair. We are still seeing more core in the bags and some mildew. Growers are holding to strict averages when they can but prorates should be expected.
Boston/Butter Lettuce: EXTREME Quality is good, but supplies are limited.
Green Leaf, Better Burger and Red Leaf: EXTREME Quality is fair and supplies are limited.