Grapes Grown in a Designated Area of Southeastern California; Revision of Container Requirements

The Department of Agriculture (Department) is adopting as a final rule, the provisions of an interim final rule with correction which added two new containers to the list of containers authorized for use by table grape handlers regulated under the marketing order. This rule also reduces the minimum net weight of containers of California table grapes from 22 pounds to 20 pounds and for grapes packed in poly bags from 20 pounds to 18 pounds. The marketing order regulates the handling of table grapes grown in a designated area of Southeastern California. The marketing order is locally administered by the California Desert Grape Administrative Committee (CDGAC). This rule allows for more efficient use of containers and helps handlers meet industry needs.