Nectarines and Peaches Grown in California; Revision of Handling Requirements for Fresh Nectarines and Peaches

The Department of Agriculture is adopting, as a final rule, with minor changes, the provisions of an interim final rule that revised the handling requirements for California nectarines and peaches by modifying the grade, size, maturity, and container marking requirements for fresh shipments of these fruits, beginning with 2000 season shipments. This rule also continues in effect the modification of the requirements for placement of Federal-State Inspection Service lot stamps for the 2000 season only. The marketing orders regulate the handling of nectarines and peaches grown in California and are administered locally by the Nectarine Administrative and Peach Commodity Committees (committees). This rule enables handlers to continue shipping fresh nectarines and peaches meeting consumer needs in the interest of producers, handlers, and consumers of these fruits.