Food & Farm News

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Fight against Asian citrus psyllid and citrus greening disease

Raisin grape harvest peaking

Harvest of California raisin grapes will peak this week as farm workers place grapes on plastic sheets between rows in vineyards. There is some change in harvest operations as about 30 percent of the crop is now picked by machine. The Raisin Bargaining Association says the crop will be a little lighter than last year, but quality will be excellent. Raisin farmers are hoping for no rain until the grapes become sun dried raisins. Moisture can cause crop damage. California leads the nation in raisin production.

Asian citrus psyllid infestation spreads

The head of the California Citrus Research Board says it's crucial to maintain the sniffer-dog program and pursue research projects to prevent the spread of the Asian citrus psyllid and citrus greening disease. Dogs found the insects in packages in two locations, Fresno and Sacramento. The insect can carry citrus greening bacteria, which kills citrus trees. Thus far none of the insects found in California carried the bacteria.

Large processing tomato crop predicted

Processing tomato production in California may set a record this year, according to a federal government report. The forecast is for growers to produce 13.5 million tons. In order to meet demand, farmers moved their tomato acres to where there was adequate water. Yields are reported above expectations. Processing tomatoes are used for items such as catsup, salsa, tomato paste and others. California leads the nation in processing tomato production.

Tattoos may soon be on grapefruit

Grapefruit may soon have tattoos instead of sticky labels for identification at supermarket checkout lines. Researchers have developed a laser beam that marks the fruit. It cannot be washed off and allows each piece of fruit to be tracked to its source if needed. Tests show that the tattoo did not allow pathogens to get into the fruit. Testing continues on similar tattoos on tomatoes, avocados and other citrus fruit. The Food and Drug Administration must approve the process before it can be used commercially.

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