In 2015, Arizona…
*Source: USDA Vegetables 2015 Annual Summary, 2016
In 2015, the leafy greens industry cluster contributed approximately $2.0 billion in sales to Arizona economy
There are several pests and diseases that can affect leafy greens production area in Arizona. Lettuce seed for planting is regulated by A.A.C. R3-4-233: Lettuce Mosaic Virus, which prohibits seed that is not indexed for lettuce mosaic virus. This rule also defines conditions for trial plots of new varieties. The Plant Services Division provides inspection service for commodities that require phytosanitary certification for domestic and international export.
There are also food safety standards for production and harvesting lettuce crops that are regulated by the Arizona Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement (AZ LGMA). Members of the AZ LGMA are working collaboratively to protect public health by reducing potential sources of contamination in Arizona grown leafy greens. More information can be found on their website: www.arizonaleafygreens.org
The Citrus Fruit and Vegetable Standardization program monitors and enforces the quality standards for all fresh fruit and vegetables produced and marketed in Arizona.
For more information about AZ LGMA and the AZDA, please contact Teressa Lopez at 602-542-0945 or [email protected]