Several countries are looking at banning single-use plastics for produce, and it is a move that USDA warns could come to the states.
“We could see dozens of more states adopting sustainable packaging laws in the next few years. We’re going to see broader regulations that will require packaging to be recyclable, reusable, or compostable by the end of the decade,” said Andrew Stephens.
The move was met with opposition in the European Union. Fresh produce growers and exporters said the rules will have great consequences on food safety and waste, with some calling for the policies to be scaled back.
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For producers, success this season will require more than just a clean field; it will require meticulous record-keeping, a proactive written mitigation plan, and a constant eye on both the forecast and the federal docket.