Sweet potatoes are another specialty crop looking for strength this year. They are expensive to grow but producers in North Carolina say consumption is still growing.
Thomas Joyner, the president of Nash Produce, says demand is up around 3 percent year-over-year, and he is looking forward to the upcoming Easter demand. Oversupply of sweet potatoes has been an issue lately, but thanks to a smaller crop last year, Joyner says they were able to clear out some inventory.
Overseas demand also plays a role, with growers in Brazil putting out sweet potatoes all year ‘round.
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