Comment from Bruce McEvoy, Seald Sweet LLC

July 19, 2007 USDA Animal Plant Health Inspection Service Regulatory Analysis and Development Attn: Harriett Murphy Ref. Docket No: APHIS-2007-0061: Importation of Blueberries from South Africa, Uruguay, and Argentina with Cold Treatment Seald Sweet LLC is a global producer and marketer of citrus and other fruits with investments in Blueberry production in Uruguay. The Proposed Rule is an appropriate response to a growing consumer demand for ?fresh? Blueberries throughout the year based on the eating quality of the fruit and a range of well documented health benefits. Blueberries are one of the richest sources of antioxidants which play an important part in keeping consumers healthy and young. Scientific studies have also found that chemicals in the Blueberry can reduce the risk of certain forms of cancer. Access to Blueberries from the Southern Hemisphere makes it possible for supermarkets to offer ?fresh? Blueberries throughout the year which in turn leads to overall category growth. Retail data indicate that the 12 month availability of a produce offering drives category sales as the item becomes part of regular purchase behavior, thus helping to expand consumption of domestic production. In the case of Uruguay, the limited production of the Blueberry crop will have no economic impact on domestic production, but the supply will help to fill a gap in the marketing calendar. The sophistication in growing the cultivated Blueberry in Uruguay will also meet the consumer?s demand for a ?fresh? quality product. Seald Sweet supports this Proposed Rule. Respectfully submitted, Seald Sweet LLC Contact: E. Bruce McEvoy (772)-569-2244