Supply Short; Tomato Growers’ Profits Up

Tight supplies of tomatoes nationwide are bruising retailers and consumers, but farmers are making juicy profits, agriculture industry experts say.

Tomato growers are getting more than double the price they received a year ago because February freezes hurt tomato production in Florida and Mexico.

“Tomatoes are tight and prices are high. The supply is very short,” said Al Brock, produce director for Publix Super Markets, based in Lakeland, Fla. The chain operates 360 stores throughout Florida.

Florida tomato growers are getting about $18 per 25-pound box of tomatoes, up from last year’s level of $8.