Food & Farm News
» August 25, 2008 «
Researcher applauds FDA decision 
Calling it one more tool to safeguard food, a University of California specialist expresses support for the government decision to allow irradiation of fresh spinach and lettuce. Christine Bruhn of the UC Center for Consumer Research says the treatments will kill harmful bacteria, but not affect the taste or nutritional value of the vegetables. Experts say it will probably be a year before needed equipment can be in place to treat the produce.
Farm couple gets presidential volunteer award
Half Moon Bay farmers John and Eda Muller have been given the Presidential Volunteer Service Award. The Mullers routinely open their farm to groups and individuals to promote environmentally friendly farming. They also host physically challenged children on the farm, and use the lessons of the farm to encourage respect and understanding for others. In addition, the husband and wife team donates surplus produce to the needy
Fish rescue planned in the delta
Biologists will conduct a second fish rescue today (Monday) on Prospect Island in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. A survey of remaining aquatic habitat inside the island showed that more fish than expected had survived the draining of the island last year. It had been flooded by a levee break. The biologists will move fish such as carp, sunfish, blackfish and minnows. A rescue effort in November was thought to have removed all of the fish.
After peak, lemon prices expected to soften
While lemon market prices are at an all-time high, they're expected to drop shortly. The effects of a freeze two years ago and other weather conditions, including drought, have reduced overall crop size this growing season. According to a market survey, prices will soften toward the end of the month as production ends in one California growing area and shifts to another. There may be a slight supply gap before the new crop comes in. California leads the nation in lemon production.
Top
