The warmwater spiny lobster supply from South and Central America has been steady this season compared to last, and foodservice buyers are showing more interest because prices are significantly lower than those for its coldwater cousins.
The season in Brazil opened June 1, while the Caribbean season opened in early July. “The size range from Brazil has been there, and there has been adequate supply to satisfy producers,” said one spiny lobster distributor. Caribbean product was expected to increase in availability by late July and early August, and is anticipated to run through the December holidays.
Wholesale prices are about the same as last season, distributors said, at USD 16.50 to USD 17.50 a pound for 5-ounce to 12-ounce sizes.
Demand is also steady, with imported product going primarily to restaurant chains and cruise ships. “Demand [for Brazil spiny lobster] is better than expected, given the slow start to the year. From January through April, it was really slow,” said one distributor.
More restaurant chains are becoming aware of warmwater spiny lobster tails, as the coldwater prices have become too expensive for many buyers. Coldwater lobster tails from Australia, New Zealand and South Africa are selling for between USD 40 and USD 45 a pound wholesale.
“When the chains hear USD 17 a pound [for warmwater spiny lobster], and they are getting a 5-ounce portion, they see that they can promote this,” said one distributor.
“We are doing a lot of work with restaurant chains to show their customers value by using two [spiny lobster] tails instead of one,” said another distributor.
In addition, North Atlantic lobster tails have been in shorter supply this season, which is expected to boost demand for warmwater spiny lobster.
“We have raw materials to provide all summer, and there are amazing values out of South America,” said a distributor.
Spiny lobster tails typically sell well in the summer, and have their best showing during the winter holidays.
“Hopefully the larger restaurant chain groups will come in for the season again. Last year, they stepped in at the last minute,” said a distributor.
