Limes Grown in Florida and Imported Limes; Increase in the Minimum Size Requirement

This final rule increases the current minimum size requirement for limes grown in Florida and for limes imported into the United States. This change was recommended by the Florida Lime Administrative Committee (Committee), the agency responsible for the local administration of the marketing order covering limes grown in Florida. This rule increases the minimum size requirement from 1\7/8\ inches to 2 inches in diameter during the period of January 1 through May 31. Larger fruit tend to have a higher juice content. Therefore, the increase in fruit size will enable handlers to better meet the 42 percent juice content requirement specified in the regulations for limes shipped to the fresh market. The changes in import requirements are necessary under section 8e of the Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act of 1937.