Tomatoes Grown in Florida; Partial Exemption From the Handling Regulation for Producer Field-Packed Tomatoes

This rule changes the handling requirements currently prescribed under the Florida tomato marketing order. The marketing order regulates the handling of tomatoes grown in Florida and is administered locally by the Florida Tomato Committee (committee). This rule exempts shipments of producer field-packed tomatoes from the container net weight requirements and the requirement that all tomatoes must be packed at registered handler facilities. This rule will allow the industry to pack a higher colored, riper tomato to meet the demand of the expanding market for vine-ripe tomatoes. This will facilitate the movement of Florida tomatoes and should improve returns to producers.