Épisodes

  • Fall Harvest 2025 EP 18

    Fall Harvest 2025 EP 18
    Sep 5 2025

    Host Louis is joined by Jessica Warden (VP Sales & Biz Dev) and Garrett McBride (VP Operations) to unpack what buyers need to know heading into Fall 2025 including supply/demand, pricing, contracting strategy, and tariffs along with a few noteworthy sourcing updates from Smirk's.

    What we cover

    • Tariffs 101: Who pays, how Smirk's invoices (tariffs listed as a separate, non-marked-up line item), and how shifting tariffs are changing origin choices.

    • Nuts Including walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, pistachios, pecans, pine nuts, macadamias, cashews and Brazil nuts.

    • Seeds & Grains Including sunflower, pumpkin, chia, flax/sesame/amaranth, oats, quinoa, coconut oil, water powder and sugar.

    • Dried Fruit Including mango, organic banana coins, apples, cranberries, and

    • What to do now (Buyer To-Dos)

    Questions or coverage requests? Contact your Smirk's trader and we'll build a plan.
    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    1 h et 21 min
  • ExpoWest 2025 - Highlights & Trends EP 17

    ExpoWest 2025 - Highlights & Trends EP 17
    Apr 8 2025

    Elisa Louis and Jessica Warden recapped their experience at ExpoWest 2025 and there was no shortage of excitement. Smirk's had a strong presence, not only at the main show but also at the Fresh Ideas Organic Marketplace and the SoCal IFT Show.

    The event itself was bustling, drawing 70,000 attendees and 3,000 exhibitors, with a condensed, mid-week schedule that kept the energy high.

    Elisa and Jessica dove deep into major trends shaking up the organic and natural foods world. Listen for more details regarding:

    Protein Reigns Supreme
    Protein-packed everything stole the show. Highlights include pasta sauces and overnight oats to pretzels and even meat snacks. Interestingly, there was a noticeable uptick in real meat products alongside traditional plant-based offerings.

    Egg Innovations
    Eggs and egg replacements were everywhere. Plant-based "hardboiled eggs" made from almonds and cashews wowed attendees, along with clever egg replacement ingredients like steamed chickpea flour.

    Functional Foods & GLP-1 Friendly Products
    With a surge in consumer interest around wellness, foods rich in fiber, protein, and gut-friendly ingredients were trending. Brands are already calling out GLP-1 friendliness on labels, catering to new diet trends sparked by medications like Ozempic.

    Global Fusion & Chaos Cooking
    From miso-infused veggie chips to Indian-inspired lemonade and Korean kimchi salsa, global flavors dominated. The "chaos cooking" trend of blending cuisines without traditional rules was clearly alive and well.

    Gut Health & Functional Beverages
    Fermentation, probiotics, and drinkable multivitamins were strong players. Functional waters with adaptogens and non-alcoholic craft beverages also made a huge splash, proving that "better-for-you" drinks are here to stay.

    Nostalgia Meets Innovation
    From root beer float-flavored popcorn to revamped Rice Krispie treats made with quinoa and brown rice, nostalgic flavors brought a fun, playful vibe across the show floor. The retro theme wasn't just reflected in products, but in nostalgic branding too.

    Sustainability Front and Center
    Upcycled ingredients like imperfect rice, regenerative organic certifications, compostable packaging, and eco-friendly household products were everywhere, signaling a deepening commitment to sustainability.

    The overall vibe of the show is best described as contagious energy, endless innovation, and plenty of surprises (including getting locked out of their rental house!). ExpoWest 2025 didn't disappoint, it inspired.

    April 2025 Market Report:

    Due to recent announcements from the U.S. government regarding potential new reciprocal tariffs on goods imported globally, Smirk's is holding off on issuing a detailed market update.

    There is too much uncertainty about which countries and which ingredients will be affected, so no official market information will be provided this month.

    Smirk's recommends staying connected through LinkedIn and subscribing to the Smirk's newsletter for real-time updates as the situation evolves.

    Want Smirk's help sourcing ingredients spotted at ExpoWest? Connect at smirks.com.
    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    1 h et 8 min
  • Packed for Success - Secrets to an Exceptional Co-Packer Partnership EP 16

    Packed for Success - Secrets to an Exceptional Co-Packer Partnership EP 16
    Feb 12 2025

    In this episode host Elisa Louis dives deep into the world of co-packers with guests Jason Luedtke, Director of Business Development at ZoRoCo Packaging, and Garrett McBride, VP of Operations at Smirk's. This insightful conversation sheds light on the vital role co-packers play in the food and beverage industry and how businesses can establish successful partnerships.

