AMS 218-12

Gwen Sparks, (202) 260-8210

gwen.sparks@ams.usda.gov

WASHINGTON, Jan. 4, 2013 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture is revising U.S. Standards for Grades of Eggplant.

The revised standards will allow mixed colors and/or types of eggplant in the same pack when designated as a mixed or specialty pack. The revisions will provide the industry with more flexibility to meet consumer demand and market U.S. eggplant in an increasingly competitive world market. The revised standards become effective Feb. 4, 2013.

USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (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.

The notice was published in the Jan. 2, 2013, Federal Register. Visit www.ams.usda.gov/freshinspection for a copy of the revised standards. If you have questions or would like more information, please contact Dave Horner, AMS Fruit & Vegetable Program via e-mail at Dave.Horner@ams.usda.gov, by calling 540-361-1128, or by mail at USDA, National Training and Development Center, Riverside Business Park, 100 Riverside Parkway, Suite 101, Fredericksburg, Va. 22406.

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