Contracted production for California processing tomatoes is forecast at 11.0 million tons, averaging 55.0 tons per acre, according to USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. The current production forecast is 1 percent below last year’s contracted production of 11.1 million tons, and 7 percent above the May forecast. The projected harvested acreage of tomatoes grown under contract is 200,000 acres, down 10 percent from 2024.
Mild spring temperatures and adequate water supply provided tomato growers with favorable planting conditions and a good start to the developing crop. Cooler than normal summer temperatures have boosted yields to record high levels.
The processing tomato harvest began the first week of July and may finish a little later than last year because of the larger than expected crop. However, if contracts are fulfilled and canneries decide not to process more tonnage, some acreage may be left unharvested. To date, tomato quality is reported to be good.
The Processing Tomato Advisory Board published shipments through August 23, 2025, showing a 6% decrease compared to this time last year. This processing tomato estimate is funded by the California League of Food Producers.