    Topics Covered:

    · Understanding the Co-Packing Landscape

    · Co-Packer vs. Co-Manufacturer: What's the Difference?

    · How to Build a Successful Co-Packer Relationship

    Factors for Success:

    • Transparency – Open communication about expectations, capabilities, and potential challenges.
    • Quality Assurance – Ensuring food safety and regulatory compliance through strong auditing and quality control processes.
    • Operational Fit – Matching the co-packer's capabilities with the brand's needs, including equipment compatibility and allergen restrictions.
    • Scalability – Aligning production capacity with business growth to avoid overproduction or inventory shortages.
    • Geographic Considerations – Choosing a co-packer located near key distribution hubs to minimize logistics costs.

    Challenges and Solutions in Co-Packing Partnerships

    • Early Issue Resolution: Address problems proactively through consistent communication.
    • Written Agreements: Establish clear contracts outlining responsibilities and performance expectations.
    • Knowing When to Move On: If a partnership consistently fails to meet needs, it may be time to seek a better fit.

    Trends in the Co-Packing Industry

    • Rising Demand for Protein: Consumers seek innovative, plant-based, and alternative protein sources.
    • Traceability and Sustainability: Increased focus on regenerative agriculture and ethical sourcing.
    • Clean Label and Allergen-Free Products: More brands prioritize transparent ingredient lists and allergen-friendly manufacturing.
    • Regulatory Compliance: A shift towards natural color alternatives following FDA rulings on artificial dyes.

    Market Report Minute: 1:12:03

    For more insights, visit ZoRoCo Packaging

    For real-time updates or to explore solutions, contact Smirks at what'snew@smirks.com.
    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    1 h et 19 min
  • Smirk's Quality Assurance EP 15

    Smirk's Quality Assurance EP 15
    Dec 2 2024
    In Episode 15 of Get the Scoop with Smirks, Elisa Louis shares the Smirk's team commitment to Quality Assurance (QA). As a leading supplier of conventional and organic ingredients, Smirk's relies on the QA team to uphold the highest standards in food safety and quality, ensuring trusted partnerships with both suppliers and customers. This episode features QA Director Tara Hettinger, Operations Manager Garrett McBride, and QA team members Danielle Duff and Kelsey Malone, who share their experiences and perspectives on the vital work they do every day. The Foundation of Quality Assurance at Smirks Tara Hettinger, who leads the QA team, outlines how their mission extends beyond simply meeting food safety standards; they strive to build strong, transparent partnerships. Smirks manages an astonishing 60,000 supplier documents, which include detailed quality and food safety certifications, and ensures every piece aligns with their rigorous standards. The QA team prioritizes transparency, a core value that sets Smirk's apart in the industry. As Tara noted, they are meticulous in vetting suppliers to ensure customers receive reliable, high-quality ingredients. She explains that being detailed and organized means the team can respond to customer needs efficiently, especially during audits or urgent requests," she added. On-Site Visits: A Hands-On Approach to Quality Garrett McBride shared his passion for supplier site visits, which he described as both rewarding and essential. Known within Smirk's as the "food safety and quality assurance boogeyman," Garrett explained how these visits allow him to verify supplier practices and identify any risks that might not appear in paperwork. During these visits, Garrett scrutinizes everything from pest control measures to process documentation, ensuring suppliers meet Smirks' high standards. These face-to-face interactions build reliable partnerships, allow us to verify their practices which ensures we can trust the folks we choose to do business with. Garrett also highlighted the sheer scale of Smirks' operations, with 130 items sourced from 180 suppliers across 27 countries. This level of oversight requires a collaborative effort, making the QA team's diligence critical to the company's success. Meet the People Behind the QA Process Danielle Duff and Kelsey Malone shared their personal journeys and how their backgrounds shaped their roles at Smirks. Danielle, a food science graduate, is passionate about food safety and nutrition. She described how her family's tradition of canning and growing food inspired her love for food science. Her meticulous approach helps ensure the quality and safety of Smirks' products, which she sees as a direct way to protect consumers. Kelsey Malone, who transitioned from healthcare to QA, talked about the steep learning curve when she joined Smirks. Initially an administrative assistant, Kelsey quickly embraced the complexity of QA processes and found satisfaction in tackling detailed documentation to ensure quality standards are met. The dedication and passion of Danielle and Kelsey underscore Smirks' commitment to quality and transparency. The Smirks QA team revealed the immense effort that goes into ensuring food safety and building trust with customers and suppliers. Tara discussed the challenges of the job, explaining that even with rigorous processes, unexpected issues can arise. Mitigating risks and documentation may seem boring but the team finds the work rewarding knowing that they are protecting their customers and ultimately the end consumers. November 2024 Market Report Navigating a Volatile Market: Key Updates from Smirks In the November 2024 Market Report, Smirks provided updates on key ingredient categories, highlighting both challenges and opportunities. Here's a snapshot of the trends shaping the industry: 1. Pumpkin Seeds: Supply Challenges Ahead Conventional pumpkin kernels are at historic low prices due to high yields in China. Organic pumpkin supply faces contamination issues, leading to the conversion of organic inventory to conventional. Recommendation: Secure 2025 organic pumpkin seed volumes now to mitigate risk. 2. Sunflower: Widespread Drought Shrinks Supply Eastern European droughts have led to a 25% reduction in crop estimates, straining global availability. Recommendation: Lock in 2025 sunflower seed contracts as availability will tighten further. 3. Chia: Organic Supplies Under Pressure While conventional chia supply remains strong, organic inventories are shrinking due to herbicide testing failures. Recommendation: Quickly secure 2025 organic chia to avoid potential shortages. 4. Coconut: Prices Spike Amid Weather Extremes El Nino patterns and typhoons have led to smaller kernel sizes and disrupted supply chains. Outlook: Expect delays and higher prices through the next six months. 5. Tree Nuts: Limited Supply Across the Board Walnuts: Organic options are nearly impossible to source, and ...
    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    41 min
  • Fall Harvest Market Report & Recommendations EP 14

