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, without change, an interim final rule eliminating grade, size, maturity, pack, container and inspection requirements for all California nectarines and peaches except those packed in containers labeled "California Well Matured" or "CA WELL MAT." This rule also continues in effect seasonal adjustments to the handling requirements applicable to well matured fruit and the removal of certain handler reporting requirements that are deemed no longer necessary. 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 reduces handler costs while enabling handlers to continue to meet the demands of their buyers.