Specialty Crops; Import Regulations; New Pistachio Import Requirements
marketing-order · Agricultural Marketing Service · Rule · Published 2012-08-27 · Effective 2012-09-26 · 77 FR 51686
Document
Document number
2012-20974
Federal Register citation
77 FR 51686
CFR reference
7 CFR 999
Type
Rule
Action
Final rule.
Category
marketing-order
Sub-agency
Agricultural Marketing Service
Publication date
2012-08-27
Effective date
2012-09-26
USDA docket
Doc. No. AMS-FV-09-0064
Abstract
This rule establishes a minimum quality regulation for lots of pistachios imported into the United States. The regulation specifies maximum aflatoxin tolerance levels as well as mandatory aflatoxin testing and certification requirements. These import quality requirements are the same as or comparable to those in effect for the domestically produced commodity. Under this regulation, aflatoxin levels in imported pistachios may not exceed 15 parts per billion (ppb), as certified by aflatoxin inspection certificates issued by an accredited laboratory. This action is intended to assure consumers that all pistachios offered for sale in the United States meet the same aflatoxin standards, thus promoting high quality product in the market place and fostering consumer satisfaction.