Food & Farm News
Real Audio» November 9, 2006 «
Farm Bureau assesses election results
The re-election of Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and the defeat of new taxes encourage family farmers and ranchers. California Farm Bureau President Doug Mosebar said the governor appreciates the importance of agriculture and will work with both political parties to tackle the state's challenges. Mosebar also welcomed the defeat of ballot measures that he said would have raised taxes to benefit special interests.
Grape trends affect vine nurseries
Changing trends in grape production affect demand at California nurseries. Pinot noir grapevines are the hottest sellers this year, as farmers seek to benefit from the increasing demand for that wine variety. Nursery growers report demand for pinot noir vines from farmers in both California and Oregon. In contrast, demand for Thompson seedless grapevines has dropped. Newly developed varieties for raisins and table grapes have reduced new plantings of Thompsons.
Farmers wrap up sweet-potato harvest
With the key Thanksgiving sales period approaching, sweet potato harvest is about 98 percent complete in California. Farmers say they hope to harvest their remaining sweet potatoes before any substantial rain falls. Harvest is finishing about a week later than average. Farm advisors say a number of weather issues, including the wet spring, appear to have slowed the harvest. California-grown sweet potatoes come mainly from the northern San Joaquin Valley.
Dried-plum puree works well to preserve meat
A puree made of dried plums shows promise as a meat preservative. And researchers at Texas A&M University say the technique can also enhance the flavor of meat. In a study commissioned by the California Dried Plum Board, food scientists learned that the puree works well in preserving meat ... especially products such as sausages and roast beef. Consumers told researchers they preferred the flavor of meats preserved with dried-plum puree.
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