USDA Finally Grades Seedless Lemons in New Standards Update
Published Date: 4/13/2026
Notice
Summary
Starting May 13, 2026, the USDA is updating lemon grading rules to include 'seedless lemons' and new labeling requirements for them. This change affects lemon growers, sellers, and buyers by making it easier to identify and market seedless lemons. No extra costs are expected, but everyone will need to follow the new marking rules to keep things fresh and clear.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
New 'Seedless' Definition for Lemons
When lemons are labeled "seedless," a 100-count composite sample may have no more than 6 fruit (6 percent) that contain seeds, and seeds include both fully developed and undeveloped seeds. This seedless definition does not change lemon grades.
Labeling Rule: 'Seedless' on 95% Containers
If lots are marked "seedless," the term "seedless" must be legibly marked on at least 95 percent of the containers, including consumer units. This marking requirement takes effect May 13, 2026.
Standards Remain Voluntary; No Mandate
The U.S. Standards for Grades of Lemons are voluntary and producers are not required to use the term "seedless" on their labels. If producers choose to label fruit "seedless," they must meet the seedless definition and marking rules starting May 13, 2026.
Definition and Marking Don't Change Grades
AMS states that the seedless definition and the associated marking requirements do not affect the grade of lemons. Grade determinations remain unchanged even when containers are marked "seedless."
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-09571 — Designation Opportunities for United States Grain Standards Act
The USDA is opening up chances for new groups to officially inspect and weigh grain in six areas because some current agencies’ designations are ending or have been canceled. If you’re a private company or state agency interested, you can apply between June 1 and June 30, 2026. This is a great opportunity to step in, keep grain quality high, and serve farmers and buyers with official services.
2026-09504 — Revision of Seven U.S. Grade Standards for Canned Tomato Products
The USDA is updating seven U.S. grade standards for canned tomato products starting June 12, 2026. They’re simplifying color grading, switching from two terms to one, and changing “catsup” to the more popular “ketchup.” These changes help tomato producers and sellers keep things clear and consistent without adding extra costs.
2026-09502 — Domestic Dates Produced or Packed in Riverside County, California; Decreased Assessment Rate
Starting June 12, 2026, date growers and packers in Riverside County, California, will pay less in fees—dropping from 15 cents to 5 cents per hundredweight. This change helps local date producers save money while keeping the marketing program running smoothly. The new lower rate will stay in place until any future updates are made.
2026-09500 — Blueberry Promotion, Research, and Information Order; Continuance Referendum
Blueberry growers and importers who handled at least 2,000 pounds of highbush blueberries in 2025 will vote from July 13-24, 2026, on whether to keep the current blueberry research and promotion program going. This program helps fund marketing and research efforts through small fees collected from those producers. Your vote decides if these helpful rules stay in place, with ballots sent by mail and accepted electronically.
2026-09326 — Kiwifruit Grown in California; Continuance Referendum
California kiwifruit growers will vote from May 18 to June 8, 2026, on whether to keep the current rules that help manage how kiwifruit is grown and sold. Only growers who produced fresh kiwifruit between August 2024 and July 2025 can vote. This decision affects how the kiwifruit market is organized and could impact growers’ costs and sales.
2026-09063 — United States Standards for Grades of Nectarines
The USDA wants to update the rules for grading nectarines by removing 'speckling' as a defect since it’s just a cosmetic thing and actually means the fruit might be sweeter. This change helps farmers, sellers, and buyers better match today’s fruit quality without unfairly knocking down grades. If you have thoughts, you’ve got until July 6, 2026, to speak up—no cost, just your opinion!
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-07059 — Determination That BILTRICIDE (Praziquantel) Oral Tablet, 600 Milligrams, Was Not Withdrawn From Sale for Reasons of Safety or Effectiveness
The FDA has decided that BILTRICIDE (praziquantel) 600 mg tablets weren’t taken off the market because of safety or effectiveness problems. This means generic drug makers can keep getting approval to sell their versions, helping patients access affordable treatment without delays. No changes in safety rules or extra costs are expected, so everyone can breathe easy and keep treating their conditions smoothly.
Next: 2026-07063 — Notice of Intent To Prepare a Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement for Identification of Aquaculture Opportunity Areas in Alaska State Waters and Conduct Public Scoping Meetings
NOAA and Alaska agencies are teaming up to find the best spots for aquaculture (fish farming) in Alaska’s Gulf waters. They’re starting a big study to understand how these areas might affect the environment and want your thoughts by May 28, 2026. This is just planning—no farms or permits yet—but it could lead to new seafood opportunities and jobs in the future!