Central Coast strawberry sales could decline 30 percent in pandemic

SANTA MARIA, Calif. - Strawberry sales are projected to go down by as much as 30 percent during the pandemic, according to the California Strawberry Commission.

This loss is projected for the next 6 weeks, said Carolyn O'Donnell, communications director for the commission.

Overall, she said they do not know how long the decline will last. These are unprecedented times. Their estimate is based on looking at current and past trends.

They are seeing a change in shopping habits with people shopping less frequently. That affects the amount of fresh strawberries they buy.

Peak strawberry season is hitting right around the projected peak of the pandemic, between now and July.

Strawberry farmers are getting creative to sell their berries, like sending more to processors or seeing if the USDA will purchase them for food bank donation, said O'Donnell.

Strawberries are grown year round in Santa Maria because of the climate. This year had a strong start to the season with an increase in strawberry acreage.

Strawberry farmers have had to implement changes in the pandemic. For example, farmers must stand at least six feet apart and wear masks.

As of now, the commission says there is no danger of getting the virus from food.