U.S. Fruit Output Slips in 2004

WASHINGTON - Jul 6/05 - SNS -- Utilized production of noncitrus fruits slipped 1% in 2004 to an estimated 16.8 million tons, according to the USDA's annual report on the sector.

Utilized production increased from 2003 for apples, Oregon blackberries, cultivated blueberries, boysenberries, California raspberries, sweet cherries, California figs, Hawaii guavas, California kiwifruit, peaches, prunes and plums, and strawberries.

The value of utilized production for noncitrus fruit crops totaled U.S. $8.94 billion, up 3% from 2003. The value of utilized production for sweet cherries increased 28% from 2003, while grape value is up 15%, pears are up 10%, strawberries increased 7%, and cranberries are up 2% from the previous year.

However, the value of utilized production for California prunes decreased 44%, California nectarines decreased 28%, Hawaii pineapples are down 21%, California plums are down 15%, tart cherries decreased 13%, and apples are down 10% from 2003.

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