Limes and Avocados Grown in Florida; Relaxation of Container Dimension, Weight, and Marking Requirements

This rule changes the container requirements prescribed under the Florida lime and avocado Federal marketing orders. The marketing orders are administered locally by the Florida Lime Administrative Committee and the Avocado Administrative Committee (committees). This rule simplifies container marking requirements for both limes and avocados by reducing the number of times the size for limes and the grade for avocados need to appear on a container. This rule also removes weight limits on lime and avocado containers packed within a master container, and relaxes certain minimum weight requirements on containers of avocados. In addition, this rule eliminates specific container dimension requirements for both limes and avocados, but maintains net weight requirements. These changes will reduce handling costs and provide greater flexibility in lime and avocado packing operations.