Pistachios Grown in California, Arizona, and New Mexico; Modification of the Aflatoxin Regulations

The Department of Agriculture (USDA) is adopting, as a final rule, without change, an interim rule that modified the aflatoxin sampling and testing regulations prescribed under the California, Arizona, and New Mexico pistachio marketing order (order). The interim rule streamlined the aflatoxin sampling and testing procedures under the order's rules and regulations for pistachios to be shipped for domestic human consumption while maintaining sufficient aflatoxin controls. These changes are expected to reduce handler operating costs by providing a uniform and consistent aflatoxin sampling and testing procedure for pistachios shipped to all market destinations.