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

The Department of Agriculture (USDA) is adopting, as a final rule, with changes, an interim final rule revising the handling requirements for California nectarines and peaches by modifying the grade, size, maturity, and container requirements for fresh shipments of these fruits, beginning with 2004 season shipments. This rule also continues in effect an on-going modification of the requirements for placement of Federal-State Inspection Service lot stamps for the 2004 season and beyond, continues in effect a minimum net weight for a style of containers, continues in effect the authorization to continue shipments of "CA Utility" quality nectarines and peaches, and continues in effect the revision of the tolerance for blossom-end growth cracks for Peento type peaches. 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 will enable handlers to continue shipping fresh nectarines and peaches meeting consumer needs in the interests of producers, handlers, and consumers of these fruits.