Processing tomato forecast drops slightly

A government report predicts about 11.6 million tons will be produced, and that is 1 percent less than was forecast in May. Harvest is about a week later than average. Frosty weather in April caused spot damage to some plants. Acreage was reduced because of water shortages in some areas, and yields may be lighter as farmers try to stretch what water they have to produce a crop. Processing tomatoes are used for a variety of canned products, from salsa to ketchup.