Fresh or Chilled Asparagus

Commercial invoices and packing lists should explicitly state 'white asparagus' as the product description. White asparagus is grown under mounded soil or covers to prevent chlorophyll development, producing a pale stalk with a distinct flavor profile. Without clear variety identification, customs may default the shipment to the general conventional asparagus line, which could affect duty treatment.

Peru's Ica and La Libertad coastal valleys offer a dry, mild climate that supports asparagus production throughout the year, including during the US domestic off-season. Established cold-chain infrastructure and air-freight capacity have made Peruvian asparagus the primary year-round source for US retailers and foodservice buyers, with Mexico serving as a secondary supplier during its spring harvest window.