The California Department of Food and Agriculture is announcing seven vacancies on the Standardization Advisory Committee.

The committee makes recommendations to the CDFA secretary on all matters pertaining to the department's Standardization Program, which ensures that fresh fruit, nuts and vegetables meet minimum market standards.

The Standardization Program is funded by California's fruit and vegetable producers to protect consumers and the agricultural industry from substandard products in the marketplace. Standardization laws establish minimum standards for maturity, quality, size, standard container and pack, and container markings. Inspections, conducted by California's Agricultural Commissioners and Sealers, take place in fields, packinghouses, wholesale markets, retail distribution centers, retail outlets and highway inspection stations.

Five member vacancies must represent the lettuce, tomato and mixed vegetable sectors. One vacancy must represent the fresh fruit sector, and one vacancy must represent the table grape industry.

Individuals serving on the committee must have a financial interest, either personal or through employment, in a commodity represented. The term of office for committee members is two years. Members receive no compensation, but are entitled to payment of necessary traveling expenses in accordance with the rules of the Department of Personnel Administration.

Individuals interested in being considered for an appointment should send a letter of consideration and include a letter of recommendation from the industry.

Nominations will be accepted until the positions are filled.

Applications should be sent to Mr. Steve Patton, California Department of Food and Agriculture, Inspection and Compliance Branch, 1220 ‘N' Street, Sacramento, Calif., 95814, or emailed to spatton@cdfa.ca.gov.

For further information on the Standardization Program and committee vacancies, please contact Steve Patton at (916) 445-2180.