January Fruit and Vegetable Guide for Wholesale Distributors

The demand for fresh produce is consistently high throughout the year, and in order to satisfy customers, wholesale distributors must have a thorough understanding of produce popularity throughout different times of the year, as well as the best practices for selecting these items.

The purpose of this January fruit and vegetable guide is to provide wholesale distributors with useful information about popular January produce, including tips for choosing and storing these items to preserve quality and ensure the possible longest shelf life.

We’ll also go over how Silo can help you leverage seasonal trends.

Check out our guide on winter fruits and vegetables as well.

January fruits and vegetables in season

Let’s have a look at what’s popular with consumers during the month of January.

Citrus fruits

January is a great time for citrus fruits. Some of the most popular citrus fruits in season include oranges, lemons, and grapefruits.

High in vitamin C levels and other nutrients, these fruits are favored for their health benefits, especially in the thick of cold and flu season. They’re also great for use in teas and for snacking, as well as for adding a burst of flavor to recipes like salads, marinades, and desserts.

Squash

Squash are popular January vegetables with many different types to choose from. Some popular winter squash varieties include butternut, acorn, and spaghetti. Squash is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, such as soups, stews, and baked goods.

Root vegetables

Root vegetables also experience great demand in January, known for their hearty flavor and nutritional value. Some popular root vegetables include carrots, beets, and parsnips. These vegetables are great for roasting, grilling, or incorporating into soups and stews.

Tips for selecting and storing winter produce

When it comes to selecting the freshest and highest quality January produce, there are a few key factors to consider depending on the type you’re dealing with.

Citrus fruits

For citrus fruits, look for items that are firm and heavy for their size, with smooth and unblemished skin. Avoid fruits that are soft or have blemishes, as these may be overripe or damaged. 

Citrus fruit can be stored at room temperature, but they’ll last longer if they’re kept in the refrigerator.

Squash

Squash should be firm and free of soft spots or blemishes. Choose squash that’s heavy for its size, as this is a sign of freshness. 

Squash and root vegetables should be stored in a cool, dry place. They can also be kept in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life.

Root vegetables

Root vegetables should be firm and free of blemishes. Look for vegetables that are firm and smooth, as these are likely to be fresher and of higher quality.

Additional tips

In addition to these general storage tips, there are a few other things that wholesale distributors can do to ensure quality and a long shelf life for their January produce. 

One important thing is to carefully inspect each piece of produce for signs of damage or spoilage. Remove any items that are not up to standard. This will guarantee that the produce offered to customers is of the highest possible quality.

It’s also crucial to consider the way in which the produce is transported and handled. Wholesale distributors should take care that produce is handled gently and avoid rough handling, as this can cause bruising and damage. Additionally, it’s important to transport the produce in a temperature-controlled environment to ensure that it stays fresh and retains its quality.

Take your fresh produce business to the next level with Silo

By understanding the different types of January fruit and vegetables in demand during the month, as well as the best practices for selecting and storing these items, wholesale distributors can make the most out of seasonality when it’s relevant.

If you’re looking to capitalize on yearly trends, it’s best to combine what’s been outlined in this article with technological solutions like Silo. Silo is the gold standard Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solution for produce businesses looking for any easy to use system that improves efficiency, increases profit margins, and makes everyday operations easier–even seamless.

You’ll benefit from features that assist you to better manage your inventory, get the most out of your buying and selling functions, as well as streamline accounting, and get access to financing when you need it most.

Book a demo with Silo today!