USDA modifies kiwifruit federal marketing order

The USDA has modified the handling regulations prescribed under the federal marketing order for kiwifruit grown in California.

This action will revise the size and uniformity requirements for all varieties of the Actinidia chinensis species of kiwifruit regulated under the marketing order, according to a news release.

This modification is outlined in the rule published in the Federal Register on Jan. 30, and the rule will take effect March 1.

Kiwifruit imported into the U.S. will also be eligible for the change in minimum size and shape standards, as required by section 608e of the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1937, the release said.

This modification provides California kiwifruit producers with expanded opportunities to sell more kiwifruit to consumers who will then have more selection of variety and size. As recommended by the Kiwifruit Administrative Committee, the change relaxes the minimum size requirement for all varieties of Actinidia chinensis species kiwifruit to Size 49, defined in the requirements as a maximum of 64 pieces of fruit in an 8-pound sample, according to the release.

In addition, the rule will exempt all varieties of Actinidia chinensis species kiwifruit from the requirement that fruit packed in a container be fairly uniform in size.

More information about the marketing order is available on the 920 Kiwifruit webpage, the AMS Marketing Orders and Agreements webpage or by contacting the Market Development Division at (202) 720-2491.