Avocado shortage in California spikes prices for consumers

People who enjoy avocados may be out of luck at some restaurants and when they try to buy them at the store. That’s because California is going through a shortage of the fatty fruit, causing prices to skyrocket. Many customers at Goody’s Cafe Friday did not get their additonal avocado with their order. “Our produce vendor, he used to sell us a case from $40 to $70 nowadays it’s up to a $120,” Felipe Oros, co-owner of Mundo’s Mexican Grill inThousand Palms said. Oros says he knew the price of avocados wouldn’t stay stable. To keep prices down, avocados are listed as an add-on but, even this price has gone up from 50 cents to a dollar. “A lot of labor strikes in Mexico. Even though California does produce about 80% of American grown product it’s only about 7% of consumption in America.” Oros said. Another factor on the low production rate and sky high prices comes from the drought. One person says although avocados are a staple in her household, she may have to cut back. “I did notice the price is a little higher the last time I purchased them,” Amber Applebee from Rancho MIrage, said. “So, I think I will… Maybe not as often, but I will purchase them.” “Just these past two weeks we asked him for about three cases and last week he only brought two and this week he only brought one,” Oros said. Oros says as long as customers are willing to pay the price to have avocado on their plate, this business will continue to serve it.