    Fall Harvest Market Report & Recommendations EP 14
    Oct 14 2024
    In this episode of Get the Scoop with Smirks podcast, hosts Elisa Lewis and Garrett McBride delve into the intricacies of the Northern Hemisphere's fall harvest. As a leading supplier of organic and conventional bulk ingredients, Smirks closely monitors the global markets to provide timely insights into various crops. This episode sheds light on pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, sunflower seeds, oats, and California nuts—specifically almonds and walnuts. Additionally, Garrett offers a comprehensive market report on coconut, flax, and ocean freight rates. Pumpkin Seeds from China China, which accounts for about 70% of global pumpkin seed production, has significantly increased its planting acreage this year. The harvest began in late August and wrapped up in late September, showing a strong supply and low export demand. Speculators have largely stayed away, leading to softened markets and favorable conditions for buyers. Chia Seeds from Paraguay A late summer drought affected the northern growing region, impacting what was expected to be a bumper crop. This year's crop is anticipated to be closer to a 50-50 split between organic and conventional chia seeds, deviating from the typical 30% organic. Shipments have slowed due to low water levels in the Paraguay River to ocean ports. Sunflower Seeds from Eastern Europe and the USA Eastern Europe faced a brutally hot summer, leading to severe crop damage and reduced yield and quality. In the U.S. planting for kernel crops is estimated to be down by around 30% compared to last year. With limited supply and increasing demand, markets are firming up, making immediate contracting advisable. Oats from Canada The Canadian prairies experienced optimal weather, resulting in a strong harvest yield compared to last year. While the yield is strong, there are some concerns about the oats being lighter in weight. Smirks encourages companies looking for product to contract now for next year's coverage, including gluten-free and regenerative organic certified options. California Nuts: Almonds and Walnuts With the excellent weather during the bloom and increased bee flight hours Smirk's is seeing promising crop. Despite a smaller crop last year and minimal carry-in, rising global demand is pushing prices up. Smirks is actively closing contracts for California tree nuts for 2025 and recommends clients lock in their positions soon. Coconut Market Report The El Niño weather conditions reduced both the size of coconuts and the overall crop globally, causing supply chain gaps and driving prices up to levels seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. Diversifying supply chains and securing coverage through Q2 of 2025 is advised to mitigate risks. Similar supply challenges are affecting coconut sugar due to El Niño and early Ramadan in 2024. Cashew markets remain firm with increasing prices. Smirks' deep connections with suppliers and their commitment to monitoring these markets provide invaluable insights for businesses relying on these ingredients. For those in the industry, now is a critical time to assess your fall crop needs. Whether you're a regular user or new to organic or conventional pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, sunflower seeds, oats, or California almonds and walnuts, Smirks is equipped to help you navigate these complex markets. Thank you for joining us in exploring the 2024 fall harvest insights. We look forward to keeping you informed on the latest market trends and helping you make the best purchasing decisions for your business. If you haven't already, subscribe to the Get the Scoop with Smirks podcast to receive immediate access to each new episode. For personalized assistance, reach out to Smirks at whatsnew@smirks.com. October Market Report Coconut Market Strong market volatility in coconut is expected to persist through Q1 2025 due to reduced crop sizes caused by El Niño. Smaller crop and reduced nut size have led to supply chain gaps and rising prices, with levels comparable to those seen during COVID-19. Country-Specific Updates Philippines: Significant production reductions, with some nuts up to 50% smaller. Some suppliers may cut production on open orders by up to 30%. Full recovery expected by April 2025. Sri Lanka: Crop reduced by 40%, with prices rising due to a shortage. Improvements not expected until at least April 2025. Indonesia: High demand from Chinese buyers drove price increases. Tight supply expected until at least Q2 of 2025. Vietnam: Reliable shipping thus far, but prices have increased significantly. Relief may come in November/December 2024. Recommendations Secure coverage through Q2 of 2025 to guarantee supply while maintaining flexibility if market conditions improve. Diversify supply chains with multiple origins to mitigate risk. Coconut Sugar Market Supply chains were heavily impacted in Indonesia, causing a raw material shortage and price increases by 30%. Early Ramadan in 2024 further strained the supply chain. Similar issues ...
    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    30 min
  • Smirk's Top 10 Countdown – Best Bakery Trends of 2024 EP 13

