Food & Farm News
» June 12, 2008 «
California-grown tomatoes safe for consumption 
California-grown tomatoes are not involved with the recent salmonella outbreak, according to the Food and Drug Administration. No California commercial fresh-market tomatoes had been sent to market when the outbreaks developed. A few growers have begun picking early varieties, but full production is still a few weeks away. Agriculture Secretary A.G. Kawamura said California-grown tomatoes are wholesome and safe to eat.
Avocado promotion planned
The California Avocado Commission has begun the most wide-reaching consumer promotion campaign in its history. Harvest should produce 340 million pounds of avocados this season, 81 million more than last year. Fruit quality is one of the best in the last decade, which will be the focus of the promotions. Spots will appear on the Food Network and run in national publications such as Bon Appétit, Cooking Light and House Beautiful.
California cut flower growers tour Colombia
A delegation of 14 California cut flower growers recently toured Colombia's flower growing regions. The California Cut Flower Commission reports the purpose was to enhance working relations with counterparts in Colombia, which is California's largest overseas competitor. The delegation learned about Colombia farmers' growing techniques and working conditions. Delegation members described the trip as a smart, necessary business move.
Wheat planting may increase
Wheat harvest is more than halfway completed in the Imperial Valley. Acreage is estimated to be about four times what was planted last year. Early reports indicate yields are better than expected as farmers have responded to record-high prices for wheat. Coffee shop talk is revealing wheat acreage will expand even more next year, as prices farmers earn for winter vegetables vary. Wheat will continue to earn high prices because of production problems in several wheat producing nations.
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