Food & Farm News
» January 23, 2008 «
Rising costs worry dairy farmers 
Analysts who follow California milk prices say the on-farm price may already have peaked for this year. As farm milk prices ease during the spring and summer, consumers may see retail prices decline, as well. Dairy farmers continue to struggle with high production costs, despite last year's boost in milk prices. A leader of the Western United Dairymen organization says farmers expect continued high costs for feed, fuel and other supplies.
Flower growers gear up for Valentine's Day
With Valentine's Day now about three weeks away, California flower growers are gearing up for an annual jump in demand. Even though wildfires and winds last fall damaged some fields and greenhouses in San Diego County, the California State Floral Association says it anticipates adequate supplies for Valentine's bouquets. The association encourages consumers to order early to be sure of getting the arrangements they want.
Pest fighters test new tactics against apple moth
New tactics may be used to attack an invading pest that threatens California native plants and crops. State and federal agencies said yesterday (Tuesday) that they're testing additional methods to fight the light brown apple moth. They're looking for ways to complement aerial drops of pheromones, insect attractants that disrupt moth breeding. The additional tactics include a formula to attract and kill male moths. The apple moth infests nine California counties.
UC team looks at what causes fruit to rot
By learning more about why fruit rots, researchers may be able to keep fruit fresher, longer. A University of California team said yesterday it has discovered that two enzymes work together to allow mold to develop on ripening tomatoes. The UC Davis researchers used biotechnology to develop tomatoes with different combinations of the enzymes. A tomato that had both the enzymes removed proved to be much less susceptible to a damaging fungus.
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