Food & Farm News

» July 27, 2005 «

Horse cases of West Nile virus multiply

Cases of West Nile virus among California horses have begun to multiply, and authorities say they think the numbers will continue to climb through the summer. Twelve additional horses were diagnosed with the virus last week. So far this year, West Nile virus has killed 13 of the 27 horses infected. The state Department of Food and Agriculture says that, of the horses that died, seven had not been vaccinated at all and the other six had not been fully vaccinated.

State reopens I-5 produce inspection station

With the summer fruit harvest reaching its peak, state authorities will reopen an agricultural inspection station between the San Joaquin Valley and the Los Angeles Basin. The Wheeler Ridge Inspection Station checks fruit to make sure it meets quality standards. Inspectors also examine ownership documents to make sure produce isn't stolen. The state requires all trucks, pickups and vans carrying produce on Interstate 5 to stop at the station.

CVP boosts water allocation to 90 percent

Water allocations for Central Valley farmers have increased again. The federal Central Valley Project says it will now deliver 90 percent of contract supplies to its customers in the San Joaquin Valley. The C.V.P says that will allow farmers to pump less water from underground … and that, in turn, will reduce power demands in the valley. Thanks to plentiful winter rains, both the C.V.P and the State Water Project provided 90-percent allocations this year.

Soon, your sushi may be wrapped in broccoli

Sushi appetizers may soon be available in brightly colored wrappers made from fruits and vegetables. Federal researchers in the Bay Area have developed a number of wraps, such as an orange-colored one made from carrots. Sushi wraps have also been made from tomatoes, broccoli, strawberries and other produce. The new wraps are an alternative to traditional seaweed. At least one food company plans to market the new products to sushi restaurants.

On the Calendar:
On the calendar: The California Mid-State Fair celebrates its 60th anniversary as it begins today (Wednesday) in Paso Robles. The State Board of Food and Agriculture will hear about biofuels during its meeting in Sacramento.