Kiwifruit Grown in California; Relaxation of Pack and Container Requirements

This rule revises pack and container requirements currently prescribed for California kiwifruit under the California kiwifruit marketing order (order). The order regulates the handling of kiwifruit grown in California and is administered locally by the Kiwifruit Administrative Committee (committee). This rule adds a new size designation to the allowable size designations for packs of kiwifruit; revises the standard packaging requirements to require volume filled containers of kiwifruit designated by weight to hold 19.8-pounds (9- kilograms) net weight of kiwifruit, unless such containers hold less than 15 pounds or more than 35 pounds net weight of kiwifruit; requires the quantity statement to be indicated in terms of both "count" and "size" for all kiwifruit packed into cell compartments, cardboard fillers, or molded trays; and exempts all varieties of kiwifruit from the "tightly packed" standard pack requirement. This rule is expected to help handlers compete more effectively in the marketplace, better meet the needs of retailers, reduce handler packing costs, and to improve handler and grower returns.