Kiwifruit Grown in California; Relaxation of Pack Requirements

The Department of Agriculture (USDA) is adopting, as a final rule, a corrected interim final rule which relaxed pack requirements prescribed under the California kiwifruit marketing order. The marketing order regulates the handling of kiwifruit grown in California and is administered locally by the Kiwifruit Administrative Committee (Committee). This rule continues to allow handlers to pack more individual pieces of fruit per 8-pound sample for seven size designations, continues the elimination of one size designation, and the addition of two new size designations. These changes were unanimously recommended by the Committee and are expected to increase grower returns and enable handlers to compete more effectively in the marketplace.