CLFP Tomato Statistics Report

U.S. Tomato Processors reported total inventory of 4.1 million tons, stated on a raw tons equivalent basis as of March 1,1999 according to a report issued today by the California League of Food Processors. The March 1 inventory is 28% lower than the year before.

Apparent disappearance of tomato products for the first nine months of the pack year were reported at 8.5 million tons, down 4% from the comparable figure in 1998. For the twelve months, March 1, 1998 to March 1, 1999 apparent disappearance continued strong at 11 million tons, the fourth report in a row showing 12-month disappearance in excess of 11 million.

In a separate report, CLFP inventory of tomato paste-for-sale stood at 987,061 tons, stated on a raw product equivalent basis.

CLFP tomato statistics are gathered through voluntary reports from processors throughout the United States. For 1998-99, reporting processors handled 92% of total U.S. tonnage of processed tomatoes.

For further information, contact: T. Jeffrey Boese, President/CEO

CLFP news release