California cantaloupe farmers are experiencing delayed planting due to heavy winter rainfall, which has helped alleviate drought conditions and avoid flooding in cantaloupe-producing areas. As a result, the cantaloupe season is expected to start about two weeks later than usual, with the first promotable volume likely to be available by Memorial Day Weekend and peak supplies expected in June. The California Cantaloupe Advisory Board (CCAB) oversees a mandatory food safety program that includes government audits of farmers, packing facilities, and cold storage operations, ensuring the safety of cantaloupes grown in the state.