Avocados Grown in South Florida and Imported Avocados; Revision of the Maturity Requirements for Fresh Avocados

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This rule revises the maturity requirements currently prescribed under the marketing order for avocados grown in south Florida, and those specified in the avocado import maturity regulation. The marketing order regulates the handling of avocados grown in south Florida, and is administered locally by the Avocado Administrative Committee (Committee). This rule changes maturity requirements by adding additional shipping dates, weights and/or diameters to the shipping schedule for several avocado varieties, and adds three new varieties of avocados to the shipping schedule. This rule facilitates the shipment of avocados as they mature, and ensures that only mature fruit is shipped to the fresh market. This helps improve grower returns and promotes orderly marketing. Application of the maturity requirements to imported avocados is required under section 8e of the Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act of 1937.