Bayer CropScience and the Mexican Association of Protected Horticulture (AMHPAC) renewed their Food Chain Partnership programme for the Mexican produce industry at the PMA Fresh Summit in Atlanta, the US.
The agreement was signed by representatives of both institutions: Adonay Obando, country head of Bayer CropScience Mexico and Cesar Campaña, president of the board of AMHPAC.
The partnership aims to help growers in 25 Mexican states to implement good agricultural practices and obtain certification of tomato, cucumber and pepper crops produced for export, mainly the Safe Quality Food (SQF) certification.
“The alignment with the certification systems is currently a necessary action to meet and promote the Food Chain organisation – this partnership is a step in this direction,” said AMHPAC chief Eric Viramontes in a press release.
During the two-year partnership (initiated in 2009) the R&D team of Bayer CropScience has worked hard to develop the best crop solutions, in accordance to the needs of AMHPAC members.
During this period, Bayer has recommended the integrated application of innovative products to control pests and diseases, and has delivered training on Maximum Residue Limit (MRL), safe use of pesticides, pesticide management of pesticides, integrated pest management and post-harvest resistance management.
Bayer CropScience has also promoted the course developed in partnership with the SQF Institute in Mexico, on food safety.
The training was tailored to the specific needs of the various groups of producers.
“Safety, quality, traceability and standardisation are essential elements to improve the industry and production chain operation,” explained Viramontes. “Farmers who do not follow these practices are bound to disappear.”
