HILO, Hawaii (FNS) -- Drought conditions in Hawaii, a direct effect of the El Nino weather phenomenon, are expected to depress the macadamia crop size approximately 20% for the upcoming fall harvest, according to sources in the grower community.
independent growers. With these forces in effect, the Mauna Loa Macadamia said it expects prices to remain stable through the crop's October-through-April harvest season.
Additionally, a larger-than-average recovery of nuts in the past harvest is expected to cover any unforeseen shortfalls, according to Deb Gatta, marketing spokeswoman for Mauna Loa.
Indeed, the grower is so bullish on the supply situation that it intends to market laydown poly bags, in 2-ounce and 6-ounce sizes, with this fall's harvest. This new entry into the market is intended to be merchandised in produce departments adjacent to such items as candied and caramel apples.
Hawaii is the primary growing region for macadamia nuts making way into the domestic mainland market.
