Food & Farm News

» February 16, 2011 «

Freezes reduce produce availability

An unusual combination of weather problems in various parts of North America has reduced supplies of several fresh vegetables. Freezes have hit Florida, Mexico, Arizona and Southern California in recent weeks. As a result, marketers say supplies have dropped for crops including bell peppers, cucumbers, lettuce and tomatoes. Produce brokers say supplies may be tight until California farms increase their shipments, beginning next month.

Meeting diet guidelines can be inexpensive

An American adult could satisfy government recommendations for vegetable and fruit consumption for less than $2.50 a day, according to a new study. U.S. Agriculture Department researchers estimated the average retail prices for 153 fresh and processed vegetables and fruits. Federal dietary guidelines recommend that a person should consume the equivalent of 2 cups of fruit and 2 and a half cups of vegetables each day.

Canning-peach farmers seek new customers

After back-to-back years with very strong crop yields, farmers and processors are working to expand markets for canned peaches. Marketers say they aim to increase domestic production in part by emphasizing the nutritional value of canned peaches. The California Canning Peach Association has also been working to open new markets abroad, and says it sees strong potential in sales to India.

Report shows average farm size

The average size of a California farm has gone down slightly, in a new government survey. The report says the average California farm is 311 acres in size. That's down one acre from the last survey, a year ago. The average California farm remains more than 100 acres smaller than the average farm nationwide. The survey says California has more than 81,000 farms.