Dole Announces Conversion of Farm Equipment to Bio-Diesel Fuel

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dole Fresh Vegetables Company, a division of Dole Food Company, Inc. announced today that it has converted all of its harvesting equipment in Salinas, California and in Yuma, Arizona over to B20 Bio-diesel fuel.

“being good stewards of the environment is very important to Dole and this includes reducing emissions and using alternative sources of energy.”

Bio Diesel fuel is a domestic renewable fuel for diesel engines derived from natural oils. According to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Bio-diesel is the first and only alternative fuel to have a complete evaluation of emission results and potential health effects submitted to the U.S. EPA under the Clean Air Act Section 211 (b).

EPA has determined that B20 Bio Diesel has 20% less unburned hydrocarbons than conventional diesel as well as less carbon monoxide and particulate matter.

Kevin Fiori, Dole’s Senior Vice President Agriculture Operations said “being good stewards of the environment is very important to Dole and this includes reducing emissions and using alternative sources of energy.” Dole has been testing B20 Bio Diesel since August in farm equipment and off road vehicles with very positive results.

Mr. Fiori also commented that “those of us in agriculture, who depend on the environment, land, water, and air quality to grow foods, are keenly aware of the importance of applying sustainable agricultural practices.”

About Dole Food Company:

Dole is committed to the quality of our products, sustainable environmental practices and the wellbeing of our 75,000 employees worldwide. Dole contributes generously to the communities where it operates around the world, promoting nutrition and health education as well as a healthier, more sustainable environment.

Dole Food Company, Inc., with 2006 revenues of $6.2 billion, is the world's largest producer and marketer of high-quality fresh fruit, fresh vegetables and fresh-cut flowers. Dole markets a growing line of packaged and frozen foods and is a produce industry leader in nutrition education and research.