    Smirk's Top 10 Countdown – Best Bakery Trends of 2024 EP 13
    Aug 19 2024

    Market Report 1:05:03

    In the latest episode of "Get the Scoop with Smirk's," hosts Jessica Warden and Zach Schwindt took us on a deep dive into the top 10 bakery trends for 2024. As industry experts who live and breathe baked goods, Jessica and Zach not only shared their insights but also gave us a glimpse of how Smirk's, a leading supplier of organic and conventional bulk bakery ingredients, is at the forefront of these trends. Here's a breakdown of the key takeaways from their engaging discussion in a top 10 countdown format:

    10. Vanilla: A Nostalgic Favorite

    9. 3D Printing: The Future of Baking

    8. Alternate Sweeteners

    7. Social Media's Influence on Bakery Trends

    6. Gluten Free Bakery Items

    5. Functional Foods

    4. Seeds and Seed Flours

    3. High Protein Baked Goods

    2. Plant-Based and Vegan Baked Goods

    1. Sustainability, Upcycled Ingredients and a Resurgence of Organic

    This episode of "Get the Scoop with Smirks" not only provides a comprehensive look at the trends shaping the future of the bakery industry but also showcased how Smirks is leading the way with innovative products and solutions. Whether you're a professional baker or a home baking enthusiast, staying on top of these trends will ensure you're ahead of the curve in 2024.

    Navigating Supply Chain Challenges

    Garrett McBride, along with his colleagues Jessica Warden and Zach Schwint, delved into the complexities of supply chain management and how Smirks continues to add value for its customers in an ever-evolving market. Here's a closer look at the key topics they discuss in detail:

    · Strategic Risk Management and Cost Optimization

    · Flexibility in Contracting and Supply Chain Diversification

    · Responding to Global Challenges: El Niño and Beyond

    · The Importance of Prior Planning and Industry Expertise

    This episode of *Get the Scoop with Smirks* underscores the value of having a trusted partner like Smirks in the complex world of ingredient supply chains. From strategic risk management to navigating global challenges, Smirks continues to demonstrate its commitment to helping customers succeed, no matter what the market throws their way.

    August 2024 Smirks Market Report Highlights

    The August 2024 Smirks Market Report provides crucial insights into the current state of the global ingredient markets, with a focus on ocean freight challenges, weather impacts, and crop conditions. Here are the key takeaways:

    Ocean Freight Issues

    · Sunflower Market

    · Pumpkin Market

    ·Coconut Market

    · Coconut Sugar

    · Chia Market

    · Mango Market

    · Cashew Market

    Macadamia Market

    · The Smirk's team advises customers to act quickly on securing contracts and planning for supply needs into 2025, especially given the ongoing global challenges. For more detailed information or specific inquiries, reach out to the Smirk's team for support.

