ARIZONA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Fifty-sixth Legislature

First Regular Session

HB2750: expiration date; eggs; definition

Sponsor: Representative Peña, LD 23

Committee on Land, Agriculture & Rural Affairs

Overview

Changes the limit for the expiration date of all eggs to no more than 45 days after the eggs were candled.

History

The Arizona Department of Agriculture Director determines the standards of quality for chicken eggs produced for commercial sale in Arizona by candling (A.R.S. § 3-705). This process involves shining a bright light through an egg to determine the cleanliness and soundness of the shell, the size and condition of the aircell, and the condition of the yolk, white and germ (A.R.S. § 3-701). These eggs must meet standards, grades and weight classes for eggs prescribed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS 56). The highest quality eggs receive an USDA grade AA, while USDA grade A eggs have a similar exterior quality to AA eggs with a slightly lower interior quality. All cases, half cases, cartons or containers with eggs must be marked with an expiration date (A.R.S. § 3-719). Grade AA eggs in Arizona have an expiration date of no more than 24 days after they were candled while grade A eggs have an expiration date of no more than 45 days after the date they were candled (A.R.S. § 3-701).

Provisions

1. Changes the expiration date for all eggs, regardless of grade, no more than 45 days after the eggs were candled. (Sec. 1)

2. Makes technical changes. (Sec. 1)

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6. HB 2750

7. Initials PAB/AH Page 0 Land, Agriculture & Rural Affairs

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