Freeze aftershock: Florida tomato supply tight after winter storms

The Sunshine State has seen sunnier days. Earlier this year, an aggressive cold snap event decimated strawberry and blueberry fields, with total losses estimated at $3.1 billion. 

But berries weren’t the only affected crop, as Florida’s tomato supply remains constrained following back-to-back winter storms.

December 2025’s Ezra and January 2026’s Gianna caused widespread damage in planted areas going from the Panhandle through South Florida, said Florida Tomato Exchange (FTE) Executive Vice President Robert Guenther to FreshFruitPortal.com.

Guenther, who also acts as manager for the Florida Tomato Committee, said normal volumes are not expected to return until mid-April.

“It takes time to discover the full extent of the damage from events such as these,” he noted. “We are currently experiencing the ongoing effects of the freeze, though most growers are still able to supply their customers.”

Roma shortfall 

Roma tomatoes remain the most affected category, the executive explained. Round tomatoes have emerged as the variety’s primary substitute, as they continue to be available in the market.

“We expect Roma supply to follow a similar recovery timeline, with availability improving from mid-April forward,” he said.

Simultaneous production challenges tied to adverse weather in Florida and Mexico have further complicated sourcing decisions. This, Guenther said, goes out to show just how critical strong grower-shipper-packer relationships are in the produce industry.

“It’s easy to take those relationships for granted when there is a robust supply of tomatoes in the marketplace, but when product is limited, it’s essential to have suppliers you can rely on to provide consistent product when needed,” he added.

A pricing rollercoaster ahead for the Florida tomato sector

Guenther said stakeholders should expect continued volatility in the near term, as tight supplies and recovering production could eventually drive pricing fluctuations across the market.

“It’s very important for the entire supply chain to be patient and work collectively to ensure that tomatoes are reaching end users, our customers at retail and foodservice,” he added. 

*All photos are referential.

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