USDA moves to raise minimum size for Washington cherries

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is proposing changes to the marketing rules for sweet cherries grown in Washington, with a clear focus on pushing larger fruit into the fresh market.

Under the proposal, the minimum size would increase from 54/64 inch to 57/64 inch. This effectively removes smaller cherries from standard fresh sales and shifts the market towards larger calibres. The rule also aims to eliminate the “12-row” size category and formally recognise larger premium sizes such as 7 and 7.5 row. In addition, at least 90% of the cherries in any lot would need to meet the new minimum size requirement.

The USDA says the change reflects how the market has evolved. Buyers, both in the United States and overseas, are consistently demanding larger cherries, which tend to bring better prices and stronger repeat sales. The goal is to improve overall quality and keep Washington cherries competitive in high-value markets.

For growers, the impact will depend on their ability to produce larger fruit. Those already geared towards bigger sizes may benefit from stronger returns, while others could face tighter margins if more of their crop falls below the new threshold. Orchard practices, variety choices and growing conditions will become even more important under these rules.

The proposal is not final yet. Industry participants have the opportunity to comment before the USDA decides whether to adopt the changes.

Read the full document here.

source and photo: usda.gov