Jimmie Turner (202) 720-8998 jimmie.turner@ams.usda.gov
WASHINGTON, July 22, 2010 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced proposed revisions of 18 U.S. Grade Standards for Frozen Vegetables issued on or before July 22, 1985.
USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service, which periodically reviews the processed fruit and vegetable grade standards for usefulness in serving the industry, has identified 18 grade standards covering various frozen vegetables for possible revision.
Prior to undertaking detailed work to develop the proposed revisions, AMS is soliciting comments. The proposed revisions will facilitate the interpretation of the grade standards, and provide a common language for trade and a format consistent with recent revisions of other grade standards.
The notice will be published in the July 23, 2010, Federal Register. Copies of the grade standards are available at http://www.ams.usda.gov/processedinspection.
AMS works with industry representatives and others to establish or revise U.S. standards for nearly 240 agricultural products. Industry uses the standards in the marketplace to specify the quality of commodities. Standards facilitate commerce by providing a common language for trade and a means of measuring value in the marketing of agricultural products.
Written comments, which are due Sept. 21, 2010, may be sent to: Lydia Berry, Processed Products Branch, Fruit and Vegetable Programs, Agricultural Marketing Service, USDA, Stop 0247, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0247; by fax to (202) 690-1527; or posted on www.regulations.gov.
Copies of the notice are available from the addresses above.
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