    Contact Smirk's: hello@smirk's.com
    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    1 h et 8 min
  • Animal & Petfood Bulk Product Ingredients & Industry Trends EP12

    Animal & Petfood Bulk Product Ingredients & Industry Trends EP12
    Jun 14 2024
    In episode 12 of "Get the Scoop with Smirks," hosts Zach Schwint and Garrett McBride dive into the evolving landscape of the pet food industry. Fresh from their debut at the Pet Food Forum in Kansas City, they discuss current trends, ingredient innovations, and future directions for the industry. They also highlight the various bulk ingredients Smirks offers for pet food manufacturers and share insights on market demands and product development. Market Growth and Trends The U.S. pet food market, valued at $43.9 billion in 2023, is expected to reach nearly $60 billion by 2032. Key drivers include premium pet food products focusing on overall wellness, healthy aging, and good digestion. Innovation in pet food is booming, with a significant portion coming from new companies that have emerged in the last five years. Interestingly, Mintel Insights indicates there's even more new product development and innovation going on in the pet food industry, 50 % of which is for dogs and cats, than in human food. Sustainability and Functional Foods There are trends in the pet food industry that mirror what Smirk's sees in the human food industry including a growing emphasis on sustainable practices, such as recyclable packaging and upcycled ingredients. Pet food facilities are increasingly powered by renewable energy. Pet owners are also looking for functional pet food products focusing on better gut health are trending. Ingredients like quinoa flakes, pumpkin powder, and psyllium husk are in demand for their digestive benefits. The days of a few brands of kibble are long gone! Ingredient Innovation Plant-based proteins, such as pea protein and pumpkin protein powder, are becoming popular in pet food. Gluten-free and non-gluten-free options cater to various dietary needs. Some pet owners are getting DNA tests to determine the best diet for their family pet so options for all types of conditions are being considered. Fruits and vegetables like banana, apple, strawberry, sweet potato, and potato starch are commonly used in pet foods. Alternative sweeteners like coconut sugar and functional oils like coconut and flaxseed oil are also gaining traction. Ingredient benefits and versatility are key for pet food producers, and we discuss ingredients that Smirks offers for animal and pet food and pet treats. These items are typically offered in non -GMO conventional and organic formats. 1. Coconut Products Coconut is a major ingredient in pet food beneficial for dogs. Smirks offers a range of coconut products, including desiccated coconut, coconut sugar, and coconut flour. Coconut oils, such as virgin coconut oil and MCT oil, are noted for keeping pets' coats shiny and healthy. 2. Seeds Flax seeds, chia, sunflower seeds, and quinoa flakes are highlighted for their nutritional benefits in pet food. Flax seeds are available in various forms, while chia seeds are noted for their digestive health benefits. Sunflower seeds are a cost-effective nutritious option, and quinoa flakes are easier for dogs to digest. 3. Plant-Based Proteins and Grains Plant-based proteins like pea, sunflower, pumpkin, and rice protein powders are increasingly used as substitutes for animal proteins. Smirks also deals in various grains and starches, many of which are gluten-free, such as sorghum, tapioca, and cassava flour, providing fiber and protein for pets. 4. Dried Fruits Smirks stocks a variety of dried fruits, including apples, pineapple, mango, cranberries, and banana chips, which are used in pet foods and treats to add nutrition and fiber. Monthly Market Report June 2024 Here's the latest update on ocean freight and key commodity trends impacting the pet food and treat industry. Ocean Freight Updates Ocean freight rates from Southeast Asia have surged to $7,000-$8,000 and are expected to exceed $10,000 by the end of summer. These rates were just $1,500-$3,000 a few months ago. This drastic increase is primarily due to equipment shortages triggered by disruptions like the Suez Canal blockage. Higher freight prices and shipment delays are anticipated throughout 2024. Even with contracts, there are no guarantees of equipment availability when products are ready to load, making it challenging to hedge freight costs. Coconut Products Prices for coconut products have skyrocketed due to El Niño-induced extreme heat and drought in the Philippines. Supplies are tight, with limited offers for the end of 2024. Vietnam presents a viable alternative with ready-to-ship supplies at comparable prices to previous offers from the Philippines. Cashews The cashew market is under pressure due to a shorter crop and an export ban on raw cashew nuts (RCN) from Ivory Coast. This has led to significant price increases and tight supply, with quality concerns adding to the challenges. Pumpkin Seeds Prices for pumpkin seeds are decreasing due to large plantings in China. However, the benefits are offset by rising ocean freight costs, which diminish the ...
    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    31 min
  • ExpoWest 2024 Recap & Product Focus: Gluten Free Bakery Ingredients EP 11

