Frost damage leads to record Brazilian zucchini prices

The Mintec price of Brazilian zucchini reached BRL 6.46/kg on the 19th of August 2021. This is an increase of BRL 2.31/kg (+63%) month-on-month. This is the highest level since the price series were started in 2014; it is largely attributed to supply shortages, caused by adverse weather in late-July. Brazil saw some of its coldest weather in over 25 years, with sub-zero temperatures for several days, causing frost damage across main zucchini producing states - São Paulo, Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro, and Parana. Zucchinis are among the most consumed vegetables, with the highest economic value and production in Brazil. According to the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Supply (MAPA), about 135,750 tons of zucchinis equivalent to USD 55.54 million were produced in Brazil in 2019. More than 50% of the country's zucchini production comes from the Southeast region with ...