Moroccan limes provide breathing space in a tight organic lime market

Demand for organic fruit continues to grow, and organic limes are no exception. Their popularity is being driven partly by increasing demand for cocktails, mocktails and homemade lemonades, as well as their wider use in salads, curries and other dishes. Consumers are also increasingly choosing citrus grown without synthetic pesticides and without post-harvest fungicide treatment.

Strong summer demand, limited supply

Demand for limes traditionally rises during the summer months. Due to the exceptionally high temperatures across large parts of Europe, this peak is even more pronounced this year. At the same time, supplies from South America are under pressure. The effects of climate change are becoming increasingly evident in cultivation, with adverse weather conditions in Brazil and Colombia reducing the volumes of organic limes available.

US market competes for organic volumes

In addition to the usual increase in summer demand, this year’s World Cup in North America is generating additional demand for limes in the US, particularly from the hospitality sector. As the US market pays higher prices, suppliers in Colombia and Peru are choosing to send more organic limes to the US. Consequently, less volume remains available for Europe.

Additional logistical pressure

Logistics are also presenting challenges. This year, we have seen organic limes undergo more frequent inspections at the port than in previous years. High overall volumes arriving at the Port of Rotterdam are also causing delays. Our transport department is doing everything possible to minimise their impact and keep deliveries running smoothly.

Morocco broadens the supply base

To spread market risks, we source organic limes from multiple origins. We are currently receiving limes from Brazil, Colombia and Peru. From mid-August, we also expect organic limes from Morocco and Spain. With these additional origins, we are broadening our supply base further and expect some pressure on the organic lime market to ease.

Would you like to know more about current availability or discuss a programme? Please contact your Eosta account manager.