Apricots Grown in Designated Counties in Washington; Change in Container Regulations

The Department of Agriculture (Department) is adopting, as a final rule, without change, the provisions of an interim final rule which modified container requirements prescribed under the Washington apricot marketing order. The marketing order regulates the handling of apricots grown in designated counties in Washington and is administered locally by the Washington Apricot Marketing Committee (Committee). This rule continues in effect an action which removed the requirement requiring the use of a top pad when apricots are packed loose in closed containers weighing not less than 24 pounds. Continuation of that action will allow handlers greater flexibility in determining the need for a top pad depending on apricot variety or container dimensions, and is expected to increase returns to producers and improve the quality of apricots available to consumers.