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Abstract
The Marketing Order for California almonds was amended in 2007 to enhance food safety.
Around 400-500 million pounds of almonds undergo an added step in processing to reduce risk
of salmonella contamination. This paper reports on the logistics necessary for implementing the
program. We use a linear programming model and assess the uncertain costs of transportation
and the risks related to regulatory approval of certain pasteurization technologies. The total cost
of treatment and the associated logistics is approximately $28 million per year. Capacity for
treatment is adequate. The pricing of out-sourced treatment services is the main driver in the
cost estimates.