Tomatoes Grown in Florida; Change in Size Designation

The Department of Agriculture (Department) is adopting, as a final rule, without change, the provisions of an interim final rule that increased the maximum diameter of the 6x6 numeric size designation prescribed under the Florida tomato marketing order (order). The order regulates the handling of tomatoes grown in Florida and is administered locally by the Florida Tomato Committee (Committee). This rule continues in effect a maximum diameter increase of \2/32\ of an inch, from 2\27/32\ inches to 2\29/32\ inches for tomatoes designated 6x6. This change allows handlers to pack slightly larger tomatoes in a 6x6 container, and provides them with greater flexibility when packing tomatoes. The increased flexibility is expected to increase the number and availability of containers of 6x6 tomatoes, which are often in short supply.