The UK fresh produce industry has successfully pressed the European Commission to take early measures to combat the Epitrix beetle.
Growers in the UK are concerned the pest, which attacks potato crops, may arrive in the UK via potatoes from Spain and Portugal.
Retailers are being encouraged to review their specifications for potatoes from infested areas, particularly to ensure freedom from soil.
The Standing Committee on Plant Health concluded its assessment at meetings on 7-8 July that pest was a “serious threat: and, following evidence from Fera, emergency measures against it have been drawn up.
A working group has been organised for September to develop draft proposals, based on the European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organisation’s pest risk analysis on Epitrix.
The aim is to have new EU legislation in place before the 2012 season.
The Fresh Produce consortium said in a statement: “The fine detail will need to be worked out, but essentially the aim will be to ensure that any potatoes being moved from the infested areas of Spain and Portugal are free of the pest and any soil (through washing or brushing).
“It is likely that an improved system of identifying consignments from such areas will be needed, as well as a survey requirement in all member states.”
The FPC added: “In the meantime we would remind members that they should notify Fera (and equivalent plant health services) of the introduction of potatoes from Spain and Portugal, to build the evidence base and carry out targeted surveillance.”
Fera has also asked importers to discuss the issue with their suppliers to build in suitable safeguards prior to export particularly in terms of washing or brushing.
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