Tampa Bay’s largest entry point for bananas and pineapples has been forced to close after it was hit by one of the strongest storms in history
SeaPort Manatee, a major deepwater entry port for fresh fruit and juice imports into the US state of Florida, was forced to close on the evening of Thursday 10 October after Hurricane Milton swept through the region.
“Following the passage of Hurricane Milton, SeaPort Manatee is currently without power and is assessing damage,” said port officials. “At this time, the port remains closed to vessel and landside traffic. We will provide updates on the port’s reopening as soon as the information becomes available.”
Earlier, port director Carlos Buqueras told Food Business News the storm was approaching “like a freight train” and suggested fruit imports from Central and South America – and in particular Brazil – could be adversely affected.
“We’re monitoring our warehouses closely right now, because of course the food suppliers too have temporarily shut down until the storm passes,” he said.
SeaPort Manatee handles around 1.2bn bananas and 30-40mn pineapples per year, he added.
It is home to a major handling centre operated by Del Monte Fresh Produce.
