CA Avocados Ramp Up and July 4th BBQ Price Hits New Record

**With the supply of Mexican avocados tapering off and prices rising, California growers have ramped up harvest, hoping to get their crop to market while it remains strong.

Prices may jump higher if the USDA does not immediately resume full inspections of avocados from the Mexican state of Michoacan.

Inspections were halted there after two USDA inspectors were attacked in early June.

Officials say USDA inspections in Michoacan will “gradually” return.

**Growmark has partnered with Optimus Technologies to test biodiesel in five of its semi-tractors and may be a potential pathway to transitioning its entire fleet to low-carbon fuels.

The engine upgrades from Optimus ensure heavy-duty diesel engines operate dependably in all weather conditions on either biodiesel or traditional diesel.

The pilot could significantly lower carbon emissions and the other pollutants while improving air quality in communities

near busy trucking routes.

**Rabobank’s 2024 July 4th Barbecue Index reached an unprecedented level this year.

Hosting a ten-person barbecue on the Fourth will cost $99, the highest total on record.

This year, beef, beer, soda, and lettuce comprise 64% of the total cost.

With food prices unlikely to reverse course, Rabobank says this may be the last time we’ll see a summer cookout for ten cost less than $100.