USDA proposes changes to handling regulations

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announces a proposed rule to change the varietal classifications that determine the size requirements for U.S. No. 2 grade potatoes handled under the marketing order for Irish Potatoes Grown in Certain Designated Counties in Idaho, and Malheur County, Oregon. The proposed rule would also affect imported long potatoes.

Under the proposed change, the classifications of potatoes would be revised to distinguish between Russet potatoes and all other varieties under the marketing order. The import regulations for long potatoes would also be changed accordingly. The proposed rule would change only the names of the potatoes in the classifications. The size requirements specified in the marketing order’s handling regulations would remain unchanged.

The handling regulations’ current size requirements do not adequately distinguish between non-traditional potato varieties, forcing them to meet size requirements that do not match their natural characteristics or their intended market outlet. The proposed change would align handling regulations with the varieties of potatoes grown in the production area and allow the sale of potatoes that would have been restricted.

The proposed rule for this action was published in the Federal Register May 9, 2018. Written comments must be received by July 9, 2018.

For more information:
Web: www.ams.usda.gov