Total potato acreage in Idaho this year for members of United Potato Growers of Idaho, which represents an estimated 85 percent of the fresh market potatoes, 70 percent of the processing potatoes and 95 percent of the seed potatoes grown in the state, is down about 19.4 percent from 2004, which is "even a lower drop than we had last year among United growers," said Jerry Wright, chief executive officer and president of United Potato Growers of Idaho.

Deardorff-Jackson Co. in Oxnard, CA, is now Deardorff Family Farms.

"The name change is about defining who we are and what we do," said Tom Deardorff II, the company's president. "My father, uncle, grandfather and great-grandfather earned a reputation for the Deardorff name that was based on hard work, honesty and integrity. We proudly carry the Deardorff name and will continue to honor their efforts with a commitment to ensuring environmental and community health."

On Friday, Sept. 29, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration issued a warning to consumers not to drink Bolthouse Farms 100% Carrot Juice, 450 milliliter and one-liter plastic bottles, with "Best If Used By" dates of Nov. 11, 2006 or earlier.

The FDA's warning followed the fourth case of botulism being linked to Bakersfield, CA-based Bolthouse Farms brand carrot juice.

Steve Grinstead, president and chief executive officer of Monterey, CA-based Pro*Act, has partnered with others to launch National Distribution Group LLC, a newly formed Dallas-based holding company whose primary focus is to acquire or start up regional produce distribution companies.

Pro*Act is a leading fresh produce supplier to the foodservice industry. Mr. Grinstead told The Produce News that he will retain his role with Pro*Act while adding the titles of president and CEO of NDG. Mr. Grinstead said that he would be spending a good deal of time in the Dallas area.

WASHINGTON -- In a last-ditch effort to shine a light on the issue before Congress returns home to campaign, Sens. Larry Craig (R-ID) and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) urged the Republican leadership not to pass tough border enforcement legislation without responding to farmers reeling from farm labor shortages and crop losses.

WASHINGTON -- With the investigation narrowed to one fresh spinach processor, the Food & Drug Administration announced Sept. 29 that it cleared spinach for sale with the exception of bags that were part of several recalls.