Food & Farm News
Real Audio» August 2, 2006 «
CFBF urges innovation in next Farm Bill
Urging officials to think beyond the traditional approach to government agricultural policy, a California farm leader advocated innovation in the upcoming federal Farm Bill. California Farm Bureau President Doug Mosebar was among speakers at a Farm Bill "listening session" in Sacramento yesterday (Tuesday). Mosebar recommended the government enhance its investments in research, conservation, market development and other programs that benefit consumers, farmers and the environment.
Apple farmers study new marketing method
There's a new trend developing in the apple business. Developers of new apple varieties patent their discoveries and form groups of growers. The farmers agree to follow specific guidelines when they harvest the fruit. In theory, the plans could provide consumers with access to more apple varieties and yield better returns for farmers. The California Apple Commission says farmers here are looking into the possibility of joining the new associations.
New study underlines walnuts' benefits
Eating walnuts appears to benefit the health of blood vessels, according to research conducted in California and Italy. Government and university scientists added walnut powder to feed given to hamsters. The hamsters, in turn, showed significantly lower levels of a natural chemical that can cause inflammation in blood vessels and arteries. The study adds to earlier research that indicates walnut consumption enhances cardiovascular health.
Lemon demand reaches summertime peak
This is the time of year when demand for lemons peaks, and that ... combined with a drop in production ... boosted the prices farmers earned for the fruit. A government report says lemon shipments dropped 43 percent in May and June, compared to the same months a year ago. Most domestically produced lemons come from California. Lemon imports typically peak during the summer, too, and the report said that will also affect prices in coming weeks.
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