    ExpoWest 2024 Recap & Product Focus: Gluten Free Bakery Ingredients EP 11
    Apr 22 2024
    The Smirk's team is breaking down Expo West, the largest natural and organic products trade show in the US. It happens every March in Anaheim and this year Smirk's had 11 people attending to see what's new and connect with some of the 65,000 people who attend. Jessica Warden and Zach Schwindt join Garrett McBride to review the highlights. TRENDS and INNOVATIONS Regenerative Organic (RO) Certification - RO certified products were widespread, indicating a growing trend towards regenerative agricultural practices. Functional Foods - The trend of functional foods continued, with an emphasis on products promoting gut health and incorporating ingredients like adaptogens. Alternative Sweeteners - There was a shift towards natural sweeteners such as coconut sugar, date sugar, and stevia in various food and beverage products. Plant-Based Alternatives - Plant-based products were prominent, including innovative alternatives like plant-based bacon made from seasoned shredded coconut. Nostalgic Flavors - Brands showcase nostalgic flavors in innovative products, appealing to consumers' childhood memories with modern twists. Eco-Friendly Products - A rise in eco-friendly products was observed, including shampoo and conditioner bars and thin soap sheets for laundry. THE EXPO EXPERIENCE The hosts described the bustling atmosphere of Expo West, with crowded aisles and vibrant booths. The value of face-to-face interactions and networking opportunities is significant and one of the best reasons to participate. Smirk's continues to connect with producers and potential partners. The overall experience was positive, with many new products and connections made. GLUTEN-FREE BAKED GOODS With the prevalence of alternative flours such as nut-based, seed-based and others, there is now a wide variety of options in the allergen-friendly bakery world. There's a particular focus on crackers, showcasing unique blends like buckwheat flour with cranberries and the use of ingredients like organic banana flour, hemp flour, cassava flour, and more. Smirks offers a comprehensive range of organic and non-GMO seeds, nut butters, dried fruits, and alternative sweeteners like coconut sugar and maple syrup. They also emphasized their ability to meet specific customer needs, such as origin preferences and glycemic-friendly sweeteners. MARKET REPORT Donny Edson shares this month's report and starts by covering the on-going delays due to shipping and freight issues. It's likely to continue to take longer to get products, especially on the east coast. He recommends planning ahead keeping the adding longer shipping times to your forecasts. On a good note, new shipping contracts that begin in May will have minimal price increases from last year, which is a big relief since prices were trending up. Donny also covers the new rules affecting the shipments of organic items and the need to have the proper certification filed with customs before picking up product. Smirk's and others have run into issues and it's causing delays until things can be sorted. Big picture, things are getting tighter so planning ahead is recommended and expect price increases until availability improves. Product specifics: Desiccated coconuts which had been plentiful are now delayed. Processors are having trouble getting product so we're seeing delays from six to eight weeks right now. We're seeing prices increase anywhere from 40 to 70%, depending on the origin and depending on the grade. If you're not covered through the end of the year on coconut, you should get covered immediately. Another issue is coconut sugar. As Ramadan ends, packers in Indonesia are concerned about the lack of raw material available to process Most packers are offering new shipments only in June and July forward with limited availability. Stocks in the US are getting very tight, and the spot market is getting tight as well. We expect the shortages to happen and carry on throughout the summertime until new shipments in June and July arrive in the US. Coconut oil prices have risen anywhere from 20 to 30 % depending on if it's VCO or RBD. The demand in the US has been high as many people have delayed shipments. Bottlers are trying to get anything they can to keep the retail shelves full. We don't anticipate the coconut oil price to correct itself for quite some time. Plan ahead. Demand for organic cashews has increased. There's little inventory and the new crop is slow arriving for processing. Two of the suppliers we work with are fully booked this year on their broken grades and whole grades. We expect this market to stay firm and to get tight. Macadamia nuts are no longer the value they were last year. Supplies are booked out and we've seen price increases. The new crop should be in soon, and that should help with availability and better pricing. Amaranth is finally shipping again. Prices have dropped, which is great to see and we hope they remain stable. ...
    Afficher plus Afficher moins
    49 min