USDA seeks comments on almond inedible deadline extension

USDA is proposing to extend the deadline for handling inedible almond kernels in California, citing ongoing quality challenges tied to recent crop conditions.

In a proposed rule published in early March, USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service said it would move the inedible disposition obligation deadline from Sept. 30 to Nov. 30 under the federal marketing order for almonds grown in California.

The change, recommended by the Almond Board of California, would apply indefinitely and is intended to give handlers additional time to meet requirements for disposing of inedible kernels.

Under the marketing order, handlers must remove inedible kernels exceeding 2% of a lot and deliver them to approved outlets. The current deadline requires compliance by Sept. 30 following the crop year in which the obligation is incurred.

USDA said the existing timeline has become increasingly difficult to meet due to rising levels of inedible kernels in recent seasons. Higher rates have been linked to heavy winter precipitation and insect damage, which have reduced crop quality.

Data cited in the proposal shows the inedible disposition rate reached 4.23% in the 2023-24 crop year — the highest in 40 years — compared to a 15-year average of 1.44% prior to that period.

The increase has significantly raised the volume of inedible almonds that must be handled. In 2023-24, the industry faced a record 55.8 million pounds of inedible disposition, nearly quadrupling previous highs.

Industry groups said extending the deadline by 60 days would provide additional flexibility and help ensure compliance as elevated inedible rates continue.

The proposed rule would not change reporting or recordkeeping requirements and is not expected to add additional costs for handlers, according to USDA.

Public comments on the proposal are due by April 8.